| Question: I just finished reading your book “Rise to Victory”. As a retired Naval Officer – nuc submariner (2 SSN’s and 2 FBM’s) as well as a qualified Engineering Officer (though never served as such)- I found the story well done. However I am very disturbed by the negative image you portrayed of almost all the Naval Officers in the book. Yes there were a few “weak sisters” amongst the men I knew – but without doubt they were the finest and most dedicated men I have ever worked with. Your representation of their obsession with promotion and willingness to kiss a–, regardless of what was right – is not something that I experienced. As a former submariner I feel you did a real dis-service to those men that have served so well and unselfishly for so many years. I realize it is only a novel – but written by someone that has been there – it makes it come across as how it really is – and nothing could be further from the truth. |
| Answer: I agree with you. They were the finest people I’ve ever worked with. I’m sorry you feel that I did a disservice to them. That’s certainly not what I was shooting for. I’m glad you liked the story. No offense was meant to you or to any of our fine navy men and women. Thanks for your service. – RCC |
