The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force’s Author Talk series is proud to present Carole Engle Avriett, who will read and discuss her book, Midnight in Ironbottom Sound: The Harrowing Story of Heroism in the Shark-Infested Waters of the Guadalcanal with a special introduction by Rear Admiral Cedric Pringle. This program will take place on Saturday, December 7h, at 11:00 a.m. at the museum.
The program is free to the public, but registration is requested https://forms.gle/75rsYoGWCsNSMzem9
About the Book:
In Midnight in Ironbottom Sound, Carole Engle Avriett brings to light the heroic yet overlooked story of the USS Gregory, a “minor” vessel in World War II that played a crucial role in the Pacific. Focusing on Lt. Commander Harry F. Bauer and Mess Attendant Charles J. French—two men from opposite ranks—Avriett captures their courage and resilience as they faced unrelenting battles to transport Marine Raiders. Through vivid storytelling, this book honors the ship’s brave crew and reminds us that valor knows no rank or color, only dedication and courage.
About the Author:
Carole Engle Avriett is a the nationally known speaker and author of the bestselling Coffin Corner Boys: One Bomber, Ten Men, and their Harrowing Escape from Nazi-Occupied France. Currently, she invests her skills full time in writing Christian books and military history memoirs, as well as hosting a weekly Bible study and leading women’s conferences—often sharing her powerful testimony of personal struggle until Christ came into her life at the age of thirty. She and her husband live in central Florida.
About the Admiral:
Rear Admiral Cedric E. Pringle, the 31st Commandant of the National War College in Washington, D.C., oversees academic policies, curriculum, and classroom excellence. A University of South Carolina graduate, he holds master’s degrees in Financial Management and National Security Strategy. His distinguished sea service includes engineering roles on the USS Ranger and USS Portland, command of USS Whidbey Island during Hurricane Katrina relief, and leadership of the Navy’s first hybrid propulsion ship, USS Makin Island. Ashore, he has served in strategic roles, including Navy Senate Liaison and Joint Task Force Matthew commander. His decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal and the Navy’s Stars and Stripes Award.