World War II Wrecks of the Truk Lagoon – Dan E. Bailey’s Definitive Book
Diver looks over marine life covered 13.2mm dual barrel anti-aircraft gun on Aikoku Maru boat deck
The Ultimate Reference for Truk Lagoon Divers and WWII Historians
Explore the haunting beauty and historical depth of Truk Lagoon, the Pacific’s most legendary underwater battlefield. In World War II Wrecks of the Truk Lagoon, acclaimed author and historian Dan E. Bailey delivers a masterwork of research, photography, and technical documentation — regarded globally as the most comprehensive guide to the wrecks of Chuuk Lagoon.
Whether you’re a diver, researcher, educator, or collector, this book is your key to understanding the naval stronghold once known as “Japan’s Pearl Harbor.”
What Makes This Book a Must-Have
This is not just another dive guide – it’s a 533-page volume documenting the Japanese occupation and build-up of Truk into a strategic naval base functioning as the Japanese Navy’s Combined Fleet headquarters and first line of defense. It details the air campaign against the ships, aircraft, installations and defenses with emphasis on combat between Japanese and American planes. Included are descriptions of the ship and aircraft wrecks that remain. Complete information is presented of the US air campaign raids in advance operations leading toward the Japanese Empire. This coffee-table laminated hard bound edition (81/2 x 11 inches) includes a total of 173 maps and illustrations, 102 black and white photos, and 150 color plates..
Key elements include:
- Detailed descriptions of over 60 shipwrecks and aircraft
- Original photos, maps, and illustrations
- Wreck locations and diving considerations
- Extensive analysis of U.S. Navy/Army air attacks and Japanese defense strategies
- Firsthand accounts and rare historical documents
Whether you're planning your next dive or researching naval history, this book brings authentic context and clear visuals to an often misunderstood chapter of the Pacific War.
Dive Deeper with Dan E. Bailey
Dan E. Bailey is a foremost authority on Truk Lagoon wrecks. He spent more than three decades conducting field research, diving the wrecks, consulting archives, and compiling photographs to ensure accuracy and completeness. His passion and precision are evident on every page.
This book has become a go-to reference for:
- Technical and recreational divers
- Military historians and museums
- University research departments
- Underwater photographers and documentarians
- WWII collectors and hobbyists
Used in both civilian and military circles, it’s often described as the "Truk Lagoon Bible."
What's Inside the Book
Historical Context
Learn the full story of Truk’s rise as a Japanese naval base, including its construction, strategic use, and significance during WWII.
US Air Campaign Coverage
Explore the US air operations that devastated Truk-from tactical planning to the final impact on Japan’s Pacific operations.
Ship & Aircraft Descriptions
A drawing and technical summary are given for both the ships and aircraft including history and features.
Black And White And Color Images
Includes wartime action photos to underwater photography of mounted weapons, coral and sea life growth, deck cargos, hold cargos (including vehicles, machinery, mines, and munitions), engine rooms, dinnerware, and propellers.
Dive Planning Data
Locations of wrecks, prominent attractions, depths, hazards, and visibility notes help divers prepare safe and informed dives.
Why Divers and Collectors Trust This Edition
- Trusted Worldwide –
Used by divers, guides, and historians in over 30 countries
- “Research” Japanese sources and US National Archives provide complete information on ships and aircraft
- Self-Published by the Author –
No shortcuts, no fluff, just real research and practical insight
- Ships Directly from the Source – North Valley Diver Publications in Redding, California
Pair it with Truk Lagoon Wreck Diver’s Map to gain full perspective for completing dive trip preparation.
Main Compass: or binnacle with gyrocompasses in the navigational bridge of the destroyer Fumitsuki
Order Your Copy Today
Join thousands of readers, divers, and historians who trust Dan E. Bailey’s work to guide them through one of the most important WWII naval sites on Earth.
World War II Wrecks of the Truk Lagoon is available now for direct order.
Fast shipping | Safe packaging | Expert customer service
Don’t dive without it. Don’t study the Pacific War without it.
Own the definitive book on Truk Lagoon — and experience the depth of history beneath the waves.