Another overdue return to U-boat writing is Jordan Vause's contribution, a much needed analysis of the moments leading up to the capture of U-505 from the perspective of the Germans. "Desperate Decisions: The German Loss of U-505" offers an in depth examination of not just what happened at the time of the boat's capture, but why it happened. Vause shows us that actions and decisions have consequences, and some decisions lead irrevocably down a path that can't be altered. It is written in the typical Vause style; if you enjoyed his book Wolf, you will enjoy this contribution as well. You can read the first half of Vause's chapter here.

The story of U-505 does not end with the boat's capture. I admit that initially I was a little dubious about the final section, but soon realized how wrong I was. Keith Gill, the boat's curator, tells a fascinating story of how U-505 escaped scrapping to become the MSI's star exhibit in "Project 356: U-505 and the Journey to Chicago." It was not, as many think, just simple matter of towing U-505 to Chicago and putting her on exhibit. Getting the boat there was nearly impossible, and Gill offers a gripping account of the constant on-the-edge failure, politics, bickering, money, egos, legal hassles, and behind-the-scenes maneuvering. Now you can find out the whole story. Gill makes it clear that we really are lucky the boat survived all the bureaucratic bungling to be preserved as a memorial for us all to see and ponder. Gill also casts aside the "unlucky boat" label often attached to U-505. After reading Hunt and Kill you will agree with him.

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