An epic true story of love, commitment, and resilience in the face of war, author Susan A. Herney's Steadfast reveals never-before-seen correspondence from Ensign Albert Herney during his service aboard the USS Scurry.
A newly-commissioned naval reservist, Al was a novice in military life when he departed his San Diego home for indoctrination training.
Through letters to his wife and others, Al reveals the highs and lows, the droll and the drama of his time on one of the navy's smallest ships as it zigzagged across the Pacific-first as a convoy escort during the waning months of 1944, then as a minesweeper during the invasions of Iwo Jima and Okinawa in 1945, and finally as a patrol ship during demobilization at the end of the war, clearing mines to secure the way for ships bearing occupation troops.
As these historic events unfold, the correspondence between Al and his wife provides a captivating narrative of an ordinary couple's relationship as each adjusts to realities of separation and war. From humorous anecdotes about mishaps on board to the moment when news of Japan's surrender reached the ship, readers will get an unprecedented look at life during one of America's most historic periods.
About the Author: Susan A. Herney was a toddler when her father, Albert Herney, began serving in the United States Naval Reserve during World War II. Her first commercial publication, Steadfast, is an inside look at his time overseas.
Susan earned an undergraduate degree in communications and public policy from the University of California at Berkeley and a master's degree in organizational management. She worked in public relations before moving on to senior marketing and communications positions at various California community colleges.
She has worked on the Washington, DC, staff of US Senator Thomas Kuchel, as director of corporate public relations for United Gilsonite Laboratories, and as primary editor and project manager for
Our History.
Susan was elected president of the National Council for Marketing and Public Relations, receiving that organization's Communicator of the Year Award and being named the California Public Relations Organization "All Pro."
She is now retired.
