The details of these operations are described vividly, even passionately. Morison spares no information in describing the grim consequences of the kamikaze suicide crashes by enemy planes on the radar picket destroyers and other ships.

In this, the concluding volume of the series, Admiral Morison examines two of the most famous campaigns in which he participated: Iwo Jima and Okinawa. He spares no details in describing the grim consequences of the kamikaze attacks on U.S ships. With his usual clarity and skill, Morison also discusses the strategy that led to the concluding campaigns of the war and to the dropping of the atomic bombs. He addresses the logistics problem of supplying fleets and armies thousands of miles from bases, the devastating prowls by submarines, and the controversial loss of the USS Indianapolis His detailed account of the delicate negotiations that led to the surrender of Japan holds particular interest.