This is a most comprehensive handbook on the United States naval forces in World War II. It is not a history – although naturally, it contains much of interest to the historian. It is rather a complete and detailed survey of all the major ships and most support vessels of both the US Navy and Coast Guard. The American fleet during World War II was large and varied ranging from heavy battleships and aircraft carriers to auxiliary craft such as submarine tenders and attack cargo ships. All types and classes have been included in this profusely illustrated reference book.
For each of the ships covered the author lists and describes such details as its specifications, armament, complement, builder, launch date, official naval number and ultimate fate. Wartime alterations and individual war histories of the major ships are given in concise but informative special notes.
The photographs – nearly 400 in total – have been chosen from the extensive official US Navy archive and illustrate a book that has become a standard reference work.
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