Allied Secret: The Sinking of Hmt Rohna

This is the dramatic story of the sinking of the HMT Rohna, which resulted in one of the greatest number of casualties suffered in WWII. The fact that the huge loss of life and the subsequent cover-up of the details surrounding it make for fascinating and disturbing reading. Limited publications exist on the subject, so this is a valuable resource for interested historians.

I purchased this book because my Dad was onboard the Rohna when it was sunk. Dad would not discuss this unimaginable experience with us until he was in his 60s. Dad was Battalion Adjutant of the 853rd Army Engineers. He spent several hours in the cold Mediterranean waters holding onto what he thinks was a part of a hatch. He was picked up by the U.S.S. Pioneer as described in the book. I don't think there was a day he didn't think about it. It permanently affected his whole life; but most people never realized it. He passed away in April, 2013 at the age of 95. He was a great father and one the most honorable men on the face of the earth. --By Michael Wilde