Midway Submerged

Brief Summary

Midway Submerged by Mark W. Allen offers an in-depth exploration of a lesser-known aspect of the Battle of Midway: the role of submarines. While common narratives focus on the contributions of carrier aviation and intelligence, Allen brings the submarine operations to the forefront. The book dives deep into how Admiral Nimitz leveraged American submarines in anticipation of a Japanese amphibious assault, contrasting this with the Japanese tactical miscalculations. The work is grounded in extensive archival research and sheds light on submarine design, construction, and the tactical doctrines employed by both the United States and Japan, presenting a new dimension to the historic battle.

Main Themes and Topics

At its core, Midway Submerged explores the strategic and tactical use of submarines during the Battle of Midway. The book delves into the planning and execution stages of submarine deployment, analyzing the expectations versus the actual contributions of these vessels. It highlights the contrasting approaches of the American and Japanese navies in utilizing submarines, pointing out the successes and failures encountered by both sides. The theme of the undervalued yet significant role of submarines in naval warfare is a persistent thread throughout the narrative.

Writing Style and Tone

Mark W. Allen adopts an engaging and informative tone, balancing technical details with accessible explanations. The writing is meticulous, reflecting thorough research while remaining readable for both academic audiences and casual readers interested in military history. The use of well-captioned photos, diagrams, and detailed appendices enhances the text, serving both as educational tools and as references for deeper exploration.

Awards and Recognition

Midway Submerged has been recognized by various historical and military circles, earning praise for its comprehensive research and unique perspective on the Battle of Midway. HistoryNet highlights the book as an excellent reference work for enthusiasts and historians alike, emphasizing its value in re-evaluating commonly held perceptions of the battle's naval tactics.

Criticism

While Midway Submerged has been lauded for its extensive archival research and insightful analysis, some readers may find the level of detail overwhelming. The technical depth regarding submarine design and operational doctrine might be challenging for those unfamiliar with naval terminology or the intricacies of World War II naval warfare. However, the inclusion of numerous diagrams and appendices assists in mitigating these challenges.