Bern Keating
The Mosquito Fleet
"The Mosquito Fleet" by Bern Keating is a historical account written in the early 1960s. The book chronicles the operations and experiences of the American Motor Torpedo Boat (PT) squadrons during World War II, particularly focusing on their roles in the Pacific theater. It highlights the bravery and challenges faced by the crews of these small boats, often referred to as the "mosquito fleet," in engaging larger enemy vessels and conducting covert operations under perilous conditions. At the start of the narrative, the urgency of America's involvement in World War II is set against the backdrop of the heavy losses suffered in early conflicts, particularly at Pearl Harbor and in the Philippines. The opening chapter introduces Lieutenant Commander Douglas MacArthur's dramatic escape from the Philippines via a PT boat, underscoring the significance of these vessels in American naval strategy. Additionally, the text emphasizes the misconception surrounding the exploits of PT boats, as well as the reality of their combat experiences, painting a vivid picture of the sailors' perseverance in the face of overwhelming odds.