Poopie Suits & Cowboy Boots

Tales of a Submarine Officer During the Height of the Cold War

By: Frank Hood, Charles Hood

Narrated by: Joseph Courtemanche

Poopie Suits & Cowboy Boots: Tales of a Submarine Officer During the Height of the Cold War, now in its fifth edition since 2017, has earned a popular place in modern submarine literature for its engaging style and pacing. Set in the throes of the Cold War during the Nixon administration, the story follows the journey of Frank Hood through training and eventual deployment as a junior officer aboard a fast-attack submarine (USS Seahorse [SSN-669]) based out of Charleston, South Carolina.

Thousands of copies have been sold and read, and the reviews have been very positive overall. The main gripes about earlier versions regarded some of the errors in recall of some of the details of submarine operation. We have taken steps to address these legitimate complaints and proudly announce this new version. This fifth and final edition has been extensively updated and expanded.

Based in large part on feedback from more than a hundred submarine veterans, certain technical explanations have been corrected in some areas (e.g., electrical and propulsion systems) and expanded in others (e.g., layout of the control room, battery operation). A number of small historical corrections have been made in the discussions about prototype training and nuclear reactors, and the entire discussion of how a submarine generates nuclear power has been rewritten with improved clarity. Also, both the glossary of submarine terms and the photographic gallery have been significantly expanded by more than 25 percent.

The new photos include a brand-new original schematic diagram of the control room of the Seahorse to aid in comprehension of the expanded submarine “walk-through” in chapter eight. Elsewhere, small errors related to years or hull numbers have been corrected, and additional small historical details have been added in many places to enhance the reading experience. A new interlude story (“Nautical Rules of the Road”) has replaced the former entry about the collision of the USS Tullibee; that story now appears in our book More Sub Tales.

The final product is our best effort yet in telling Frank’s compelling coming-of-age story during the contentious 1960s. While biographical in form, Frank’s story serves as a scaffolding of sorts to allow detailed side explorations of the basics of US submarine history; fundamental submarine systems such as sonar, propulsion, diving, weapons, and periscope functions; the intense training and repetition required to gain qualification in submarines; and the colorful traditions of the US Navy.

The book is replete with dozens of funny stories as well. It’s an enjoyable story that not only informs the reader of all things submarine-related, but also includes a number of cultural references that made life during that turbulent period both difficult and memorable.

We have striven to write this book in a way that appeals to both the career navy man/woman and the interested civilian. You will learn a lot about the Silent Service, and our hope is that you also come away with a great deal of respect for the men and missions that continue to this day with no fanfare and little public awareness.

©2018, 2020 Charles Hood (P)2025 Charles Hood

Excellent listen

Have been waiting for this book on audible since first in print. Even though written by an officer lol, the book is excellent and well worth the read/listen. Retired YNC(SS)

Excellent!

Thanks for the memories from this old
Cold War sub vet. Some things change and a lot stay the same. Excellent overall.

Wonderful Story

This novel has many wonderful stories from different submarine sailors. It’s intense in many ways. The narrator is another outstanding reader.

Blast from the past.

As a former RO bubblehead, I was transported to the past by this book. Thanks.

Attack Submarine life that you can share with family and friends

Joseph once again does a great job telling a great story. Here is the young LT Hood and his life that led him to a tour on the USS Seahorse SSN-669 in the late 60’s and early 70’s. An accurate look about the life, culture, and sacrifices made around US nuclear subs out of Charleston of this era. I followed similar footsteps about a decade later out of Norfolk.