ARCTIC VICTORY: THE STORY OF CONVOY PQ 18. by Smith, Peter C - 1994

Crecy, 1994. 238 pp, large 8vo (9 1/4" H). B&w photographs, maps/battle plans. "In the critical summer of 1942 the climax of the war at sea was reached with three tremendous convoy battles, one in the Mediterranean and two on the cruel Arctic convoy route to North Russia. In July 1942 came the disaster of PQ 17 whose annihilation was an unmitigated defeat for the Allies. In August the bulk of the Royal Navy's slender resources were switched to the Mediterranean to fight through the 'Pedestal' convoy to Malta. This was fought through successfully but at very heavy cost. Then in September 1942 the ships of PQ 18 put to sea in proud defiance of the grim fate of PQ 17. The hard-fought action that followed is described in this detailed and careful study of one of the major convoy battles of World War II. Peter C. Smith has researched his subject to a great depth and the resulting blow-by-blow account of the passage of this convoy constitutes a record of epic courage and grim determination, heroism and dogged endurance. It is a proud chapter in the maritime history of the Royal Navy." Tiny faint stain on top of text block. Dust jacket has minor rubbing, small area of very tiny dints on front panel.. Reprint. Hard Cover. Near Fine/Very Good+.