Incredible Victory: The Battle of Midway by Walter Lord
1967  / 268 pgs. History, Military and War

Incredible Victory is a Walter Lord history classic. It’s a detailed account, very similar to Miracle at Midway, of the planning and attack from both sides of the battle of Midway.  There are a few minor details between both books that are interesting; however, they don’t change any of the impacts of the fight. 

A fascinating point illustrated in both books is the “fog of war.” The in-validness of accounts as told by those that fought in the battle.  Both sides paint a different picture that makes a historian’s job more challenging trying to chronicle events.  Also, the written history by both nations after the battle and official reports.  When comparing the reports, there are very vast discrepancies on both sides.  However, it’s understandable that no one has time to write down precise information on what happened when in battle.   They leave that to the historian to sort out through logs, diaries, and interviews. 

Walter Lord pointed this out at the end of the book in a final section, mentioning that many U.S. Navy pilots swear they properly identified the Carrier based on the location of the Island.  However, the island location wasn’t the proper one for the Carrier they believed they attacked.  Also, taking in the official records of the first wave, the Akagi and Kaga were attacked, and no one bombed the Soyru.  The infamous “fog of War.”  

Overall, this is a beautiful read and easy to follow.  For anyone interested in reading about Midway’s Battle, I would recommend either Incredible Victory or Miracle at Midway.        

Enjoy a good cup of coffee and a wonderful book!

Lopaka