A long, Long Watch
Volume II: The Sea: 1925 to 1946
by David G. Gitkov
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Pub Date 3 Jun 2024 | Archive Date 6 Nov 2024
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Description
I was born in Russia, and as a young boy, I read British and American literature (in translation). The stories inspired me to live a life of adventure as both a sailor and a frontiersman. In 1920 my parents and I succeeded in getting out of Russia and were stranded in Prague for four years. I say "stranded" be-cause life in Czechoslovakia thwarted my boyhood dreams and aspirations—Kipling's poem “If” became my commandment.
In 1924, determined in my single-minded desires to be a sailor and a frontiersman—and a United States citizen, I managed to get to France and attended National Navigation School. In 1925, I started my career on a British ship—goal #1!
The main obstacle to fully achieving my goals was Kafkaesque bureaucracy, explicitly obtaining a visa. But through luck and perseverance, I finally received United States citizenship in 1940 and a Second Officer's License. After serving two years in the Free French Naval Forces, I returned to the United States in 1942. Eventually, I achieved the rank of Commander, United States Maritime Service (U.S.M.S.) and commanded a troop ship in the Pacific until 1946.
What next? Sailor or frontiersman?
Available Editions
| ISBN | 9798326041418 |
| PRICE | |
Available on NetGalley
Featured Reviews
Abigail L, Librarian
The Long, Long Watch - Volume 2 is an inspiring continuation of David G. Gitkov’s memoir, detailing his remarkable journey from a young dreamer in Russia to a Commander in the United States Maritime Service. The talks about his struggles with relentless bureaucracy and his unwavering determination to achieve his goals of becoming a sailor and frontiersman. I particularly enjoyed reading about his resilience and the vivid recounting of his experiences aboard British and French ships, which made his story both engaging and motivational. Gitkov’s honest and heartfelt storytelling offers a profound look into the life of someone who never gave up on his dreams despite countless obstacles.
Sue E, Reviewer
🚢 Ready for an epic true adventure? The Long, Long Watch - Volume 2 by David G. Gitkov is a wild ride from Russia to the high seas! I was totally captivated by his quest to become a sailor and frontiersman, battling crazy bureaucracy and chasing his dreams with unstoppable grit. If you love stories of perseverance and adventure that feel straight out of a classic novel, you’ve got to check this book out. Gitkov’s journey is nothing short of inspiring – grab a copy and set sail on his incredible life story! 🌟⚓️
