In 1946 when the ship’s crew were either being discharged or being transferred to other ships or shore stations, someone came up with the idea that since the “ship” had surplus funds that belonged to the crew they should be used to print a book on the history of the two Block Islands. Thus came the “Big Blue Book” as it became known to everyone. “The  Story of Two Escort Carriers who Carried the War to the Enemy during Three Years of Conflict CVE 21 and CVE 106 “, published on behalf of the U.S. Navy, was a 12 by 15 inch soft back picture/story of these two ships. That book has been out of print for over 50 years, however, thanks to Bill MacInnes, the Editor of CHIPS, along with his wife Judy, that book has now been recreated in an 8 1/2 by 11 inch (bound copy) and is available to the members and the general public. Added to the book are additional personal stories and pictures obtained from members of the USS Block Island Association including articles from newspapers and recollections by members about the sinking of CVE 21 and excerpts/photos from the 1953 Navy Publication “USS Block Island CVE 106 Caribbean and European Cruises”. There are 167 pages (includes a Roster) plus a very good detailed Table of Contents. 

Available Books:

USS Block Island CVE 106 Caribbean and European Cruises            $35.00US

The  Story of Two Escort Carriers who Carried the War to the Enemy during Three Years of Conflict CVE 21 and CVE 106          $35.00US

The cost of the Book includes printing and mailing. Contact Bill MacInnes at (619)460-3568. The address is 6650 Richard Street, San Diego, CA 92115. The email address is  Wmacinnes@aol.com