An amazed America read in the morning papers of May 11, 1960, headlines following: "Triton Goes Around Globe Submerged, Retracing the Route Sailed by Magellan," "Atom-powered Submarine Circles Earth in 84 Days."
In a fantastic achievement, the Triton had completed a secret round-the-world voyage entirely under water. This almost unbelievable voyage of the world's largest and most powerful submarine was an important test of man's ability to endure long periods of confinement under the ocean's surface. The experiment was essential to America's newest defense system—the Polaris submarine program. It also gave an indication of man's ability to journey in a sealed capsule to outer space.
Behind the startling headlines is the story of the development of the atomic submarine and of the tremendous labor of preparing for the voyage. Hundreds of meals had to be planned. Tons of food had to be ordered and stowed away. Spare parts enough to repair almost all equipment in the sub had to be checked over and put in place. Charts had to be examined. Piles of medical supplies and special equipment had to be brought on board. In a mere twelve days after receiving orders for the voyage, Captain Edward L. Beach, skipper of the Triton, was ready to take his ultra-modern submarine to sea.
Only Captain Beach and a few trusted officers on the ship had been told the Triton's mission. Once the submarine was at sea, Beach announced to the crew the purpose of their trip. He later wrote in his log, "Every man aboard is thrilled with the prospect, yet soberly mindful of the effort required."
This book describes the preparations for the voyage and the voyage itself. Mr. Becker tells what it is like to live for three months aboard a submerged submarine. He describes the day-by-day activities of the officers and crew, and also the moments of drama and emergency.
An important part of the story is the life of Captain Beach, one of the most decorated submariners of the U.S. Navy. Beach was born into the Navy tradition. He graduated from Annapolis, served with distinction during World War II, and was Naval Aide to President Eisenhower for four years. Beach's heroic exploits while serving in the submarine service during World War II are also recounted in this book.
—from the dust jacket
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