Hell from the Heavens

The Epic Story of the USS Laffey and World War II's Greatest Kamikaze Attack

By: John Wukovits

Narrated by: Joe Barrett

On the morning of April 16, 1945, the crewmen of the USS Laffey saw what seemed to be the entire Japanese air force assembled directly above. They were about to become the targets of the largest single-ship kamikaze attack of World War II.

By the time the unprecedented assault was finished, 32 sailors were dead and more than 70 wounded. Although she lay shrouded in smoke and fire for hours, the Laffey somehow survived. The gutted American warship limped from Okinawa's shore for home, where the ship and crew would be celebrated as heroes.

Using personal interviews with survivors, the memoirs of crew members, and their wartime correspondence, John Wukovits breathes life into the story of this forgotten historic event.

©2015 John Wukovits (P)2015 Tantor

Critic reviews

"For WWII buffs, surely, but also for general readers looking to understand the damage inflicted and the terror inspired by the Japanese suicide squadrons." ( Kirkus)

Excellent ww2 navy v Japanese battle

Narration: excellent if one can overlook slightly raspy smoker’s throat, which is appropriate when describing historic naval battles.

Story: remarkable story of crew defending themselves against Japanese suicide attacks.

Great listeingl

Recommend reading the book or even better listening to it on Audible. Thanks again Audible!

Inspirational and Engaging

I felt by the end of this amazing recounting of this ship and brave men, I found a newfound appreciation and respect for our veterans. More people should read this book.

Great Book

This is a very interesting an informative book. It is well written and well read and is definitely worth a listen for anyone interested in World War II or naval history.

Awesome book!

Everyone needs to hear this story of heroism under fire...this is why we honor our beautiful flag!