Last Convoy to Europe

About the Book

During the waning days of World War II, Liberty Ships remained the source of most of the supplies moving to the European theatre of war. This is the story of one of those voyages. The story weaves a fabric of men facing daily danger into a fascinating glimpse into some of the real unsung heroes of those war years, the men who served in the Merchant Marine. From shore leave to fights on board ship, these men lived life to the fullest, for their ship was the prized target of German U-boats. Sailing with officers who had free access to the liquor carried in the hold, the danger for the crew only increased with each league the convoy sailed. If left behind by the protective screen of destroyers through the incompetence of the officers, the ship would be at the mercy of the prowling U-boats. It was a risk they could not afford.

About the Author

Charles Pendleton Gaines, born in 1922, third of seven children. After high school, he joined the Merchant Marines to help support his six brothers and sisters. During his years of service, he rose from ordinary seaman to captain. Charles, now retired, lives with his Panamanian wife in Winter Haven, Florida.