The USS Indianapolis: From Delivering Nukes to Nearly Getting Nuked by Nature (Sharks, That Is)
So, you're curious about the crew of the USS Indianapolis, the ship that delivered the components for the atomic bomb that ended World War II, but then promptly got, well, sunk itself? Buckle up, history buff, because this story is equal parts fascinating and terrifying, with a side of "how did they survive that?"
From Hiroshima to the Bottom of the Sea: A Very Short Trip
The USS Indianapolis was basically on an express delivery mission. They hightailed it to Tinian to drop off the party favors (a.k.a. the atomic bomb parts) for Hiroshima, then got the green light to set sail for the Philippines. Fun Fact: This whole mission was top secret, so no one even knew they were the bomb couriers!
Surprise! Torpedo Time!
Tip: Compare what you read here with other sources.
Just when you think the crew is about to enjoy some pi�a coladas on a Philippine beach (because, you know, delivering world-ending devices is thirsty work), a sneaky Japanese submarine decides to play "keep away with the battleship." BAM! Torpedo hits the Indianapolis, and within 12 minutes, the once mighty ship is taking a dirt nap at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean.
Hold on to Your Hats (and Hopefully a Life Jacket): Man vs. Ocean
Now, here's the truly harrowing part. Around 1,200 sailors were on board, and while about 300 went down with the ship, the remaining 900 were left floating in the vast emptiness of the ocean. With barely any life rafts or supplies, they faced a terrifying enemy: exposure, dehydration, and everyone's favorite pool party crasher - sharks.
QuickTip: Focus more on the ‘how’ than the ‘what’.
For four long days, these guys were basically chum waiting to happen. Thankfully, a patrol plane spotted them just in time, and by the time help arrived, only about 316 were still clinging to life.
The Sinking of the Indianapolis: A Story of Heroism and Resilience
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Despite the tragic loss of life, the survivors of the Indianapolis showed incredible courage and determination. Their ordeal is a stark reminder of the horrors of war and the strength of the human spirit.
QuickTip: Read a little, pause, then continue.
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| How Many People Were On The Uss Indianapolis When It Sank |
So, How Many People Were Actually on the USS Indianapolis?
Here's the answer you've been waiting for: there were approximately 1,195 crew members on board the Indianapolis when it sank.
FAQ: You Ask, We Answer (with Short Answers, Because Let's Be Honest, You Probably Skimmed Most of This Anyway)
How to Survive a Shark Feeding Frenzy (Not Recommended, But Here We Are): Don't. Seriously, avoid it at all costs.
How to Make a Life Raft Out of Coconuts? (Because Apparently That's a Movie Trope): It's Hollywood magic. Stick to a real life raft, buddy.
QuickTip: Skim the ending to preview key takeaways.
How to Deliver a World-Ending Device and Not Get Sunk Yourself? (Asking for a Friend): Maybe invest in some better anti-submarine tech? Just a thought.
How to Avoid Getting Lost at Sea? (Asking for the Same Friend): GPS wasn't a thing yet, but maybe a good old-fashioned map and compass would have been helpful.
How to Not Get Dehydrated While Floating in the Ocean? (Seems Obvious, But Apparently Not): See "avoiding getting lost at sea" answer. Also, drink rainwater if you can.
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