Gangway Regular Navy!
by Richard I. Merrell
"Memoirs of Life and Humor in the United States Navy During the Cold War"
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Gangway Regular Navy! by Richard I. Merrell
Details
War:
Cold War
Perspective:
Researcher
Military Unit:
US Navy
True Story:
Yes
Biography:
No
Region:
North America
Page Count:
219
Published Date:
2005
ISBN13:
9780788432835
Description
Brief Summary (no spoilers)
Gangway, Regular Navy! by Richard I. Merrell provides readers with a vivid portrayal of the Cold War era, specifically from 1960 to 1980. With a unique blend of history and humor, the book offers insights into world events during this critical period while reflecting on military life. The narrative embarks on a journey through two transformative decades in history, capturing the essence of life in the Navy amid geopolitical tensions.
Main Themes and Topics
The primary theme of Gangway, Regular Navy! is the life and experiences of Navy personnel during the Cold War. The author focuses on providing a historically accurate narrative, effectively intertwining real-world events with personal anecdotes. The period from 1960 to 1980 is depicted not only in terms of significant geopolitical developments but also through the lens of the day-to-day existence of those serving in the Navy. Humor is a significant vehicle in the narrative, offering a lighter perspective on otherwise serious and often tense global events.
Writing Style and Tone
Richard I. Merrell’s writing style in Gangway, Regular Navy! is characterized by its engaging and humorous tone. Despite dealing with serious themes such as the Cold War and military service, Merrell manages to maintain a light-hearted approach that resonates well with readers. The use of humor serves to both educate and entertain, making it easier for readers to engage with the historical content. The book is structured to make complex and intense situations more relatable to a broad audience.
Criticism
While Gangway, Regular Navy! succeeds in providing a humorous take on Cold War events, some readers might find the light-hearted approach somewhat diminishes the gravity of certain historical events. The balance between humor and historical accuracy could be perceived as skewed towards entertainment, potentially leaving those seeking a more comprehensive historical account wanting. However, this does not detract significantly from the book's overall appeal as a comedic and reflective narrative.
