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Out of the Depths: A Survivor's Story of the Sinking of the USS Indianapolis
A Marine survivor describes swimming for five days in shark infested and carnage filled waters in the greatest catastrophe at sea in the history of the U.S. Navy.
264 pages, Paperback
First published March 23, 2005
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 223 reviews
October 31, 2024
This is a good survival story from one of the fleet marines serving aboard the Indy when it was sunk in 1945. The author gives a quick personal background of himself and his faith, along with his early service. The majority of the book then centers on the sinking and the five days spent in the water where the majority of the men lost their lives until their rescue. The book revolves around the author's Christian faith and how his beliefs carried him through this harrowing ordeal. The end of the book is about how the survivors fought for justice for their captain after he was made the scapegoat for one of the last great tragedies of World War 2. Nice and quick read.
November 11, 2020
“And without hope, all that is left is despair. But for me, hope never waned.” (3.5 stars)
“Out of the Depths” is a first-hand account written by one of the survivors of the sinking of the USS Indianapolis at the end of WW II. The now infamous sinking of that ship spawned 5 horrific days floating in the deep waters of the Pacific, leaving only 317 members of the crew of almost 1200 alive at the end of the ordeal.
This short text written by survivor Edgar Harrell is clearly not written by a polished writer, and I did not mind that one bit. It also has a very heavy Christian influence, as Mr. Harrell was a believer at the time of the sinking and obviously grew even stronger in his faith as he lived his life. The book was written in 2005. Personally, I found the religious influence in the writing to give the story even more depth and strength, although for others it might not be as enjoyable.
The best aspect of the text is that it is a primary source. Mr. Harrell’s tale is at its strongest as he recounts the 5 days floating in the Pacific. There were moments were I felt abject terror as he describes some of the experiences. The details of the rescues are also beautifully relayed, and I was intrigued at what he had to say about the events after the war and the many years it took for the event to gain the proper recognition from the Navy.
In short, “Out of the Depths” informed me of things I did not know, inspired me, encouraged my faith, and reminded me of the beautiful power of the human spirit, and ultimately about healing and reconciliation.
Ain’t none of that bad.
“Out of the Depths” is a first-hand account written by one of the survivors of the sinking of the USS Indianapolis at the end of WW II. The now infamous sinking of that ship spawned 5 horrific days floating in the deep waters of the Pacific, leaving only 317 members of the crew of almost 1200 alive at the end of the ordeal.
This short text written by survivor Edgar Harrell is clearly not written by a polished writer, and I did not mind that one bit. It also has a very heavy Christian influence, as Mr. Harrell was a believer at the time of the sinking and obviously grew even stronger in his faith as he lived his life. The book was written in 2005. Personally, I found the religious influence in the writing to give the story even more depth and strength, although for others it might not be as enjoyable.
The best aspect of the text is that it is a primary source. Mr. Harrell’s tale is at its strongest as he recounts the 5 days floating in the Pacific. There were moments were I felt abject terror as he describes some of the experiences. The details of the rescues are also beautifully relayed, and I was intrigued at what he had to say about the events after the war and the many years it took for the event to gain the proper recognition from the Navy.
In short, “Out of the Depths” informed me of things I did not know, inspired me, encouraged my faith, and reminded me of the beautiful power of the human spirit, and ultimately about healing and reconciliation.
Ain’t none of that bad.
July 7, 2020
“....freedom is not free—a simple yet profound truth our veterans know all too well.”
I love history, and I have a particular fondness for maritime history. I don’t know why exactly, but it’s something that has always fascinated me. Prior to reading this book, I had heard of the USS Indianapolis but was only vaguely familiar with the story. And now, it is one that I will never forget.
Out of the Depths is the story of the Indy’s tragic sinking told by survivor, Marine Edgar Harrell. On the night of July 30, 1945, the USS Indianapolis was cruising through the Pacific Ocean after completing a very important, top secret mission. The Indy and her crew of 1,196 were headed to the Philippines when they were torpedoed by a Japanese submarine. Within 12 minutes, the massive battleship sank into the deepest parts of the Pacific, where she still remains to this day. The men on board abandoned ship and were left floating in the ocean for five days. Coated in oil from the torpedo explosions and some badly injured, their nightmare quickly became even more horrific. They found themselves in the midst of shark-infested waters without rafts. The men relied on their life jackets or life belts to keep them afloat and tried their best to stay together. Over the following days, the sailors and marines endured the unfathomable: shark attacks, hypothermia, dehydration, saltwater poisoning, infection, delusion. Out of the 1,196 on board, only 317 survived. Just three hundred and seventeen. And it is shocking that even those 317 made it—no one knew the Indy had gone down. Their discovery was nothing short of a miracle.
Harrell’s candid account of this tragedy is amazing. His faith in God is undeniable and unwavering. He also discusses what happened after the naval tragedy—there were so many questions, negligence, the need for answers. Harrell also talks of the survivor reunions and includes many quotes from fellow survivors as well as photos.
If the information I looked up is accurate, there are currently only ten living survivors. Edgar is one of them and is the only living Marine survivor of the remaining ten.
Highly recommend for those interested in nonfiction, military history/battleships, survival stories and/or stories of faith. In edition to his book, there are some great videos of Edgar discussing his story. These can be found via google, YouTube, etc.
I love history, and I have a particular fondness for maritime history. I don’t know why exactly, but it’s something that has always fascinated me. Prior to reading this book, I had heard of the USS Indianapolis but was only vaguely familiar with the story. And now, it is one that I will never forget.
Out of the Depths is the story of the Indy’s tragic sinking told by survivor, Marine Edgar Harrell. On the night of July 30, 1945, the USS Indianapolis was cruising through the Pacific Ocean after completing a very important, top secret mission. The Indy and her crew of 1,196 were headed to the Philippines when they were torpedoed by a Japanese submarine. Within 12 minutes, the massive battleship sank into the deepest parts of the Pacific, where she still remains to this day. The men on board abandoned ship and were left floating in the ocean for five days. Coated in oil from the torpedo explosions and some badly injured, their nightmare quickly became even more horrific. They found themselves in the midst of shark-infested waters without rafts. The men relied on their life jackets or life belts to keep them afloat and tried their best to stay together. Over the following days, the sailors and marines endured the unfathomable: shark attacks, hypothermia, dehydration, saltwater poisoning, infection, delusion. Out of the 1,196 on board, only 317 survived. Just three hundred and seventeen. And it is shocking that even those 317 made it—no one knew the Indy had gone down. Their discovery was nothing short of a miracle.
Harrell’s candid account of this tragedy is amazing. His faith in God is undeniable and unwavering. He also discusses what happened after the naval tragedy—there were so many questions, negligence, the need for answers. Harrell also talks of the survivor reunions and includes many quotes from fellow survivors as well as photos.
If the information I looked up is accurate, there are currently only ten living survivors. Edgar is one of them and is the only living Marine survivor of the remaining ten.
Highly recommend for those interested in nonfiction, military history/battleships, survival stories and/or stories of faith. In edition to his book, there are some great videos of Edgar discussing his story. These can be found via google, YouTube, etc.
April 11, 2013
This is the story of Edgar Harrell, one of the survivors of the infamous sinking of the USS Indianapolis. It is an incredible, almost unbelievable story of survival under horrible circumstances and against overwhelming odds -- but made ten thousand times more impactful by displaying, over and over again, Harrell's unshakeable faith in God. This book is filled to overflowing with Scripture, rock-solid doctrine, and an amazingly sound Biblical worldview, and the entire story is underscored by a continual stream of praise to the Lord. Even while recounting the truth about the shameful Navy coverup that took place after the sinking, Harrell never once showed a sign of bitterness or anger, but continually maintained a gracious attitude. It was absolutely amazing to see the strength of character of this man; it really brought home to me how ashamed we ought to be for our pettiness and ingratitude.
The book is almost worth reading just for the sake of David Harrell's introduction alone: a call to action for Christians to remember the great works of God in our history and to appreciate the sacrifices of the men whom He used to secure our freedom, as well as an able defense of war as part of God's great system of law and justice. It's such an encouraging thing to see this man taking up his father's torch, presenting his father's story to the world, and exhorting Christians to "remember the wondrous works that [the LORD] has done, his miracles, and the judgments he uttered" [Ps. 105:5].
[Thanks a million to Jess C. for the recommendation.]
The book is almost worth reading just for the sake of David Harrell's introduction alone: a call to action for Christians to remember the great works of God in our history and to appreciate the sacrifices of the men whom He used to secure our freedom, as well as an able defense of war as part of God's great system of law and justice. It's such an encouraging thing to see this man taking up his father's torch, presenting his father's story to the world, and exhorting Christians to "remember the wondrous works that [the LORD] has done, his miracles, and the judgments he uttered" [Ps. 105:5].
[Thanks a million to Jess C. for the recommendation.]
December 1, 2020
This just was not for me. Respect to the author and all those who survived such horror though.
July 13, 2024
A detailed history of the USS Indianapolis from christening to sinking by a Japanese submarine during WW II. The focus is the 4-5 days survivors spent floating in the Pacific with no food or water and subject to exposure, thirst, shark attacks , etc.
It concludes with the rescue of some surviors and the ultimate inquiry ny the US Navy.
The author/survior, now deceased, was a Christian. His strong faith is interwoven throughout the detailed time he spent with his shipmates lost at sea.
It concludes with the rescue of some surviors and the ultimate inquiry ny the US Navy.
The author/survior, now deceased, was a Christian. His strong faith is interwoven throughout the detailed time he spent with his shipmates lost at sea.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 4, 2015
I really really wanted to read about the USS Indianapolis. So much so that I ignored the fact that the foreword was written by Oliver North. So much so that I ignored the fact that every chapter starts with a bible quote. But man, every page is about 20% proselytizing. Even if you are a Christian (full disclosure: I'm not) the compulsive referencing of God must get tiresome. For me it was unbearable, and, let's face it, not a great writing technique. Sharks notwithstanding, I had to quit. Hoping for a better book on the subject, open to suggestions!
June 22, 2018
This is an amazing story, not too long and an easy read! Super amazing how this man survived the sinking of the USS Indianapolis during WWII. He is also a devout Christian that added so much depth to an already intriguing story. Highly recommend!!
July 30, 2024
I read this to my 11 year old, and we really enjoyed it. What a poignant true story about the USS Indianapolis’ sinking from the perspective of survivor marine Edgar Harrell, USMC.
As I read this aloud, there were many times that I got choked up. I honor those who gave so much for our freedom. They are heroes.
I especially loved how Edgar Harrell was sustained through his faith in Jesus Christ, and how he was comforted in the midst of his personal hell. It was incredible and puts a lump in my throat right now as I reflect on his experience. I felt very privileged to hear his story. How difficult it must be to relate and relive it, but his survivor voice is invaluable and powerful and I’m so thankful he shared it.
Content: Although his experiences were truly horrific and traumatizing, I feel like this record did not glorify, glamorize, or overshare the events that took place. I never felt that it was too mature for my 11-year old.
As I read this aloud, there were many times that I got choked up. I honor those who gave so much for our freedom. They are heroes.
I especially loved how Edgar Harrell was sustained through his faith in Jesus Christ, and how he was comforted in the midst of his personal hell. It was incredible and puts a lump in my throat right now as I reflect on his experience. I felt very privileged to hear his story. How difficult it must be to relate and relive it, but his survivor voice is invaluable and powerful and I’m so thankful he shared it.
Content: Although his experiences were truly horrific and traumatizing, I feel like this record did not glorify, glamorize, or overshare the events that took place. I never felt that it was too mature for my 11-year old.
February 8, 2016
It's after reading a book like this that I wish I hadn't given five stars to so many other books. Then when I gave this five stars it would mean more. This one is so much better, than many of the ones I've given five stars. Many times after reading a tragic story such as this I'm at a loss as to how to rate it. There was no doubt after I finished this one though. It deserves more than five stars.
This is not an in-depth historical probe of what went wrong or who was to blame for the sinking of the Indianapolis. Instead it is a personal narrative of the struggle for survival and healing of Edgar Harrell. He adds just enough historical information so you can understand the whole story.
The most amazing part it the hope and forgiveness that permeates the whole book. He knew Christ before the tragedy and Christ sustained him through it. Harrell understands PTSD. He never discounts it's power to destroy lives, but he also found healing. Through Christ he was able to look forward, and ultimately forgive those who caused his suffering.
This is an incredible read, a tough read, a humbling read, but so inspiring and hopeful. So yes, I think everyone should read it.
This is not an in-depth historical probe of what went wrong or who was to blame for the sinking of the Indianapolis. Instead it is a personal narrative of the struggle for survival and healing of Edgar Harrell. He adds just enough historical information so you can understand the whole story.
The most amazing part it the hope and forgiveness that permeates the whole book. He knew Christ before the tragedy and Christ sustained him through it. Harrell understands PTSD. He never discounts it's power to destroy lives, but he also found healing. Through Christ he was able to look forward, and ultimately forgive those who caused his suffering.
This is an incredible read, a tough read, a humbling read, but so inspiring and hopeful. So yes, I think everyone should read it.
April 12, 2013
I have never read a biography so touching and real. The story, told by itself, is a fascinating one, full of danger and intrigue, but when told through the eyes of Mr. Harrell, it becomes life changing. Mr. Harrell knows in whom he has believed and is fully persuaded of the workings of God in his life. It is a special thing to read someones life experiences in their own words, but to have that experience interwoven with a firm belief in Christ and the acknowledgement of the glorious hope found in Him, is priceless.
Mr. Harrell is a true hero of the faith.
I encourage everyone to read this book. It will be time well spent. May we all be inspired to rest in God’s Providence and declare the mysterious workings of our God.
[also see Ellen’s review of this book.]
Mr. Harrell is a true hero of the faith.
I encourage everyone to read this book. It will be time well spent. May we all be inspired to rest in God’s Providence and declare the mysterious workings of our God.
[also see Ellen’s review of this book.]
October 29, 2016
A very sad tale of the ineptness of the US Naval command at the time and of the cover up! This was a quick and exciting book to read and on more then one occasion it brought a tear to my eye. War sucks! I firmly believe that the leaders of each country and the CEOs of corporations should be the ones going to battle... not 16 to 25 yr old men and women
June 7, 2020
Edgar Harrell is a treasure. He was a young Marine on the USS Indianapolis, returning from delivering the components of the atom bombs soon to be dropped on Japan, when the ship was sunk by a Japanese submarine's torpedoes. The ship carried nearly 1200 men and it is estimated that 900 may have survived the initial attack, but because of the secrecy of its mission as well as some other snafus by the Navy, it wasn't until the 4th day that they were located and many were not rescued until their 5th day in the waters of the Pacific. By that time, only 317 remained and Edgar Harrell was one of them.
I was lucky to meet Mr. Harrell, who now lives in my hometown of Clarksville, at a Veterans celebration a few years ago. He spoke with a survivor of Pearl Harbor about their experiences. He is still very involved with veteran's issues and it was a pleasure. He credits his survival to his faith and that is apparent in this book. If you are turned off by discussions of faith and religion, this might not be the book for you. However, I did not think it off-putting. These men were fighting to survive and called upon their faith in God to get them through this ordeal. What a testament to their faith.
This book discusses not only the events surrounding the sinking and their efforts to survive, but their incredible rescue, the controversial court-martial of Captain McVay, and a short look into Mr. Harrell's efforts to put the horrors of these days behind him. It is an important first-hand account.
How appropriate that I finished reading this on June 6th - the 76th anniversary of D-Day. Of course, that is another story...
Quote to remember:
...her story lives on even after all these years, even though - or because of - the mystery that shrouds her story. Perhaps no other ship in wartime history has grabbed the interest of the American people like the Indianapolis. To her crew she was the queen of the fleet. Spared at Pearl Harbor, yet sacrificed for the cause at the deciding climax of WWII, the USS Indianapolis gave her all...her fate stretches the limits of bad luck to the breaking point. There was something far greater at work, something supernatural, a force that orchestrated her every move.
Also included was the Navy Hymn, also called Eternal Father, Strong to Save. I think this is a lovely hymn:
Eternal Father, strong to save,
Whose arm hath bound the restless wave,
Who bid's the mighty ocean deep
Its own appointed limits keep;
O hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!
I was lucky to meet Mr. Harrell, who now lives in my hometown of Clarksville, at a Veterans celebration a few years ago. He spoke with a survivor of Pearl Harbor about their experiences. He is still very involved with veteran's issues and it was a pleasure. He credits his survival to his faith and that is apparent in this book. If you are turned off by discussions of faith and religion, this might not be the book for you. However, I did not think it off-putting. These men were fighting to survive and called upon their faith in God to get them through this ordeal. What a testament to their faith.
This book discusses not only the events surrounding the sinking and their efforts to survive, but their incredible rescue, the controversial court-martial of Captain McVay, and a short look into Mr. Harrell's efforts to put the horrors of these days behind him. It is an important first-hand account.
How appropriate that I finished reading this on June 6th - the 76th anniversary of D-Day. Of course, that is another story...
Quote to remember:
...her story lives on even after all these years, even though - or because of - the mystery that shrouds her story. Perhaps no other ship in wartime history has grabbed the interest of the American people like the Indianapolis. To her crew she was the queen of the fleet. Spared at Pearl Harbor, yet sacrificed for the cause at the deciding climax of WWII, the USS Indianapolis gave her all...her fate stretches the limits of bad luck to the breaking point. There was something far greater at work, something supernatural, a force that orchestrated her every move.
Also included was the Navy Hymn, also called Eternal Father, Strong to Save. I think this is a lovely hymn:
Eternal Father, strong to save,
Whose arm hath bound the restless wave,
Who bid's the mighty ocean deep
Its own appointed limits keep;
O hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!
January 22, 2019
Very interesting story of a horrible scene in WWII. I thoroughly enjoyed the abundant use of Scripture and his clear testimony of faith in Christ. His explanation of the impossible odds of their being rescued and the evidence of the sovereignty of God was really powerful. Highly recommend!
February 22, 2024
Powerful story about the men lost at sea during WW2. The USS Indianapolis sank after being struck by the Japanese and many of the men on board died instantly while others survived day or two only few lived to see the other side of this horrific event. This book was heartbreaking and soul stirring at the same time. Great testimony of the Lord’s providence and provision.
August 19, 2024
Psalm 124:2A,4-6,8
If it had not been the LORD who was on our side
Then the waters would have overwhelmed us, The stream would have gone over our soul;
Then the swollen waters Would have gone over our soul."
Blessed be the LORD, Who has not given us as prey to their teeth.
Our help is in the name of the LORD, Who made heaven and earth.
If it had not been the LORD who was on our side
Then the waters would have overwhelmed us, The stream would have gone over our soul;
Then the swollen waters Would have gone over our soul."
Blessed be the LORD, Who has not given us as prey to their teeth.
Our help is in the name of the LORD, Who made heaven and earth.
May 30, 2023
Incredible story! I can’t imagine living through such tragedy. Edgar spoke the gospel from beginning to end as he retold the bombing of the USS Indianapolis. A lot of gut wrenching detail, but what a hero!
April 24, 2014
Out of the Depths: An Unforgettable WWII Story of Survival, Courage, and the Sinking of the USS Indianapolis by Edgar Harrell, USMC, is one man’s account of five days adrift at sea after his ship was torpedoed by the Japanese. Once a part of a crew of nearly 1200 men, Harrell was one of just over 300 who lived through this tragedy. It was his courage and unwavering faith in God that helped him survive dehydration, salt-water poisoning, shark-infested waters, and his own weariness. Yet, when he returned home he found his ordeal far from over.
Out of the Depths is a quick but necessary read. It was a riveting and amazing tale from beginning to end. It is a story of courage and cover-up, of sacrifice and selflessness, and it is impossible not to see God’s hand of provision and protection as the story unfolds. But it is far more than just inspirational. As a history major, I enjoyed every minute of it. It included much about World War Two I never knew. This is a story that needs to be told and is a must-read for any student of history, as well as anyone interested in the Providence of God in the affairs of men. I give Out of the Depths five stars.
I would like to thank Mr. Harrell and his fellow sailors and marines for their service and sacrifice against incredible odds. These men and the other servicemen of World War II need to be remembered for generations to come, because it was through their valiant efforts that our freedom was preserved.
I was given a free copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
Out of the Depths is a quick but necessary read. It was a riveting and amazing tale from beginning to end. It is a story of courage and cover-up, of sacrifice and selflessness, and it is impossible not to see God’s hand of provision and protection as the story unfolds. But it is far more than just inspirational. As a history major, I enjoyed every minute of it. It included much about World War Two I never knew. This is a story that needs to be told and is a must-read for any student of history, as well as anyone interested in the Providence of God in the affairs of men. I give Out of the Depths five stars.
I would like to thank Mr. Harrell and his fellow sailors and marines for their service and sacrifice against incredible odds. These men and the other servicemen of World War II need to be remembered for generations to come, because it was through their valiant efforts that our freedom was preserved.
I was given a free copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
December 20, 2022
Having served in the Navy 40+ years ago I always like to read true stories of the Navy. I have known several real life heroes. This book is a mixed bag in terms how to respond. On the one hand, this is the tremendous story of survival of 317 men at sea after the sinking of the USS Indianapolis. The writing is a gripping tale of death, anguish, and the uncertainty of life.
On the other hand, it is a tragic event because the Navy blundered in its cover up of what really happened to cause the sinking. The Navy made the Captain the scapegoat for the tragedy when clearly the evidence pointed to others who set the ship up for sinking, and then failed to report it missing. Hundreds of men died because of the lack of quick rescue. Ultimately the Navy blamed Capt. McVay, and he ended up committing suicide in 1968. But the crew who survived, to a man, stood behind Capt. McVay. Ultimately the Navy recognized the failure and injustice, and in 2000 cleared his name.
Thus, there is the heroism of many, the tragedy of the system, and the comradeship of those who survived.
Well worth reading.
On the other hand, it is a tragic event because the Navy blundered in its cover up of what really happened to cause the sinking. The Navy made the Captain the scapegoat for the tragedy when clearly the evidence pointed to others who set the ship up for sinking, and then failed to report it missing. Hundreds of men died because of the lack of quick rescue. Ultimately the Navy blamed Capt. McVay, and he ended up committing suicide in 1968. But the crew who survived, to a man, stood behind Capt. McVay. Ultimately the Navy recognized the failure and injustice, and in 2000 cleared his name.
Thus, there is the heroism of many, the tragedy of the system, and the comradeship of those who survived.
Well worth reading.
June 1, 2024
"[F]reedom is not free. And for this reason, many brave men and women have sacrificed their lives for this great nation."
Out of the Depths is a remarkable first hand account of the worst naval disaster in U.S. history — the sinking of the USS Indianapolis. This moment-by-moment look at this tragic event highlights the valor, strength, and courage the crew of this ship displayed; God's hand of protection, guidance, and goodness is clearly shown to be at work in this event. Through reading Out of the Depths, I have certainly developed a deeper sense of appreciation and gratitude for the many sacrifices the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces make every day so that we can enjoy the many freedoms we so often take for granted. I highly recommend this book! It will definitely be an experience that not only will give you a better appreciation of the service of our many veterans and active military members, but will also show you that God is never absent from directing the affairs of this world.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📖 BOOK BREAKDOWN 📖 (Overall: 4/5)
Fundamentals: (1=worst; 5=best)
— 📈 Plot: 4/5
— 📝 Writing: 3/5
— 👥 Characters: 3/5
Content: (0=none; 1=least; 5=most)
— 🤬 Language: 0/5
— ⚔️ Violence: 2/5
•several scenes of peril and
some gory details relating to
death and suffering
— ⚠️ S*xual: 0/5
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📖 BOOK BREAKDOWN 📖 (Overall: 4/5)
Fundamentals: (1=worst; 5=best)
— 📈 Plot: 4/5
— 📝 Writing: 3/5
— 👥 Characters: 3/5
Content: (0=none; 1=least; 5=most)
— 🤬 Language: 0/5
— ⚔️ Violence: 2/5
•several scenes of peril and
some gory details relating to
death and suffering
— ⚠️ S*xual: 0/5
August 29, 2024
This is an amazing true story of a man in the US Marines in WWII. What was so amazing about this book was how this man, Edgar Harrell never lost faith in God during all of the hardships he endured during and after the war. Even when there seemed to be no hope for survival after 4 days of floating in the ocean amongst sharks and dying men, he never lost his strong love for his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. When all hope is lost, we must remember that God is always by our side. He will always help us in the darkest parts of our lives.
June 22, 2024
This short read is a beautiful testimony of survival and of God’s presence in our lives. Although this author endured tragic circumstances, his story is uplifting and inspiring to those struggling with tough times. There’s also a takeaway about reconciliation I found important as well.
I do wish the book had been longer, but I imagine there might have been limitations in recording these events! Maybe I’ll follow up with a biographical read!
I do wish the book had been longer, but I imagine there might have been limitations in recording these events! Maybe I’ll follow up with a biographical read!
February 13, 2025
This is an excellent first hand account of the sinking of the USS Indianapolis. It's a fascinating read in that it covers not only the historical events and personal experiences, but also interweaves what it is to walk in faith and to live out true christian faith in the midst of the horrors of war.
This book has been added to my list of most impactful/memorable reads of all time.
This book has been added to my list of most impactful/memorable reads of all time.
March 7, 2019
Excellent book! I was so blessed by his testimony for the Lord Jesus through this tragedy.
October 29, 2023
Remarkable story of God’s providence.
September 23, 2024
I found this book so engaging.
September 6, 2025
3.5 stars. it was too sad for me because it was non fiction
March 15, 2019
Ever since hearing the story of the sinking of the USS Indianapolis in the movie Jaws, I have been fascinated by this story. It was really interesting to hear a survivor's story.
August 1, 2022
Such an amazing God centered and glorifying story of faith and hope in a most horrifying and traumatic situation! “A gripping tale of men tested beyond anything they thought possible — and how they responded with bravery, endurance, and faith.” - Oliver L. North, Lt. Col., USMC (RET.)
March 9, 2020
An excellent historical book written by a Marines survivor of the USS Indianapolis. Readers of this quick read will follow the harrowing story of survival and how his Christian faith helped give him the strength and courage to survive.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 223 reviews