The Virginia Navy, led by Commodore James Barron, raised more than fifty vessels to aid the fight against the British Empire. The ships kept open vital trade passages to the West Indies that allowed for goods and supplies to reach American shores despite English blockades. Barron defended his birthplace at the Battle of Hampton, suffered near-destruction at the hands of Benedict Arnold and supported the French navy in the decisive victory at Yorktown. Author James Tormey reveals these stories and more in a maritime adventure through the history of the Virginia Navy in the Revolutionary era. James Tormey served overseas in the US Army Corps of Engineers in Korea, Vietnam, Germany and Panama. He commanded the Norfolk Engineer District, which is responsible for the maintenance of the Harbor of Hampton Roads. He and his wife live in Hampton and are founding directors of the Hampton History Museum Association. His interest in Virginia history led him to write a novel about John Rolfe and a history of St. John's Church in Hampton.