Boatnerd Discussion Forum

Also the author of the following book listed on Boatnerd's Great Lakes Book Shelf.

“Braving the Wartime Seas: A Tribute to the Cadets and Graduates of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and Cadet Corps Who Died During World War II,” 2014, Edited by George J. Ryan

Edited by George J. Ryan, known around the Great Lakes as a past president of the Lake Carriers’ Association, and perhaps less known as a member of the Kings Point Class of 1957, this long-overdue book fills a huge gap in the annals of maritime warfare. The authoritative work, a publication of the American Maritime History Project, Inc., pays lasting tribute to each of the cadets and graduates of the U.S. Merchant Marine Cadet Corps who died in World War II. As such, it briefly chronicles the life and tragic death of 212 individuals, with a picture of each and a photo of the ship on which they went down. It’s compelling, and sometimes heart-rending reading that reminds readers of what was sacrificed for freedom’s sake in World War II.

The book is available from the publisher Xlibris.com in hard copy, paperback and electronic form, as well as from Amazon and Barnes & Noble

Yes, that is George Ryan.

Hi Ken,
He was kp57george in Bay Village but I had no other name.

Was the eBay seller from Ohio? If so, he is THE George Ryan, retired president of Lake Carrier's Association. I bought a book from him earlier in the summer called, "Partnerships to the World, Canada Steamship Lines: One Hundred and Fifty Years On." Inside was a signed letter from Raymond W. Johnson, President and CEO of Canada Steamship Lines, presenting the book to Mr. Ryan, as written by Mr. Tony Chesterman, CSL's recently retired Chairman. The Letter was written on CSL stationary and dated September 30, 1996. I was very surprised that Mr. Ryan was selling off his personal collection of books, but thankful to have such an important part of maritime history. Ken Niemi

Great find. Also a great story to go with the book, and it will only add to the value.

I recently bought this book on EBay. It's the story of Canada Steamship Lines. Pristine condition, dust jacket and all. Inside I was pleasantly surprised to find the business card of one P. Kirk Jones, Marine Project Officer of CSL stapled to the inside. In addition, there was a letter on CSL stationery, signed by Mr. Jones, written to Mr. Richard Hawkins, V.P. of operations for the Lake Carriers Association. It was a token of appreciation for coordinating the U.S. Ice Support within the Port of Thunder Bay.

The letter was written on the behalf of Captain John Pace, Director of Navigation, Ports and Safety.

It sure was a lucky buy.