SS United States: Ship of Power, Might and Indecision

Description

The 'SS United States' was a great symbol of post-World War II American genius. She was the most advanced ocean liner of her time-modern, innovative and hugely powerful. Designed to be a commercial liner but easily convertible to wartime troopship, she entered service in July 1952, seventy years ago, to rousing triumph and success. She captured the prized Blue Riband for transatlantic speed, brought glory to America and her owners, and enjoyed great success for a full decade. But after trans-ocean jets arrived, her success slowly faded until fully decommissioned by 1969. Over fifty years of idleness, revival plans and schemes, and neglect and decay followed. To this day, the 'United States' waits silently at a Philadelphia pier. This is the story of a very great and beloved ship-her glory days, but also her days of struggle and indecision.

Known as "Mr Ocean Liner", Bill Miller has written over 100 books about ocean liners-from early liners, modern cruise ships, even ships during wartime. He has also authored hundreds of magazine and newspaper articles, appeared in numerous TV documentaries and is a frequent guest lecturer on today's cruise ships. Bill has won many awards, hosted an ocean liner film festival and himself been the subject of a film documentary.

"...takes you through all 70 years of the life of America's Flagship. Most of the illustrations in it have probably never been published before."-- "PowerShips"