On a calm night in the Mediterranean Sea, a routine naval operation involving the USS John F. Kennedy and the USS Belknap turned into one of the U.S. Navy’s most challenging emergencies. What began as a standard carrier operation quickly became a fight for survival as two powerful warships collided, leaving the USS Belknap engulfed in flames and its crew facing a life threatening crisis.
In Save the Belknap, Captain Robert Carney Powers delivers a firsthand account of the events surrounding the collision and the desperate rescue effort that followed. Serving as the commanding officer of the USS Claude V. Ricketts, Captain Powers witnessed the disaster unfold and immediately led his crew into danger to assist their fellow sailors.
The book captures the tension, uncertainty, and responsibility faced by those who responded that night. As the Belknap burned, the crew of the Ricketts moved toward the danger, preparing fire teams, launching rescue boats, treating injured sailors, and working together under extreme conditions. Their actions demonstrated the discipline, training, and commitment required of naval personnel when lives depend on their decisions.
Beyond the collision itself, Save the Belknap explores the leadership challenges behind a crisis at sea. Captain Powers shares the experiences that shaped him as an officer, from his early years in the Navy to the moments that tested his judgment and command abilities. His reflections reveal how preparation, teamwork, and trust become essential when unexpected disasters strike.
This is more than an account of a naval accident. It is a story of courage, sacrifice, and the bonds formed between shipmates. It honors the sailors who responded without hesitation and remembers the individuals who faced one of the most difficult nights of their service.
For readers interested in military history, leadership, naval operations, and true stories of courage under pressure, Save the Belknap offers an unforgettable look inside a disaster that tested the strength and character of those who answered the call. It is a powerful reminder that in moments of crisis, preparation and leadership can make the difference between tragedy and survival.
