“For insight into the service of the Navy’s youngest CNO, one should read Larry Berman’s Zumwalt: The Life and Times of Admiral Elmo Russell “Bud” Zumwalt, Jr. Berman’s book is thorough, a result of numerous interviews and countless hours of archival research. Intimate details clearly required discussions with those close to and trusted by the Zumwalt clan. Thus, Zumwalt does point to the Admirals’ controversies, but emerges sympathetic…like an authorized biography.” – Stephen Phillips, Author of “The Recipient’s Son”
“Mr. Berman’s “Zumwalt” isn’t merely about a celebrated naval officer. It is an education in leadership.” – Seth Cropsey, Author “Mayday: The Decline of American Naval Supremacy”
“There is nothing wrong with hagiographies, if they are well researched and written – and if the praise is deserved; we need more of them. “Zumwalt” is a fine example, an engaging book about an extraordinary sailor and human being, who had an inspirational faith in the strengths of America, its people and its Navy.” – John Lehman, Former Secretary of the Navy and 9/11 Commission Member
“Fairly or not, few of the top military brass emerged from the Vietnam era with their reputations enhanced. Perhaps the most notable exception was the late Elmo “Bud” Zumwalt. Berman, professor emeritus at the University of California, Davis, is an unabashed admirer of Zumwalt, and this detailed, complimentary but fair biography shows his subject worthy of that esteem.” – Jay Freeman, Booklist Online
“Admiral Elmo “Bud” Zumwalt was one of the more colorful, beloved, and perhaps controversial figures in recent U.S. naval history. Berman (Univ. of California, Davis; Planning a Tragedy: Lyndon Johnson’s War) provides an insightful look into Zumwalt’s life and career.” – Library Journal
“Admiring biography of Elmo Russell Zumwalt (1920–2000), who transformed the U.S. Navy and went on to an equally commendable career after retirement.” – Kirkus Review
“Berman’s solid command of archival and published sources underpins his analysis of a career that began during WWII and continued during the cold war.” – Publishers Weekly