A Collaborative Exploration into WWII with Dale A. Jenkins and the Americans for a Stronger Navy
A Blog Series
Dear Members and Subscribers,
Welcome aboard! We’re thrilled to embark on a journey through one of the most captivating aspects of World War II: Naval Aviation in the Pacific theater of war. Get ready to experience the soaring triumphs, daring heroics, and breathtaking battles that shaped the course of history.
Setting the Stage
Let’s set the stage for this incredible series. Naval aviation played a pivotal role in America’s war effort against Japan. From achieving air superiority to reconnaissance, bombing, and support for ground and sea forces, these aviators were the backbone of our victory.
The Heroes in Blue and Gold
In this series, we’ll introduce you to the remarkable men who took to the skies in their blue and gold wings. Their stories of courage, skill, sacrifice, and leadership will leave you inspired. We will take you from Pearl Harbor to Coral Sea and Midway, from Guadalcanal to Okinawa and Tokyo Bay. We will show you how naval aviation changed the course of the war, and how the war changed naval aviation.
Introducing: Diplomats and Admirals
It is with great pleasure that we introduce Dale A. Jenkins, our esteemed World War II advisor and author of “Diplomats and Admirals.” With his extensive research and unwavering dedication, Dale has uncovered fascinating facts and fresh perspectives that shed new light on the background of World War II and how naval aviation influenced critical decisions during the war in the Pacific. His discoveries promise to enrich our understanding of this historical period, and we are excited to share his insights with you. We recognize that history is multi-layered, and different perspectives contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the past. As we navigate the historical narratives, it’s essential to recognize that Dale’s findings present new perspectives and are a valuable addition to our exploration of naval aviation history.
Promoting Dialogue and Critical Thinking
As we delve into this pivotal period in history, we encourage all our readers to engage critically with the content. We recognize that history can be interpreted in various ways, and we value the opportunity to foster respectful discussions and exchange of ideas. If you have different perspectives or insights to share, please do so in the comments section. By embracing diversity and open-mindedness, we can collectively deepen our understanding of naval aviation’s significant role in World War II.
Our Commitment
We remain committed to presenting a well-researched, balanced, and objective account of naval aviation during this critical time in history. Your support and feedback are invaluable to us as we strive to bring you an informative and enlightening blog series.
Timeline and Learning Objectives
Fasten your seatbelts as we take you through the phases of this gripping saga, with blog posts scheduled every 14 days:
Series Agenda: 4 Phases, 18 Blog posts over 18 months
Post 1: Navigating Naval Narratives with Dale A. Jenkins and Bill Cullifer. (March 21, 2024)
Dive deep with Dale A. Jenkins, the acclaimed writer of “Diplomats and Admirals,” and Bill Cullifer, founder of Americans for a Stronger Navy. This series draws upon Jenkins’ meticulous research, enriched by both of their personal experiences in the US Navy. Jenkins served aboard the USS DeHaven (DD-727) as a Naval officer and Cullifer as an enlisted Quartermaster on the USS Henry B. Wilson DDG7. Both having sailed on Tin Cans, they blend their authentic naval backgrounds with deep academic insights. Embark on this enlightening journey through naval history and strategy with two passionate advocates for a stronger Navy. Don’t miss this voyage of discovery!
Praise for Dale A. Jenkins’ “Diplomats and Admirals”:
Fascinating and highly readable.” — John F. Lehman, Former Secretary of the Navy
“Jenkins’ book offers startling new facts…providing valuable insight.” — U.S. Naval Institute Proceedings Magazine
Expert Insights: Dive into Dale’s vast ocean of knowledge in naval history and strategy, anchored by his days on Pacific destroyers and further enriched by his experience as a staff director at the Council on Foreign Relations.
Prestigious Roles: Dale’s illustrious career includes an early career in international banking, and now as an author and historian developed important associations with the Naval Order of the United States and the Naval War College Foundation. His insights, honed by academic degrees from Harvard and Columbia, illuminate the complex weave of diplomacy and strategies in the Pacific.
Tin Can Camaraderie: Relive the maritime memories of the 60s and 70s aboard the USS DeHaven and USS Henry B. Wilson, as shared by Dale and Bill. Their tales are a testament to their profound respect and a shared reverence for naval history.
Collaborative Vision: Together, Dale and Bill rally for the “Americans for a Stronger Navy” initiative, casting a spotlight on the vital role of the Navy, commemorating naval legends, and advocating for a robust naval presence.
Sea Battle Significance: Traverse through the transformative naval landscape of WWII, from the might of battleships to the agility of naval aviation tactics.
Deep Dive: Post-Pearl Harbor, witness the Navy’s early performance as it wielded limited resources to challenge the Imperial Japanese Navy.
Midway’s Heroes: Salute the valor of unsung heroes like Lt Cdr Wade McClusky and the game-changing dive bomber pilots of the Battle of Midway.
Research Chronicles: Navigate through Dale’s research odysseys, enriched by his interactions with veteran giants like George Walsh and Dusty Kleiss.
Modern Strategy Analysis: Bridge the past and present, contrasting WWII naval strategies with contemporary approaches.
Reflective Conclusion: Stand in reverence to the bravery and legacy of naval forces, and recognize the steadfast alliance between Dale, Bill, and “Americans for a Stronger Navy.”
Upcoming Waves: Stay anchored for captivating content ahead.
Phase 1: The Early Years (1941–1942)
- The challenges and setbacks faced by naval aviation before and after Pearl Harbor
Post 2: The Attack on Pearl Harbor and its aftermath (April 21, 2024)
- The reality of devastation and America’s entry into the war.
- The naval aviation perspective: Immediate responses and restructuring.
Post 3: The Doolittle Raid: The first US strike against Japan (May 21, 2024)
- A daring raid that boosted morale and struck fear into the enemy’s heart.
- Naval aviator involvement and the strategic implications.
Post 4: The Battle of the Coral Sea: The first carrier vs. carrier battle (June 21, 2024)
- A pivotal naval clash that changed the course of the war.
- A look at the evolving tactics and strategies of naval aviation.
Post 5: The Battle of Midway: The turning point of the war (July 21, 2024)
- The legendary battle that shifted the tides in favor of the Allies.
- The role of intelligence and its significance in naval aviation successes.
Phase 2: Solomon Islands: A tough fight against a tenacious enemy (1942–1943)
- The innovations and achievements of naval aviation in the Solomon Islands campaign
Post 6: Guadalcanal: The first offensive in the Solomon Islands (August 21, 2024).
- The interplay between ground forces and naval aviation.
Post 7: The Battle of the Eastern Solomons (September 21, 2024)
- Taking the bait and sinking a carrier
- Heavy attacks and survival
Post 8: The Battle of Santa Cruz: The last carrier vs. carrier battle of 1942 (October 2021, 2024)
- A clash that tested the mettle of naval aviators
- Importance of air superiority and the challenges faced
Post 9: The Naval Battle of Guadalcanal: The decisive surface engagement of the campaign (November 21, 2024)
- An epic showdown that secured a vital victory
- Coordination between naval vessels and aircraft
Phase 3: The Offensive (1943–1944)
- The expansion and diversification of naval aviation in the Central Pacific campaign
Post 10: The Gilbert Islands Campaign: The beginning of the island-hopping strategy (December 7, 2024)
- A strategic leap toward Japan’s doorstep.
- Then adaptation and growth of naval aviation tactics.
Post 11: The Marshall Islands Campaign: The capture of the Japanese outer defense line (January 21, 2025)
- Breaking through enemy defenses and advancing further.
- Insights into the logistical challenges faced and overcome.
Post 12: The Battle of the Philippine Sea: The largest carrier battle in history (February 21, 2025)
- An intense showdown in the vast expanse of the Pacific.
- The evolution of naval aviation equipment and technology.
Post 13: The Mariana Islands Campaign: The advance to Japan’s doorstep (March 21, 2025)
- Closing in on the enemy’s homeland, inch by inch.
- How strategic foresight and planning contributed to successes.
Post 14: The Battle of Leyte Gulf: The last major naval battle of the war (April 21, 2025)
- The showdown that shattered the might of the Imperial Japanese Navy.
- A deep dive into the multifaceted nature of this enormous naval clash.
Phase 4: The Final Push (1944–1945)
- The challenges and triumphs of naval aviation in the final stages of the war
Post 15: The Iwo Jima Campaign: The bloodiest battle in Marine Corps history (May 21, 2025)
- A brutal struggle for a tiny island that held immense significance.
- The vital role of naval aviation in support of ground forces.
Post 16: The Okinawa Campaign: The last major battle of the war (June 21, 2025)
- A costly and critical campaign paving the way for Japan’s surrender.
- Assessing the cumulative growth and importance of naval aviation by this point in the war.
Post 17: The Atomic Bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki: The end of the war (July 21, 2025)
- Unveiling the unprecedented and devastating power of the atomic bomb.
- Reflecting on the broader implications for naval aviation post-war.
Post 18: The Tokyo Bay Surrender Ceremony: The formal conclusion of the war (August 21, 2025)
- Witnessing history as the Japanese surrender aboard the USS Missouri.
- The symbolism and significance of this event in naval aviation history.
Phase Aftermath (1945–Present)
- The impact and legacy of naval aviation on naval warfare and world history
Share Your Thoughts and Stories
As we explore the heroic stories of these naval aviators, we encourage you to share your thoughts, personal connections, and family stories related to World War II and naval aviation. Your contributions will enrich our collective understanding and appreciation of the remarkable individuals who shaped history from the skies.
Stay Tuned
Be sure to mark your calendars for the upcoming posts in this series. We can’t wait to embark on this incredible journey with you, celebrating the bravery and dedication of those who soared to victory on the wings of freedom.
Sincerely,
The Wings of Victory Team