Zoomies, Subs, and Zeros

by Hans C. Adamson

As air battles with Japanese fighter planes increased over the Pacific toward the end of World War 2, the Submarine Lifeguard League was formed to rescue downed aviators who had zoomed into the drink. The League helped save the lives of hundreds of Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps pilots - including future President George H. W. Bush - from Japanese planes as well as from death at sea. Author Charles Lockwood (Hellcats of the Sea, Sink 'Em All) brings his usual flair for submarine stories to this eye-witness narrative of the hair-raising adventures of this little-known sub-division of the US Naval Fleet.

*Includes annotations and images.

240 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 8, 2019

Reviews

[JD · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick and easy read about how the US Navy used their submarines on Lifeguard Duty to save aircrews who had to ditch in the ocean while attacking the Japanese on islands all over the Pacific. This is a unique book of missions that had a real impact on performance from pilot's who knew they had an escape route even after ditching close to enemy held islands, which made them press their attacks even harder against these targets. There are many interesting stories in this book and you can see another side of these subs who made a name for themselves by attacking enemy shipping. The book was originally published in 1956 when the memories were still fresh. Highly recommended to any submarine enthusiast.

[Trebor · Rating 3 out of 5]

We all know that submarines can be the purveyor of death and terror. This book is about another side of submarine warfare. They were called the "Lifeguard League" and their job was one of heroic but dangerous objectives. American pilots shot down over the oceans were faced with a grim outcome, but with the help of dozens of well placed subs could have a more favorable result. Many pilot's lives were saved by their presence and were very grateful for their missions of mercy. Harassed by both friendly and enemy fire their undaunted attempts at rescue were well appreciated by the survivors. A blow by blow tale complete with names, dates and details

[Jake Craw · Rating 5 out of 5]

THANKS....

Recycling of lost members of our armed forces from lost to found, with diggs at enemy's, can only be described in two phrases, thank God for the Submarine and those who learned how to operate them. Many a family has been built because of their return by this group of people saved by them. Much heroism occurred throughout this War, Far more than will ever be recognised in this life time.

[John Matthews · Rating 5 out of 5]

THis was a terrificw

and well written book.His explanation of the morphing of the submarine services from killers to lifesavers I had not been aware of before reading this book. I felt as if I was in the action as the author described the many rescuse ,, that were carried out .

[CATHY BARBER · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pilot and crew life savers

Excellent and well written history of the silent service and one of their additional duties as life guards during air raids in the Asian theatre. These brave men save over five hundred flyers from capture and or torture and death. Thanks for a great book!

[steve Brood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great insight into submarine operations late in the war

Great insight into submarine operations late in the war. Well told by people who were there. A tribute to both the sub crews and the zoomies

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Submarines to the rescue

The history of World War 2 submarines and how they saved Allied pilots and crews from capture and/or death in the Pacific.

[jparvinjr · Rating 4 out of 5]

The best submariner book I have read.

I haven't read many submarine books, but did enjoy this book, could hardly put it down. Will pass this reading on.

[Mary Lou Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

ve

Very good 👍 kept me interested. Learned a lot about the Sun workings and respect what our navy did for brothers in arms

[Stephen F. Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice historic look at submarine rescues in WW2. I didn’t know rescue subs even existed. Very brave people in the subs and pilots above. Parts are reprove. But an entertaining read. Recommended.

[Kent A. Bahr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Little know side of US Submarine warfare in WWII

Very exciting look at submarines and their efforts to rescue aircrews who were forced down in Japanese waters or controlled islands. A look in history not we’ll known but needs telling!!!

[Chris Welber · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting account of some unknown heroes

Interesting and in depth accounts from a front line commander. Often overlooked part the Pacific theater. Very interesting read and thorough.