The book ‘Get the Hell Out of There!’ by Donald Harold Schuh is a historical account of the USS Helena CL50 and USS Houston CL81 during World War II. Based on the author’s father’s experiences, it skillfully blends personal stories with detailed descriptions of naval battles and life during the war. This historical non-fiction work provides deep insights into both the sailor’s perspective and the broader context of the Pacific war, focusing on key battles such as the Battle of Cape Esperance and the Battle of Guadalcanal.
More than just a recounting of events, ‘Get the Hell Out of There!’ immerses readers in the realities of the war. It features rare images, detailed maps of World War II in the Pacific, and a collection of original documents and articles, offering an intimate glimpse into the strategies, challenges, and personal stories of the men who served. Whether you’re seeking a short summary of the attack on Pearl Harbor or a deeper exploration of World War II in the Pacific maps, this book serves as a comprehensive resource that brings these historic events to life with authenticity and insight.
Perfect for history nonfiction books fans and those interested in military history, this book combines factual accuracy with an interesting story, honoring the courage and sacrifices of those who fought in one of the most challenging periods of human history.
Table of Content
Table of Contents
Introduction. 1
Chapter 1 Harold and Billie Schuh. 2
Chapter 2 The Beginning. 5
Chapter 3 Pearl Harbor 7
Chapter 4 Boot Camp. 11
Chapter 5 Meeting the USS Helena CL50. 14
Chapter 6 Traveling to the Solomon Islands. 18
Chapter 7 The Sinking of the USS Wasp. 23
Chapter 8 The Battle of Cape Esperance. 25
Chapter 9 Between Two Great Battles 37
Chapter 10 The Battle of Guadalcanal 39
Chapter 11 The Sinking of The Juneau. 51
Chapter 12 If Only This War Would End. 57
Chapter 13 The Island and Australia. 60
Chapter 14 The Mighty H Did Not Survive. 62
Chapter 15 Coming Home and Going Back. 70
Chapter 16 Meeting the USS Houston CL81. 72
Chapter 17 Back to this Damn War 76
Chapter 18 Fast Carrier Forces Pacific Operation. 78
Chapter 19 Keeping the Houston Afloat 81
Chapter 20 The Journey Comes to an End. 86
Chapter 21 All Important Documents 88
Chapter 22 Articles. 101
Chapter 23 Letters. 107
Chapter 24 Maps. 116
Chapter 25 Awards 127
Bibliography. 133
About the author
In ‘Get The Hell Out Of There!’, Donald Harold Schuh opens a window into a deeply personal history, penned down from the experiences of his parents, Harold Thomas Schuh and Billie Burnell Schuh. This isn’t just a history book; it’s a genuine tribute to the strength and spirit of a generation that endured some of the greatest naval battles of WW2.Donald’s storytelling takes you aboard the USS Helena CL50 and USS Houston CL81, where you can almost feel the tension of the Battle of Cape Esperance and the broader conflict in the Pacific. Through vibrant and real portrayal of each scene, he brings these historic moments to life, offering not just facts, but a deeper understanding of the sacrifices and decisions that shaped the WW2 war in the Pacific. He even explores the outcomes of critical clashes, such as who won the Battle of Guadalcanal, providing insight into the strategies that defined those battles.At its core, this book is about more than just war, it’s about the people who lived it, the legacy they left behind, and the eternal impact on those who came after. Donald writes with the authenticity and depth that only someone connected to these events can, making this an influential and moving account of history and humanity.