Crossing the Line: A Bluejacket's World War II Odyssey

In the sea of personal memoirs about World War II, Kernan's book stands out as a classic portrayal of an enlisted man's experience during the era of aircraft carriers. "Crossing the Line" offers a genuine insight into the life of a sailor aboard a wartime carrier. Kernan captures the day-to-day routines, the moments of sheer terror, and the transformation of young boys into resilient fighters. With unfiltered honesty, he portrays the struggles for survival and honor, the challenges posed by inadequate equipment and tactics, and the mix of isolation and camaraderie among crew members. The book also delves into the desire for escapism through bar fights and visits to brothels during moments of liberty.