New details could lead to USS Indianapolis wreck site

Most of us know the story. The ship that bore Indianapolis' name were returning from a top-secret mission to deliver atomic bomb parts when they were struck by a Japanese submarine. 800 men were left bobbing in the Philippine Sea. Between horrific shark attacks, dehydration and exhaustion, just 316 men survived to be rescued.

What we don't know is exactly where the remains of the ship lie. But that could be changing.

IndyStar Visual: USS Indianapolis Timeline

A release from the Naval History and Heritage Command Communication and Outreach Division reveals that a sailor confirmed that a tank landing ship, LST-779, passed the Indianapolis just 11 hours before the torpedo struck. This corroborates the testimony of Captain Charles McVay III. Deck logs confirmed both their statements. That information could help researchers calculate where exactly the ship sank — and perhaps even find it.

"The LST-779 data sheds new light on where Indianapolis was attacked and sunk," said NHHC historian Dr. Richard Hulver. "This brings us closer to discovering the final resting place of the ship and many of her crew."

Recalling their lost ‘sailor boys’ aboard USS Indianapolis

Multiple attempts have been made in the past to locate the Indianapolis, without success.

Allison Carter is an engagement producer at IndyStar. Follow her on Twitter @AllisonLCarter.