The Admirals

Nimitz, Halsey, Leahy, and King--The Five-Star Admirals Who Won the War at Sea

By: Walter R. Borneman

Narrated by: Brian Troxell

How history's only five-star admirals triumphed in World War II and made the United States the world's dominant sea power.

Only four men in American history have been promoted to the five-star rank of Admiral of the Fleet: William Leahy, Ernest King, Chester Nimitz, and William Halsey. These four men were the best and the brightest the navy produced, and together they led the U.S. navy to victory in World War II, establishing the United States as the world's greatest fleet.

In The Admirals, award-winning historian Walter R. Borneman tells their story in full detail for the first time. Drawing upon journals, ship logs, and other primary sources, he brings an incredible historical moment to life, showing us how the four admirals revolutionized naval warfare forever with submarines and aircraft carriers, and how these men -- who were both friends and rivals -- worked together to ensure that the Axis fleets lay destroyed on the ocean floor at the end of World War II.

war wasn't simpler 75 years ago

Heavily detailed recap of the path to history of four extraordinary individuals. On the journey, I learned a lot about how battles are planned, fought, won and lost. Moreover, with hindsight, a clearer understanding of what it takes to win a war the old way.

One of my favorites!

It kept my interest in the story of these four great men the whole book. The details in which the author went to, to explain events before during and after the war was perfect to me. I plan to listen to this book again. Matter of fact right away!

Fine Audiobook, but......

Who would you have cast as narrator instead of Brian Troxell?

Amazing to have a narrator who mispronounces so very many names of people, places, etc. of WW II & seemingly has no clue of the pronunciation of not everday....but not uncommon words such as, 'prescient'. Do not at all blame on Brian Troxell, as this conspicuous failing is a feature of virtually all 'Audible' history books.

Great place to start

This was the first book I read on my quest through the Pacific war. I found this to be a great place to start. This not only speaks about the four admirals, but also those who work for them, and other key individuals. This book led me to Pacific crucible: war at sea in the pacific 1941 to 1942. From there my journey continued.

Great For Navy History Buffs

An exceptional book for fans and aficionados of U.S. Navy history. Troxell's tortured pronunciation of Japanese proper/place names and unfamiliarity with naval terminology notwithstanding, he superbly tells this timeless story with energy and determination. It was well worth my time.