As a memoir of shipboard life during World War II, the story is an accurate depiction of life aboard a combat vessel during the invasions of Normandy, Lingayen Gulf in the Philippines, Iwo Jima, and landing in Wakayama, Japan. From escorting convoys crossing the Atlantic and working with Under Water Demolition Team UDT15 now called ‘Seals’, in the Pacific, the USS Blessman survived a 500 pound bomb blast at Iwo Jima. After limping to Mare Island for repairs, she sailed at full speed carrying UDT-17 team to join the forces landing on Japan soil.