Nuclear Navy

My last RA Favorite book that I finished until the 2014-15 RAs are hired.  This one was from one of the School of Engineering students, so not surprised it was an industry “historical” book called Nuclear Navy by Richard Hewlett.  The book traces the growth of the Navy’s attack potential by adding nuclear vessels to the operation.  The lead visionary for this endeavor was Admiral Hyman G. Rickover who shepherds the process of getting his supervisors to first appoint him to a position of influence and second give him the tools to make the process happen.  Rickover, on the precipice of being overlooked for a promotion, works the system, gets his position, and then sets out an amazing course to help change the world in terms of tools of destruction to keep the US safe.  The book goes into great detail using memorandums and other documents that were owned by the government to illustrate the depth of Rickover and his staff’s ability to lead the charge.  There are numerous lessons in “how each propulsion engine” or part was created and tested, the companies that served as contractors in the building of the parts, and finally all of the political pull necessary to receive funding to complete each step along the way.  The book provides year to year growth and opportunity that Rickover accomplished.  There are some rather in-depth details into nuclear creations, much of which honestly bored me to tears… the historical reflections on the thoughtful vision Rickover had and how he bullied anyone in his way was somewhat interesting.  This is clearly a book for engineers, or maybe military strategist.  Either way, it was a long read, which I completed during my ACUHOI trip to Columbus – being stuck an extra night let me finish it before returning to NYC.  I would not wrap this book up as a present to anyone, unless insomnia can’t be cured.  Hard read….