Wahoo

Richard H. O'Kane's account of the USS Wahoo stands as one of the most compelling firsthand narratives to emerge from the Pacific submarine campaign of World War II. As executive officer aboard the Wahoo during her most successful patrols, O'Kane provides readers with an insider's perspective on submarine warfare that few authors could match. His position as second-in-command under the legendary Commander Dudley "Mush" Morton offers a unique vantage point from which to chronicle the boat's remarkable combat record and the men who made it possible.

The book focuses primarily on the patrol missions that transformed the Wahoo from just another fleet submarine into the most celebrated undersea vessel in the American arsenal during the early years of the Pacific War. O'Kane's narrative covers the period when Morton took command and implemented aggressive tactics that would revolutionize American submarine warfare doctrine. The transformation from cautious operations to bold surface attacks represented a dramatic shift in how submarines engaged enemy vessels, and O'Kane documents this evolution with precision and clarity.

What distinguishes this work from other submarine memoirs is the technical detail O'Kane provides about the actual mechanics of submarine operations and attack procedures. Readers gain insight into the complexities of approach angles, torpedo settings, depth control, and the split-second decisions that determined success or failure in combat situations. The author explains these technical aspects in accessible language that educates without overwhelming those unfamiliar with naval terminology. This balance makes the book valuable both to military history enthusiasts and general readers seeking to understand submarine warfare.

The portrayal of Commander Morton emerges as a central element of the narrative. O'Kane depicts Morton as a commander who possessed both exceptional courage and tactical innovation, willing to challenge conventional wisdom about how submarines should engage the enemy. The relationship between Morton and O'Kane clearly functioned as a highly effective command partnership, with each officer's strengths complementing the other. The mutual respect and trust between them created an environment where bold tactics could be executed with precision.

O'Kane's writing style remains straightforward and factual, avoiding unnecessary dramatization while still conveying the tension and danger inherent in submarine combat. The descriptions of attack runs, depth charge evasions, and mechanical difficulties maintain a matter-of-fact tone that paradoxically heightens the drama. This restraint in prose allows the extraordinary nature of the events to speak for themselves without requiring embellishment.

The book also addresses the human dimension of submarine service, exploring how crews functioned in the confined spaces of a World War II fleet boat. The physical and psychological demands of extended patrols in enemy waters emerge clearly through O'Kane's observations. The camaraderie among crew members, the stress of combat, and the relief of returning to port all receive attention, providing a well-rounded picture of life aboard a fighting submarine.

One of the work's strengths lies in its treatment of specific combat engagements. O'Kane provides detailed accounts of individual attacks, including the challenges of identifying targets, calculating firing solutions, and assessing damage. These blow-by-blow descriptions offer valuable insights into the reality of submarine warfare, where success depended on a combination of technical skill, tactical judgment, and often sheer determination. The narrative does not shy away from discussing attacks that failed or torpedoes that malfunctioned, presenting a balanced view of combat operations.

The historical significance of the Wahoo's patrols receives appropriate emphasis throughout the book. The submarine's aggressive tactics and impressive sinking record influenced American submarine doctrine and inspired other commanders to adopt more offensive approaches. O'Kane positions the Wahoo's operations within the broader context of the Pacific submarine campaign, helping readers understand how these individual patrols contributed to the overall strategic picture.

For those interested in naval history, particularly the submarine service in World War II, this book provides essential primary source material. O'Kane's direct participation in the events described lends authenticity and authority to the narrative. The author's subsequent distinguished career, including command of the USS Tang and receipt of the Medal of Honor, further establishes his credibility as a commentator on submarine warfare.

The book does assume some basic familiarity with naval terminology and submarine operations, though O'Kane generally provides sufficient context for readers to follow the action. Those seeking a comprehensive history of the Wahoo's entire service life or extensive background on submarine development may need to supplement this account with other sources, as the focus remains primarily on the patrols O'Kane experienced firsthand.

This memoir stands as an important contribution to the literature of World War II submarine warfare, offering both historical documentation and a compelling narrative of men in combat. O'Kane's combination of technical expertise and clear prose creates a work that honors the achievements of the Wahoo and her crew while providing readers with genuine insight into one of naval warfare's most demanding and dangerous specialties.