The Admirals

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

By: Walter Borneman

Narrated by: Brian Troxell

Length: 17 hrs and 9 mins

Publisher's summary

The Admirals tells the story of 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.

©2012 Walter R. Borneman (P)2012 Hachette

Fantastic Insight In To Another Side Of the War

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Yes, it was interesting, had a great pace, and I always felt like I was connecting with and learning about the people involved.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Well, they're all pretty amazing people, but this book helped me gain a greater appreciation for Nimitz as a person and for his role.

What does Brian Troxell bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

His narration was never distracting, and always engaging. His voice and tone were perfect for the narrative.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

Well, there were a lot of moving moments, but the part about them dealing with their own family losses in the war was very sad.

Any additional comments?

I didn't listen to a spot of music the whole time I was reading this book, and normally I switch off between an audiobook and music for my commutes. I didn't want to listen to anything else the whole time. I highly recommend this to anyone interested in history and these great men's place in it.

Phenomenal!

The amount of detail given on Leahy, Halsey, Spruance, Mitcher, King, & Nimitz and all of they're is experiences, battles,, decisions, & lives is absolutely astounding! I couldn't stop listening to it! Do yourself a favor and listen to this book!

Fantastic Book!

Where does The Admirals rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

Its very good, I have listened to many and this is one of my favorites. Its a must read for any WWII buff.

What other book might you compare The Admirals to and why?

I think it compares well to both "The Generals" by Winston Groom and "The Aviators" also by Winston Groom. They are both very similar to this in how they cover a few men that had such an impact on the War.

Which character – as performed by Brian Troxell – was your favorite?

The were all great. Maybe King.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

It kept me on the edge of my seat.

best military narrative

one of the best historical narratives I have ever read. even non military folks will love it.

Good Book

This is a good book and solid historical account of military and national history from 1900 through the second world war.

Wonderful book for naval history buffs

What made the experience of listening to The Admirals the most enjoyable?

The wonderful story that it told. I had no idea the influence of Leahy on WW2 policy and his role in the FDR presidency.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Leahy, by far.

Have you listened to any of Brian Troxell’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

NA

Good Narrative of Pacific War Decision Making

Brings to life the giants of the Pacific war -- Nimitz, Halsey, King, Leahy -- and their interactions with Roosevelt and MacArthur. Nothing startling here, but a good listen and worth the time. Well read.

Leadership

This book should be required reading for any agency, civilian or military for the development of leaders at every level of the organization.

In Awe

I can say with out any doubts that this has to be the best book I have ever read. My Navy years as a simple sailor gives me the knowledge and understanding that these excellent Admirals were how and why the USNavy became what it is today.
An outstanding book and a real pleasure to read.

The Admirals

Excellent reading and most insightful.
Excellent research into their careers and personal life and leadership by the author.