The U.S. Navy History Podcast
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© Dale Robertson
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History of the United States Navy from the Revolutionary War to Modern times.
History of the United States Navy from the Revolutionary War to Modern times.
180 Episodes
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In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, Dale and Christophe examine the critical Battle of the Atlantic. They discuss its impact on World War II's outcome, highlighting how control over the Atlantic Ocean was essential for the Allies. The episode covers the significant strategies employed by both the Allies and the Germans, including the use of U-boats and the development of anti-submarine technologies. The conversation delves into individual sacrifices, the evolution of naval warfare tactics, and the multinational cooperation that ultimately led to Allied victory. The narrative underscores how the battle was not won through a single event but through continuous adaptation and relentless effort, eventually securing a lifeline for the Allied powers and setting the stage for D-Day and the liberation of Europe.
In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, Dale and Christophe discuss the Second Barbary War, highlighting America's bold confrontation with the Barbary States in 1815. The United States, under Commodore Stephen Decanter, refused to continue paying tributes and instead launched a decisive naval campaign against Algiers, Tunis, and Tripoli. This act of defiance ended centuries of European appeasement of state-sponsored piracy in the Mediterranean. The episode delves into the significant battles, the subsequent treaties enforced at gunpoint, and the long-term impacts on American naval doctrine and international relations. It also underscores the human element, celebrating the liberation of hundreds of captives and the broader implications for freedom and maritime safety. Additionally, the podcast honors Second Lieutenant Herman “Chuck” Dresden for his bravery during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II.
In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, hosts Dale and Christophe delve into the dramatic and pivotal American Carrier raids of 1942 during the early years of World War II. They explore how these daring raids by US Navy carriers, while not always resulting in immediate victories, shifted the momentum of the Pacific War. The discussion covers the strategic and psychological impacts on both the United States and Japan, detailing how the raids forced Japan to reallocate resources and rethink their defensive strategies. They highlight notable raids, such as those on the Marshall Islands, Wake Island, and the Doolittle Raid, illustrating the evolution of carrier warfare and its lasting significance. The episode concludes with a poignant tribute to Specialist Jackson D. Johnson, who faithfully served and sacrificed his life in Kuwait in 2019.
In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, hosts Dale and Christoph delve into the dramatic and storied history of the USS Hornet CV-8. They recount the ship's significant contributions to World War II, including the famous Doolittle Raid, the Battle of Midway, and its ultimate sacrifice at the Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands. The discovery of the Hornet's wreck in 2019 by the research vessel Petrel, funded by Paul G. Allen, provided closure to many families and offered new insights into naval history. The episode reflects on the bravery and sacrifices of the Hornet's crew, the evolution of naval warfare, and the enduring legacy of the ship.
In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, hosts Dale and Christophe delve into the resurgence of the battleship debate with the proposed Trump class battleship, announced in December 2025. The discussion covers the historical context of battleships in US naval history, the practical and symbolic implications of the Trump class proposal, and the wider strategic, political, and industrial challenges it raises. The hosts evaluate arguments from both supporters and critics, examining issues like cost, utility, technological integration, and manpower. They also explore how this proposal tests existing naval doctrines and the potential long-term impacts on the US Navy and national defense strategy. Lastly, they honor the legacy of Master Sergeant Gcio Rio, a decorated World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam War veteran.
In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, hosts Dale and Christophe delve into the often-overlooked naval bombardments of Japan during the summer of 1945. As Allied forces gained overwhelming dominance in the Pacific, the US Navy, supported by British units, conducted a series of calculated naval strikes against Japan's industrial infrastructure. These bombardments aimed to destroy key industrial sites, test coastal defenses, support air operations, and prepare for a potential invasion. The episode explores the strategic, psychological, and operational impacts of these bombardments on both Allied sailors and Japanese civilians, ultimately contributing to Japan's realization of the futility of continued resistance. The discussion is complemented by a tribute to Gunner's Mate Third Class Paul Henry Carr, a US Navy hero who displayed extraordinary bravery in action.
In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, Dale and Christophe delve into the captivating story of the raid on Algiers harbor by Italian frogmen and manned torpedoes on December 11th, 1942. This clandestine operation, carried out by Italy's elite Decima MAS unit, targeted allied shipping during World War II. The hosts detail the planning, execution, and aftermath of the raid, highlighting its strategic impact, the bravery of the Italian commandos, and the subsequent changes in naval warfare tactics. They also reflect on the human experiences of those involved and the broader historical significance of this remarkable episode.
In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, Dale and Christophe commemorate Pearl Harbor Day, focusing on the personal, lesser-told stories from December 7, 1941. They explore the human experiences of sailors, marines, nurses, airmen, and civilians during the attack, offering insights into the emotional and psychological impact of the event. The script also delves into the harrowing efforts of survivors and rescue teams, the rapid salvage and rebuilding operations, and the lasting legacy of resilience and unity forged that day. The episode concludes with reflections on the broader significance of Pearl Harbor, emphasizing its enduring influence on the US Navy and the nation.
In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, hosts Dale and Christophe recount a lesser-known but dramatic encounter during the Battle of the Atlantic. On June 6th, 1942, the American tanker SS Stanvac Calcutta faced the German surface raider Steir. Despite being heavily outgunned, the American crew displayed remarkable bravery, defying the enemy until their ship was ultimately sunk. The narrative details the broader strategic context, the role of stealthy German surface raiders, and the vital but perilous duties of American merchant mariners and Navy armed guard sailors. The episode concludes with a tribute to Flight Officer Benny R. Carbajal, exemplifying the sacrifices made by servicemen during World War II.
In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, Dale and Christoph delve into the gripping story of the USS Atik, an American Q-ship during World War II. On the night of March 27, 1942, the Atik was engaged in a deceptive mission to lure German U-boats near the Virginia coast. This episode explores the encounter between the Atik and the German submarine U-123, commanded by Captain Lieutenant Reinhard Hardegen. Despite Atik's courageous efforts, the engagement revealed the outdated nature of Q-ships in modern submarine warfare. The hosts also discuss the broader implications of the encounter, including how it influenced naval strategy and technology. The episode concludes with a tribute to Captain Lance P. Sijan, a Medal of Honor recipient who demonstrated extraordinary heroism during the Vietnam War.
In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, hosts Dale and Christophe dive into the lesser-known yet impactful bombardment of Samsun on June 7th, 1922, during the Turkish War of Independence. They explore the strategic, tactical, and moral dimensions of the Greek naval attack, the aftermath of which saw civilian deaths, widespread destruction, and complicated diplomatic ripples. The episode examines how this brief yet devastating event underscores the limits of naval power, the responsibilities of maritime warfare, and its lasting impact on modern military practices and humanitarian laws. The hosts also honor fallen hero Specialist Devin J. Kuhn, reflecting on his life, service, and ultimate sacrifice.
In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, hosts Dale and Christophe delve into a significant event from 2005 that served as a wake-up call for the US Navy. The episode recounts how the Swedish submarine HMS Gotland, employing Air Independent Propulsion (AIP), managed to stealthily breach the defenses of the USS Ronald Reagan during military exercises, simulating multiple torpedo kills. This humbling experience led the US Navy to lease the Gotland for two years to better understand its silent stealth capabilities and to incorporate those lessons into their own anti-submarine warfare strategies. The discussion elaborates on how this event spurred significant changes in naval training, tactics, and strategy, influencing the future of undersea warfare globally. The episode concludes with a tribute to Sergeant Major James G. Ryan Sartor, a decorated Green Beret who made the ultimate sacrifice in Afghanistan.
In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, hosts Dale and Christophe delve into the storied legacy and enduring fascination with battleships, particularly the Iowa class giants born during World War II. They explore the contrasting views on modern naval strategy against the backdrop of historic sea power. With insights from naval scholar James Holmes, they discuss the psychological and nostalgic allure of battleships in the age of advanced technology. The discussion examines the implications of potentially reviving such ships, comparing past and present naval capabilities, and considering the symbolic and practical lessons that battleships impart to modern and future naval strategy. The episode concludes with a tribute to Corporal Delbert K. Sand, reflecting on the human costs and historical sacrifices that underscore naval history.
In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, hosts Dale and Christophe take a deep dive into the vital, often overlooked role of machinist mates (MMs) in the US Navy. The discussion covers the evolution of the machinist mate rate from the age of steam to the nuclear-powered vessels of today, highlighting their indispensable contributions to naval operations. From maintaining propulsion systems and monitoring gauges to innovating in crisis situations, machinist mates are lauded as the heartbeat of the fleet. The episode concludes with a tribute to Medal of Honor recipient Water Tender First Class Elmer C. Bigelow, whose bravery during World War II exemplified the courage and dedication of these essential sailors.
In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, hosts Dale and Christophe delve into the lesser-known but significant 1917 naval encounter between the American destroyer USS Cassian and the German submarine U-61. The episode vividly recounts the perilous events of October 15, 1917, in the stormy Atlantic waters off the southern coast of Ireland, highlighting the resilience and bravery of the Cassian's crew. The narrative centers on Gunner's Mate First Class Osmond Ingram, whose sacrificial act of heroism not only saved his shipmates but earned him posthumous recognition as the first enlisted US Navy sailor to receive the Medal of Honor during World War I. The discussion extends to the broader implications of this battle in the context of anti-submarine warfare, the strategic significance of US Navy's involvement in World War I, and the emotional and historical legacy left by the sailors’ courage and sacrifice. The episode concludes by honoring the fallen US Army Corporal Cody A. Putman, underscoring the lasting human cost and valor of military service.
In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, hosts Dale and Christophe delve into the Atlantic U-Boat Campaign of World War I, a critical maritime struggle far from the Western Front trenches. The discussion covers the evolution and impact of German submarine warfare, the U-Boat's technological and strategic significance, and the moral and political consequences of unrestricted submarine warfare. They also explore the Allied response, including the implementation of the convoy system, technological advancements, and the entry of the United States into the war. The episode closes with reflections on the legacy of the campaign for naval strategy and a tribute to First Lieutenant Travis L. Manion, highlighting his bravery and sacrifice.
Dale and Christophe delve into the often-overlooked Southwest African campaign of World War I on the US Navy History Podcast. The hosts discuss the strategic importance of seizing German Southwest Africa, highlighting how naval power enabled the success of land operations in a harsh desert environment. The episode covers the multi-phase campaign from 1914-1915, the logistics and naval contributions that underpinned the Union of South Africa's advance, and the eventual surrender of German forces. They also honor Brigadier General Zebulon Montgomery Pike, reflecting on the broader themes of military history and geopolitics.
In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, hosts Dale and Christophe delve into the often-overlooked Sinai and Palestine campaign of World War I, which took place from 1915 to 1918. The campaign, involving unique desert warfare and naval logistics, was pivotal in securing the Suez Canal and reshaping the Middle East. The hosts discuss the British advances, the naval support that facilitated the campaign, and the strategic victories, including General Edmund Allenby's capture of Jerusalem and the decisive Battle of Megiddo. The episode also highlights the long-term geopolitical impacts of the campaign and honors fallen soldier Corporal Wilfred "Willie" Flores Jr.
In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, Dale and Christophe explore the often overlooked but pivotal Mesopotamian Campaign of World War I. They delve into the British and Indian forces' struggles and triumphs deep in modern-day Iraq, emphasizing the crucial role of the Royal Navy's river gunboats. The discussion covers the initial landings at the Chatal Arab, the disastrous siege of KT, and the strategic push towards Baghdad under General Maude's disciplined command. Listeners will learn how the campaign's logistics and naval operations on the Tigris and Euphrates rivers were essential to British success, ultimately shaping the modern Middle East. The episode concludes with a solemn remembrance of Private First Class Dennis Lee Zazu and an invitation for listener interaction.
In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, Dale and Christophe recount the harrowing events of September 11, 2001, and discuss how the attacks reshaped the mission and strategy of the US Navy. They detail the immediate response of naval forces to protect the homeland and their pivotal role in the global War on Terror. Listeners will learn about the initial military actions, the long-term deployments, and the ongoing significance of the Navy's adaptability and resilience in an era of unconventional warfare.
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