The Mosquito Fleet

"The Mosquito Fleet" by Bern Keating is a gripping historical narrative from the early 1960s that plunges into the heart of World War II, detailing the harrowing exploits of American Motor Torpedo Boat (PT) squadrons, especially in the Pacific. With the United States reeling from early defeats like Pearl Harbor and the Philippines, the story throws a spotlight on the courage and hardships of the "mosquito fleet" crews as they confronted formidable enemy ships and executed clandestine missions in incredibly risky situations. The escape of Lieutenant Commander Douglas MacArthur from the Philippines aboard a PT boat is vividly described, emphasizing the crucial role of these small but mighty vessels in American naval strategy. The account also dispels common myths about PT boat missions, replacing them with the stark reality of their combat experiences and the unwavering determination of the sailors battling against all odds.