Please Report Any Broken Links Or Trouble You Might Come Across To The Webmaster
Please Take A Moment To Let Us Know So That We Can Correct Any Problems And Make Your Visit As Enjoyable And As Informative As Possible.


NavSource Online: Cruiser Photo Archive

USS INDIANAPOLIS (CA 35)


       

Flag Hoist/Radio Call Sign: November - Alpha - Bravo - Delta

Tactical Voice Radio Call Sign - SUPERMAN

CLASS - PORTLAND
Displacement 9,950 Tons, Dimensions, 610' 3" (oa) x 66' 1" x 24' (Max)
Armament 9 x 8"/55, 8 x 5"/25, 8 x 0.5" 4 Aircraft.
Armor, 5" Belt, 2 1/2 Turrets, 2 1/2" Deck, 1 1/4 Conning Tower.
Machinery, 107,000 SHP; Geared Turbines, 4 screws
Speed, 32.7 Knots, Crew 621.
Operational and Building Data
Authorized 13 FEB 1929
Keel laid on 31 MAR 1930 at New York Shipbuilding Corp., Camden, NJ
Launched 07 NOV 1931
Commissioned 15 NOV 1932
Fate: Torpedoed and sunk 30 JUL 1945 by Japanese submarine I-58
Stricken 01 SEP 1945

Located 18 August 2017, resting at 5500 meters (18,000 feet) in the Philippine Sea by the Research Vessel Petrel.
Additional Historical Information


Awards, Citations and Campaign Ribbons



Precedence of awards is from top to bottom, left to right
Top Row - Navy Combat Action Ribbon - American Defense Service Medal w/Fleet Clasp
Second Row - American Campaign Medal - Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal (10) - World War II Victory Medal


In Memorium:

In the Second Book of Shmuel (Samuel), 22nd chapter, 5th through the 19th verses, translated from the original in Hebrew and published by the Koren Publishers of Jerusalem, Israel, can perhaps aptly describe the fate of the crew and all other U.S. sailors who died defending their county:

"When the waves of death compassed me / the floods of ungodly men made me afraid; / the bonds of She'ol encircled me; / the snares of death took me by surprise; / in my distress I called upon the Lord, / and cried to my G-D: / and he heard my voice out of his temple, / and my cry entered into his ears. / Then the earth shook and trembled; /the foundations of heaven moved / and shook because of his anger /...the heavy mass of waters, and thick clouds of the skies /... And the channels of the sea appeared, / the foundations of the world were laid bare, / at the rebuking of the Lord, at the blast at the breath of his nostrils. / He sent from above, he took me; / he drew me out of many waters; / he delivered me from my strong enemy, and from those who hated me; for they were too strong for me. / They surprised me in the day of my calamity: / but the Lord was my stay..."
Dante's Prayer in honor of the memory of the crew, courtesy of Loreena McKennitt via loreenamckennitt.com
Click On Image
For Full Size Image
Size Image Description Contributed
By And/Or Copyright
Quincy
0403937
NR FIRST LIGHT CRUISER TO BE INDIANAPOLIS
Delegation From Massachusetts Sought to Have Vessel Christened Quincy.

The name Indianapolis has been assigned to the first of the 15 light cruisers, recently authorized by Congress. Secretary Adams of the Navy announced today. This vessel is being constructed by the New York Shipbuilding Co. at Camden, N. J.
The only other new cruiser being built, at the present time is being constructed by the Bethlehem Shipbuilding Corporation at Fore River. Mass. No name has as yet been assigned to this vessel.
A movement is afoot to have this cruiser named the Quincy, and inasmuch as Secretary Adams is & former mayor of that city proponents of this plan believe they have a strong friend at court. Recently a delegation from Quincy, Mass., called upon President Hoover and Secretary Adams and presented a petition signed by more than 30,000 persons urging that the new cruiser be called Quincy. There are some 20 cities and towns over the Nation named Quincy, they said, and this name has never been given to an American cruiser.
These two cruisers are the only craft to go forward at this time. In view of the discussion relating to naval disarmament.
Image and text provided by Library of Congress, Washington, DC.
Photo from Evening Star. [volume] (Washington, D.C.) 1854-1972, 06 December 1929, Image 4, via chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
Indianapolis
0403592
1.5m USS Indianapolis (CA 35) bow view shown during launching at the New York Shipbuilding Corporation, 7 November 1931. Indianapolis was commissioned on 15 November 1932 and was later sunk during World War II by the Japanese submarine I-58 on 30 July 1945. Michael Mohl
Indianapolis
0403595
684k USS Indianapolis (CA 35) forward packing at the launching at the New York Shipbuilding Corporation, 7 November 1931. Indianapolis was commissioned on 15 November 1932 and was later sunk during World War II by Japanese submarine I-58 on 30 July 1945.??  Michael Mohl
Indianapolis
0403593
1.2m USS Indianapolis (CA 35) starboard bow view shown during launching at the New York Shipbuilding Corporation, 7 November 1931. Indianapolis was commissioned on 15 November 1932 and was later sunk during World War II by Japanese submarine I-58 on 30 July 1945. Michael Mohl
Indianapolis
0403596
1m USS Indianapolis (CA 35) stern view at the launching at the New York Shipbuilding Corporation, 7 November 1931. Indianapolis was commissioned on 15 November 1932 and was later sunk during World War II by Japanese submarine I-58 on 30 July 1945.??  Michael Mohl
Indianapolis
0403594
922k USS Indianapolis (CA 35), going “down the ways” during launching at the New York Shipbuilding Corporation, November 7, 1931. Indianapolis was commissioned on 15 November 1932 and was later sunk during World War II by Japanese submarine I-58 on 30 July 1945. Michael Mohl
Indianapolis
04035105
922k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) being launched on 7 November 1931 at New York Shipbuilding Corporation Camden, New Jersey.

Philadelphia Evening Bulletin, George D. McDowell Collection. No. P559042B.

Mike Green
Indianapolis
0403589
237k

Three incidental aerial views of Indianapolis at the fitting out piers of New York Ship, Camden NJ, on 5 December 1931. On that occasion photos were taken of the launching of the liner Manhattan.

Photos are from ISM, Aero Service Collection 13970, 15221, and 15669. Used for educational and non-commercial purposes.

John Chiquoine
Indianapolis
0403590
82k

Three incidental aerial views of Indianapolis at the fitting out piers of New York Ship, Camden NJ, on 5 December 1931. On that occasion photos were taken of the launching of the liner Manhattan.

Photos are from ISM, Aero Service Collection 13970, 15221, and 15669. Used for educational and non-commercial purposes.

John Chiquoine
Indianapolis
0403591
160k

Three incidental aerial views of Indianapolis at the fitting out piers of New York Ship, Camden NJ, on 5 December 1931. On that occasion photos were taken of the launching of the liner Manhattan.

Photos are from ISM, Aero Service Collection 13970, 15221, and 15669. Used for educational and non-commercial purposes.

John Chiquoine
Indianapolis
0403599
152k New York Shipbuilding Company ad from the 1934 United States Naval Academy "Lucky Bag" Yearbook. Eric Stone
Indianapolis
0403579
1.7m Undated Pre-war view of Starboard bow while at anchor in Long Beach Harbor. (location identified by James Corley, Volunteer - National Museum of Naval Aviation) Jim Geldert
Indianapolis 589k Undated Pre-war view of Port Quarter while underway in New York Harbor. David LaPell
Indianapolis 83k Undated, pre-war image. Jesse P. Mannix
Indianapolis 123k Undated port side view while at anchor. Robert M. Cieri
Indianapolis 114k Undated starboard quarter view while at anchor. Robert M. Cieri
Indianapolis 96k Undated starboard side view while at anchor. Robert M. Cieri
Indianapolis 77k Undated starboard bow view. Robert M. Cieri
Indianapolis 106k Undated starboard side view while at anchor. Robert M. Cieri
Indianapolis
0403574
74k Undated pre-war port bow view. Ron Titus
Indianapolis
04035108
235k

Starboard Bow view while underway, date and location unknown but probably either during a Naval Review or Scouting Force exercises.

National Archives
Indianapolis
0403575
111k

Starboard quarter view during WWII, location unknown.

U.S. Navy photo.

David Buell
Indianapolis
0403576
100k

Port bow pre-WWII view while underway, date and location unknown.

U.S. Navy photo.

David Buell
Indianapolis
0403578
50k

Caption from photo:

"The 10,000 Ton heavy cruiser Indianapolis sails from the Philadelphia Navy Yard on June 19, 1933. The Indianapolis has undergone minor repairs and is proceeding to sea for a post-repair trial before going to Provincetown, Mass. and the Campobello Island, New Brunswick, where President Roosevelt will board for the return trip to Washington."

Photo & text from A.P. Wire courtesy of philly.com.

Michael Mohl
Indianapolis 264k Commissioning First Anniversary program cover, 17 November 1933. Robert M. Cieri
Indianapolis 186k Commissioning First Anniversary program page 1, 17 November 1933. Robert M. Cieri
Indianapolis 189k Commissioning First Anniversary program page 2, 17 November 1933. Robert M. Cieri
Indianapolis 176k Commissioning First Anniversary program page 3, 17 November 1933. Robert M. Cieri
Indianapolis 198k Commissioning First Anniversary program page 4, 17 November 1933. Robert M. Cieri
Indianapolis 201k Commissioning First Anniversary program page 5, 17 November 1933. Robert M. Cieri
Indianapolis 203k Commissioning First Anniversary program page 6, 17 November 1933. Robert M. Cieri
Indianapolis 291k Commissioning First Anniversary program page 7, 17 November 1933. Robert M. Cieri
Indianapolis 198k Commissioning First Anniversary program page 8, 17 November 1933. Robert M. Cieri
Indianapolis 178k First Holiday card, December 1933. Robert M. Cieri
Indianapolis 456k First Holiday card, December 1933. Robert M. Cieri
Detroit 82k Balboa Harbor, Panama Canal Zone - Aerial photograph taken 23 April 1934, with U.S. Fleet cruisers and destroyers moored together. Ships present include (left to right in lower left):
USS Elliot (DD 146);
USS Roper (DD 147);
USS Hale (DD 133);
USS Dorsey (DD 117);
USS Lea (DD 118);
USS Rathburne (DD 113);
USS Talbot (DD 114);
USS Waters (DD 115);
USS Dent (DD 116);
USS Aaron Ward (DD 132);
USS Buchanan (DD 131);
USS Crowninshield (DD 134);
USS Preble (DD 345); and
USS William B. Preston (DD 344).

(left to right in center):
USS Yarnall (DD 143);
USS Sands (DD 243);
USS Lawrence (DD 250);
(unidentified destroyer);
USS Detroit (CL-8), Flagship, Destroyers Battle Force;
USS Fox (DD 234);
USS Greer (DD 145);
USS Barney (DD 149);
USS Tarbell (DD 142); and

USS Chicago (CA 29), Flagship, Cruisers Scouting Force.

(left to right across the top):
USS Southard (DD 207);
USS Chandler (DD 206);
USS Farenholt (DD 332);
USS Perry (DD 340);
USS Wasmuth (DD 338);
USS Trever (DD 339);
USS Melville (AD-2);
USS Truxtun (DD 229);
USS McCormick (DD 223);
USS MacLeish (DD 220);
USS Simpson (DD 221);
USS Hovey (DD 208);
USS Long (DD 209);
USS Litchfield (DD 336);

USS Tracy (DD 214);
USS Dahlgren (DD 187);
USS Medusa (AR 1);
USS Raleigh (CL 7), Flagship, Destroyers Scouting Force;
USS Pruitt (DD 347); and
USS J. Fred Talbott (DD 156);
USS Dallas (DD 199);

(four unidentified destroyers);
and
USS Indianapolis (CA 35), Flagship, Cruisers Scouting Force.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives.
Scott Dyben
Indianapolis
0403581
127k Crew of USS Indianapolis greet their Commander-in-Chief, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, New York City, 31 May 1934. Tommy Trampp
Indianapolis 62k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) (at left) With President Franklin D. Roosevelt on board, acts as the reviewing platform as a formation of eighteen TG-1/2 (or T4M-1) torpedo planes passes overhead, during the fleet review off New York City, 31 May 1934. The President is standing immediately in front of Indianapolis' second eight-inch gun turret. The ship at right, in the distance, is USS Louisville (CA 28).

U.S. Naval Historical Center Photograph - NH 688.

USNHC
Indianapolis 89k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) - View looking aft from the forward superstructure as USS Sturtevant (DD 240) comes alongside , during the Presidential fleet review off New York City, 31 May 1934. A Curtiss O2U scout floatplane is on Indianapolis' starboard catapult. Note the ship's aircraft crane, searchlights, and the Presidential Flag flying from the mainmast peak.

U.S. Naval Historical Center Photograph - NH 91519.

USNHC
Indianapolis 68k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) (at left) With President Franklin D. Roosevelt on board, acts as the reviewing platform as the Battle Fleet passes across her bow, during the fleet review off New York City, 31 May 1934. The President's station was immediately in front of Indianapolis' second eight-inch gun turret. Nine battleships are seen in line-ahead formation.

U.S. Naval Historical Center Photograph - NH 53228.

USNHC
Quincy
0403501
NR ATTEMPT MADE TO DESTROY U. S. WARSHIP
Nails driven into an electric cable by saboteurs caused one fire on the U. S. cruiser Indianapolis (CA 35), Capt. Charles A. Dunn of the Brooklyn navy yard said today, and other nails were discovered before further fires broke out on the warship while it was being overhauled here.
Capt. Dunn, industrial manager of the navy yard, revealed the fire caused by the sabotage broke out on Aug. 25 in an auxiliary cable. The fire was confined to the cable and there was no damage to the ship itself, he said.
An inspection ordered by the navy yard brought the discovery of two more nails driven into the same cable where it entered a boiler room. Another nail had been driven into an obsolete cable "that under no conditions was to be used."
Officials here were intensely interested in the report from the Indianapolis because of repeated rumors and reports of attempted sabotage aboard the heavy cruiser Quincy (CA 39) during its construction and subsequent reports that attempts had been made to sabotage the Quincy's sistership, Vincennes (CA 44) now under construction there.
Image and text provided by University of California, Riverside; Riverside, CA.
Photo from Imperial Valley Press. [volume] (El Centro, Calif.) 1907-current, 11 September 1936, Image 5, via chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
Indianapolis 108k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) Arrives at Buenos Aires, Argentina, with President Franklin D. Roosevelt on board, 30 November 1936, during the President's "Good Neighbor" cruise to South America. Donation of Captain Fred W. Connor, USMC(Retired), 1970.

U.S. Naval Historical Center Photograph - NH 70297.

USNHC/Steven A. Cardali
Indianapolis
04035107
21k President Roosevelt accepts the salute of the Argentine Navy sometime between 30 November and 2 December 1936. Michael Mohl
Indianapolis 69k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) - Scene in the ship's pilothouse, late November 1936, as she carried President Franklin D. Roosevelt on his "Good Neighbor" cruise to South America. Indianapolis' Commanding Officer, Captain Henry Kent Hewitt, is seated in left center. Courtesy of the Naval Historical Foundation, collection of Rear Admiral Paul H. Bastedo, USN.

U.S. Naval Historical Center Photograph - NH 68037.

USNHC
Indianapolis
0403584
436k The itinerary for 19 November through 11 December 1936 cruise to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with President Franklin Roosevelt aboard. Christopher L. Eger
Eyespy Intelligence Magazine

 

Indianapolis
0403585

Indianapolis
0403586

Indianapolis
0403587

 

472k

 

 

 

387k

 

 

 

822k

Plan Of The Day (POD) for the Shellback Initiation while crossing the Equator on 24 November 1936. Christopher L. Eger
Eyespy Intelligence Magazine

 

Indianapolis
0403588

668k

What appears to be part of the Deck Log between 23 and 24 November 1936. Note the references to the forthcoming shellback initiation. The last entry is signed by Ensign J. D. Bulkeley, who would be the Commanding Officer of Motor Torpedo Squadron 3 at the start of WWII, earning the Medal of Honor, the Navy Cross, the Army Distinguished Service Cross with Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a similar award, the Army Silver Star Medal, the Army Distinguished Unit Badge, and the Republic of the Philippines Distinguished Conduct Star for his defense of the Philippine islands. Christopher L. Eger
Eyespy Intelligence Magazine

Indianapolis
0403582

Indianapolis
0403583

682k

 

 

 

461k

The Plan Of The Day (POD) for 27 November 1936 - the day the ship was in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with President Franklin Roosevelt. It is signed by O. C. Badger (later Commanding Officer of the USS North Carolina (BB 55) and Admiral during WWII)

Christopher L. Eger
Eyespy Intelligence Magazine
Indianapolis 66k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) At Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, circa 1937.

U.S. Naval Historical Center Photograph - NH 53230.

USNHC
Indianapolis
0403572
380k Port bow view while passing through the Burnside Bridge on the Willamette River in Portland, OR, 16 July 1937. In the background (down river) is the battleship USS Oregon (BB 3), on permanent display at the foot of the Broadway Bridge. (Caption updated by Jim Allred) Robert M. Cieri
Indianapolis
0403503
830k

Starboard Bow Underway, 27 September 1939. Excellent details.

National Archive photo #80-G-425615

National Archives
Astoria
04035101
114k

Port side view of the USS Indianapolis (CA 35) anchored off Hawaii in September, 1940 during Fleet Exercises. The carrier in the background is USS Yorktown (CV 5). (Caption update provided by William Loan)

LIFE Magazine Archives, Carl Mydans Photographer, shared by Peter DeForest.

Mike Green
Astoria
04035102
294k

Forward turrets of the USS Indianapolis (CA 35), are trained to starboard, as seen from the upper bridge superstructure. The Indianapolis and other units are participating in Fleet Exercises during September, 1940 off Hawaii.

LIFE Magazine Archives, Carl Mydans Photographer, shared by Peter DeForest.

Mike Green
Astoria
04035103
127k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) underway looking aft from the upper bridge superstructure. The Indianapolis and other units are participating in Fleet Exercises during September, 1940 off Hawaii.

LIFE Magazine Archives, Carl Mydans Photographer, shared by Peter DeForest.

Mike Green
Astoria
0403433
227k

Two days before the Pearl Harbor attack a carrier-cruiser group built around USS Lexington (CV 2) departed Pearl to deliver reinforcement aircraft to Midway. This is USS Astoria and USS Indianapolis underway at sea as seen from USS Portland. They operated as TF12 from 8 to 13 Dec 1941.

Photographer Robert Landry, Life Magazine, used for educational and non-commercial purpose.

John Chiquoine
Astoria
0403434
266k

Two days before the Pearl Harbor attack a carrier-cruiser group built around USS Lexington (CV 2) departed Pearl to deliver reinforcement aircraft to Midway. This is USS Astoria and USS Indianapolis underway at sea as seen from USS Portland. They operated as TF12 from 8 to 13 Dec 1941.

Photographer Robert Landry, Life Magazine, used for educational and non-commercial purpose.

John Chiquoine
Astoria
0403435
218k

Two days before the Pearl Harbor attack a carrier-cruiser group built around USS Lexington (CV 2) departed Pearl to deliver reinforcement aircraft to Midway. This is USS Astoria and USS Indianapolis underway at sea as seen from USS Portland. They operated as TF12 from 8 to 13 Dec 1941.

Photographer Robert Landry, Life Magazine, used for educational and non-commercial purpose.

John Chiquoine
Chicago
0402982
154k

Two days before the Pearl Harbor attack a carrier-cruiser group built around USS Lexington (CV 2) departed Pearl to deliver reinforcement aircraft to Midway. This is USS Chicago and USS Indianapolis underway at sea as seen from USS Portland (CA 33). Both operated with TF12 from 8 to 13 Dec 1941. ?? Some censors marks appear.

Photographer Robert Landry, Life Magazine, used for educational and non-commercial purpose.

John Chiquoine
Indianapolis 138k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) - Closeup view of her forward half, from the port side, at the Mare Island Navy Yard, 19 April 1942, following overhaul. Note details of her forward main battery gun director, with an "FC" radar antenna on its top, aircraft catapult, and .30 caliber machinegun mounted on the bridge wing railing. USS Raleigh (CL 7) is in the background.

Photograph from the Bureau of Ships Collection in the U.S. National Archives - 19-N-29301.

National Archives
Indianapolis 129k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) - Closeup view of her after half, from the port side, at the Mare Island Navy Yard, 19 April 1942, following overhaul. Note her SOC seaplanes, 5"/25 guns and ready service ammunition, after smokestack, searchlights, "horse" collar emergency life float alongside the railing in lower right center and top edge of armor belt. USS Raleigh (CL 7) is in the background.

Photograph from the Bureau of Ships Collection in the U.S. National Archives - 19-N-29300

National Archives
Indianapolis 129k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) - Closeup view of her well deck area, from the port side, at the Mare Island Navy Yard, 19 April 1942, following overhaul. Note her forward smokestack, catapults, and Curtiss SOC Seagull aircraft. USS Raleigh (CL 7) is in the background.

Photograph from the Bureau of Ships Collection in the U.S. National Archives - 19-N-29299

National Archives
Indianapolis 239k Taken 20 April 1942 while underway on on the west side of Mare Island. U.S. Navy photo.. Darryl Baker
Indianapolis 64k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) Off the Mare Island Navy Yard, California, 20 April 1942, following her first wartime overhaul.

Photograph from the Bureau of Ships Collection in the U.S. National Archives - 19-N-29298

National Archives
Indianapolis
0403598
140k

African-American Mess Attendants in battle dress, July 1942. These men had volunteered for additional duty as gunners. The ship's Commanding Officer, Captain E.W. Hanson, is the second officer from the right. Standing beside him is Steward William Henry. A few of these men are wearing old World War I style helmets, while most have the then-new M-1 type helmets. Identity of ship and men was provided by Mr. William Henry in October 1996.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives. Photo #80-G-21743.
Robert Hurst
Indianapolis 63k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) At Cold Bay, Alaska, October 1942. Collection of Vice Admiral Robert C. Giffen, USN.

U.S. Naval Historical Center Photograph - NH 94640.

USNHC
Indianapolis 120k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) - View from off her starboard bow, at the Mare Island Navy Yard, California, following overhaul, 1 May 1943. White outlines mark recent alterations to the ship. Note new forward superstructure, 8"/55 triple gun turrets, starboard anchor, anchor gear on forecastle, and paravane downrigging chains at the extreme bow. USS Minneapolis (CA 36) is in the background, stripped for overhaul.

Photograph from the Bureau of Ships Collection in the U.S. National Archives - 19-N-47570

National Archives
Indianapolis 135k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) - Closeup view of her after starboard midships area, at the Mare Island Navy Yard following overhaul, 1 May 1943. White outlines mark recent alterations to the ship. Note newly fitted mainmast, immediately before the after smokestack, searchlight, 5"/25 guns, and young woman at the top of her embarkation ladder.

Photograph from the Bureau of Ships Collection in the U.S. National Archives - 19-N-47568

National Archives
Indianapolis 149k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) - Closeup view of her after midships area, from the starboard side, at the Mare Island Navy Yard, following overhaul, 1 May 1943. White outlines mark recent alterations to the ship. Note aircraft catapults and crane, new hangar doors, "star" riveting pattern on her forward smokestack, and searchlights mounted by her after stack. USS Minneapolis (CA 36) is in the background, stripped for overhaul.

Photograph from the Bureau of Ships Collection in the U.S. National Archives - 19-N-47569

National Archives
Indianapolis 103k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) - Closeup view of her after superstructure from the starboard side, at the Mare Island Navy Yard, 1 May 1943, following overhaul. White outlines mark recent alterations to the ship. Note Mk.4 radar antenna on her after Mk.33 gun director (in left center), 26-foot motor whaleboat and davits, and heavy riveting on her midships hull side.

Photograph from the Bureau of Ships Collection in the U.S. National Archives - 19-N-47566

National Archives
Indianapolis 156k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) - Closeup view of her after superstructure and hull, from the starboard side, at the Mare Island Navy Yard following overhaul, 1 May 1943. White outlines mark recent alterations to the ship. Note newly fitted 40mm and 20mm guns, Mk.33 gun director with a Mk.4 radar antenna, 26-foot motor whaleboat swung out on its davits, and heavy riveting on her hull side. Stern of USS Minneapolis (CA 36) is in the background.

Photograph from the Bureau of Ships Collection in the U.S. National Archives - 19-N-47567

National Archives
Indianapolis 65k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) Off the Mare Island Navy Yard, California, 2 May 1943, after her second wartime overhaul.

Photograph from the Bureau of Ships Collection in the U.S. National Archives - 19-N-47562

National Archives/Steven A. Cardali
Indianapolis
0403577
202k

Starboard side view taken off the California coast by an airship of squadron ZP 32. She had just completed a refit at Mare Island and appears to be exercising with a destroyer.

US Navy photo #143-5-43

David Buell
Indianapolis
04035109
1m USS Indianapolis (CA 35) 1943-1945, probably after her 1944 overhaul. From the ADM R.A. Spruance Collection

NHHC Photo # NH 124466

Indianapolis 68k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) Off San Francisco, California, 1 May 1944, after overhaul and repainting with pattern camouflage.

U.S. Naval Historical Center Photograph - NH83607.

USNHC
Indianapolis
0403597
259k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) Off San Francisco, California, 1 May 1944, after overhaul and repainting with pattern camouflage.

USNHC
Indianapolis
04035106
263k Colorized version of the previous photo. Yu Cho
Indianapolis
04035110
448k USS Indianapolis (CA 35) Aerial from altitude 400 ft, starboard bow. 1 May 1944. National Archive photo #80-G-236287 Bob Canchola
Indianapolis 104k

Invasion of Saipan, June 1944 - LVTs move toward the beach, past bombarding cruisers, on "D-Day", 15 June 1944. Cruiser firing in the background is USS Indianapolis (CA 35), flagship of Fifth Fleet commander Admiral Raymond A. Spruance. Photographed from USS Birmingham (CL 62).

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives - 80 - G - 231838.

National Archives/Scott Dyben
Indianapolis 71k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) Under fire by Japanese shore batteries, during the invasion of Saipan, June 1944.

U.S. Naval Historical Center Photograph - NH 53232.

USNHC
Indianapolis 292k

The flag flies from the fantail of the USS Indianapolis (CA 35) at Mare Island on 12 November 1944.

U.S. Navy Photo #6971-44

Darryl Baker
Indianapolis 385k

Aft plan view of the USS Indianapolis (CA 35) in dry dock #2 under going an inclining experiment at Mare Island on 26 November 1944. She was in overhaul at the yard from 19 October until 10 Dec 1944.

U.S. Navy Photo #7209-44

Darryl Baker
Indianapolis 388k

Forward plan view of the USS Indianapolis (CA 35) in dry dock #2 under going an inclining experiment at Mare Island on 26 November 1944. She was in overhaul at the yard from 19 October until 10 December 1944.

U.S. Navy Photo #7210-44

Darryl Baker
Indianapolis 138k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) - Closeup view of her forward superstructure and 8"/55 triple gun turrets from off the port side, at the Mare Island Navy Yard, California, following overhaul, 7 December 1944. White outlines mark recent alterations to the ship. Note newer type Mk.33 gun director atop her open bridge, 40mm quad gun mount, eight-inch projectiles by her second turret, and bridge details. YF 389 is in the center background.

Photograph from the Bureau of Ships Collection in the U.S. National Archives - 19-N-76908

National Archives
Indianapolis 110k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) - Closeup view of her port forward half, at the Mare Island Navy Yard, California, following overhaul, 7 December 1944. White outlines mark recent alterations to the ship. Note catapults, forward stack details, newly-fitted Mk.34 gun director atop her tripod foremast, liferafts and floater nets. An Amphibious Force Flagship (AGC) is in the right background.

Photograph from the Bureau of Ships Collection in the U.S. National Archives - 19-N-76909

National Archives
Indianapolis 98k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) - Closeup view of her port after half, at the Mare Island Navy Yard, California, following overhaul, 7 December 1944. White outlines mark recent alterations to the ship. Note "whip" radio antenna mounted on her forward smokestack, aircraft crane, tripod mainmast with an SK radar antenna on top and newly-fitted MK 34 gun director. YD 66 and USS Mawkaw (YTB 182) are at left

Photograph from the Bureau of Ships Collection in the U.S. National Archives - 19-N-76910

National Archives
Indianapolis 127k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) - View from off her port quarter, at the Mare Island Navy Yard, California, following overhaul, 7 December 1944. White outlines mark recent alterations to the ship. Note 40mm quad gun mounts on her fantail, after 8"/55 gun turret, newer type Mk.33 gun director, and newly-fitted MK 34 main battery gun director. An Amphibious Force Flagship (AGC) is in the right background.

Photograph from the Bureau of Ships Collection in the U.S. National Archives - 19-N-76911

National Archives
Indianapolis 92k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) Off the Mare Island Navy Yard, California, 9 December 1944, following overhaul and repainting into Measure 22 camouflage.

Photograph from the Bureau of Ships Collection in the U.S. National Archives - 19-N-76904

National Archives
Indianapolis 316k

Stern view of USS Indianapolis (CA 35) in the Mare Island channel on 9 December 1944.

U.S. Navy Photo #7570-44

Darryl Baker
Indianapolis 332k

Broadside view of USS Indianapolis (CA 35) off Mare Island on 9 December 1944.

U.S. Navy Photo #7572-44

Darryl Baker
Indianapolis 342k

Bow on view of USS Indianapolis (CA 35) off Mare Island on 9 December 1944.

U.S. Navy Photo 7575-44

Darryl Baker
Indianapolis
04035104
2m

USS Pensacola (CA 24) at the Mare Island Navy Yard, California, 3 July 1945, at the end of her final overhaul. Circles mark recent alterations to the ship. Note her main battery of twin and triple eight-inch gun turrets. USS Indianapolis (CA 35) and the lighter YF-390 are at left.

Photograph from the Bureau of Ships Collection in the U.S. National Archives - 19-N-87792.

USN
Indianapolis 56k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) Off the Mare Island Navy Yard, California, 10 July 1945, after her final overhaul and repair of combat damage.

Photograph from the Bureau of Ships Collection in the U.S. National Archives - 19-N-86911.

National Archives
Indianapolis 69k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) - Off the Mare Island Navy Yard, California, 10 July 1945, after her final overhaul.

Photograph from the Bureau of Ships Collection in the U.S. National Archives - 19-N-86912

National Archives
Indianapolis 66k

Bow on view of USS Indianapolis (CA 35) testing her anchor off Mare Island on 10 July 1945. She was in overhaul at the yard from 2 May to 12 July 1945.

Navy photo #5230-45

Darryl Baker
Indianapolis 64k

Stern view of USS Indianapolis (CA 35) off Mare Island on 10 July 1945. She was in overhaul at the yard from 2 May to 12 July 1945.

Navy photo #5226-45

Darryl Baker
Indianapolis 130k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) - At the Mare Island Navy Yard after her final overhaul, 12 July 1945. Circles on photo mark recent alterations to the ship. Note stripped Cleveland class light cruiser in the right background, with YC 283 alongside. (the Cleveland-class cruiser in the background is the USS Vincennes as identified by Carl Vensel)

Photograph from the Bureau of Ships Collection in the U.S. National Archives - 19-N-86915

National Archives
Indianapolis 137k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) - Closeup view of 8" turret # 2 and the ship's superstructure, from ahead and to starboard, at the Mare Island Navy Yard following her final overhaul, 12 July 1945. Circles on photo mark recent alterations to the ship. Note MK 13 radar on MK 34 director, atop Indianapolis' tripod foremast, and many other antennas on masts and superstructure. A stripped Cleveland class light cruiser is in the right background, with YC 283 alongside. (the Cleveland-class cruiser in the background is the USS Vincennes as identified by Carl Vensel)

Photograph from the Bureau of Ships Collection in the U.S. National Archives - 19-N-86916

National Archives
Indianapolis 133k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) - Closeup view of ship's forward stack, superstructure and hull, from alongside her starboard side amidships, at the Mare Island Navy Yard following her final overhaul, 12 July 1945. Circles on photo mark recent alterations to the ship. Note float for a SC-1 floatplane stowed behind the stack, liferafts and floater nets, and bow of USS Hercules (AK 41) in the left distance. (the Cleveland-class cruiser in the background is the USS Vincennes as identified by Carl Vensel)

Photograph from the Bureau of Ships Collection in the U.S. National Archives - 19-N-86917

National Archives
Indianapolis 146k

USS Indianapolis (CA 35) - Closeup view of her after superstructure and hull, from alongside her starboard side amidships, at the Mare Island Navy Yard following her final overhaul, 12 July 1945. Circles on photo mark recent alterations to the ship. Note SC-1 seaplanes being placed in hangars, aircraft crane, port side catapult (and removal of starboard catapult), 5"/25 guns, rear view of MK 34 gun director and many other details. A stripped Cleveland class light cruiser is in the background, with YC 283 alongside. (the Cleveland-class cruiser in the background is the USS Vincennes as identified by Carl Vensel)

Photograph from the Bureau of Ships Collection in the U.S. National Archives - 19-N-86918

National Archives
Indianapolis 53k USS Indianapolis (CA 35) preparing to leave Tinian after delivering atomic bomb components, circa 26 July 1945. She was sunk on 30 July, while en route to the Philippines. MAJ Harley G. Toomey, Jr., USAF, Ret.

Indianapolis
0403573

Indianapolis
0403573a

188k

This photo was taken 27 July 1945, the day before she sailed from Guam to her doom, as documented by the ship's photographer of USS Pandemus (ARL 18), on the back of the photo. This is probably the last photo taken of her.

Caption on back of photo:

"USS Indianapolis (CA 35) taken: 1530 27 July 1945, Apra Harbor, Guam, from USS Pandemus RL 18 as it passed heading for sea. Picture taken by Gus Buono".

U.S. Navy photo from the Collection of David Buell.

David Buell

Indianapolis
04035100a

Indianapolis
04035100b

268k

 


353k

Photo Caption reads: "Funeral of GM3C Shipman USNR, of USS INDIANAPOLIS" Tommy Trampp
Indianapolis
0403580
117k The bell from the USS Indianapolis, cast in 1932 with the commissioning of that ship, and removed to conserve weight prior to her final cruise. It resides at the Heslar Naval Armory in Indianapolis, IN. Bill Gonyo

Commanding Officers
Name/Rank Class Final Rank Dates
Smeallie, John Morris, CAPT 1905   11/15/1932 - 12/10/1934
McClintic, William S., CAPT 1905   12/10/1934 - 03/16/1936
Hewitt, Henry Kent, CAPT 1907 ADM 03/16/1936 - 06/05/1937
Kinkaid, Thomas Cassin, CAPT 1908 ADM 06/05/1937 - 07/01/1938
Shafroth Jr., John Franklin, CAPT 1908 VADM 07/01/1938 -
Hanson, Edward William, CAPT 1911 RADM 1941 - 07/11/1942
Deyo, Morton Lyndholm, CAPT 1911 RADM 07/11/1942 - 01/12/1943
Vytlacil, Nicholas, CAPT 1917   01/12/1943 - 07/30/1943
Johnson, Einar Reynolds, CAPT 1918   07/30/1943 - 11/18/1944
McVay III, Charles Butler, CAPT 1920 RADM 11/18/1944 - 07/30/1945

(List courtesy of Wolfgang Hechler & Ron Reeves - Photos courtesy of Bill Gonyo)


USS INDIANAPOLIS (CA 35) History
View This Vessels DANFS History Entry on the U.S. Navy Historical Center website.
Second entry for this vessel on DANFS concerning the sinking of Indianapolis.

Crew Contact And Reunion Information

Contact Name:
Address:
Phone:
E-mail:


Note About Contacts.

The contact listed, Was the contact at the time for this ship when located. If another person now is the contact, E-mail me and I will update this entry. These contacts are compiled from various sources over a long period of time and may or may not be correct. Every effort has been made to list the newest contact if more than one contact was found.


Additional Resources
Hazegray & Underway Cruiser Pages By Andrew Toppan.
Back To The Main Photo Index Back To The Cruiser Photo Index Page

Comments, Suggestions, E-mail Webmaster

This Page Was Created By Paul R. Yarnall And Maintained By Tom Bateman & Michael Mohl
All Pages Copyright ?© 1996 - 2023 NavSource Naval History. All Rights Reserved.
Last updated 08/19/2020