For many Filipinos, the U.S. Navy is the hope for a better life. Beyond the stereotypical images in their crisp, clean uniform are the stories of discrimination, careers, struggles, triumphs and contributions of these hardy sailors both in their homeland and in the United States. Today, these men and their families form a significant segment of the Filipino-American communities. Their children are establishing themselves as up-and-coming leaders of the 21st century. Yet they are little studied as a group by historians and researchers. AuthorRiz A. Oades changes all that. Drawing from the stirring personal accounts of Senior Chief Juan Victor Ruiz and other enlisted sailors to Rear Adm. Eleanor Mariano, his book navigates inside submarines and ships to reveal the sailors' motivations, military training, overseas deployment, romances, moments of fun, family relations, retirement and roles in community building.
