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All the Gallant Men: An American Sailor's Firsthand Account of Pearl Harbor
Donald Stratton,
Ken Gire
4.45 · Rating details · 2,529 ratings · 425 reviews
THE FIRST MEMOIR BY A USS ARIZONA SURVIVOR: Donald Stratton, one of the battleship's five living heroes, delivers a "powerful"and"intimate"* eyewitnessaccountof Pearl Harborandhisunforgettable return to the fight
At 8:10 a.m. on December 7, 1941, Seaman First Class Donald Stratton was consumed by an inferno. A million pounds of explosives had detonated beneath his battle THE FIRST MEMOIR BY A USS ARIZONA SURVIVOR: Donald Stratton, one of the battleship's five living heroes, delivers a "powerful" and "intimate"* eyewitness account of Pearl Harbor and his unforgettable return to the fight
At 8:10 a.m. on December 7, 1941, Seaman First Class Donald Stratton was consumed by an inferno. A million pounds of explosives had detonated beneath his battle station aboard the USS Arizona, barely fifteen minutes into Japan's surprise attack on American forces at Pearl Harbor. Near death and burned across two thirds of his body, Don, a nineteen-year-old Nebraskan who had been steeled by the Great Depression and Dust Bowl, summoned the will to haul himself hand over hand across a rope tethered to a neighboring vessel. Forty-five feet below, the harbor's flaming, oil-slick water boiled with enemy bullets; all around him the world tore itself apart.
In this extraordinary, never-before-told eyewitness account of the Pearl Harbor attack—the only memoir ever written by a survivor of the USS Arizona—ninety-four-year-old veteran Donald Stratton finally shares his unforgettable personal tale of bravery and survival on December 7, 1941, his harrowing recovery, and his inspiring determination to return to the fight.
Don and four other sailors made it safely across the same line that morning, a small miracle on a day that claimed the lives of 1,177 of their Arizona shipmates—approximately half the American fatalaties at Pearl Harbor. Sent to military hospitals for a year, Don refused doctors' advice to amputate his limbs and battled to relearn how to walk. The U.S. Navy gave him a medical discharge, believing he would never again be fit for service, but Don had unfinished business. In June 1944, he sailed back into the teeth of the Pacific War on a destroyer, destined for combat in the crucial battles of Leyte Gulf, Luzon, and Okinawa, thus earning the distinction of having been present for the opening shots and the final major battle of America's Second World War.
As the seventy-fifth anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack approaches, Don, a great-grandfather of five and one of six living survivors of the Arizona, offers an unprecedentedly intimate reflection on the tragedy that drew America into the greatest armed conflict in history. All the Gallant Men is a book for the ages, one of the most remarkable—and remarkably inspiring—memoirs of any kind to appear in recent years.
*Library Journal ...more
Published November 22nd 2016 by William Morrow
Unti Pearl Harbor Memoir
Goodreads Choice Award Nominee for History & Biography (2017), Missouri Gateway Readers Award Nominee (2018)
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2015-2017 Choice Awards History & Biography Nominees
55 books — 11 voters
World War II Combat Memoirs (nonfiction)
23 books — 4 voters
· 2,529 ratings · 425 reviews
All LanguagesEnglish ‎(411)
Start your review of All the Gallant Men: An American Sailor's Firsthand Account of Pearl Harbor
Dec 01, 2016 Rita McDowell rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
This is the greatest non fiction book that I have ever read. From the beginning to the end it will grab your heart and move you to tears. I had to read awhile and put it down to dry tears and then pick it up again only to dry tears again. This sailor allows you into the most precious part of him to read what happened that December morning in Pearl harbor and brings the terror of the attack and the loss of so many gallant men into your life. My father served in the Pacific during World War Wow!
This is the greatest non fiction book that I have ever read. From the beginning to the end it will grab your heart and move you to tears. I had to read awhile and put it down to dry tears and then pick it up again only to dry tears again. This sailor allows you into the most precious part of him to read what happened that December morning in Pearl harbor and brings the terror of the attack and the loss of so many gallant men into your life. My father served in the Pacific during World War II and I personally thank this sailor for his story. It truly allows us to see what happened during that War. Thank you Sir for sharing your story and your gallant life with me and the other numerous readers. Your bravery and the bravery of all those that day are truly standards that were set and that we can hope to meet. Extremely well written and very moving. Again thank you for sharing this story with us. God Bless you and your family and thank you again for your brave and gallant service. ...more
Dec 07, 2016 Larry Warren rated it it was amazing
I finished this book last night, the eve the 75th anniversary. I don't know where to begin a review of this book. So I think a small quote from page 109 will say it all.
"Dear Lord,
Lest I continue
My complacent way,
Help me to remember that somewhere,
Somehow out there
A man died for me today.
As long as there be war,
must answer
Am I worth dying for?"
I read in this mornings paper. Yesterday for the first time, there were no survivors present from the USS Arizona for the 77th anniversary I finished this book last night, the eve the 75th anniversary. I don't know where to begin a review of this book. So I think a small quote from page 109 will say it all.
I read in this mornings paper. Yesterday for the first time, there were no survivors present from the USS Arizona for the 77th anniversary of the attack. The five remaining survivors, Lauren Bruner, 98, Lou Conter, 97, Lonnie Cook, 98, Ken Potts, 97 and Donald Stratton, 97 were unable to travel to Oahu this year. Thank you for your service and the world I grew up in.
Thank you Mr Stratton ...more
Dec 03, 2016 Erika Kendron rated it it was amazing
What an amazing man and story. When I got to the end and found out he lives in Colorado Springs I emailed my dad (who also lives in the Springs). We are going to visit in August and I would like to buy this man a meal.
Dec 11, 2016 Robert Walker rated it it was amazing
The memories of a patriot, a war hero, and a great American. If you rate this book anything less than 5 stars you need to have your head examined. Robert Walker
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Nov 25, 2016 Steve rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
An excellent book who the author survived the U.S.S. Arizona explosion during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii on December 7, 1941. Stratton, A seaman first class in the United States Navy suffered burns across two thirds of his body. After recovering, He reenlisted and fought in the battles of Leyte Gulf, Luzon, and Okinawa. One of the best firsthand accounts on the attack on Pearl Harbor by one of the survivors of the Arizona.
Dec 04, 2016 sharon Kay Little rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
A love story. A sailor and his ship. The Arizona.
Possably the best book I have ever read. Just the right length and not alot of flowery descriptions.. Just the facts and such an emotional feel to Donald Stratton. Loved it and cried thru most of it. I feel that I am well acquainted with Donald Stratton.. Absolutely loved every page.
Apr 21, 2017 Becky Moore rated it really liked it · review of another edition
Raw emotion
I felt this memoir. It got to me. I could make out the scenes in my mind. The descriptions were palpable. The history rich with sorrow. So sad for the few young people that lived with the horrors of Pearl Harbor etched in their minds. I learned so much from these pages. Humbling. "Have I lived a good life?"
Jan 21, 2017 Jeanette rated it liked it
I wanted to give it a 4, but the writing style jumped and although the time frames were linear, it was difficult to context his life as a whole, IMHO. Not that you didn't get to know Donald and his heroic experiences. And I give him utmost credit for his honesty, credibility to facts and detail, and all his loyalties to service. It was a 3.5 star at least, but I could not round it up because I took it up and down so much. The continuity? Transitions of context were lacking, with some gaps in I wanted to give it a 4, but the writing style jumped and although the time frames were linear, it was difficult to context his life as a whole, IMHO. Not that you didn't get to know Donald and his heroic experiences. And I give him utmost credit for his honesty, credibility to facts and detail, and all his loyalties to service. It was a 3.5 star at least, but I could not round it up because I took it up and down so much. The continuity? Transitions of context were lacking, with some gaps in periods I would have been interested in, with more detail. And in repetition for other periods.
It's a hard, hard story to hear. Especially when he described the kamikaze attacks at the end of the war and what absolute target sailors were on the ships. Night, day, storm whatever- you never knew, there was no "let down". Amazing and beyond valor that he was in at the very beginning of WWII and the very end battle also.
This would be an exceptional read for those who have little knowledge of WWII apart from Europe, the Arizona's story itself, or the Japanese front desperation and cost of lives in the Pacific Theater before the bomb was dropped.
This was a era in which the type of hero who was a purely "common" man like Donald WAS common in vast numbers. No more. That level of sacrifice is rarer now than it ever was. Individual self-involvement reigns. ...more
Nov 17, 2017 Paul rated it really liked it · review of another edition
Never having read anything about WWII and generally disliking books on military history, I found this book honest and idealistic. It was a fascinating glimpse of the sinking of the USS Arizona and the men who either went down with it or survived. I was impressed with the sense of honor of sailors mentioned in the book.
Nov 30, 2017 Rebecca rated it it was amazing
What a poignant, well written book. My high rating, I know, is in part emotional. My grandfathers brother was killed in Pearl Harbor December 7, 1941. He was one of the only two soldiers killed on the USS Helena. He was taking position at his battle station when he was killed instantly by shrapnel. I wish I had known him; the gallant man from my family. Reading about others and the horror they experienced makes my heart ache for what he had to endure and for my missed opportunity, in this life, What a poignant, well written book. My high rating, I know, is in part emotional. My grandfathers brother was killed in Pearl Harbor December 7, 1941. He was one of the only two soldiers killed on the USS Helena. He was taking position at his battle station when he was killed instantly by shrapnel. I wish I had known him; the gallant man from my family. Reading about others and the horror they experienced makes my heart ache for what he had to endure and for my missed opportunity, in this life, to have a relationship with my great-uncle and to see the man he was growing up to be.
This story hits on every point just enough not to bog down the overall powerful message with minute details. But what keeps coming to my mind, even after finishing, is the message Eleanor Roosevelt kept in her wallet from the rest of her life following the attacks on Pearl Harbor. It's entitled "Wartime Prayer." Dear Lord,. Lest I continue. My complacent way, Help me to remember that somewhere, Somehow out there. A man died for me today. As long as there be war, I then must. Ask and answer. Am I worth dying for?
That last sentence, "am I worth dying for" makes me want to be a better person. It makes me want to always remember the sacrifice so many have made, and continue to make, so that I may enjoy the freedoms I take for granted daily. I'm grateful to the gallant men of World War 1, my uncle, and this beautiful tribute on their behalf. ...more
May 11, 2017 Stephanie rated it really liked it
Exceeds expectations.
The writing was good. The voice was clear. I learned so much from it. The telling of the events of Pearl Harbor and afterwards was so matter of fact. The narrative was not colored in emotional language the way things like this often are. You only see glimpses of Stratton's emotions peeking through until the end where he opens up more. You could see how deeply buried the events of Pearl Harbor and the war were buried inside him, how he was never the same after that day. And Exceeds expectations.
The writing was good. The voice was clear. I learned so much from it. The telling of the events of Pearl Harbor and afterwards was so matter of fact. The narrative was not colored in emotional language the way things like this often are. You only see glimpses of Stratton's emotions peeking through until the end where he opens up more. You could see how deeply buried the events of Pearl Harbor and the war were buried inside him, how he was never the same after that day. And how could you be?
Stratton's story made me think of things in a way I never had before. For instance, how when a person's life is stolen from them we not only lose a life but also his or her future, potential, and the children and family that could have been. Likewise, when a life is saved it impacts the present and also the future in a big way. It was touching how Stratton looked forward to meeting the daughter of the man who saved him and introducing his children and grandchildren to her so that she could see the future that her father created.
Stratton also highlighted the idea of living ones life in such a way that it is worth the sacrifices that made it possible. He strove to live a worthy life because he was saved when so many were not. It would likely be a better world if we all did the same and made our lives worth the very dear price that was paid for them.
Dec 21, 2017 David rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Shelves: world-war-ii
5.0 I am glad I read this book on so many levels. It may have been absolutely gutt-wrenching and unbelievably hard to read, but it is such an important book. I will never ever think of December 7th the same ever again. I felt honored to have heard Donald Stratton's story and only wish the story of so many of the young men whose lives were lost that day could also be told. I really appreciated Don Stratton's honesty, humility, love for his lost shipmates and his self-reflective nature. His 5.0 I am glad I read this book on so many levels. It may have been absolutely gutt-wrenching and unbelievably hard to read, but it is such an important book. I will never ever think of December 7th the same ever again. I felt honored to have heard Donald Stratton's story and only wish the story of so many of the young men whose lives were lost that day could also be told. I really appreciated Don Stratton's honesty, humility, love for his lost shipmates and his self-reflective nature. His question in the face of the guilt of living while others died, "Have I led a good life" is one that hopefully everyone asks themselves as well.. ...more
Aug 12, 2018 Donna rated it it was amazing
He tells of the frustration and heartbreak that his family and others went through as they waited to know if their sons were returning. I empathized every moment.
The audio was wonderful. I imagined the narrator (Mike Ortego) to be Don Stratton himself. He sounded so conversational, as if he was speaking directly to me.
What I was not aware of was that Commander Mitsuo Fuchida - who led the attack on PH, had become a farmer in Japan and did not like being forgotten. He decided to become a He tells of the frustration and heartbreak that his family and others went through as they waited to know if their sons were returning. I empathized every moment.
What I was not aware of was that Commander Mitsuo Fuchida - who led the attack on PH, had become a farmer in Japan and did not like being forgotten. He decided to become a Christian Evangelist. I am sure to get rich in addition to being in the limelight again. At one point he came to the US, with a few Zero pilots still living, to the Arizona Memorial. He brought a film crew and wanted to film the Arizona survivors and the Japanese pilots shaking hands! Don was there and was asked if he would participate (he declined of course)…. his response was wonderful (he wanted to say a few choice words but didn't). And so were a few other comments made by others.
There is so much in this book besides that horrendous day. The lives he noticed around him during that time, Don's time in the burn units, his re-enlistment and most important, his thoughts.
I noticed a FB page just for him, (I signed up) and a WWII's Foundation DVD about Joe George who risked his life and went against orders to save a few lives. "Lifeline Pearl Harbor's Unknown Hero". ...more
Nov 11, 2017 Laurie rated it it was amazing
Shelves: history, non-fiction, biography, wwii, 2017
What an incredible story. One of the few remaining survivors of WWII tells his story as one of the even fewer remaining survivors of Pearl Harbor. Stratton was aboard the USS Arizona, where nearly half of the deaths on that day came from. He tells a remarkable history of remarkable people making remarkable choices, including himself as far as any reader is concerned. I struggled to get through this short book because I had to keep setting it aside due to emotions. No crying on the gym treadmill, What an incredible story. One of the few remaining survivors of WWII tells his story as one of the even fewer remaining survivors of Pearl Harbor. Stratton was aboard the USS Arizona, where nearly half of the deaths on that day came from. He tells a remarkable history of remarkable people making remarkable choices, including himself as far as any reader is concerned. I struggled to get through this short book because I had to keep setting it aside due to emotions. No crying on the gym treadmill, or in the car right before walking in to work, etc! This is easily recommendable. ...more
Dec 07, 2016 Debbie rated it it was ok
Shelves: biography-memoir
Finishing this book on the 75th anniversary of Pearl Harbor, I wanted to LOVE it. Unfortunately, it is just okay.
I was hoping for a more personal memoir, such as UNBROKEN, but found the first 85% of this work to be a history lesson. Don Stratton is finally shown in a more personal way for the last 15% of the book, but I almost didn't make it there.
Mr. Stratton is a man to be admired as a hero, but this writing was highly inspirational. I blame part of that on the actual writer, Ken Girl. Some of Finishing this book on the 75th anniversary of Pearl Harbor, I wanted to LOVE it. Unfortunately, it is just okay.
Mr. Stratton is a man to be admired as a hero, but this writing was highly inspirational. I blame part of that on the actual writer, Ken Girl. Some of the blame must fall on the publisher for rushing a mediocre book to market to coincide with the 75th anniversary. More time devoted to the fleshing out of this book might have led to a more satisfying read. ...more
Nov 24, 2016 Jim rated it it was amazing
This book is a great combination of author and sailor who survived the sinking of the USS Arizona at Hawaii of December 7, 1941 driving the US into World War II. Donald Stratton was a teenager living in Nebraska on that fatal day, he was born and raised in Nebraska, his parents poor as will be described by the author. Stratton is 96 years of age now, there are but 5 members of the crew of the Arizona remaining but he has a great memory and as he tells all early in the book during discussions This book is a great combination of author and sailor who survived the sinking of the USS Arizona at Hawaii of December 7, 1941 driving the US into World War II. Donald Stratton was a teenager living in Nebraska on that fatal day, he was born and raised in Nebraska, his parents poor as will be described by the author. Stratton is 96 years of age now, there are but 5 members of the crew of the Arizona remaining but he has a great memory and as he tells all early in the book during discussions with the other 4 survivors and their memoirs was able to put this book together. One can't really say much as most have probably read books or studied in school about these events, even so I highly recommend everyone read it. ...more
Nov 23, 2016 Kay Schuch rated it it was amazing
An excellent read by a man who lived through Pearl Harbor! A 'gallant' man who felt we should hear his story! I am so glad he was brave enough to share it! Thanks for serving and now for sharing! I definitely understand the difference between brave heroes and gallant men, of which you most certainly are of the gallant variety!
Dec 01, 2016 Anna rated it it was amazing
I have ready many books that deal with this period in history, having a first person account makes it all the more real, very touching. The author's hope for forgiveness in the kingdom to come shows such true humanity.
Nov 15, 2017 Donna Hines rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Shelves: donated-to-hoyt-library, goodread-giveaway
First and foremost I want to thank Donald Stratton for his service.
I'd also like to say that we will never forget the sacrifices he and his fellow servicemen have made for our freedoms that we have today.
**This book was donated to The Hoyt Library upon this review on Dec. 7th 2017 (Anniversary of Pearl Harbor). It was donated with the caption, " In honor of All The Gallant Men."
Thank you to the authors Donald Stratton ,Ken Gire and their publisher William Murrow for this wonderful read but more First and foremost I want to thank Donald Stratton for his service.
Thank you to the authors Donald Stratton ,Ken Gire and their publisher William Murrow for this wonderful read but more importantly for telling this story as it's vital to all of humanity to know the truths that are told here.
I come from a long line of veterans yet ironically it's a topic rarely discussed. We must not ever forget those who paid the ultimate price for our country and our freedom and those who never received the homecoming they deserved. Those who gave their service but never honored is equally vital and so as a family I was thrilled to learn that the US government in 2012 awarded my father his National Defense Service Medal and Navy Good Conduct Medal after serving in the US Navy during the Cold War 61-66 http://citizensvoice.com/news/nepa-ve... . Since he worked in the Navy he knew the importance of our nation's history and shared that love with his 4 kids teaching us the value of each experience and in honoring our vets.
I'll never forget going to Hawaii to visit the USS Arizona Memorial. Let me tell you as a kid I wasn't able to grasp the depth of what occurred in that very spot nor mature enough to have the appreciation and gratitude that I now possess for the sacrifices these gallant men made that day Dec. 7 1941.
I cannot imagine the horror that was witnessed, the excruciating daily pain from the physical wounds, the internal scars that may never heal, the outer scars that cannot be concealed.
As a fellow American I can only offer my prayers for those living and those deceased, our gratitude, our sincere blessings to all the family's who never got to say goodbye and peace for those never laid to rest.
It's heart wrenching to read but it's my true honor to have received this book as I intend to donate this book to my library tomorrow on the anniversary of Pearl Harbor remembrance day so that the story continues to be told because it must for all those who lost their voices and for the 5 who remain who have suffered so greatly.
With this said, this memoir was so precise and so well written that as a reader I could feel every emotion, every action, every pain and anguish.
This is the first memoir by a USS Arizona Survivor.
At 806 am Dec 7 1941, Seaman 1st class- Donald Stratton was in an inferno from a surprise attack (sucker punch) by the Japanese at Pearl Harbor.
Burned over 65% of his body, near death he struggled to survive and my the grace of god and his fellow men he did. As a young man from Nebraska at the age of 19 he joined the navy simply because he needed the money and the job. It was during the Great Depression and Dust Bowl a time when food was scarce, land was drying up, jobs were few , and money was tight with poverty rampant.
The world as Donald knew it would soon change. He went from a boy to a man and than to a hero and a warrior.
Now at age 95 he recounts what it was like that horrible day and his tale of survival is nothing short of miraculous.
Stratton would again serve our nation in the Pacific War in 1944.
When asked why tell your story now? "I wanted to save from the fire something of my memories of the Arizona so that younger generations and all of the children to come after them, can understand why Pearl Harbor matters."
"What I saw that December morning in 1941, what all of us survivors witnessed, was the stuff of nightmares."
335 Arizona sailors survived that day. Only 5 remain.
2,403 killed
1176 wounded
1177 total sailors died on Arizona
Just take a moment to understand the severity as these are not mere numbers but human lives.
"What Japan did in violating our code of honor riled an entire nation."
Can you imagine one minute your eating chow, the next your running to prepare yourself for battle, the next minute you are witnessing your worst nightmare come true.
Mr. Stratton didn't want the attention. He told his story not for applause but for a cause. Do not forget these men.
He re-listed in the USS Stack and was awarded the purple heart while passing the Arizona on the Stack heading to the battle in the South Pacific, New Guinea, Leyto Gulf, Okinawa.
Is it not amazing that Don served in the opening shots and the final battle of WWII.
However, it came with a heavy price to himself and others.
He often asked himself, why me?
He remembers this statement:
Do the best you can
With what you got
It will be enough
It was certainly enough.
As leaflets rained down (Hiroshima) warning those of impending danger from nuclear bombs and to leave the areas listed that were soon to be targeted; the warnings reminded him of one crucial point: They were forewarned but our men were not!
What went wrong you might ask in the Battle at Pearl Harbor?
There was a breakdown in the chain of command. Lack of communication. Arrogance, No Alertness, or Foresight.
In closing , he is happily married to Velma for 67 years with 4 kids of his own.
I can honestly say this I've never read a more thorough and complete memoir as this one and this should certainly be a must read for 2017. ...more
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Aug 07, 2018 Linda Munro rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
I am positive that I have mentioned this in previous reviews; but, once again; I am extremely involved in learning as much as possible about World War II, specifically the Pacific Theater. It was this area which changed a great deal of World History in regards to the United States. It was also this area that shaped the young man who would become my father; thus shaping even my own life.
For the second time while giving a review, I must say that this book holds not only a well portrayed history;
For the second time while giving a review, I must say that this book holds not only a well portrayed history; but, also all of the best written material that a writer of fictional thrillers would use to enthrall his or her reading audience.
This history was written in conjunction with the 75th anniversary of the bombing of Pear Harbor. It allows the reader, not simply a first person account of the event and what would follow; but a true feeling of what it was like to be on a ship (The USS Arizona) during the attack. The book introduces the reader to a 19-year-old American Seaman, First Class Donald Stratton who instantly became a man as friends and shipmates vanished around him.
The reader is given a not just a history and biography of some of the men who perished that day; but an in-depth look at what those men beloved human beings. It also proves how the country (USA) banned together as one to help with the war effort. It shows how an average person can, in an instant become prejudice against an entire culture, and how that prejudice and hatred can linger throughout the years.
It offers an inside look at a person, burned over 65% of his body, with bombs and bullets flying at him can muster the strength to survive. This book reveals what it takes not only to survive; but, also to learn once again, the little things in life, from walking to re-enlisting to continue to fight for our country.
This book gave me a great deal of understanding of what the soldiers, sailors, etc. of the United States who fought in the Pacific Theater went through; not just the battles, but the physical and psychological horrors that were endured. This book, above all others, has helped me to understand what happened to my own father; to understand his views and his nightmares; but, most of all, it helped me understand how a person can go from wanting nothing more than to be out of the service to wanting nothing more than being involved with the war effort.
This is a 10 Star book. I am defiantly glad I read it and suggest that everyone, whether or not WWII directly affected your life should read it too.
Apr 11, 2017 Kimberly rated it it was amazing
Shelves: 2017, favorites
Donald Stratton is one of five living survivors (as of the writing of the book and this review) of the USS Arizona. Since no survivor has written a memoir, Stratton figured that he should tell the story of the Arizona before there was no left.
The title of the book comes from the words at the WWII Valor in the Pacific Memorial:
TO THE MEMORY OF THE GALLANT MEN
HERE ENTOMBED AND THEIR SHIPMATES
WHO GAVE THEIR LIVES IN ACTION
Like many young men of that time, Stratton signed up for Donald Stratton is one of five living survivors (as of the writing of the book and this review) of the USS Arizona. Since no survivor has written a memoir, Stratton figured that he should tell the story of the Arizona before there was no left.
Like many young men of that time, Stratton signed up for the Navy to provide a steady paycheck for his Depression-stricken, Dust Bowl family. And even though it's been 75 years, memories of things seen that day--and his Navy service in general--remain sharp and strong. I thought I knew about Pearl Harbor, since I'd read books and visited the memorial, but this contained the details that I'd never imagined. Stories of men who died that day (his friends and acquaintances), of their families, of the men and women who helped the survivors. The list of names at the memorial is more to Stratton, because they are actually men that he knew.
Some things I found particularly interesting:
(view spoiler)[
* The descriptions of the destruction of the ship, of the flying shrapnel and body parts... (shiver) The descriptions of the burned seamen trying to escape the burning ships and oily waters... Of trying to save those trapped or identify the dead... It's things like this that even the Pearl Harbor movie didn't capture.
* It took 13 days for the family of one of his shipmates to receive word that their son/brother was dead. 13 days! That seems so unfathomable in this day of instant communication, even though the same sort of thing happened after 9/11 because no one was sure who was in the building and who wasn't.
* He still hasn't forgiven the Japanese military for what it did. It's understandable, considering what he went through. I really appreciate his honesty, saying that the scars (literal and figurative) are still fresh, even after all this time.
* His sweet appreciation for the men and women who helped at the hospital, who worked long hours and tried to help every man that they could. Who did their best to make sure that no one died alone.
(hide spoiler)]
Pearl Harbor feels like history now, shadowed by 9/11, but there are still those who remember it, and I appreciated reading this book. I definitely recommend it. ...more
Mar 18, 2018 Colleen rated it really liked it
I've had this on my list since the 75th anniversary of Pearl Harbor which is when the book came out. My WWII reading has mostly been about the war in Europe so this was very enlightening. Nineteen year old Donald Stratton lived through that horrific day but was severely burned. Following a long recovery, he eventually re-enlisted and has the distinction of being the only documented soldier to be at the first (Pearl Harbor) and the last (Okinawa) battles of the war. Not only is it his story, but I've had this on my list since the 75th anniversary of Pearl Harbor which is when the book came out. My WWII reading has mostly been about the war in Europe so this was very enlightening. Nineteen year old Donald Stratton lived through that horrific day but was severely burned. Following a long recovery, he eventually re-enlisted and has the distinction of being the only documented soldier to be at the first (Pearl Harbor) and the last (Okinawa) battles of the war. Not only is it his story, but he uses many other references to tell the stories of his fellow Navy seamen. Plus, he helps us understand what led up to the attack and where the country fell short in preparedness. Stratton wants us to remember the lessons of Pearl Harbor and so agreed to work with writer Ken Gire to bring his story to the public. This is an excellent overview of the attack and subsequent war effort in the Pacific. Very worthwhile read. ...more
Nov 13, 2017 Nina O'Daniels rated it really liked it · review of another edition
Shelves: audio, guy-reads, war-military, non-fiction, 2016, gateway-2018-19
This non-fictional account of the attack on Pearl Harbor is no-nonsense and no frills. Donald Stratton was stationed on the USS Arizona the day of the attack and was one of the few to survive. Perfect for those looking for a quick read with some punch. The reminders of this generation's motivation, work ethic, comradery, and unity allow insight into the "Greatest Generation" and their beliefs. Stratton's harrowing story is one of many, and he's finally telling it as a 94-year old-man. This non-fictional account of the attack on Pearl Harbor is no-nonsense and no frills. Donald Stratton was stationed on the USS Arizona the day of the attack and was one of the few to survive. Perfect for those looking for a quick read with some punch. The reminders of this generation's motivation, work ethic, comradery, and unity allow insight into the "Greatest Generation" and their beliefs. Stratton's harrowing story is one of many, and he's finally telling it as a 94-year old-man. Thankfully, he knows the importance getting these stories into the hands of anyone willing to listen. The politics of the day still hold water, and it was interesting to see the mindset of our leaders of the day. It's been a while since I've studied this and I needed the reminder. ...more
Dec 10, 2018 Nathan rated it really liked it
First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt carried a wartime poem in her pocket as a reminder throughout her life:
I then must
Survivor Donald Stratton was asked what message he wanted to leave in his firsthand account for future generations. He responded, "That people would remember Pearl Harbor, so that it would never happen First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt carried a wartime poem in her pocket as a reminder throughout her life:
Survivor Donald Stratton was asked what message he wanted to leave in his firsthand account for future generations. He responded, "That people would remember Pearl Harbor, so that it would never happen again."
Another quote from a Pearl Harbor historian: "Humanity cannot afford to forget the lessons of Pearl Harbor. The world is much too small; the risk is much too great; the time is much too late." ...more
Sep 09, 2018 Anni Pronschinske rated it it was ok
Shelves: biographies
If you know a good amount about Pearl Harbor and want another side of the story, this is the perfect book for you! This book gives a very insightful look at the capsizing of the USS Arizona from one of the last surviving soldiers. But for someone like me who only knows the bare minimum about Pearl Harbor, I was fairly underwhelmed. Maybe it was because my standards are Unbroken"ly" high, but I don't feel like I got the story I was looking for. What brought this sailor to be apart of the USS If you know a good amount about Pearl Harbor and want another side of the story, this is the perfect book for you! This book gives a very insightful look at the capsizing of the USS Arizona from one of the last surviving soldiers. But for someone like me who only knows the bare minimum about Pearl Harbor, I was fairly underwhelmed. Maybe it was because my standards are Unbroken"ly" high, but I don't feel like I got the story I was looking for. What brought this sailor to be apart of the USS Arizona crew? What was his childhood like? His family? His friends? His town? What about getting a job post-war? How did he meet his wife? What were his kids like?
I want to know just as much about the war as I do about the author and it just wasn't enough. ...more
May 27, 2019 Catherine Ritter Guendel rated it it was amazing
Memorial Day weekend was the perfect time to read this remarkable book. A first hand account of a sailor who survived the bombing of the USS Arizona in Pearl Harbor by climbing hand over hand across a rope tethered to another ship while fire raged below and suffering burns over 60 percent of his body. The sadness he endured due to losing almost all of his shipmates was something he never truly was able to forget. After recovering from his excruciating injuries, he had the strength to re-enlist Memorial Day weekend was the perfect time to read this remarkable book. A first hand account of a sailor who survived the bombing of the USS Arizona in Pearl Harbor by climbing hand over hand across a rope tethered to another ship while fire raged below and suffering burns over 60 percent of his body. The sadness he endured due to losing almost all of his shipmates was something he never truly was able to forget. After recovering from his excruciating injuries, he had the strength to re-enlist and to fight for our country and for honor on behalf of his fallen friends. ...more
Apr 16, 2019 Stratia rated it it was amazing
This book was amazing in describing the details of what happened at Pearl Harbor by one of the survivors of the Arizona. Before reading this, I didn't have much knowledge of what happened, but this book provides a clear understanding. Ever Americans soldier whether a part of the navy, marines, army or Air Force is a hero as soon as they pledge to serve this country. Donald Stratton is a thoughtful and caring man who survived Pearl Harbor and shares his firsthand experiences from his life before, This book was amazing in describing the details of what happened at Pearl Harbor by one of the survivors of the Arizona. Before reading this, I didn't have much knowledge of what happened, but this book provides a clear understanding. Ever Americans soldier whether a part of the navy, marines, army or Air Force is a hero as soon as they pledge to serve this country. Donald Stratton is a thoughtful and caring man who survived Pearl Harbor and shares his firsthand experiences from his life before, during, and after. Anyone who reads this book will have a great appreciation for this country and what the men who fought for this country went through. ...more
Aug 22, 2017 George Qsar rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Excellent firsthand account of Pearl Harbor. I learned much about the events that took place before, during and after this tragedy. Much I didn't know or learned in school or movies depicting this event of history. One of our nations "Greatest Generations " records his memories for all of us to remember and hopefully not forget.
Apr 06, 2017 Niki (nikilovestoread) rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Shelves: favorites, nonfiction, world-war-ii, biography, american-history, memoir
This was such a good book! I admit some of the technical language when it came to types of ships, weapons, and ammunition went over my head, but I still really enjoyed this book. The personal elements that only someone who was there can add really bring to life just how horrific it was at the time and how much it affected so many people for the rest of their lives.
Apr 27, 2017 Greg Oaster rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Nothing tells a story better than someone who was there. Mr. Stratton's story should be a must read in every school.
Perhaps his sacrifice and service will inspire others...it certainly did for me
Autobiography > Memoir
War > World War II
About Donald Stratton
Donald Stratton
Books by Donald Stratton
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"never been seen on earth." — 0 likes
"Journalists were among those who thought that way. Clarke Beach, for example, in a September 6 article for the local newspaper, the Star-Bulletin, wrote, "A Japanese attack on Hawaii is regarded as the most unlikely thing in the world, with one chance in a million of being successful." — 0 likes