Unrestricted Warfare

Brief Summary

Unrestricted Warfare by James F. DeRose offers a detailed account of the U.S. Navy's submarine operations during World War II in the Pacific theater. It tells the story of American submarine commanders who faced initial setbacks due to conservative peacetime training and faulty equipment, yet ultimately succeeded in executing the only successful submarine campaign of the war. Drawing on declassified files, Japanese archives, and veterans' testimonies, DeRose delivers a narrative that underscores the transformation and eventual triumph of the U.S. Navy's submarine force.

Main Themes and Topics

One of the central themes in Unrestricted Warfare is the evolution of military strategy and tactics in response to the harsh realities of war. The book highlights the transition from theoretical planning to practical engagement, illustrating how U.S. submarine commanders adapted to unforeseen challenges. Additionally, the theme of technological failure is prevalent, as DeRose discusses the issues with torpedoes that initially plagued commanders and how overcoming these obstacles was crucial to their success. The courage and innovation of individuals in leadership roles, who managed to steer their missions towards eventual victory, serves as another key topic within the narrative.

Writing Style and Tone

James F. DeRose's writing style in Unrestricted Warfare is marked by meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to historical accuracy. The narrative is engaging yet factual, capturing the intensity and uncertainty experienced by submarine crews. DeRose effectively combines firsthand accounts from veterans with comprehensive research, providing a balanced perspective that immerses the reader in the perilous environment of wartime naval battles. The tone is respectful and reverent, particularly when dealing with the sacrifices and bravery of the service members involved.

Awards and Recognition

Unrestricted Warfare has garnered praise from both historians and veterans of the submarine service for its depth of research and engaging storytelling. Notable endorsements come from respected figures such as Captain Edward L. Beach, USN, author of Submarine! and Run Silent, Run Deep, who commended DeRose for his insightful interpretations. The book is also highlighted by Paul Crozier, sitemaster of the "Legends of the Deep" website, and Nathan Miller, author of War at Sea: A Naval History of World War II. These accolades affirm the book's status as a valuable contribution to the literature on naval history.

Criticism

While Unrestricted Warfare is widely praised for its thorough research and engaging narrative, some readers might find the technical discussions of submarine operations and technologies complex, particularly those without a background in naval tactics. However, this complexity adds to the book's authenticity and doesn't detract from its overall accessibility for readers with a keen interest in military history.