Dark Waters, Circling Death: The USS Indianapolis Disaster | E 158

This episode explores the harrowing survival story of the USS Indianapolis crew after their ship sank in July 1945. The narrative covers the catastrophic sinking, the crew's struggle against extreme conditions including dehydration and shark attacks, and the delayed rescue due to communication failures. Hosts Julie Henningsen and Kaycee McIntosh examine both the physical and psychological aspects of survival, while also discussing Captain McVay's leadership and controversial court-martial that followed this tragedy. Through firsthand accounts from survivors and historical analysis, they reveal how this disaster led to important changes in naval protocols and the decades-long fight to exonerate Captain McVay, who was ultimately cleared by Congress in 2000. The episode offers a powerful tribute to both those who perished and the resilient survivors who kept their shipmates' memory alive.