Guestbook Page Three
Added: 4/24/2010
Submitted by
Name: JT Chapin
Comments:
"What a thrill to find your site! I've been a fan and follower of Edward Ellsberg since the 1940s when, as a kid, I found and read "On The Bottom" from the Houston Public Library. My favorite of all is "Under The Red Sea Sun" and his incredible feat at Massawa.
"No Banners No Bugles" in North Africa was almost as good.I've been accumulating photos here and there of the vessels Adm. Ellsberg raised or attempted to save, such as the British troopship "Strathallen." Sad to say pickings are very slim. BUT thanks to your site,I have enjoyed immensely reading his letters to Lucy. It takes only a second to think back more than fifty years and pull up names like "Wickwire," "SS Pig's Knuckle," "Hsin Rocket" and so many more. I'm an old Coastie, but next year, 2011, I will have been a member of the US Naval Institute for 50 years. I joined in January 1961 when in college at University of Houston. Glad I found you, and thank you for doing this.
JT Chapin
Helotes, TX "
Added: 4/21/2010
Submitted by
Name: Mike
Comments:
"I first came across CDR Ellsberg's exploits in Gores' "Marine Salvage" - a book I "appropriated" from my Junior High library years ago and was instantly addicted. Since then, I've added several of his books to my personal library that has seen Afghanistan and Iraq (won't leave home without at least one).
Truly an inspirational person and for the life of me, I can't understand why these stories haven't been told on screen. Could you imagine watching an accurate portrayal of the work on the Dido in Massawa or the sheer frustration with the French pilot wrecking the Spahi?
All very good...
Would anyone know of a direction I could head in search of any his sketches/diagrams or even pictures any of his exploits? This is the one time Google has failed me."
Added: 4/19/2010
Submitted by
Name: Bobby Grimes
Comments:
"Aloha, I just finished The Far Shore. It was a great read and I am amazed at the life and works of this fine Naval Officer. I look forward to reading more. "
Added: 4/15/2010
Submitted by
Name: Barry Russo
Comments:
Read the Cmdr's books when I was a kid in the 50's. My thanks to him and his brothers in arms for their service to our great nation.
Added: 4/12/2010
Submitted by
Name: SAM HOGENAUER
Comments:
"First read several of Commander ELLsburg's books (On the Bottom and Men Under the Sea) when I was in High School. Since then I have managed to collect additional ones, and still re-read them. I certainly hope the reprinting of Salvage Man comes off. I'd love to read it!"
Added: 4/11/2010
Submitted by
Name: Ted Pollard
Comments:
"This is an answer to John Hyatt's question of 1/15/10 from John Alden, Ellsberg's biographer:
Regarding your salvage question, I don't think the Navy, especially the sub force, ever looked at either salvage operation as a cost-effectiveness matter, except for deciding what to do with the hulk after it was raised. Actually, repairing and returning either the S-51 or the S-4 to service would probably have been cheaper than building a new sub, but of course the Navy had a surplus of submarines during those times. Raising the S-51 was a challenge to the Navy as well as to Ellsberg. Recovering the bodies, even more so with the S-4, would have been important for service morale, not just for public relations. In both cases it would have been worth raising the hulks to assess the damage and look for evidence of materiel deficiencies in order to improve other submarines. The S-4 provided an opportunity to test and improve the salvage organiza tion established after the S-51 disaster. It would have been ridiculous not to make use of the knowledge learned on the S-51. These are my opinions. I don't have any official records of the discussions and decisions that were made by the authorities in charge back then."
Added: 3/10/2010
Submitted by
Name: John Bergmann
Comments:
Cdr. Ellsberg was one of my hero's as a boy during WWII
as was my father Cdr. John F. Bergmann. I want to read
Cdr. Ellsberg's book again.
Tks for Keeping memory alive.
John C Bergmann
Added: 3/7/2010
Submitted by
Name: Pat Sullivan US Army Ret.
Comments:
"Just amazed to read CDR Mayball's comments. Exactly my experience with "On the Bottom" thru the Erie County Bookmobile in suburban Buffalo, bi-weekly also.1950. I couldn't get to keep the book back then. Time to read it again"
Added: 2/24/2010
Submitted by
Name: Morrison Vogt
Comments:
"A "few" years, I read a book about a man who was instrumental in inventing a welding system that would function under water. It was used in clearing harbors in North Africa during WWII. I was between 16 and 17 years old at the time. That book was the driving force that convinced me to join the US Navy. I joined the Navy Reserve while I was in high school and went active in February of 1959.. I stayed for 20 of the finest years of my life. I will for ever be grateful to a mentor I never met."
Added: 2/22/2010
Submitted by
Name: Maurry Tamarkin
Comments:
"By the way, can anyone tell me why he is buried in Willimantic CT? "
Added: 2/14/2010
Submitted by
Name: Maurry Tamarkin
Comments:
"At age of 13 in 1951, I read every one of his books I could get my hands on. He was a brave, intelligent man. His books were fascinating."
Added: 2/14/2010
Submitted by
Name: Jeffrey Solow
Comments:
I loved his teenage diving adventures when I was in grammar school and all of his other books as an adult. What a man!
Added: 2/1/2010
Submitted by
Name: CDR Robert Matthew (MATT) Hayball USN
Comments:
"RADM Ellsburg was a boyhood hero. I read every one of his books I could get my hands on, mostly in the sixth grade. I still do, it's just harder without the biweekly bookmobile.
Still my hero.
The Navy still is, as it was."
Added: 1/28/2010
Submitted by
Name: John Hyatt
Comments:
"One little thing has always bothered me, and I ownder if anyone who looks at this site can explain it: Why did the Navy go to the trouble of raising the S-51? It had to cost a lot more than it was worth! Were ships so scarce that even an S-boat was worth salvaging at any cost? Or was there not much else for the recovery to do at the time? I'd love to know how the decision was made."
Added: 1/15/2010
Submitted by
Name: Steve Masticola
Comments:
"I finally borrowed a copy of Salvage Man from the Princeton University library, and it filled in some gaps in the Admiral's life for me. I wish I could have met the man; he continues to be an inspiration to me in tough times. Thank you very much for the site!"
Submitted by
Name: Doug Hender
Comments:
Thanks so much for putting together such a great website. I am especially enjoying the letters from Massawa after having read the book "Under the Red Sea Sun"
Added: 5/23/2009
Submitted by
Name: John Olsen
Comments:
"I enjoyed Admiral Ellsberg's books very much in my early teens, in the 1940's."
Added: 5/5/2009
Submitted by
Name: R. C. Montague
Comments:
"Yet another "On The Bottom" freak, who actually made a diving helmet from a 5-gallon oil can and escaped total blindness because the piece of window glass put on with putty didn't shatter at six feet in a pond. A great man, as the World War II record also showed. It's cheering to know that you are in business."
Added: 4/16/2009
Submitted by
Name: Bernard Segal
Comments:
"I read some of his books as an adolescent, but rediscovered them now, much older. I really appreciate his salvage histories. He was a great naval officer.
B. Segal"
Added: 4/9/2009
Submitted by
Name: Terry Reifsteck
Comments:
"Thanks for creating this great site. I've been an admirer of Commander Ellsberg for years and have managed a nice collection of his books. Today I discovered Salvage Man and will be adding that to my library. Working as a commercial diver for 25 years myself, I can truly appreciate much of what Mr Ellsberg experienced and I remain humbled by his achievements. Good luck with the site."
Added: 4/5/2009
Submitted by
Name: Ed Nelson
Comments:
"My father was a fan of Edward Ellsberg's writings. My dad passed away in 1982, and I have been carrying around several boxes of his books. I finally dug into the boxes, and I found The Far Shore and Under The Red Sea Sun. I read them both, and really enjoyed. I feel as if I am getting to know my father in a way I did not before.
I since found copies of On the Bottom, and Captain Paul. I really enjoy his work.
Thanks for this web site - great background information.
My dad would have loved it too!"
Added: 3/28/2009
Submitted by
Name: Larry Scott
Comments:
"Like many before me I also was an avid reader of the CMDR's books during high school in the early fifties. A major influence for entering the Navy in 1955, and graduating from the US Navy salvage diving school at Bayonne NJ in June 57.
What a pleasant surprise this morning when the name Edward Ellsberg came to come to mind & I entered it into the computer.
If memory serves me correctly one of his inventions not mentioned in the bio, but very important was the folding porthole patch. Used extensively during the Normandy salvage in HY harbor. "
Added: 3/9/2009
Submitted by
Name: Bill Robinson
Comments:
"My Dad, a WW2 vet had me read On the Bottom when I was in high school. A very good book that has stuck with me all these years. I just saw the story of the Squalus on History Channel and wondered why no S-51 story has never been made."
Added: 3/6/2009
Submitted by
Name: James Krouse
Comments:
"I'm doing research on the USS Partridge, a tug sunk during the d-day invasion. The ship has an interesting history related to its commander who was relieved from duty shortly before D-day. Doing research I found much information in The Far Shore, which I found captivating -- a little known piece of D-day's history.
usspartridge.com"
Added: 2/23/2009
Submitted by
Name: kenneth j.boc
Comments:
wrote great books enjoyed them all-truely a great man
Added: 2/23/2009
Submitted by
Name: Alexander F. Taylor
Comments:
Thank you for preserving the memory of a great Navy man!
Added: 2/19/2009
Submitted by
Name: Jeremy Nichols
Comments:
"Your grandfather's book On the Bottom is one of my favorites. As an engineer, I truly appreciate the things he had to invent to help raise the S-51.
Do you know where the S-51's bell is today? In On the Bottom, your grandfather wrote that he gave it to one of the divers, Francis Smith."
Added: 2/2/2009
Submitted by
Name: Don in Boston
Comments:
I read all of Admiral Ellsberg's books in the 60s when I was a kid and have re-read most of them in recent years; I'm very glad to see this website - thanks very much!
Added: 12/31/2008
Submitted by
Name: penny clapp
Comments:
He is one of my favorite authors
Added: 12/29/2008
Submitted by
Name: ilsa
Comments:
I put autographs on ebay for a collector. I have just listed the autograph of Edward Ellsberg. Item # 320323579634. He was a very interesting man I enjoyed researching him.
Added: 12/7/2008
Submitted by
Name: Richard L. Glenn
Comments:
It was the commanders writings that sparked my interest in diving. I've been in commercial diving now for over 29 years.
Rick Glenn
www.glenndiving.com
Added: 10/18/2008
Submitted by
Name: Doug Hender
Comments:
Edward Ellsberg was a favorite author of mine in my youth and an inspiration in adulthood after rereading many of his books.
Added: 10/14/2008
Submitted by
Name: Jon H. Brown
Comments:
"Back in 1942-43 when I was a kid in Junior High I was bedridden with a knee ailment. To pass the time I read many books, including Cmdr. Edward Ellsberg's books. One of my favorites was his description of the role of deep sea divers in the creation of underwater bases for the Golden Gate Bridge. I loved his books. By coincidence, I now have a friend at church, Pat Donahue, who was also a deep sea diver. He worked with Cmdr. Ellsberg in WW-2 and knew him well. I am delighted to find this website dedicated to his memory. "
Added: 9/29/2008
Submitted by
Name: Phil Ewing
Comments:
"As a youngster in the '50 I avidly read all Ellsbergs books in the Westfield, NJ library. I was facinated by his diving."
Added: 9/22/2008
Submitted by
Name: Mark Manes
Comments:
"I have read On the Bottom, Under the Red Sea Sun, and several other salvage books by Commander Ellsberg. I am a Tugboat Captain and have the utmost respect for what he has done. I often use his stories to motivate men and try to use some of his ideas on dealing with difficult situations. My only regret is that I am not ever able to meet such an influential man. Long live his spirit!"
Added: 9/11/2008
Submitted by
Name: Jackie Ayers-Berry
Comments:
"How wonderful this web site is and what a beautiful way to keep your grandfather's memory alive. I have 2 different interests in this site. First, from a genealogist viewpoint and 2nd because Diving is my bread & butter. My husband & I own & operate a Commercial Diving Company in the Midwest. I found a coy of "On the Bottom" at a consignment shop and bought it straight away for my husband due to the photo of the Commercial diver on the front cover. He has really enjoyed the book and has recommended it to our divers as an authentic read. I continue to search book shops and online for copies of Comm. Ellsberg's other books. I am sorry that I missed hearing him speak publically. His speeches must have been fantastic because the descriptions in his books are life like.
Thank you for keeping your Granddaddy alive in all of our hearts.
"
Added: 9/8/2008
Submitted by
Name: Tom Stiles
Comments:
"Almost every year I re-read "Under the Red Sea Sun"
I have found several of your granfather's books at used book stores and buy them whenever I see them.
I have started try to write a screenplay for the red sea sun, but don't get very far. Has anyone else thought about it?
Tom Stiles"
Added: 8/23/2008
Submitted by
Name: george andersom
Comments:
my grandfather and great grandfather served with mr ellsburgwhile raising the s51i also have an autographed copy of on the bottom.
Added: 8/10/2008
Submitted by
Name: wishnevsky
Comments:
"I forgot to mention, i was able to use some information from "The Far Shore" in my bio of Gen. Courtney Hicks Hodges. "
Added: 8/6/2008
Submitted by
Name: wishnevsky
Comments:
"I read most of his books and the bio, great writer and great American.. Good work."
Added: 8/6/2008
Submitted by
Name: Timothy Martin
Comments:
"Until just now I had never heard of Mr Ellsberg, but it appears he was responsible for clearing the wreckage from the Port of Oran after the dreadful events of 8th November 1942, in which my grandfather was killed. If anyone visiting this website can help me piece together what happened to the hulks of HMS Walney and HMS Hartland which were both sunk in the port (and in particular HMS Walney which my grandfather commanded) I would be very grateful to hear from you.
Thank you very much."
Added: 7/10/2008
Submitted by
Name: Kenneth E. Mahler
Comments:
"Just finishing "Under the Red Sea Sun." A spectacular story of hardship under the hottest of conditions. I thought Vietnam in 1967/68 was bad. This port is beyond imagination. Much admiration for the resourceful nature to "Get the Job Done"!
This is a fascinating story!
The Far Shore was my first choice, also recently finished, but the Massawa adventure is so much more about this remarkable man and the manner he handles men and challanges.
"
Added: 7/9/2008
Submitted by
Name: Russ Taylor
Comments:
Just finished reading On the Bottom. What a great book! Congratulations on having such a talented grandfather.
Added: 5/19/2008
Submitted by
Name: Paul Mowrey
Comments:
Thank you for creating this website. All of Edward Ellsberg's books are greating reading.
Added: 5/17/2008
Submitted by
Name: LCDR Alan Bedford USNR (ret.)
Comments:
I first "met" RADM Ellsberg in the 1930s when On The Bottom was probably the first serious book I ever attempted. Some years later I got my own copy which still resides on my library shelf of best books. Over time and with many re-readings I think I absorbed some of the ideas and attitudes of RADM Ellsberg which helped me in a career in aerospace - and still do in retirement. A fine man and a first rate example to young people coming up today. On The Bottom and Salvage Man should be required reading for all engineers and military officers today - and most others. I'm sure he didn't anticipate leaving such a wonderful heritage but I'm thankful he did!
Added: 5/1/2008
: John Macidull
Comments:
"Dear Ellsberg,
Saw your show about your new book. Here are some footnotes you may find interesting. I am an Annapolis graduate and had training in Military and Constitutional law. I spent two tours in Vietnam piloting rescue helicopters and received numerous decorations. Later I also test piloted jet aircraft, but made many more helo rescues in the mountains of California.
But here is the thing you may find interesting - Legally, Navy pilots are different from Air force pilots. In the Navy, piloting was/is voluntary. One could quit at any time without being court-marshalled. We were Naval officers first, with all sorts of ancillary duties, like maintenance office, supply officer, etc. In the Air Force, they were solely pilots, and if they decided to quit, they were court-marshalled, as many were in Viet Nam. I hated Viet Nam, though I was instrumental in saving several lives. I was also the supply offcer, among other non-flying duties. We had eight pilots in my carrier detachment (H-3s). One day my CO ordered me to obtain eight flak jackets. I asked why. He said, "Because we are going into Cambodia." I said that it would only require seven jackets because I would not be going, and told him why. He thought it over for a day and decided that none of us would be going.
Later, after four years as a test pilot, the Navy tried to write me orders to Iran as a pilot instructor. I resigned from active duty, saying I would not go to another bogus conflict area.
My commision in the Naval Reserves lasted another thirteen years, mostly in the Pentagon. I made all ranks up to full Commander without being passed over. Everyone thought I would easily make Captain the next year and possibly Admiral after that. But when the Navy tried to send me to the mid-east again, I immediately retired with twenty qyalified years.
The points here are that the UCMJ regulations allowed a Naval officer to vote with his feet without a court-marshall or dishonorable discharge. Of course there was some knashing of teeth. But the regulations were there. And my delayed stress syndrome from Viet Nam lasted for years. The only real solace I received was being so thankful that I wasn't old enough to be involved in the other quagmire of udeclared "war", or "Police Action" in Korea.
Hope this short story may be useful.
Sincerely,
John C. Macidull
"
Added: 3/2/2008
Submitted by
Name: Dave Sutton
Comments:
"Greeting again to Ted and all others who come here.
This summer (2008) we will be doing sidescan sonar surveys of the area in which the S-51 sank and was subsequently salvaged, and hope to find residual items remaining on the sea floor.
We believe that her mushroom anchor is still there, having been cut free as was documented in "On the Bottom" as well as other material including a large salvage winch that was lost. I plan to personally make the first dive on the site since the Falcon left with the S-51 in tow, and we will document it with photos, etc., as well as lay a wreath for the sailors lost there. We will be departing for this expedition from the Point Judith RI Harbor of Refuge, a place where Falcon laid over many times while waiting out bad weather.
Anyone interested in participating in this may feel free to contact me directly.
Kind regards to all who keep The Admirals memory alive, and especially Ted.
Capt. Dave Sutton, Master, RV EXPLORER, Narragansett RI. "
Added: 2/5/2008
Submitted by
Name: David Wood
Comments:
"I learned about Edward Ellsberg in the U.S. Navy's Diving and Salvage Training Center in Panama City, Florida, when I was training to become a deep sea salvage engineer. However, I did not read his books until a decade after I retired after getting the bends. What a man! It is one thing to do salvage under hard conditions. It is something else again to invent, innovate and create in the midst of those achievements. Edward Ellsberg is a true American hero."
Added: 2/2/2008
Submitted by
Name: JOSEPH A. PALMER
Comments:
"Dear Nick,
Thanks to the skill and patience of my young lady instructor I am able to send you greetings from your grandfather's admirer.
Best wishes, Joe"
Added: 1/30/2008
Submitted by
Name: Donald Personette
Comments:
"As a young child in Indiana, back in the thirties, I first read "On The Bottom." I was facinated with the story and with your grandfather. I remember reading at least one other of hs early books back then but it was "On The Bottom" that stayed with me.
I subsequently left school at age 16 to go to sea in the Merchant Marine and as soon as I was able I enlisted in the U.S. Navy where I served in submarine service as a direct result of having read "On The Bottom."
Fimding this web site stirs many memories. Your grandfather was a great man, one loved and inspired even by one young child in Richmond, Indiana in the depths of the great depression."
Added: 1/9/2008
Submitted by
Name: Jim and Elisabeth
Comments:
"Dear Sir,
My Grandfather worked with your grandfather in Massawa Africa. My grandfather's name was Bill Cunningham. I have read "Under the Red Sea Sun" given to me by my family and signed by your Grandfather many years ago. I, too, am a commercial salvage diver in the Gulf of Mexico and up and down the Mississippi, Ohio, Cumberland and Tennessee Rivers. I have also worked as an oil field diver in the Gulf. As the grandson of Bill Cunningham...as a US Navy veteran and as a salvage diver, I have great respect for your grandfather and his accomplishments. I appreciate the website that you put together as it is a remarkable historical tribute. I was telling my wife of the hard work and dedication that my grandfather gave to Admiral Ellsberg as a civilian ironworker/salvage personnel, although, on his off time, he had been known to be somewhat of a character...so much so that he made it into his book. He would give you the shirt off his back. He was in Life magazine and Vogue magazine featured as the classic ironworker in his time. He may have had a few mishaps with the MPs when he was out on the town but he I'm sure he was a great asset to Admiral Ellsberg. Again, thank you for your website. It is neat to read about history that our Grandfather's share."
Added: 12/27/2007
Submitted by
Name: Ken Dickey
Comments:
I spent 30 months in Massawa (1967-1969). Reading the letters to his beloved Lucy brought back many memories.
Added: 12/17/2007
Submitted by
Name: Neil P. Albaugh
Comments:
My father-- an Army officer-- gave me a copy of "On The Bottom" when I was in junior high school in 1951. I read and re- read that book many times and later found "Under the Red Sea Sun". Both books were fascinating. Commander Ellsberg will be long remembered as an icon of naval salvage work.
Added: 12/1/2007
Submitted by
Name: Robert M. Powers
Comments:
"I bought On The Bottom in 1958 while in High School, Later read several of the others, notably Hell On Ice, a great story, VERY well written. RMP "
Added: 11/19/2007
Submitted by
Name: John Harrar
Comments:
"I have read many of your grandfathers books, On the Bottom was my favorite. I think that a movie should be made about your Grandfather and of course filmed here in Maine. "
Added: 11/14/2007
Submitted by
Name: Binksternet
Comments:
I picked up "Under the Red Sea Sun" from the estate of my late Great Uncle who was Commander of a naval hospital during the occupation of Japan. I devoured the book and enjoyed it greatly. I've been taking information from the book and adding it to some Wikipedia pages such as:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Under_the_Red_Sea_Sun
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scuttling#Blockade_of_Massawa_.281941.29
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/East_African_Campaign_%28World_War_II%29#Massawa
and of course
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edward_Ellsberg
Thanks for hosting this website!
-Binksternet
Added: 10/17/2007
Submitted by
Name: David H. Grover
Comments:
"As a youngster many years ago I read several of your books. I was briefly in salvage work in the Navy right after the war when I graduated from the Navy salvage school at Bayonne. Some of the Mediterranean salvage people were on the faculty there. The Navy then released me to active duty the day after I graduated. A couple of years ago I did an article for Sea Classics magazine which described some of the Navy's early salvage efforts which weren't too successful, and the Ellsberg efforts in Eritrea which were highly successful. Now, I'm enjoying the website. David H. Grover, CDR USNR-Ret, and chief mate, retired, in the merchant marine."
Added: 9/26/2007
Submitted by
Name: Mark Hatch
Comments:
"I picked up "Under the Red Sea Sun" over 40 years ago at my elementary school fair. It has been one of my own going favorites over the years and has become a favorite of my children.
The book was dedicated to a K.R. Cormack in Feb 25, 1947 by Lucy...
Best Wishes"
Added: 9/24/2007
Submitted by
Name: Albert Todaro
Comments:
I had the prevelege of meeting your Grandfather when I worked in the Trust Department of Chemical Bank with your sister Anne. Please tell her I was asking for her. I still treasure the copy of "On the Bottom" given to me and autographed by him. Am now reading"Salvage Man." What a shame that it has not been republished by the Naval Institute Press.
Added: 9/22/2007
Submitted by
Name: no thanks.
Comments:
Thank you for doing this.
These stories need to be told.
Added: 9/18/2007
Submitted by
Name: Jack Chedester
Comments:
Brings back memories of my youth in the 1940's and the excitement of Commander Ellsberg's many books.
Added: 9/16/2007
Submitted by
Name: Dale W Turner
Comments:
I have enjoyed his books for over 40 years.
Added: 9/6/2007
Submitted by
Name: Howard Read
Comments:
I too have a battered copy of "On The Bottom" given to me by my father and signed by then CDR Ellsberg
Added: 9/3/2007
Submitted by
Name: Kevin W. Woodruff
Comments:
"Just a note to say that I was so glad to see that your grandfather's book On the Bottom has been republished. when I was a young boy in high school, I was enthralled by the stories of your grandfather and Charles B. Momsen, and Allan McCann, and their efforts to raise, and help trapped submariners.
Prof. Kevin W. Woodruff, M.Div., M.S.I.S.
Library Director/Reference Librarian, Assistant Professor of Bible, Greek, Theological Bibliography and Research
Tennessee Temple University/Temple Baptist Seminary, 1815 Union Ave.
Chattanooga, Tennessee 37404, United States of America
423/493-4252 (office) 423/698-9447 (home) 423/493-4497 (FAX)
Cierpke@prodigy.net http://pages.prodigy.net/cierpke/woodruff.htm
"
Added: 8/1/2007
Submitted by
Name: Mark Procter
Comments:
A friend in the marine community lent me "Under the Red Sea Sun" last year and it was one of the best books I have ever read. As a dry dock engineer with 30 years experience I can fully appreciate the technical difficulties that ADM Ellsberg had to overcome and in extreme living conditions to boot. I guess it isn't flashy enough to be made ino a movie for the general public to appreciate but it should be. Thank you for maintaining this website.
Added: 7/21/2007
Submitted by
Name: tom jinks
Comments:
Under the Red Sea Sun is my favorite all time book. Wouls have been helpful to me as an army adviser in VN.
Added: 7/16/2007
Submitted by
Name: Cpt. Thomas A. Howell
Comments:
I beleive I have read all of Edward Ellsbergs' books at least three or four times each and I collect them to give to the young people in my life. He is one of the top five heros in my life.
Added: 7/15/2007
Submitted by
Name: Mike Flaherty
Comments:
"Interesting website - looks like it needs some updating: I noticed in one of the first letters to his wife, Commander Ellsberg goes to great pains to not that he did not re-enlist; he re-enrolled. Yet there's a whole section of this site referring to his re-enlistment. Would your grandfather have approved? ;-)"
Added: 7/10/2007
Submitted by
Name: Andre
Comments:
Your Grandfather's letters have shed new light on some research thatr I am doing about Convoy KMF-5 - Much appreciated thank you. Will be in touch !
Submitted by
Name: JT Chapin
Comments:
"What a thrill to find your site! I've been a fan and follower of Edward Ellsberg since the 1940s when, as a kid, I found and read "On The Bottom" from the Houston Public Library. My favorite of all is "Under The Red Sea Sun" and his incredible feat at Massawa.
"No Banners No Bugles" in North Africa was almost as good.I've been accumulating photos here and there of the vessels Adm. Ellsberg raised or attempted to save, such as the British troopship "Strathallen." Sad to say pickings are very slim. BUT thanks to your site,I have enjoyed immensely reading his letters to Lucy. It takes only a second to think back more than fifty years and pull up names like "Wickwire," "SS Pig's Knuckle," "Hsin Rocket" and so many more. I'm an old Coastie, but next year, 2011, I will have been a member of the US Naval Institute for 50 years. I joined in January 1961 when in college at University of Houston. Glad I found you, and thank you for doing this.
JT Chapin
Helotes, TX "
Added: 4/21/2010
Submitted by
Name: Mike
Comments:
"I first came across CDR Ellsberg's exploits in Gores' "Marine Salvage" - a book I "appropriated" from my Junior High library years ago and was instantly addicted. Since then, I've added several of his books to my personal library that has seen Afghanistan and Iraq (won't leave home without at least one).
Truly an inspirational person and for the life of me, I can't understand why these stories haven't been told on screen. Could you imagine watching an accurate portrayal of the work on the Dido in Massawa or the sheer frustration with the French pilot wrecking the Spahi?
All very good...
Would anyone know of a direction I could head in search of any his sketches/diagrams or even pictures any of his exploits? This is the one time Google has failed me."
Added: 4/19/2010
Submitted by
Name: Bobby Grimes
Comments:
"Aloha, I just finished The Far Shore. It was a great read and I am amazed at the life and works of this fine Naval Officer. I look forward to reading more. "
Added: 4/15/2010
Submitted by
Name: Barry Russo
Comments:
Read the Cmdr's books when I was a kid in the 50's. My thanks to him and his brothers in arms for their service to our great nation.
Added: 4/12/2010
Submitted by
Name: SAM HOGENAUER
Comments:
"First read several of Commander ELLsburg's books (On the Bottom and Men Under the Sea) when I was in High School. Since then I have managed to collect additional ones, and still re-read them. I certainly hope the reprinting of Salvage Man comes off. I'd love to read it!"
Added: 4/11/2010
Submitted by
Name: Ted Pollard
Comments:
"This is an answer to John Hyatt's question of 1/15/10 from John Alden, Ellsberg's biographer:
Regarding your salvage question, I don't think the Navy, especially the sub force, ever looked at either salvage operation as a cost-effectiveness matter, except for deciding what to do with the hulk after it was raised. Actually, repairing and returning either the S-51 or the S-4 to service would probably have been cheaper than building a new sub, but of course the Navy had a surplus of submarines during those times. Raising the S-51 was a challenge to the Navy as well as to Ellsberg. Recovering the bodies, even more so with the S-4, would have been important for service morale, not just for public relations. In both cases it would have been worth raising the hulks to assess the damage and look for evidence of materiel deficiencies in order to improve other submarines. The S-4 provided an opportunity to test and improve the salvage organiza tion established after the S-51 disaster. It would have been ridiculous not to make use of the knowledge learned on the S-51. These are my opinions. I don't have any official records of the discussions and decisions that were made by the authorities in charge back then."
Added: 3/10/2010
Submitted by
Name: John Bergmann
Comments:
Cdr. Ellsberg was one of my hero's as a boy during WWII
as was my father Cdr. John F. Bergmann. I want to read
Cdr. Ellsberg's book again.
Tks for Keeping memory alive.
John C Bergmann
Added: 3/7/2010
Submitted by
Name: Pat Sullivan US Army Ret.
Comments:
"Just amazed to read CDR Mayball's comments. Exactly my experience with "On the Bottom" thru the Erie County Bookmobile in suburban Buffalo, bi-weekly also.1950. I couldn't get to keep the book back then. Time to read it again"
Added: 2/24/2010
Submitted by
Name: Morrison Vogt
Comments:
"A "few" years, I read a book about a man who was instrumental in inventing a welding system that would function under water. It was used in clearing harbors in North Africa during WWII. I was between 16 and 17 years old at the time. That book was the driving force that convinced me to join the US Navy. I joined the Navy Reserve while I was in high school and went active in February of 1959.. I stayed for 20 of the finest years of my life. I will for ever be grateful to a mentor I never met."
Added: 2/22/2010
Submitted by
Name: Maurry Tamarkin
Comments:
"By the way, can anyone tell me why he is buried in Willimantic CT? "
Added: 2/14/2010
Submitted by
Name: Maurry Tamarkin
Comments:
"At age of 13 in 1951, I read every one of his books I could get my hands on. He was a brave, intelligent man. His books were fascinating."
Added: 2/14/2010
Submitted by
Name: Jeffrey Solow
Comments:
I loved his teenage diving adventures when I was in grammar school and all of his other books as an adult. What a man!
Added: 2/1/2010
Submitted by
Name: CDR Robert Matthew (MATT) Hayball USN
Comments:
"RADM Ellsburg was a boyhood hero. I read every one of his books I could get my hands on, mostly in the sixth grade. I still do, it's just harder without the biweekly bookmobile.
Still my hero.
The Navy still is, as it was."
Added: 1/28/2010
Submitted by
Name: John Hyatt
Comments:
"One little thing has always bothered me, and I ownder if anyone who looks at this site can explain it: Why did the Navy go to the trouble of raising the S-51? It had to cost a lot more than it was worth! Were ships so scarce that even an S-boat was worth salvaging at any cost? Or was there not much else for the recovery to do at the time? I'd love to know how the decision was made."
Added: 1/15/2010
Submitted by
Name: Steve Masticola
Comments:
"I finally borrowed a copy of Salvage Man from the Princeton University library, and it filled in some gaps in the Admiral's life for me. I wish I could have met the man; he continues to be an inspiration to me in tough times. Thank you very much for the site!"
Submitted by
Name: Doug Hender
Comments:
Thanks so much for putting together such a great website. I am especially enjoying the letters from Massawa after having read the book "Under the Red Sea Sun"
Added: 5/23/2009
Submitted by
Name: John Olsen
Comments:
"I enjoyed Admiral Ellsberg's books very much in my early teens, in the 1940's."
Added: 5/5/2009
Submitted by
Name: R. C. Montague
Comments:
"Yet another "On The Bottom" freak, who actually made a diving helmet from a 5-gallon oil can and escaped total blindness because the piece of window glass put on with putty didn't shatter at six feet in a pond. A great man, as the World War II record also showed. It's cheering to know that you are in business."
Added: 4/16/2009
Submitted by
Name: Bernard Segal
Comments:
"I read some of his books as an adolescent, but rediscovered them now, much older. I really appreciate his salvage histories. He was a great naval officer.
B. Segal"
Added: 4/9/2009
Submitted by
Name: Terry Reifsteck
Comments:
"Thanks for creating this great site. I've been an admirer of Commander Ellsberg for years and have managed a nice collection of his books. Today I discovered Salvage Man and will be adding that to my library. Working as a commercial diver for 25 years myself, I can truly appreciate much of what Mr Ellsberg experienced and I remain humbled by his achievements. Good luck with the site."
Added: 4/5/2009
Submitted by
Name: Ed Nelson
Comments:
"My father was a fan of Edward Ellsberg's writings. My dad passed away in 1982, and I have been carrying around several boxes of his books. I finally dug into the boxes, and I found The Far Shore and Under The Red Sea Sun. I read them both, and really enjoyed. I feel as if I am getting to know my father in a way I did not before.
I since found copies of On the Bottom, and Captain Paul. I really enjoy his work.
Thanks for this web site - great background information.
My dad would have loved it too!"
Added: 3/28/2009
Submitted by
Name: Larry Scott
Comments:
"Like many before me I also was an avid reader of the CMDR's books during high school in the early fifties. A major influence for entering the Navy in 1955, and graduating from the US Navy salvage diving school at Bayonne NJ in June 57.
What a pleasant surprise this morning when the name Edward Ellsberg came to come to mind & I entered it into the computer.
If memory serves me correctly one of his inventions not mentioned in the bio, but very important was the folding porthole patch. Used extensively during the Normandy salvage in HY harbor. "
Added: 3/9/2009
Submitted by
Name: Bill Robinson
Comments:
"My Dad, a WW2 vet had me read On the Bottom when I was in high school. A very good book that has stuck with me all these years. I just saw the story of the Squalus on History Channel and wondered why no S-51 story has never been made."
Added: 3/6/2009
Submitted by
Name: James Krouse
Comments:
"I'm doing research on the USS Partridge, a tug sunk during the d-day invasion. The ship has an interesting history related to its commander who was relieved from duty shortly before D-day. Doing research I found much information in The Far Shore, which I found captivating -- a little known piece of D-day's history.
usspartridge.com"
Added: 2/23/2009
Submitted by
Name: kenneth j.boc
Comments:
wrote great books enjoyed them all-truely a great man
Added: 2/23/2009
Submitted by
Name: Alexander F. Taylor
Comments:
Thank you for preserving the memory of a great Navy man!
Added: 2/19/2009
Submitted by
Name: Jeremy Nichols
Comments:
"Your grandfather's book On the Bottom is one of my favorites. As an engineer, I truly appreciate the things he had to invent to help raise the S-51.
Do you know where the S-51's bell is today? In On the Bottom, your grandfather wrote that he gave it to one of the divers, Francis Smith."
Added: 2/2/2009
Submitted by
Name: Don in Boston
Comments:
I read all of Admiral Ellsberg's books in the 60s when I was a kid and have re-read most of them in recent years; I'm very glad to see this website - thanks very much!
Added: 12/31/2008
Submitted by
Name: penny clapp
Comments:
He is one of my favorite authors
Added: 12/29/2008
Submitted by
Name: ilsa
Comments:
I put autographs on ebay for a collector. I have just listed the autograph of Edward Ellsberg. Item # 320323579634. He was a very interesting man I enjoyed researching him.
Added: 12/7/2008
Submitted by
Name: Richard L. Glenn
Comments:
It was the commanders writings that sparked my interest in diving. I've been in commercial diving now for over 29 years.
Rick Glenn
www.glenndiving.com
Added: 10/18/2008
Submitted by
Name: Doug Hender
Comments:
Edward Ellsberg was a favorite author of mine in my youth and an inspiration in adulthood after rereading many of his books.
Added: 10/14/2008
Submitted by
Name: Jon H. Brown
Comments:
"Back in 1942-43 when I was a kid in Junior High I was bedridden with a knee ailment. To pass the time I read many books, including Cmdr. Edward Ellsberg's books. One of my favorites was his description of the role of deep sea divers in the creation of underwater bases for the Golden Gate Bridge. I loved his books. By coincidence, I now have a friend at church, Pat Donahue, who was also a deep sea diver. He worked with Cmdr. Ellsberg in WW-2 and knew him well. I am delighted to find this website dedicated to his memory. "
Added: 9/29/2008
Submitted by
Name: Phil Ewing
Comments:
"As a youngster in the '50 I avidly read all Ellsbergs books in the Westfield, NJ library. I was facinated by his diving."
Added: 9/22/2008
Submitted by
Name: Mark Manes
Comments:
"I have read On the Bottom, Under the Red Sea Sun, and several other salvage books by Commander Ellsberg. I am a Tugboat Captain and have the utmost respect for what he has done. I often use his stories to motivate men and try to use some of his ideas on dealing with difficult situations. My only regret is that I am not ever able to meet such an influential man. Long live his spirit!"
Added: 9/11/2008
Submitted by
Name: Jackie Ayers-Berry
Comments:
"How wonderful this web site is and what a beautiful way to keep your grandfather's memory alive. I have 2 different interests in this site. First, from a genealogist viewpoint and 2nd because Diving is my bread & butter. My husband & I own & operate a Commercial Diving Company in the Midwest. I found a coy of "On the Bottom" at a consignment shop and bought it straight away for my husband due to the photo of the Commercial diver on the front cover. He has really enjoyed the book and has recommended it to our divers as an authentic read. I continue to search book shops and online for copies of Comm. Ellsberg's other books. I am sorry that I missed hearing him speak publically. His speeches must have been fantastic because the descriptions in his books are life like.
Thank you for keeping your Granddaddy alive in all of our hearts.
"
Added: 9/8/2008
Submitted by
Name: Tom Stiles
Comments:
"Almost every year I re-read "Under the Red Sea Sun"
I have found several of your granfather's books at used book stores and buy them whenever I see them.
I have started try to write a screenplay for the red sea sun, but don't get very far. Has anyone else thought about it?
Tom Stiles"
Added: 8/23/2008
Submitted by
Name: george andersom
Comments:
my grandfather and great grandfather served with mr ellsburgwhile raising the s51i also have an autographed copy of on the bottom.
Added: 8/10/2008
Submitted by
Name: wishnevsky
Comments:
"I forgot to mention, i was able to use some information from "The Far Shore" in my bio of Gen. Courtney Hicks Hodges. "
Added: 8/6/2008
Submitted by
Name: wishnevsky
Comments:
"I read most of his books and the bio, great writer and great American.. Good work."
Added: 8/6/2008
Submitted by
Name: Timothy Martin
Comments:
"Until just now I had never heard of Mr Ellsberg, but it appears he was responsible for clearing the wreckage from the Port of Oran after the dreadful events of 8th November 1942, in which my grandfather was killed. If anyone visiting this website can help me piece together what happened to the hulks of HMS Walney and HMS Hartland which were both sunk in the port (and in particular HMS Walney which my grandfather commanded) I would be very grateful to hear from you.
Thank you very much."
Added: 7/10/2008
Submitted by
Name: Kenneth E. Mahler
Comments:
"Just finishing "Under the Red Sea Sun." A spectacular story of hardship under the hottest of conditions. I thought Vietnam in 1967/68 was bad. This port is beyond imagination. Much admiration for the resourceful nature to "Get the Job Done"!
This is a fascinating story!
The Far Shore was my first choice, also recently finished, but the Massawa adventure is so much more about this remarkable man and the manner he handles men and challanges.
"
Added: 7/9/2008
Submitted by
Name: Russ Taylor
Comments:
Just finished reading On the Bottom. What a great book! Congratulations on having such a talented grandfather.
Added: 5/19/2008
Submitted by
Name: Paul Mowrey
Comments:
Thank you for creating this website. All of Edward Ellsberg's books are greating reading.
Added: 5/17/2008
Submitted by
Name: LCDR Alan Bedford USNR (ret.)
Comments:
I first "met" RADM Ellsberg in the 1930s when On The Bottom was probably the first serious book I ever attempted. Some years later I got my own copy which still resides on my library shelf of best books. Over time and with many re-readings I think I absorbed some of the ideas and attitudes of RADM Ellsberg which helped me in a career in aerospace - and still do in retirement. A fine man and a first rate example to young people coming up today. On The Bottom and Salvage Man should be required reading for all engineers and military officers today - and most others. I'm sure he didn't anticipate leaving such a wonderful heritage but I'm thankful he did!
Added: 5/1/2008
: John Macidull
Comments:
"Dear Ellsberg,
Saw your show about your new book. Here are some footnotes you may find interesting. I am an Annapolis graduate and had training in Military and Constitutional law. I spent two tours in Vietnam piloting rescue helicopters and received numerous decorations. Later I also test piloted jet aircraft, but made many more helo rescues in the mountains of California.
But here is the thing you may find interesting - Legally, Navy pilots are different from Air force pilots. In the Navy, piloting was/is voluntary. One could quit at any time without being court-marshalled. We were Naval officers first, with all sorts of ancillary duties, like maintenance office, supply officer, etc. In the Air Force, they were solely pilots, and if they decided to quit, they were court-marshalled, as many were in Viet Nam. I hated Viet Nam, though I was instrumental in saving several lives. I was also the supply offcer, among other non-flying duties. We had eight pilots in my carrier detachment (H-3s). One day my CO ordered me to obtain eight flak jackets. I asked why. He said, "Because we are going into Cambodia." I said that it would only require seven jackets because I would not be going, and told him why. He thought it over for a day and decided that none of us would be going.
Later, after four years as a test pilot, the Navy tried to write me orders to Iran as a pilot instructor. I resigned from active duty, saying I would not go to another bogus conflict area.
My commision in the Naval Reserves lasted another thirteen years, mostly in the Pentagon. I made all ranks up to full Commander without being passed over. Everyone thought I would easily make Captain the next year and possibly Admiral after that. But when the Navy tried to send me to the mid-east again, I immediately retired with twenty qyalified years.
The points here are that the UCMJ regulations allowed a Naval officer to vote with his feet without a court-marshall or dishonorable discharge. Of course there was some knashing of teeth. But the regulations were there. And my delayed stress syndrome from Viet Nam lasted for years. The only real solace I received was being so thankful that I wasn't old enough to be involved in the other quagmire of udeclared "war", or "Police Action" in Korea.
Hope this short story may be useful.
Sincerely,
John C. Macidull
"
Added: 3/2/2008
Submitted by
Name: Dave Sutton
Comments:
"Greeting again to Ted and all others who come here.
This summer (2008) we will be doing sidescan sonar surveys of the area in which the S-51 sank and was subsequently salvaged, and hope to find residual items remaining on the sea floor.
We believe that her mushroom anchor is still there, having been cut free as was documented in "On the Bottom" as well as other material including a large salvage winch that was lost. I plan to personally make the first dive on the site since the Falcon left with the S-51 in tow, and we will document it with photos, etc., as well as lay a wreath for the sailors lost there. We will be departing for this expedition from the Point Judith RI Harbor of Refuge, a place where Falcon laid over many times while waiting out bad weather.
Anyone interested in participating in this may feel free to contact me directly.
Kind regards to all who keep The Admirals memory alive, and especially Ted.
Capt. Dave Sutton, Master, RV EXPLORER, Narragansett RI. "
Added: 2/5/2008
Submitted by
Name: David Wood
Comments:
"I learned about Edward Ellsberg in the U.S. Navy's Diving and Salvage Training Center in Panama City, Florida, when I was training to become a deep sea salvage engineer. However, I did not read his books until a decade after I retired after getting the bends. What a man! It is one thing to do salvage under hard conditions. It is something else again to invent, innovate and create in the midst of those achievements. Edward Ellsberg is a true American hero."
Added: 2/2/2008
Submitted by
Name: JOSEPH A. PALMER
Comments:
"Dear Nick,
Thanks to the skill and patience of my young lady instructor I am able to send you greetings from your grandfather's admirer.
Best wishes, Joe"
Added: 1/30/2008
Submitted by
Name: Donald Personette
Comments:
"As a young child in Indiana, back in the thirties, I first read "On The Bottom." I was facinated with the story and with your grandfather. I remember reading at least one other of hs early books back then but it was "On The Bottom" that stayed with me.
I subsequently left school at age 16 to go to sea in the Merchant Marine and as soon as I was able I enlisted in the U.S. Navy where I served in submarine service as a direct result of having read "On The Bottom."
Fimding this web site stirs many memories. Your grandfather was a great man, one loved and inspired even by one young child in Richmond, Indiana in the depths of the great depression."
Added: 1/9/2008
Submitted by
Name: Jim and Elisabeth
Comments:
"Dear Sir,
My Grandfather worked with your grandfather in Massawa Africa. My grandfather's name was Bill Cunningham. I have read "Under the Red Sea Sun" given to me by my family and signed by your Grandfather many years ago. I, too, am a commercial salvage diver in the Gulf of Mexico and up and down the Mississippi, Ohio, Cumberland and Tennessee Rivers. I have also worked as an oil field diver in the Gulf. As the grandson of Bill Cunningham...as a US Navy veteran and as a salvage diver, I have great respect for your grandfather and his accomplishments. I appreciate the website that you put together as it is a remarkable historical tribute. I was telling my wife of the hard work and dedication that my grandfather gave to Admiral Ellsberg as a civilian ironworker/salvage personnel, although, on his off time, he had been known to be somewhat of a character...so much so that he made it into his book. He would give you the shirt off his back. He was in Life magazine and Vogue magazine featured as the classic ironworker in his time. He may have had a few mishaps with the MPs when he was out on the town but he I'm sure he was a great asset to Admiral Ellsberg. Again, thank you for your website. It is neat to read about history that our Grandfather's share."
Added: 12/27/2007
Submitted by
Name: Ken Dickey
Comments:
I spent 30 months in Massawa (1967-1969). Reading the letters to his beloved Lucy brought back many memories.
Added: 12/17/2007
Submitted by
Name: Neil P. Albaugh
Comments:
My father-- an Army officer-- gave me a copy of "On The Bottom" when I was in junior high school in 1951. I read and re- read that book many times and later found "Under the Red Sea Sun". Both books were fascinating. Commander Ellsberg will be long remembered as an icon of naval salvage work.
Added: 12/1/2007
Submitted by
Name: Robert M. Powers
Comments:
"I bought On The Bottom in 1958 while in High School, Later read several of the others, notably Hell On Ice, a great story, VERY well written. RMP "
Added: 11/19/2007
Submitted by
Name: John Harrar
Comments:
"I have read many of your grandfathers books, On the Bottom was my favorite. I think that a movie should be made about your Grandfather and of course filmed here in Maine. "
Added: 11/14/2007
Submitted by
Name: Binksternet
Comments:
I picked up "Under the Red Sea Sun" from the estate of my late Great Uncle who was Commander of a naval hospital during the occupation of Japan. I devoured the book and enjoyed it greatly. I've been taking information from the book and adding it to some Wikipedia pages such as:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Under_the_Red_Sea_Sun
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scuttling#Blockade_of_Massawa_.281941.29
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/East_African_Campaign_%28World_War_II%29#Massawa
and of course
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edward_Ellsberg
Thanks for hosting this website!
-Binksternet
Added: 10/17/2007
Submitted by
Name: David H. Grover
Comments:
"As a youngster many years ago I read several of your books. I was briefly in salvage work in the Navy right after the war when I graduated from the Navy salvage school at Bayonne. Some of the Mediterranean salvage people were on the faculty there. The Navy then released me to active duty the day after I graduated. A couple of years ago I did an article for Sea Classics magazine which described some of the Navy's early salvage efforts which weren't too successful, and the Ellsberg efforts in Eritrea which were highly successful. Now, I'm enjoying the website. David H. Grover, CDR USNR-Ret, and chief mate, retired, in the merchant marine."
Added: 9/26/2007
Submitted by
Name: Mark Hatch
Comments:
"I picked up "Under the Red Sea Sun" over 40 years ago at my elementary school fair. It has been one of my own going favorites over the years and has become a favorite of my children.
The book was dedicated to a K.R. Cormack in Feb 25, 1947 by Lucy...
Best Wishes"
Added: 9/24/2007
Submitted by
Name: Albert Todaro
Comments:
I had the prevelege of meeting your Grandfather when I worked in the Trust Department of Chemical Bank with your sister Anne. Please tell her I was asking for her. I still treasure the copy of "On the Bottom" given to me and autographed by him. Am now reading"Salvage Man." What a shame that it has not been republished by the Naval Institute Press.
Added: 9/22/2007
Submitted by
Name: no thanks.
Comments:
Thank you for doing this.
These stories need to be told.
Added: 9/18/2007
Submitted by
Name: Jack Chedester
Comments:
Brings back memories of my youth in the 1940's and the excitement of Commander Ellsberg's many books.
Added: 9/16/2007
Submitted by
Name: Dale W Turner
Comments:
I have enjoyed his books for over 40 years.
Added: 9/6/2007
Submitted by
Name: Howard Read
Comments:
I too have a battered copy of "On The Bottom" given to me by my father and signed by then CDR Ellsberg
Added: 9/3/2007
Submitted by
Name: Kevin W. Woodruff
Comments:
"Just a note to say that I was so glad to see that your grandfather's book On the Bottom has been republished. when I was a young boy in high school, I was enthralled by the stories of your grandfather and Charles B. Momsen, and Allan McCann, and their efforts to raise, and help trapped submariners.
Prof. Kevin W. Woodruff, M.Div., M.S.I.S.
Library Director/Reference Librarian, Assistant Professor of Bible, Greek, Theological Bibliography and Research
Tennessee Temple University/Temple Baptist Seminary, 1815 Union Ave.
Chattanooga, Tennessee 37404, United States of America
423/493-4252 (office) 423/698-9447 (home) 423/493-4497 (FAX)
Cierpke@prodigy.net http://pages.prodigy.net/cierpke/woodruff.htm
"
Added: 8/1/2007
Submitted by
Name: Mark Procter
Comments:
A friend in the marine community lent me "Under the Red Sea Sun" last year and it was one of the best books I have ever read. As a dry dock engineer with 30 years experience I can fully appreciate the technical difficulties that ADM Ellsberg had to overcome and in extreme living conditions to boot. I guess it isn't flashy enough to be made ino a movie for the general public to appreciate but it should be. Thank you for maintaining this website.
Added: 7/21/2007
Submitted by
Name: tom jinks
Comments:
Under the Red Sea Sun is my favorite all time book. Wouls have been helpful to me as an army adviser in VN.
Added: 7/16/2007
Submitted by
Name: Cpt. Thomas A. Howell
Comments:
I beleive I have read all of Edward Ellsbergs' books at least three or four times each and I collect them to give to the young people in my life. He is one of the top five heros in my life.
Added: 7/15/2007
Submitted by
Name: Mike Flaherty
Comments:
"Interesting website - looks like it needs some updating: I noticed in one of the first letters to his wife, Commander Ellsberg goes to great pains to not that he did not re-enlist; he re-enrolled. Yet there's a whole section of this site referring to his re-enlistment. Would your grandfather have approved? ;-)"
Added: 7/10/2007
Submitted by
Name: Andre
Comments:
Your Grandfather's letters have shed new light on some research thatr I am doing about Convoy KMF-5 - Much appreciated thank you. Will be in touch !