A Gunner Aboard the "Yankee": From the Diary of Number Five of the After Port Gun (Russell Doubleday): The Yarn of the Cruise and Fights of the Naval Reserves in the Spanish-American War

"A Gunner Aboard the 'Yankee'" by Russell Doubleday is a first-hand account written in the late 19th century, specifically during the time of the Spanish-American War. This narrative recounts the experiences of the crew aboard the auxiliary cruiser "Yankee," particularly through the lens of an ordinary sailor who served as Number Five of the After Port Gun. The book delves into the day-to-day life of naval reservists turned sailors, capturing their adventures, challenges, and camaraderie during wartime. At the start of the book, the author sets the scene with the mobilization of the crew in preparation for the impending conflict. The excitement and anxiety are palpable as young men from various walks of life gather, eagerly anticipating their orders. Doubleday introduces readers to the crew’s preparations, first encounters with their ship, the "Yankee," and the drill routines they undergo while gearing up for action. This section establishes the camaraderie among the crew and sets the tone for a blend of humor and hardship as they transition from civilian life to the demands of naval service amidst the backdrop of preparing for battle.