Decision at Sea

Five Naval Battles That Shaped American History

De: Craig L. Symonds

Narrado por: Stephen R. Thorne

From thunderous broadsides traded between wooden sailing ships on Lake Erie, to the carrier battles of World War II, to the devastating high-tech action in the Persian Gulf, here is a gripping history of five key battles that defined the evolution of naval warfare - and the course of the American nation.

Acclaimed military historian Craig Symonds offers spellbinding narratives of crucial engagements, showing how each battle reveals the transformation of technology and weaponry from one war to the next; how these in turn transformed naval combat; and how each event marked a milestone in American history. Symonds records these encounters in detail so vivid that listeners can hear the wind in the rigging and feel the pounding of the guns. Yet he places every battle in a wide perspective, revealing their significance to America's development as it grew from a new Republic on the edge of a threatening frontier to a global superpower.

Decision at Sea is a powerful and illuminating look at pivotal moments in the history of the Navy and of the United States. It is also a compelling study of the unchanging demands of leadership at sea, where commanders must make rapid decisions in the heat of battle with lives - and the fate of nations - hanging in the balance.

©2005 Craig L. Symonds (P)2020 Tantor

Educational and entertaining

Craig Symonds turns 4 historical naval battles from dry historical historical pieces into exciting adventures for this navy veteran. I felt like I was on the actual quarterdeck with Oliver Hazard Perry when he fought the battle of Lake Erie. I embarrassed to learn "You may fire when ready, Gridley" was in Manila Bay and not off the coast of Cuba during the Spanish-American War. The Midway battle rendition was the best I have ever read. The Gulf War Praying Mantis story reminded that we have the best electronics and weapons, but it a good commander is still need to sort through the information.

I want to read it again

Excellent history perspective. The narrative keep the reader captivated, anticipating the next tidbit of information or connection between historical events.

Many things are obvious, but it is the context which Mr. Symonds provides which is so enjoyable. An example is the weeks long time lapse to get information from combat to Washington during the War of 1812; how when telegraph cables were laid commanders in combat theaters felt like errand boys due to “quick” orders from home. Yet by Operation Preying Mantice in the Gulf War, a pilot waited 3 minutes for the secretary of defense to be contacted, speak to the President, who authorized the pilot to fire. 3 minutes.

Mr. Symonds delivers on a unique comparison of five important naval engagements in American history. It was fascinating.

Craig Symonds

This is one of the very best books about Naval Warfare. Well written, informative, entertains,and very well narrated. I'm looking for another book by Mr. Almonds right away.

Pretty good

Pretty good. A found all of his assertions pretty well grounded. Good listen. Good source of info of the battle of Manila Bay, there is nothing else on that battle on audible. So if you like steel era ships and fleet engagements you’ll enjoy chapter 3.

Everything Craig Symonds writes is great!

General Hagee once told me that “Craig puts a great amount of thought and effort into every sentence he writes.”

I know this is true. It is obvious when you read his work.

I believe that I would have loved to be one of his students. I think he is the kind of history professor that could make you consider changing you major to history.

Authors like Dr. Symonds are why I enjoy history so much.

I would also recommend listening to him speak if you ever get the chance.

This book was great.