| Question: I am presently reading “Sink the Shigure” and have read up to page 153. I am a Senior Chief Petty Officer in the Naval Reserve and have a comment regarding authenticity. You refer to the COB (which I am not sure was a common term during WW2) as Master Chief. Senior Chief and Master Chief rates were not established until late 1958 meaning there were no Master or Senior Chiefs during WW2. Other than these two items I am enjoying your book very much. Thanks CECS(SCW) Reg Gordon |
| Answer: Reg, You are absolutely correct. Thanks for setting me straight. I used the term “COB” for Chief of the Boat in several instances to tone down some of the dialog and make it more informal. Whether the slang term “COB” was used during WWII to refer to the chief of the boat, I’m not certain. Unfortunately, navy records and patrol reports from the time are not much use since they tend to steer clear of slang terms. I will put some feelers out to some WWII sub vets and post whatever I find out. I’m glad you’re enjoying it otherwise. Thanks for your service, Senior Chief! – RCC |
