Destroyer Captain

“Graceful prose and heart-pounding action make this one for WWII buffs to relish.” —Publishers Weekly

“Renowned WWII naval historian John D. Hornfischer launched this first biography of Evans; David J. Hornfischer, his son, now brings his late father’s work to fruition in spectacular fashion. Destroyer Captain is a testament to their skills as historians to pull together an entire book about a man whose life has barely been documented… A resounding story of heroism and sacrifice that no lover of history should overlook.” —Booklist

James D. Hornfischer was a writer, literary agent, and book editor. He authored the New York Times bestsellers Neptune’s Inferno, The Last Stand of the Tin Can Soldiers, Ship of Ghosts, and The Fleet at Flood Tide, all widely acclaimed accounts of the U.S. Navy in the Pacific during World War II. He also wrote Who Can Hold the Sea, which covers the U.S. Navy’s crucial role in the Cold War. His books received numerous awards, including the Samuel Eliot Morison Award for Naval Literature and the Navy Distinguished Public Service Award. James D. Hornfischer died in 2021.

David James Hornfischer is a graduate of the University of Arkansas with a bachelor’s degree from the Walton School of Business. He has had a lifelong interest in history, particularly WWII history, where he had a front-row seat throughout his father’s career as a military historian. Since the age of 6, David served as his father’s office assistant and book box carrier. He enjoyed book signings, where he could be of extra help with setting up books. As David’s acumen and interest grew, he became an invaluable research assistant for various history projects. Destroyer Captain: The Life of Ernest E. Evans is his first book. Today, David is pursuing a career as a history teacher, leaning into his interest in the subject. David lives in Austin, Texas.

This item is eligible for free returns within 30 days of delivery. See our returns policy for further details.