Guestbook Page Two
Added: December 24, 2012
Submitted by
Name: Eric Brege
From: San Diego, CA
Comments:
I was recently introduced to "Under the Red Sea Sun" which has been my favorite read to date.
As a fellow alum of USNA, MIT, and now serving as a diving and salvage officer in the Navy, I find his writings to be insightfull and truly insprirational. The Basic principles of leadership, hard work, and Naval Architecture have little changed over the last century.
Added: December 21, 2012
Submitted by
Name: Alex Funke
From: California, but now in New Zealand
Comments:
Commander Ellsberg's books were one of my great inspirations as a young man. Few authors have so well and simply captured the reality of war, struggle, and achievement.
To this day--60 years later--I still turn to On The Bottom and Under the Red Sea Sun very often for solace and strength.
Bravo for creating this site in honour of a great man.
Added: December 12, 2012
Submitted by
Name: Donald Crutchley
From: keyport new jersey
Comments:
his books were were a treasure to me most of my adult life but were lost in a fire a few years ago and i have not been able to replace them.
Added: October 26, 2012
Submitted by
Name: Wayne Morsfield
From: Michigan
Comments:
Discovered Ellsberg's books in the 8 th grade in 1950. Finally found a library copy of his first release of On the Bottom this year after several years of looking. Just as exciting to read today as it was in 1950!
Those divers deserved all the medals they were awarded!
As an engineer, I was impressed with what Ellsberg accomplished with the equipment he had to work with in the 1920's!
Added: September 23, 2012
Submitted by
Name: Geoff Thorpe
From: California
Comments:
I have read all (or almost all) of Ellsberg's books, when I was a kid of 10 or 1l in the 1960s, and have recently reread a number of them. Although a landlubber, I love submarines and Mr. Ellsberg helped foster that love.
Added: August 27, 2012
Submitted by
Name: Beth
From: Tennessee
Comments:
"Under the Red Sea Sun" is the most prized book in my collection. I have read it numerous times and I am always impressed and encouraged by Ellsberg's spirit and sheer willinginess to keep going under horrific circumstances. I have the upmost respect for him. I have one of his quotes posted where I can see it every morning...."It never pays to quit until you're dead". Thank you for keeping up this wonderful site!!
Added: July 27, 2012
Submitted by
Name: John Astaire
From: San Luis Obispo, CA
Comments:
Thank you for maintaining this great website.
Added: July 26, 2012
Submitted by
Name: Jonathan Larson
From: Jolin, MO
Comments:
I encountered and read the trilogy of his World War II experiences in the base library when I was in the Air Force and have been looking for copies I could give to the middle school age children of my friends and family to help inspire them in their formative years. These are books that should be in every school and public library. I hope they get reprinted soon, if they are reprinted I would donate to a fund to help place copies in schools.
Added: May 20, 2012
Submitted by
Name: Ken Wernau
From: California
Comments:
I came across a 1929 edition of On The Bottom and enjoyed it immensely. The work that was done by that salvage crew under those conditions was simply amazing. I look forward to learning more about Edward Ellsberg.
Added: May 6, 2012
Submitted by
Name: thomas A Sauer
From: milaca mn
Comments:
loved his books in the 1950's they were full of adventure.
Added: April 23, 2012
Submitted by
Name: Rick Ferris
From: Durham, North Carolina
Comments:
"Under the Red Sea Sun" and "No Banners, No Bugles" are two of the most prized books in my library. I first read them in the late 60s while in High School. Somehow, over the years, "Under the Red Sea Sun" has managed to find it's way out of my library and I mourn its loss. I have read and reread them countless times in the intervening years. Any student of history, any patriot, should read these books. They give an invaluable first hand view into the gritty reality that was WWII. They bring it to life in a way that dry history books cannot. They also illustrate with incredible clarity, the savage conditions under which our brave men and women fought to keep this country free. Lessons which have sadly been forgotten by the current generations.
Added: February 25, 2012
Submitted by
Name: Jennifer Reynolds
From: media pa
Comments:
I just found a great old copy of On the Bottom - my uncle served on a sub in WWII and would have been fascinated by this book. If any of you are interested, it's on etsy under my seller name: callmejasper. Price is $66 but I'll listen to offers.
Added: February 16, 2012
Submitted by
Name: Richard Solomon
From: Springfield, Missouri
Comments:
As a retired Navy Diver I have spent many hours "On The Bottom" I retired in 1980 form the US Navy and had many threatening challenges as a diver. I alway remembered I was taught safety first while diving and that carried me through many scary dives. I have not had the priveledge of reading any of the Admirals books. I am shopping around for them now.. Thanks for this web sight and its contents.
Added: January 27, 2012
Submitted by
Name: Gerald K. Sherman
From: Living in Winnipeg, originally from London (England)
Comments:
I discovered your web site as a result of the Contra Costa wreck a few days ago. I was recalling "On The Bottom", the story of raising the S-51, and some of the diving issues that occurred then, and their relevance to the Contra Costa. Many years ago (in the 1950's) I used On The Bottom as the subject for a book review in a high school English course. Your web site, and that of the S-51 bring back a few memories of that assignment. Incidentally, I served in the Royal Canadian Navy Reserve in the early 1960's.
Added: January 19, 2012
Submitted by
Name: william edward mclagan
From: washington d.c.
Comments:
My father, Master Diver Edward Morgan McLagan is mentioned in Ellsberg book On The Bottom. He was on the bottom just forward of the conning tower on the S-51 when a pontoon chain snapped and when she heeled over he was dumped into the mud. He was rescued by Chief Torpedoman Kelly and they both were hauled to the USS Falcon above and were placed in the decompression chamber. Dad was always my hero!
Added: January 1, 2012
Submitted by
Name: david kalbacker
From: North Carolina
Comments:
reading "Under the Red Sea Sun" for the second time. My late mother bought the book new. Now I am reading it with the laptop in easy reach to search for visual info. about the ships wrecks and what remains of the city as it was. Perhaps my favorite book ever!!
Added: December 16, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Lloyd Brown
From: St. Louis, MO
Comments:
I first ran across Adm. Ellsberg's books while in college and have a collected several over the years. I particularly enjoyed reading his exploits during the war years. They remind me to think outside the box to find the answers to challenging problems.
For what it is worth the ships he salvaged in Massawa had fruitful lives under new names.
The Liebenfels became the Empire Nile (not the General Russel Maxwell). The Frauenfels became the Empire Niger. The Gera became the Empire Indus.
Added: November 27, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Mike Kretzler
From: Olympia, Washington
Comments:
I read Commander Ellsberg's books as a youth. They were provided by my grandfather, Capt. Harry H Kretzler, Sr., who served in Dutch Harbor.
I remember his books, particularly "On the Bottom" and "Under the Red Sea Sun," very well.
Added: November 13, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Rod Corkum
From: Halifax, Canada
Comments:
Found this site doing a bit of Googling. I read Under the Red Sea Sun while I was in high school (late 60's)and found it fascinating. I was a prolific book reader in my younger days. It is the only book from the school library that I've never forgotten the title. Few books have made that much of an impression.
Added: October 29, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Alan Lewis
From: Washington, DC
Comments:
I discovered the Admiral's writings when I was in junior high school in the early 1950s. He became my boyhood hero because he "got the job done." Sometime in the late 1970s I decided to re-read and then collect all his books and, as luck would have it, I was able to meet him through a contact at Haslam's Books in St. Petersburg, FL. He even spent a night under my roof in the Washington suburbs during one of his yearly auto trips from Maine to Florida ... driving solo in a big white Caddy (if my memory is correct). Not long afterwards I was able to visit him in Florida and record about 2-1/2 hours of interview which served as research material for the SALVAGE MAN. I recently visited the invasion beaches at Normandy and am re-reading THE FAR SHORE because of its detailed explanations of what our men went through in those terrifying hours on the morning of June 6, 1944. Its great to have this website available for future Ellsberg fans!
Added: October 12, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Todd Mumma
From: Harrisburg PA
Comments:
hello, i have read only two of the commanders books but i am inspired by his never give up attitude. I work as a salvage diver for Defiant Marine Inc. and usually on every job someone has a copy of an Ellsberg book, even though all of the salvages he did were done before we are even thought about, the information and the spirit of a true Salvage Master are as useful today as when he was making things happen. i am looking to have a complete set of Commander Ellsberg's books. it will take some time but i shall have a set.
Added: October 7, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Daniel Hammond
From: North Carolina
Comments:
The commander was a truly man thank you for giving so much to the diving world !!!
Added: October 6, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Barbara Sokolik
From: Omaha Ne
Comments:
Hello, I beleive I am related to Edward Ellsberg because my grandfather told me as a child that he was his cousin.
They changed the spelling of their last name slightly but they both had come to the US from Russia.My grandfather was Abraham Ellesberg and was a tailor in NYC and he had 12 sisters and brothers.He was the oldest. It seems that the Admiral's parents must have come to America earlier than my family members.My aunt saved a newspaper account of his death.Wish I knew more about the Admiral's family that are still living.All of my grandfather's children are now deceased now.
Added: September 4, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Edward J Giuffre
From: Long Island, New York
Comments:
Thirty Fathoms Deep was the first book I selected from Public School 89 Library in the Bronx. I went on to read almost every other book the Commander wrote. I just wrote a column about him for our West Islip Retired Teacher's Association news letter. Well send you a copy, if you want. ED Giuffre
The commander made me a lifelong reader. Thanks.
Added: September 2, 2011
Submitted by
Name: John Potter
From: Humboldt Co California
Comments:
I first read Hell on Ice in my Jr High days in 1962 and have re-read it several times since. It has aged well and is one of my favorite books of exploration. Under the Red Sea Sun has also been a favorite for many decades. I have been fortunate to find hardback copies of many of Ellsberg's books at used book stores and value them highly.
Added: August 31, 2011
Submitted by
Name: CDR Edward Bosque, USN
Comments:
A very fascinating site for an extraordinary man. Thank you for keeping the Admiral's legacy alive!
Added: August 28, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Greg Trocchia
From: Vermilion Ohio USA
Comments:
I have read several of the Ellsberg books and CAPTAIN PAUL remains my favorite. Maybe not a classic writing but it is very entertaining and with the sailing terms,the historical background, and finally the formation of our United States Navy, it has kept my interest for over fifty years. I keep a copy on hand to lend to interested readers but I'm sorry the work is no longer in print.
Added: July 28, 2011
Submitted by
Name: John Meshkoff
From: Santa Rosa, CA
Comments:
I just listened to the Bob Trout interview; interestingly, the commander, in keeping with wartime secrecy regarding submarines, gave deliberately inaccurate answers regarding the capabilities and armament of U.S. Subs, in order to confuse enemy intelligence!
Added: July 23, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Robert Owen
From: Gainesville, VA
Comments:
On The Bottom was one of the first naval history books I read as a child and remains one of my favorites Ellsberg had a magical touch with words as evident by his description of Smith's near death under the S-51 and the repairing of the Dido in Massawa when Armstrong & Cunningham beat the steel plate into place. I have all his non-fiction salvage books and wouldn't trade them for anything.
Added: July 18, 2011
Submitted by
Name: John Laird
From: Maryland
Comments:
Ted
Just a quick note to tell you my parents knew your Grandfather in Westfield, New Jersey. So I read a number of your grandfathers books while growing up which influenced me in a number of things such as SCUBA diving, becoming an engineer, etc.
I am glad to find his web site, now bookmarked, and hope you are sucessfull in getting more of his books republished so they can influence a new generation. You might want to add a page about the underwater torch he developed which was the standard in the industry for many years.
I worked on building the Hughes Glomar Explorer and when it came out that the name of its mission was "Project Jennifer", Google "Project Jennifer Hughes Glomar Explorer" for details, I often wondered if that might be some connection or tribute to your grandfather because of his Jeannette and Jennifer books.
Added: July 17, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Edward A. Strachan
From: Milton Florida
Comments:
Read all the books I could find in the late 50s and early 60s. Would read them again if I could find them. Just located reprent of ON THE BOTTOM. Will keep looking. ed
Added: June 20, 2011
Submitted by
Name: John Edwards
From: Netherton, Dudley England
Comments:
Hi
I have collected all of the Edward Ellsberg books and have enjoyed them for many years, I have been a diver for over 30 years and am a great admirer of his achievements .
I have 2 items that may be of interest.
One is, US Navy Department, bureau of construction and repair, technical bulletin 1928, salvage report of the USS S-4
The other is the same but on the USS S-51, these came from a British Military library now closed.
I have been trying to get to Massawa in Eritrea to dive the wrecks left behind, I understand that a large floating dock is now sunk in the Daklak islands, is it one of his!?, I dive port Sudan in the Sudan regularly but Eritrea is a bit unstable at the moment, even for me!.
Very best regards
John Edwards
John
Added: June 13, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Greg R.
From: California
Comments:
Saw the movie Hell Below, and was curious about the author whose novel this exciting movie was based on. Thanks for keeping your grandfather's memory alive.
Added: May 31, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Cathy East (nee Carr)
From: Philly
Comments:
My Great-uncle, BMC William (Bill) Carr, USN, had served with CDR Ellsberg. He (my Great-uncle) was a diver. I am trying to locate any info on my Great-uncle. I have read a few of CRD Ellsberg's books. Great-uncle Bill Carr is mentioned in one, and there is a picture of him in another. BMC Bill Carr was my Grandfather George Carr's brother. I am tracing my heritage. I would love to get any info on my Great-uncle, and to correspond with CDR Ellsberg's grandson. I spent 21 years in the U.S. Coast Guard, and retired as a Chief Petty Officer (E-7), just like my Great-uncle. If anyone has any info, please let me know. CPO Catherine A. Carr-East, USCG, (r), (ret).
Added: May 29, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Larry Lenoff
From: Washington, DC
Comments:
I remember reading Admiral Ellsberg's early books from both world wars. His stories encouraged me to try to learn engineering.
As a young Jewish boy going to a Methodist military school I would have been overjoyed if I had known that the admiral was as well. We just didn't have the internet then.
Added: May 5, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Drew Milliken
From: Camden, Maine USA
Comments:
I am a devoted admirer of RADM Ellsberg and have been since reading "Under the Red Sea Sun" (several times), "No Banners, No Bugles," about the S-51, and excerpts from his letters. I was especially pleased with the comments made by Captain Ned Beach so laudatory of Commander Ellsberg.
Added: April 22, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Rod Hake
From: Minnesota
Comments:
I read his book "Under the Red Sea Sun" in high school and loved it. I read several of his others. I am 78. I found this same book a few years ago and loved it again.
Rod
Added: April 17, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Rich Townley
From: Woodridge, IL
Comments:
Fascinating reading. He had to be an incredibly focused man. I'm going to find his book Under the Red Sea Sun to read while on vacation this Summer. Have enjoyed books by Clive Cussler over the years, but that was fiction and this was real life.
Added: March 28, 2011
Submitted by
Name: David Mangels
From: Woodinville, WA
Comments:
I wrote you a while back telling you about reading your grandfather's book, "On the Bottom", to my 6th grade classes. At one point I told a friend of the family about the book. Her name was Midge Wilson and she was from Annappolis, WA. She gave me a photo taken by her grandfather which I would be happy to forward to you. It isn't much, just a picture of one of the pontoons off Point Judith but you might like it. It is a small world. I don't know her grandfather's name but I could possibly find out. She is, unfortuneatly, dead but one of her sisters may know.
Added: March 26, 2011
Submitted by
Name: John Meshkoff
From: Santa Rosa , CA
Comments:
I wanted to make mention of "No Banners, No Bugles," which I have just re-read after many years. This is the sequel to "Under The Red Sea Sun," and relates Cmdr. Ellsberg's post-Massawa adventure in North Africa under Eisenhower. Some of the situations the Commander encountered in both places remind me of Joseph Heller's "Catch 22," and it is remarkable that Cmdr. Ellsberg was able to persevere against incredible odds.
Regards, John
Added: March 11, 2011
Submitted by
Name: F.E.Strasse
From: Wisconsin
Comments:
Ted,
I have a hand written note from your Grandfather to my Dad,dated 70 years ago,March 9,1941.My father was 18 years old @ the time. My father must have just read "On The Bottom",and was captivated by the book.Your Grandfather wrote in response to my father's eagerness to know more of him and this future plans.I just finished the book, copyright 1941,it was excellent!My father passed away this past January @ 88 years old, a WWII army veteran. I only wished I had found this kind note,from then Commander Ellsberg, while my father was still alive. Sincerely, Fred
Added: March 8, 2011
ubmitted by
Name: John Meshkoff
From: Santa Rosa, CA
Comments:
I too first read 'On The Bottom' in HS in the late 1950's, and some years back fortunate to pick up an original copy which I still have. 'Under The Red Sea Sun' I found a condensed paperback made for the military distribution at a book store in SF decades ago, but unfortunately it disappeared over the years! I got to read the hard-cover original via the library system not too long ago.
I can recall reading some of the novels, too. The motion-picture "Hell Below" (1933) was based on the Cmdr's 'Pigboats'. I am also privileged to have obtained Tom Eadie's 'I Like Diving', which contains some Ellsberg references.
I like Cmdr Ellsberg's clear and flowing writing, and his "git 'er done" American ingenuity in solving the diving and salvage problems he encountered.
Added: February 17, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Alex Carter
From: Gilroy, CA
Comments:
A friend got your Grandfather's book, "On The Bottom" at a library sale. 1929 edition. He read it, then I read it. FASCINATING. Absolutely fascinating! The stuff your Grandfather and his divers did, have me in awe. Those were REAL MEN. I mean that not only in terms of bravery, but in sticking to a task, never giving up, assisting each other, devising tools and ways to accomplish things, and FOLLOWING THROUGH no matter what. Through the whole operation - an unbelieveably hard one - of salvaging the S-51 submarine, they didn't lose a single diver. I highly recommend this took, and I wonder, did the bell ever find its way back to Annapolis?
Added: February 15, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Scott MacGregor
From: Clayton Washington
Comments:
I have an original 1929 copy of on the bottom by commanander Ellsberg. I am a former GM2 in the Naval Reserves. I recieved the book from my grandfather who read it while he was a Lt. on the USS Taganac serving in the south pacific during WWII.
This book can be hair raising to anyone who has been a helmet diver or scuba diver. My grandfather, father and myself were and are scuba divers and definettly appreciate the bravery of the commander and his divers.
There definetly cut from a different mold!
Added: January 29, 2011
Submitted by
Name: David Mangels
From: Woodinville, WA
Comments:
I have read most of your grandfather's books and as a 6th grade teacher I use to read "On the Botttom" to my class. They always enjoyed the story and I hope came away with a different set of heros after hearing it. Once when the USS Florikan, a submarine rescue ship, was in Seattle I spoke to the captain. I asked if he had read any of your grandfather's books. He stated that they had led to his becoming a naval officer and his interest in salvage. I once wrote to your grandfather and he was kind enough to write back. He told me how he had come to write "On the Bottom" and how much trouble he had had in first getting it published. I still enjoy recommending his books to those who have never read him.
Added: January 28, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Hiller B. Zobel
From: Boston MA
Comments:
Like so many others, I became an Ellsberg fan after reading On the Bottom at age 12 or 13.
In Salvage Man, CDR Alden cites "Ellsberg Oral History." Can you tell me where I might find a copy?
As an old admiralty lawyer, I have a fat collection of legal materials relating to the S-51.
You have a great site.
Admin reply: Hi Hiller:
Salvage Man has a CD of oral history. However, I have quite a few tapes that I should have converted. I could even post them on the site. Also have This is Your Life program about EE.
What sort of S-51 materials do you have and what are you going to do with them?
Ted
Added: January 4, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Mike McAlpin
From: Jackson, MS
Comments:
I have been reading Edward Ellsberg books since I was in High School. He is one of my favorite authors.
The way he tells a story, makes me fell like I am there watching.
I am having trouble finding some of his books that I can afford. it would be great and also help preserve his books if they were E-Books.
I would buy them all.
Added: December 12, 2010
Submitted by
Name: Donald Pepper
From: Carlsbad, CA
Comments:
American Mensa members were asked to name the one book they would like if they could only have one. I told them it would be "Under the Red Sea Sun". In the Nov/Dec issue of the Mensa Bulletin they published many members replys. Mine was among them, complete with a picture of the dustcover of the book. I thought you would like to know.
Added: November 24, 2010
Submitted by
Name: Rick Johnson
From: Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
Comments:
I've just finished "Under the Red Sea Sun." It's a fascinating and well-told story, a great management case study, and an interesting example for one who is working to build a new university across the Red Sea from where Ellsberg brought the Massawa naval station back to life.
Added: November 1, 2010
Submitted by
Name: Henry Paul Hagenau Jr
Comments:
My father Henry Paul Hagenau worked with the Commander at Tidewater Oil Co. My dad was the company photographer based at the Bayonne NJ refinery. I am fortunate to have a much worn autographed copy of On The bottom.
Added: 9/18/2010
Submitted by
Name: david strege
Comments:
enjoyed his books in junior high school and had lost track of his works and trying to relocate them. david
Added: 7/24/2010
Submitted by
Name: Rob Schorry
Comments:
"Cmdr Ellsberg's guts, brains, and adventures should be made into a movie.
On the Bottom, Men Under The Sea and Under The Red Sea Sun should all be required reading for today's students.
The adventure of restoring the Port of Massawa is a classic of American can-do and since I am a Mech. Engr. has taught me a lot about making do.
A fine offcier and a fine human being who knew how to buck the US Navy of the 20s - 40s to make things happen.
A sailor that my grandma (born in 1901) knew from Ct. was on the S-51 so the Cmdr. helped to bring him home.
Best wishes!"
Added: 7/23/2010
Submitted by
Name: Frank Schmidt
Comments:
"Read On the Bottom 55 years ago, still sticks with me."
Added: 5/14/2010
Submitted by
Name: Michael Witmer
Comments:
"My late father, Harold "Butch" Witmer, dove with Commander Ellsberg at Oran, Algeria, after arriving with "Operation Torch". He kept several photos of himself and diving crew at their pier and divers shack. He often spoke of how inspiring it was to dive right along side such an awesome figure as Ellsberg--my father was a Petty Officer First Class. He died in 2002 and I only wish I could still talk with him about his Navy exploits. I just purchased/waiting for "No Banners, No Bugles", hoping that my father may be mentioned or pictured in this book--it's great that Ellsberg was such a prolific writer since these memoirs are primary history sources for all of us today. I am a Army Vietnam veteran and college history professor/historian. Please let me know if there is any current society of survivors to Commander Ellsberg and his diving crew--I surely would like to be a part--thanks!"
Added: 5/3/2010
Submitted by
Name: Charles Heller
Comments:
I am a talk show host with a program on military history. The first book my father read to me was "On The Bottom." I'd like to talk about having you on the air. Please contact me via e-mail.
Charles Heller
Added: 4/24/2010
Submitted by
Name: Brian Gabriel`
Comments:
I think I've read all of Mr. Ellsberg's books. They are just great.
Submitted by
Name: Eric Brege
From: San Diego, CA
Comments:
I was recently introduced to "Under the Red Sea Sun" which has been my favorite read to date.
As a fellow alum of USNA, MIT, and now serving as a diving and salvage officer in the Navy, I find his writings to be insightfull and truly insprirational. The Basic principles of leadership, hard work, and Naval Architecture have little changed over the last century.
Added: December 21, 2012
Submitted by
Name: Alex Funke
From: California, but now in New Zealand
Comments:
Commander Ellsberg's books were one of my great inspirations as a young man. Few authors have so well and simply captured the reality of war, struggle, and achievement.
To this day--60 years later--I still turn to On The Bottom and Under the Red Sea Sun very often for solace and strength.
Bravo for creating this site in honour of a great man.
Added: December 12, 2012
Submitted by
Name: Donald Crutchley
From: keyport new jersey
Comments:
his books were were a treasure to me most of my adult life but were lost in a fire a few years ago and i have not been able to replace them.
Added: October 26, 2012
Submitted by
Name: Wayne Morsfield
From: Michigan
Comments:
Discovered Ellsberg's books in the 8 th grade in 1950. Finally found a library copy of his first release of On the Bottom this year after several years of looking. Just as exciting to read today as it was in 1950!
Those divers deserved all the medals they were awarded!
As an engineer, I was impressed with what Ellsberg accomplished with the equipment he had to work with in the 1920's!
Added: September 23, 2012
Submitted by
Name: Geoff Thorpe
From: California
Comments:
I have read all (or almost all) of Ellsberg's books, when I was a kid of 10 or 1l in the 1960s, and have recently reread a number of them. Although a landlubber, I love submarines and Mr. Ellsberg helped foster that love.
Added: August 27, 2012
Submitted by
Name: Beth
From: Tennessee
Comments:
"Under the Red Sea Sun" is the most prized book in my collection. I have read it numerous times and I am always impressed and encouraged by Ellsberg's spirit and sheer willinginess to keep going under horrific circumstances. I have the upmost respect for him. I have one of his quotes posted where I can see it every morning...."It never pays to quit until you're dead". Thank you for keeping up this wonderful site!!
Added: July 27, 2012
Submitted by
Name: John Astaire
From: San Luis Obispo, CA
Comments:
Thank you for maintaining this great website.
Added: July 26, 2012
Submitted by
Name: Jonathan Larson
From: Jolin, MO
Comments:
I encountered and read the trilogy of his World War II experiences in the base library when I was in the Air Force and have been looking for copies I could give to the middle school age children of my friends and family to help inspire them in their formative years. These are books that should be in every school and public library. I hope they get reprinted soon, if they are reprinted I would donate to a fund to help place copies in schools.
Added: May 20, 2012
Submitted by
Name: Ken Wernau
From: California
Comments:
I came across a 1929 edition of On The Bottom and enjoyed it immensely. The work that was done by that salvage crew under those conditions was simply amazing. I look forward to learning more about Edward Ellsberg.
Added: May 6, 2012
Submitted by
Name: thomas A Sauer
From: milaca mn
Comments:
loved his books in the 1950's they were full of adventure.
Added: April 23, 2012
Submitted by
Name: Rick Ferris
From: Durham, North Carolina
Comments:
"Under the Red Sea Sun" and "No Banners, No Bugles" are two of the most prized books in my library. I first read them in the late 60s while in High School. Somehow, over the years, "Under the Red Sea Sun" has managed to find it's way out of my library and I mourn its loss. I have read and reread them countless times in the intervening years. Any student of history, any patriot, should read these books. They give an invaluable first hand view into the gritty reality that was WWII. They bring it to life in a way that dry history books cannot. They also illustrate with incredible clarity, the savage conditions under which our brave men and women fought to keep this country free. Lessons which have sadly been forgotten by the current generations.
Added: February 25, 2012
Submitted by
Name: Jennifer Reynolds
From: media pa
Comments:
I just found a great old copy of On the Bottom - my uncle served on a sub in WWII and would have been fascinated by this book. If any of you are interested, it's on etsy under my seller name: callmejasper. Price is $66 but I'll listen to offers.
Added: February 16, 2012
Submitted by
Name: Richard Solomon
From: Springfield, Missouri
Comments:
As a retired Navy Diver I have spent many hours "On The Bottom" I retired in 1980 form the US Navy and had many threatening challenges as a diver. I alway remembered I was taught safety first while diving and that carried me through many scary dives. I have not had the priveledge of reading any of the Admirals books. I am shopping around for them now.. Thanks for this web sight and its contents.
Added: January 27, 2012
Submitted by
Name: Gerald K. Sherman
From: Living in Winnipeg, originally from London (England)
Comments:
I discovered your web site as a result of the Contra Costa wreck a few days ago. I was recalling "On The Bottom", the story of raising the S-51, and some of the diving issues that occurred then, and their relevance to the Contra Costa. Many years ago (in the 1950's) I used On The Bottom as the subject for a book review in a high school English course. Your web site, and that of the S-51 bring back a few memories of that assignment. Incidentally, I served in the Royal Canadian Navy Reserve in the early 1960's.
Added: January 19, 2012
Submitted by
Name: william edward mclagan
From: washington d.c.
Comments:
My father, Master Diver Edward Morgan McLagan is mentioned in Ellsberg book On The Bottom. He was on the bottom just forward of the conning tower on the S-51 when a pontoon chain snapped and when she heeled over he was dumped into the mud. He was rescued by Chief Torpedoman Kelly and they both were hauled to the USS Falcon above and were placed in the decompression chamber. Dad was always my hero!
Added: January 1, 2012
Submitted by
Name: david kalbacker
From: North Carolina
Comments:
reading "Under the Red Sea Sun" for the second time. My late mother bought the book new. Now I am reading it with the laptop in easy reach to search for visual info. about the ships wrecks and what remains of the city as it was. Perhaps my favorite book ever!!
Added: December 16, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Lloyd Brown
From: St. Louis, MO
Comments:
I first ran across Adm. Ellsberg's books while in college and have a collected several over the years. I particularly enjoyed reading his exploits during the war years. They remind me to think outside the box to find the answers to challenging problems.
For what it is worth the ships he salvaged in Massawa had fruitful lives under new names.
The Liebenfels became the Empire Nile (not the General Russel Maxwell). The Frauenfels became the Empire Niger. The Gera became the Empire Indus.
Added: November 27, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Mike Kretzler
From: Olympia, Washington
Comments:
I read Commander Ellsberg's books as a youth. They were provided by my grandfather, Capt. Harry H Kretzler, Sr., who served in Dutch Harbor.
I remember his books, particularly "On the Bottom" and "Under the Red Sea Sun," very well.
Added: November 13, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Rod Corkum
From: Halifax, Canada
Comments:
Found this site doing a bit of Googling. I read Under the Red Sea Sun while I was in high school (late 60's)and found it fascinating. I was a prolific book reader in my younger days. It is the only book from the school library that I've never forgotten the title. Few books have made that much of an impression.
Added: October 29, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Alan Lewis
From: Washington, DC
Comments:
I discovered the Admiral's writings when I was in junior high school in the early 1950s. He became my boyhood hero because he "got the job done." Sometime in the late 1970s I decided to re-read and then collect all his books and, as luck would have it, I was able to meet him through a contact at Haslam's Books in St. Petersburg, FL. He even spent a night under my roof in the Washington suburbs during one of his yearly auto trips from Maine to Florida ... driving solo in a big white Caddy (if my memory is correct). Not long afterwards I was able to visit him in Florida and record about 2-1/2 hours of interview which served as research material for the SALVAGE MAN. I recently visited the invasion beaches at Normandy and am re-reading THE FAR SHORE because of its detailed explanations of what our men went through in those terrifying hours on the morning of June 6, 1944. Its great to have this website available for future Ellsberg fans!
Added: October 12, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Todd Mumma
From: Harrisburg PA
Comments:
hello, i have read only two of the commanders books but i am inspired by his never give up attitude. I work as a salvage diver for Defiant Marine Inc. and usually on every job someone has a copy of an Ellsberg book, even though all of the salvages he did were done before we are even thought about, the information and the spirit of a true Salvage Master are as useful today as when he was making things happen. i am looking to have a complete set of Commander Ellsberg's books. it will take some time but i shall have a set.
Added: October 7, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Daniel Hammond
From: North Carolina
Comments:
The commander was a truly man thank you for giving so much to the diving world !!!
Added: October 6, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Barbara Sokolik
From: Omaha Ne
Comments:
Hello, I beleive I am related to Edward Ellsberg because my grandfather told me as a child that he was his cousin.
They changed the spelling of their last name slightly but they both had come to the US from Russia.My grandfather was Abraham Ellesberg and was a tailor in NYC and he had 12 sisters and brothers.He was the oldest. It seems that the Admiral's parents must have come to America earlier than my family members.My aunt saved a newspaper account of his death.Wish I knew more about the Admiral's family that are still living.All of my grandfather's children are now deceased now.
Added: September 4, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Edward J Giuffre
From: Long Island, New York
Comments:
Thirty Fathoms Deep was the first book I selected from Public School 89 Library in the Bronx. I went on to read almost every other book the Commander wrote. I just wrote a column about him for our West Islip Retired Teacher's Association news letter. Well send you a copy, if you want. ED Giuffre
The commander made me a lifelong reader. Thanks.
Added: September 2, 2011
Submitted by
Name: John Potter
From: Humboldt Co California
Comments:
I first read Hell on Ice in my Jr High days in 1962 and have re-read it several times since. It has aged well and is one of my favorite books of exploration. Under the Red Sea Sun has also been a favorite for many decades. I have been fortunate to find hardback copies of many of Ellsberg's books at used book stores and value them highly.
Added: August 31, 2011
Submitted by
Name: CDR Edward Bosque, USN
Comments:
A very fascinating site for an extraordinary man. Thank you for keeping the Admiral's legacy alive!
Added: August 28, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Greg Trocchia
From: Vermilion Ohio USA
Comments:
I have read several of the Ellsberg books and CAPTAIN PAUL remains my favorite. Maybe not a classic writing but it is very entertaining and with the sailing terms,the historical background, and finally the formation of our United States Navy, it has kept my interest for over fifty years. I keep a copy on hand to lend to interested readers but I'm sorry the work is no longer in print.
Added: July 28, 2011
Submitted by
Name: John Meshkoff
From: Santa Rosa, CA
Comments:
I just listened to the Bob Trout interview; interestingly, the commander, in keeping with wartime secrecy regarding submarines, gave deliberately inaccurate answers regarding the capabilities and armament of U.S. Subs, in order to confuse enemy intelligence!
Added: July 23, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Robert Owen
From: Gainesville, VA
Comments:
On The Bottom was one of the first naval history books I read as a child and remains one of my favorites Ellsberg had a magical touch with words as evident by his description of Smith's near death under the S-51 and the repairing of the Dido in Massawa when Armstrong & Cunningham beat the steel plate into place. I have all his non-fiction salvage books and wouldn't trade them for anything.
Added: July 18, 2011
Submitted by
Name: John Laird
From: Maryland
Comments:
Ted
Just a quick note to tell you my parents knew your Grandfather in Westfield, New Jersey. So I read a number of your grandfathers books while growing up which influenced me in a number of things such as SCUBA diving, becoming an engineer, etc.
I am glad to find his web site, now bookmarked, and hope you are sucessfull in getting more of his books republished so they can influence a new generation. You might want to add a page about the underwater torch he developed which was the standard in the industry for many years.
I worked on building the Hughes Glomar Explorer and when it came out that the name of its mission was "Project Jennifer", Google "Project Jennifer Hughes Glomar Explorer" for details, I often wondered if that might be some connection or tribute to your grandfather because of his Jeannette and Jennifer books.
Added: July 17, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Edward A. Strachan
From: Milton Florida
Comments:
Read all the books I could find in the late 50s and early 60s. Would read them again if I could find them. Just located reprent of ON THE BOTTOM. Will keep looking. ed
Added: June 20, 2011
Submitted by
Name: John Edwards
From: Netherton, Dudley England
Comments:
Hi
I have collected all of the Edward Ellsberg books and have enjoyed them for many years, I have been a diver for over 30 years and am a great admirer of his achievements .
I have 2 items that may be of interest.
One is, US Navy Department, bureau of construction and repair, technical bulletin 1928, salvage report of the USS S-4
The other is the same but on the USS S-51, these came from a British Military library now closed.
I have been trying to get to Massawa in Eritrea to dive the wrecks left behind, I understand that a large floating dock is now sunk in the Daklak islands, is it one of his!?, I dive port Sudan in the Sudan regularly but Eritrea is a bit unstable at the moment, even for me!.
Very best regards
John Edwards
John
Added: June 13, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Greg R.
From: California
Comments:
Saw the movie Hell Below, and was curious about the author whose novel this exciting movie was based on. Thanks for keeping your grandfather's memory alive.
Added: May 31, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Cathy East (nee Carr)
From: Philly
Comments:
My Great-uncle, BMC William (Bill) Carr, USN, had served with CDR Ellsberg. He (my Great-uncle) was a diver. I am trying to locate any info on my Great-uncle. I have read a few of CRD Ellsberg's books. Great-uncle Bill Carr is mentioned in one, and there is a picture of him in another. BMC Bill Carr was my Grandfather George Carr's brother. I am tracing my heritage. I would love to get any info on my Great-uncle, and to correspond with CDR Ellsberg's grandson. I spent 21 years in the U.S. Coast Guard, and retired as a Chief Petty Officer (E-7), just like my Great-uncle. If anyone has any info, please let me know. CPO Catherine A. Carr-East, USCG, (r), (ret).
Added: May 29, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Larry Lenoff
From: Washington, DC
Comments:
I remember reading Admiral Ellsberg's early books from both world wars. His stories encouraged me to try to learn engineering.
As a young Jewish boy going to a Methodist military school I would have been overjoyed if I had known that the admiral was as well. We just didn't have the internet then.
Added: May 5, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Drew Milliken
From: Camden, Maine USA
Comments:
I am a devoted admirer of RADM Ellsberg and have been since reading "Under the Red Sea Sun" (several times), "No Banners, No Bugles," about the S-51, and excerpts from his letters. I was especially pleased with the comments made by Captain Ned Beach so laudatory of Commander Ellsberg.
Added: April 22, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Rod Hake
From: Minnesota
Comments:
I read his book "Under the Red Sea Sun" in high school and loved it. I read several of his others. I am 78. I found this same book a few years ago and loved it again.
Rod
Added: April 17, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Rich Townley
From: Woodridge, IL
Comments:
Fascinating reading. He had to be an incredibly focused man. I'm going to find his book Under the Red Sea Sun to read while on vacation this Summer. Have enjoyed books by Clive Cussler over the years, but that was fiction and this was real life.
Added: March 28, 2011
Submitted by
Name: David Mangels
From: Woodinville, WA
Comments:
I wrote you a while back telling you about reading your grandfather's book, "On the Bottom", to my 6th grade classes. At one point I told a friend of the family about the book. Her name was Midge Wilson and she was from Annappolis, WA. She gave me a photo taken by her grandfather which I would be happy to forward to you. It isn't much, just a picture of one of the pontoons off Point Judith but you might like it. It is a small world. I don't know her grandfather's name but I could possibly find out. She is, unfortuneatly, dead but one of her sisters may know.
Added: March 26, 2011
Submitted by
Name: John Meshkoff
From: Santa Rosa , CA
Comments:
I wanted to make mention of "No Banners, No Bugles," which I have just re-read after many years. This is the sequel to "Under The Red Sea Sun," and relates Cmdr. Ellsberg's post-Massawa adventure in North Africa under Eisenhower. Some of the situations the Commander encountered in both places remind me of Joseph Heller's "Catch 22," and it is remarkable that Cmdr. Ellsberg was able to persevere against incredible odds.
Regards, John
Added: March 11, 2011
Submitted by
Name: F.E.Strasse
From: Wisconsin
Comments:
Ted,
I have a hand written note from your Grandfather to my Dad,dated 70 years ago,March 9,1941.My father was 18 years old @ the time. My father must have just read "On The Bottom",and was captivated by the book.Your Grandfather wrote in response to my father's eagerness to know more of him and this future plans.I just finished the book, copyright 1941,it was excellent!My father passed away this past January @ 88 years old, a WWII army veteran. I only wished I had found this kind note,from then Commander Ellsberg, while my father was still alive. Sincerely, Fred
Added: March 8, 2011
ubmitted by
Name: John Meshkoff
From: Santa Rosa, CA
Comments:
I too first read 'On The Bottom' in HS in the late 1950's, and some years back fortunate to pick up an original copy which I still have. 'Under The Red Sea Sun' I found a condensed paperback made for the military distribution at a book store in SF decades ago, but unfortunately it disappeared over the years! I got to read the hard-cover original via the library system not too long ago.
I can recall reading some of the novels, too. The motion-picture "Hell Below" (1933) was based on the Cmdr's 'Pigboats'. I am also privileged to have obtained Tom Eadie's 'I Like Diving', which contains some Ellsberg references.
I like Cmdr Ellsberg's clear and flowing writing, and his "git 'er done" American ingenuity in solving the diving and salvage problems he encountered.
Added: February 17, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Alex Carter
From: Gilroy, CA
Comments:
A friend got your Grandfather's book, "On The Bottom" at a library sale. 1929 edition. He read it, then I read it. FASCINATING. Absolutely fascinating! The stuff your Grandfather and his divers did, have me in awe. Those were REAL MEN. I mean that not only in terms of bravery, but in sticking to a task, never giving up, assisting each other, devising tools and ways to accomplish things, and FOLLOWING THROUGH no matter what. Through the whole operation - an unbelieveably hard one - of salvaging the S-51 submarine, they didn't lose a single diver. I highly recommend this took, and I wonder, did the bell ever find its way back to Annapolis?
Added: February 15, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Scott MacGregor
From: Clayton Washington
Comments:
I have an original 1929 copy of on the bottom by commanander Ellsberg. I am a former GM2 in the Naval Reserves. I recieved the book from my grandfather who read it while he was a Lt. on the USS Taganac serving in the south pacific during WWII.
This book can be hair raising to anyone who has been a helmet diver or scuba diver. My grandfather, father and myself were and are scuba divers and definettly appreciate the bravery of the commander and his divers.
There definetly cut from a different mold!
Added: January 29, 2011
Submitted by
Name: David Mangels
From: Woodinville, WA
Comments:
I have read most of your grandfather's books and as a 6th grade teacher I use to read "On the Botttom" to my class. They always enjoyed the story and I hope came away with a different set of heros after hearing it. Once when the USS Florikan, a submarine rescue ship, was in Seattle I spoke to the captain. I asked if he had read any of your grandfather's books. He stated that they had led to his becoming a naval officer and his interest in salvage. I once wrote to your grandfather and he was kind enough to write back. He told me how he had come to write "On the Bottom" and how much trouble he had had in first getting it published. I still enjoy recommending his books to those who have never read him.
Added: January 28, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Hiller B. Zobel
From: Boston MA
Comments:
Like so many others, I became an Ellsberg fan after reading On the Bottom at age 12 or 13.
In Salvage Man, CDR Alden cites "Ellsberg Oral History." Can you tell me where I might find a copy?
As an old admiralty lawyer, I have a fat collection of legal materials relating to the S-51.
You have a great site.
Admin reply: Hi Hiller:
Salvage Man has a CD of oral history. However, I have quite a few tapes that I should have converted. I could even post them on the site. Also have This is Your Life program about EE.
What sort of S-51 materials do you have and what are you going to do with them?
Ted
Added: January 4, 2011
Submitted by
Name: Mike McAlpin
From: Jackson, MS
Comments:
I have been reading Edward Ellsberg books since I was in High School. He is one of my favorite authors.
The way he tells a story, makes me fell like I am there watching.
I am having trouble finding some of his books that I can afford. it would be great and also help preserve his books if they were E-Books.
I would buy them all.
Added: December 12, 2010
Submitted by
Name: Donald Pepper
From: Carlsbad, CA
Comments:
American Mensa members were asked to name the one book they would like if they could only have one. I told them it would be "Under the Red Sea Sun". In the Nov/Dec issue of the Mensa Bulletin they published many members replys. Mine was among them, complete with a picture of the dustcover of the book. I thought you would like to know.
Added: November 24, 2010
Submitted by
Name: Rick Johnson
From: Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
Comments:
I've just finished "Under the Red Sea Sun." It's a fascinating and well-told story, a great management case study, and an interesting example for one who is working to build a new university across the Red Sea from where Ellsberg brought the Massawa naval station back to life.
Added: November 1, 2010
Submitted by
Name: Henry Paul Hagenau Jr
Comments:
My father Henry Paul Hagenau worked with the Commander at Tidewater Oil Co. My dad was the company photographer based at the Bayonne NJ refinery. I am fortunate to have a much worn autographed copy of On The bottom.
Added: 9/18/2010
Submitted by
Name: david strege
Comments:
enjoyed his books in junior high school and had lost track of his works and trying to relocate them. david
Added: 7/24/2010
Submitted by
Name: Rob Schorry
Comments:
"Cmdr Ellsberg's guts, brains, and adventures should be made into a movie.
On the Bottom, Men Under The Sea and Under The Red Sea Sun should all be required reading for today's students.
The adventure of restoring the Port of Massawa is a classic of American can-do and since I am a Mech. Engr. has taught me a lot about making do.
A fine offcier and a fine human being who knew how to buck the US Navy of the 20s - 40s to make things happen.
A sailor that my grandma (born in 1901) knew from Ct. was on the S-51 so the Cmdr. helped to bring him home.
Best wishes!"
Added: 7/23/2010
Submitted by
Name: Frank Schmidt
Comments:
"Read On the Bottom 55 years ago, still sticks with me."
Added: 5/14/2010
Submitted by
Name: Michael Witmer
Comments:
"My late father, Harold "Butch" Witmer, dove with Commander Ellsberg at Oran, Algeria, after arriving with "Operation Torch". He kept several photos of himself and diving crew at their pier and divers shack. He often spoke of how inspiring it was to dive right along side such an awesome figure as Ellsberg--my father was a Petty Officer First Class. He died in 2002 and I only wish I could still talk with him about his Navy exploits. I just purchased/waiting for "No Banners, No Bugles", hoping that my father may be mentioned or pictured in this book--it's great that Ellsberg was such a prolific writer since these memoirs are primary history sources for all of us today. I am a Army Vietnam veteran and college history professor/historian. Please let me know if there is any current society of survivors to Commander Ellsberg and his diving crew--I surely would like to be a part--thanks!"
Added: 5/3/2010
Submitted by
Name: Charles Heller
Comments:
I am a talk show host with a program on military history. The first book my father read to me was "On The Bottom." I'd like to talk about having you on the air. Please contact me via e-mail.
Charles Heller
Added: 4/24/2010
Submitted by
Name: Brian Gabriel`
Comments:
I think I've read all of Mr. Ellsberg's books. They are just great.