British Submarines at War: 1914-1918

Edwyn Gray

Jan 2016 · Pen and Sword

About this ebook

Originally published in 1970 and out of print for nearly thirty years, this book has already earned its place as a classic of submarine history by an author with an international reputation for being second-to-none in evoking the claustrophobic horror of war beneath the waves. Accurate in detail, yet written with humanity and humour, it tells the story of Britains pioneer submarines during the 1914-1918 War during which their crews battled courageously in atrocious conditions against a skilled and ruthless enemy and an equally unforgiving sea.2001 marks the centenary of Britains Submarine Service introduced into the Royal Navy in the face of opposition from virtually every flag officer in the fleet. The dedicated enthusiasts who made up their crews were derided as members of The Trade but they fought the Edwardian Naval Establishment as fiercely as they were later to fight the enemy; And Victory was their reward on both occasions. Freshly illustrated, this second edition is a timely tribute to the gallant pioneers who created the legacy of dogged courage, determination, and standards of excellence which remain the proud hallmarks of the Royal Navys submarine service today.

About the author

Born within sight and sound of the London docks at a time when ocean fighters unloaded their cargos in the heartland of the capital, Edwyn Gray has always had a deep interest in the sea and the Royal Navy- counting amongst his ancestors John Philipot who led a makeshift English fleet to victory in the 14th century. Educated at the Cooper's Company School, Bow; the Royal Grammar School, High Wycombe; and London University, he began writing for magazines in 1953 and his first book was published in 1969. His work on submarine and torpedo history has earned him an international reputation as a naval officer and, in addition, he has written eight novels on the war beneath the sea. His books have been published in both Britain and the United States as well as being translated into Dutch, Italian, German, Danish, Swedish and Japanese and he continues to produce features on a variety of historical subjects for leading British and American periodicals. Edwyn Gray and his wife now live in Norfolk surrounded by an ever increasing collection of gods and cats and his relaxations include jazz on the organ and collecting commemorative China.