Amazing & True

Edgar Harrell, a Marine during World War II, tells his true story of being aboard the USS Indianapolis when a Japanese submarine bombed it multiple times.  In a matter of minutes, the battleship sunk, while the crew tried to jump for their lives into Pacific Ocean.

The Indianapolis was caught completely unaware as it did not have equipment on board to warn them of submarines in the area.  Although a request had been made for a destroyer escort to protect the Indy from submarines, it had been denied.  The ship had also been misinformed that the waters they were going through were safe, when in fact, they were very dangerous.

Mr. Harrell relates his ordeal of being in shark infested waters hundreds of miles from land.  The men baked in the tropical sun during the day, but froze at night.   Over nine hundred men were in the water to begin with, but by the time help arrived, there were just over three hundred.

The men were counting on rescue parties coming for them.  But unbeknownst to them, the one SOS that the Indy sent was not translated correctly, so their call for help was never received.  The dock where the Indianapolis was going had a mix-up about their arrival, so they were not noted as overdue.  Without a miracle, no one would find them.

All these years later, the author was still able to paint a vivid picture of the horrors he and his fellow soldiers faced in the ocean.  Mr. Harrell states unequivocally that God brought him through this torment.  He is also quick to credit God for setting in motion the set of circumstances that ultimately caused them to be rescued.

Many of the survivors turned to alcohol or suicide to escape the memories of that awful time.  Soldiers who experienced combat have stated this situation was the worst thing they lived through.  The author attributes his faith in God, and the strength from Him, that has allowed Mr. Harrell to survive the memories of that nightmare without resorting to destructive behaviors.

Reading Mr. Harrell’s experiences was difficult, but points out the tremendous sacrifices Americans have made for our nation.  The survivors have formed a group, and have continued to meet down through the years.  It was uplifting to read of Mr. Harrell’s faith, as well as, the peace he has made with the granddaughter and great-granddaughter of the Japanese submarine commander who bombed the Indianapolis.  I recommend this 5-star book to anyone who likes true military stories.

The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book through Bethany House Publishing for the purpose of review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I have not been compensated in any other manner. Despite my receiving the book free, it has not influenced my judgment, and I have given an honest opinion.

Author’s Website:  http://www.indysurvivor.com/categories/126632B1-B267-E9D0-DF65FFCA8F1C2E8D/bios.html

Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/edgar.harrell.7

Author Information:  http://www.whoislog.info/profile/edgar-harrell.html

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