USS Indianapolis Survivor Relives Horrifying Experience | Memoirs Of WWII #38
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- Опубликовано: 10 ноя 2021
- WW2 Veteran Edgar Harrell of the United States Marine Corps was aboard the ill-fated USS Indianapolis when it was sunk, in the middle of the Pacific ocean, by a Japanese submarine. Harrell and the rest of the ship’s crew spent four days afloat in the open sea, fending off shark attacks and starvation, fighting to maintain the will to live.
Memoirs of WWII Website: bit.ly/2w60kGM
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Written and Directed by Joshua Scott
Filmed by Heather Scott
Edited by Joshua Scott
Post Audio by Lane Tarr
Photo Enhancement and Additional Research by Hudson Louie
Original Illustrations by Nicky Russo
Check out more of Nicky Russo’s artwork at nickyrussoactor.myportfolio.com/
“Abide With Me” written by Reverend Henry Francis Lyte and performed by Olive Kline and Elsie Baker
“Abide With Me” instrumental version arranged and performed by William Haviland
Check out more of William Haviland's music at / williamhaviland
Primary Musical Score Source:
artlist.io/
Artlist Songs and Composers:
“Skies Above” by Caleb Etheridge
“Picturesque” by Conor McKeever
“A Cold Dead Wind” by Kyle Preston
“Cold” by Borrtex
“Heritage” by Ben Winwood
Archive Footage Sources:
www.archives.gov/
Archive Photograph Sources:
Edgar Harrell’s Personal Collection
U.S. Navy
National Archives and Records Administration
This man was my uncle. He was the real deal. He had a genuine love for his country and an even greater love for his God. His book, “Out of the Depths” further details his experience. What a great patriot! What a great man! I keep a USS Indianapolis cap in my office as a reminder of his legacy.
Do you know if your Uncle stayed in close contact with 'Spooner' after the war, and what became of his life?
God bless 🙌 🙏 ❤
Oh Godbless
So beautiful
What a beautiful Christian man and American
Semper Fi
“There’s praying…and THEN THERE IS PRAYING!” What a wonderful story teller.
Wow! To think What appears to be a frail old man is someone more badass than almof us pussies today can even fatham!
@@Qakei It’s so complicated. I have similar thoughts about lots of bad things that happen. When someone says ‘The Lord was looking after him that day’ I wonder wasn’t he looking out for the others? Why wasn’t he looking after the others? Maybe he was, but in a different kind of a way? Maybe he brought the others up to Heaven?? And if the best place is Heaven, why leave the others on earth? My mind goes crazy with it 😔.
@@Qakei What happens when we die if there is no God and therefore no ‘heaven’ to go to for eternity?
@@Qakei So nothing created everything? Who are you to judge the praying of others? What does it matter to you how others find comfort or meaning in a harsh world? Humans have freewill. Good people are harmed by bad. A sub captain chose to fire 6 torpedoes. It’s war.
@@Qakei It is more difficult to believe than to not believe. Things become much clearer when someone finds out where they came from before this life, why they are here, and where they are going afterward. There is a grand plan, and although we can't remember it, before we came here, we knew that there would be these types of risks, and we actually agreed to taking those risks. Intellectual honesty includes realizing that taking our turn here on earth would not be a test if nothing bad ever happened. Best wishes and respect for your honest opinion.
Being a kid in the 80’s and having a WW2 vet as a grandfather I can most certainly say this IS the greatest generation. I miss this generation and the comfort of their presence. They always made me feel good and that’s a true testament to their character which is bittersweet. I’d be honored to serve with these men.
I was raised by a man from this generation. He was my father and mentor. He and most of my uncles were WW2 vets,a couple were Korea vets. They never talked about the pain and horrors they endured. But once in a while I'd catch them talking among them selves,that's when I got a better grasp on what they did. Of course UShistory filled some of the gaps.
I learned later on in my early 20s ,that my dad had been wounded on D+ 4 in France. I also found out one of my uncles,jumped into Normandy and was also wounded about 3 weeks later. But those guys never once had one bad thing to say about this great land of ours. They were all true patriots. They all enlisted,not one was drafted or sheiked their duty. I am proud of them all,and grateful to have been raised by a great patriot and knew many more
Born in 97, my greatest memory is sitting on my great grandfather lap and him using his hand to show me a Japanese kamikaze plane that misses his ship and crashed into the water during the invasion of saipan, good man
They were the real deal
THE HOLY TRUE WAY TRUTH LIGHT JUDGE LIFE THE RIGHT THE HOLYFIRE THE HOLY ONLY ONE THE KING YAHOVAH YA RA GOOD GREAT HOLY BEAUTIFUL GOOD BEST FRIEND HOLY! HOLY! HOLYLORD GOD ALMIGHTY THE HOLY MESSIAH DELIVERER WARRIOR VICTOR EVERLASTING PEACE AND TRUE LOVE JOY O BOY! OF THE 7TH ONLY TRUE HEAVEN AND HOLY KINGDOM COME FROM THE SUN THE ONLY ONE HALLEUYAH!!!!!!!WORD!!!MM.GODBLESS MR. FAITHFULLY TRUE BELIEVING SOLDIER/S...MM.
SAY CHILD AS LAMBS NOT KIDS AS DEVILISH GOATS......THANKYOU FOR LISTENING.
This gentleman doesn't talk about his radically epic and tragical experience : he is kind of singing it, like in ancient theatre, like Ulysses could have done. Rest in peace, noble man, and your brunette as well!
I think you're being a bit dramatic there and making up words
This may have been the most intense story you guys have shown us.
nothing compared to the 10000s of japanese killed by the atomic bomb.
@@jarrodyuki7081 I Agree, their stories may have been like this man’s times a million. War is awful.
@@jarrodyuki7081 Shoulda left pearl harbor alone
Very much agreed
@@radicalrockom8 I agree war is awful but sometimes it is necessary to rid the evil of the world and save peoples lives and the lives of future generations.
This one brought me to tears. You can literally hear the pain in his voice.. This man is a true hero. The greatest generation that ever lived.
Absolutely. I found it difficult, too.
I am a nurse and have had the luck in life to meet many of the men from the Greatest generation. Have been able to be present to hear their stories. Truly amazing.
@@yojimbo103
and me too,
It’s bc faith like he had was prevalent in this great nation back then. Now it’s scorned. The more it’s scorned the deeper this once great and blessed nation sinks into the abyss and the dark …just like the Indianapolis
Some hardcore mfrs
I met Edgar in the deli section of a Walmart in Clarksville, TN in 2010. I saw his hat and started a conversation. I had absolutely no idea who I had been speaking to or the magnitude of the story he was telling me until I got home and did my research on it. I shook this man’s hand not knowing I had met one of the strongest people alive.
Stop lying
@@josephmarzullo stop hating go live life
@@josephmarzullo stop your negative thinking
@@josephmarzullo Totally true!
@@josephmarzullo u beat me too it 😂
I used to be a social worker with the VA: our WWII Veterans are different than other veterans. They are special. Very humble. Very patriotic. Very appreciative of any help. My maternal grandfather, Richard A. Galloway, volunteered to serve, despite being exempt as he owed and operated a bakery. My grandmother wasn’t too happy - they had twin girls, aged two years and she didn’t know it yet, but she was also pregnant with my mother. My grandpa was on two ships - the first was destroyed and the second suffered enormous damage. He would talk a bit about it, but his children, including g my mother, thought he was exaggerating. He was not - in fact, after reviewing his records, he clearly had downplayed his experiences.
Mat God bless every one of the men who fought in WWII. They truly were the greatest generation.
They really are! I met a man one day in the Dallas VA. I was in the case near the entrance looking at all the medals and ribbons and stuff, and this man and lady walked up, and the lady said my husband was in the Battle of the Bulge, and I had just watched some documentaries about that a few days prior. The man said humbly, oh I didn't do much, and I said everybody in the Battle of the Bulge did a hell of a lot! I shook his hand and I was so proud to to have met that man. I don't even remember his name, but I remember him, I remember his wife. That was probably in the late nineties.
This new generation is lost
Mass murder of civilians is still mass murder gramps
My great grandfather Woody James was one of the 316 survivors, he was the best man that ever lived, I want to personally thank memoirs of world war II for interviewing and sharing the absolute tragedy these men went through.
Your grandfather was a true hero! Thanks for watching!
👍👍👍
Your Great Grandfather was one hell of a human being. Now, he is in a much better place.
I think its amazing that this young man is doing such a great thing.
Are you familiar with the name Jim Newhall?
This man is a hero to surviving but also carrying on their stories, RIP to him and to Sailors and Marines on the Indianapolis
i’m sure he joined his fellow sailors and marines in heaven
@Juan Pablo What is wrong with you! You are a very sick person to laugh about this
And to all the germans
great mind/memory
Is he dead?
“I can hear Him today” “Peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth… Let not your hearts be troubled, don’t be afraid, don’t be afraid” “I’m holding on to that rail ‘Don’t be afraid’ and I knew that somehow, someway, I’m going to make it.” So powerful!
I broke down and wept at that part. I'm still trying to collect myself after watching this incredible story. God is so good.
Amen
As a Vet
Everytime I feel a little too big for my britches, I go to my saved playlist on RUclips and I rewatch this video... When he relives the part where he PRAYS and jumps I cry EVERY DAMN TIME
Probably karma for you killing millions of people so you can sell military equipment . If you would just stop causing wars we wouldn't have old people retelling this sort of thing
First time that I watched it and that part made me shed tears to damn lol
Bless this man’s heart he went through hell and can still smile tough isn’t good enough to describe him
I can only imagine the PTSD the survivors had to experience
Yall happily go fight in wars created by the rich, the rich rake in the money while many of you "proudly" serve and die just to show your patriotism. After coming back from war broken and destroyed and being called "heroes" to make yourselves feel a little bit better despite dying in the inside, they "reward" you by slowly cutting funds for vets and a piece of pan
@@AleksandraKuzmintseva why do you think the poor suffer at the end when do you see a rich man’s kid
@@AleksandraKuzmintseva You must be fun at parties.
@@AleksandraKuzmintseva you sound really ignorant.
Wait, forget sounding. You are.
My great uncle was first on the ship in pearl harbor when it was bombed and survived , then was sent to this ship , the Indianapolis, and he too survived this one as well ... Bud Streeter ! Thank you for your service , all of you ...
That's amazing. God had a calling on your uncle. Thanks for sharing
WOW.......Thanks for sharing..
How did he not go crazy? I would have probably lost my mind. Two traumatic events in under 4 years.
Wow: truly a miracle!
Your uncle was a Pearl Harbor survivor but not on the Indianapolis
Tears rolling down my face. What a truly amazing, tough as nails man. It's so heartbreaking that they're almost all gone now. It doesn't seem real.
You took the words right out of my mouth. We have so much to be thankful for because of men like him.
I needed to know that I wasn't the only one. I was sitting here and it comes on my RUclips queue, I've dabbled in the subject matter but in very small doses...but I have far too much respect and admiration for someone like that, for the men and women who were of even a fraction of the bravery and honor that this man was, I just can't skip it or blow it off...Like you don't disrespect a man like that, but I saw what it was and I cared so much more than enough to listen and, my God, did it get so very real like 7 or so minutes in. I'm a 32 year-old man and when he started screaming for God, telling God how much he wants to live...and God's telling him "Don't be afraid! Don't be afraid!" The way the man started yelling those words in such a way for anyone and everyone to know, so much, that he was certainly just repeating the same words-verbatim-that he cried out that night, OVER 7 DECADES AGO, and the emotion he carried with all of his words...he's in tears and I'm sitting here, 32 year-old man (and I know men cry, too), and I was telling my Dad to watch it because of how unbelievable it was and I couldn't keep the tears from coming down my face. A genuine heart shouldn't be able to watch it without crying, in my honest opinion. But as I couldn't believe how much it moved me, I just wanted to see that someone else cried too. Thank you, stranger. God bless ya, you got a good heart I'd say. Sometimes, we see videos and they might be memorable but they don't leave you with anything. This video is different, at least for me-it showed me a strength of character and selflessness so rarely displayed anymore...a value and care for others, so immense, that used to be common and I'm reminded by this WWII Marine how we've lost our way in what we're willing to do for other human beings...I hope so many others will watch it because I know how much it showed me not only how much better I could be, someday, but it showed me how much better I need to be...how much better we all need to be. It was very humbling to see what a real man looks like as it doesn't look so much like me or the men of today. The way the man showed himself, I left his story with such an admiration and respect for him and what he showed...that I hope, so much, that the human beings of today can somehow remember how to be anything like this WWII marine because our world sure needs it. Happy Holidays to you and yours.
Well if the Americans would stop causing wars we wouldn't have old people telling these stories
@@James-kv6kbyou have a point. But they didn't start the one he experienced. They didn't even want to get involved.
@@Learn_Daily it was a result of World War 1 which they did start by selling both sides the equipment . The Germans were pissed off because the Americans changed sides so they had another go. And if there is a war ,the Americans don't want to get involved in and don't make money from I'm Mary Poppins
as a younger veteran, I love sitting down with the older veterans and listening to their stories. it's an absolute privilege. they are living history. like teddy. teddy started life as a young boy in poland, fought the natzis, was captured, escaped, came to America, joined the army, and went back to fight the natzis again.
na zdrowie!
Well they wouldn't be any shortage of old veterans considering you've been starting wars for a very long time . Look at World War I millions of people had to die so you can sell military equipment
@James-kv6kb you are angry at the wrong people. It's the heads of state, politicians, and elite of the world that make war. It's the common folk on both sides that pay the ultimate price at the end of the day. Until we as humans realize this truth collectively, and begin to hold our "leaders" accountable, there will continue to be unnecessary war and death. But do not be angry at the common folk who are only doing what they believe is noble and necessary at the time. Be angry at those at the top who wage war mostly due to greed and a thirst for power.
"Honestly as I tell it. It's more than just telling it, I can relive it..." Even hearing that, I wasn't expecting to hear the amount of pain in his voice and face as he narrated his life. Rest in peace sir, thank you.
yes.
And maybe this would be the best reason to not keep causing Wars like your country's been doing for 150 years
The power behind his story telling what incredible. Touched me dearly. Rest in Peace Edgar. Thank you for sacrifice.
He's one of the few people out there that, when I read somebody saying rest in peace, I dadgum sure know he is, because he knows Jesus.
Amen❤
Powerful indeed.
I live in Indianapolis…..this has special meaning for us! There will never be another generation like this one! My dad was at the Battle of the Bulge. As he declined at the end of his life with dementia the one thing he told me over, and over again was his memories of the war,…thankfully, he told happy, funny stories’ I had tears as this beautiful marine shared his story. I know my dad suffered at the Bulge. Wish I could written his memories down. I was the child born 9 months after he returned home. I then married a guy that went to Vietnam….I am so lucky to have him still with me….57 years later! 🇺🇸
I just left a message for another lady, when I was in the Dallas VA in the nineties, I was looking at the display case they had ribbons and medals and stuff. This lady and man walked up to me, and she said my husband was in the Battle of the Bulge, and I had just watched and documentaries about it the last few days. I was so glad to shake his hand, and I don't remember his name, but it was a pleasure to meet him. I'll never forget, he said, oh I didn't do much, and I said everybody in the Battle of the Bulge did a hell of a lot! They were I'm so glad that he met a man of all people that had just watched a few documentaries about the Battle of the Bulge. they we're running out of ammo, they didn't have much food, freezing cold weather, and they still fought, and they did not surrender to the Germans! So glad I got to meet him.
This is one of those stories that gives you a new perspective on life. None of us can imagine the things he felt and experienced during those few days. But he conveyed it in such a genuine way that we get a shred of understanding. Really truly an incredible and heartwrenching story.
Don't start wars and the Sharks won't be eating anybody
9:13. ' Let Not your heart be troubled 'Don't be afraid, don't be afraid'
Brought me to tears.
After 70+ years to recall every word and moment by moment is absolutely incredible and beautiful.
Thats a Bible quote. It's from John 14:27
@@360gunner thanks, I am aware it is. Amen🙏
b not afraid
I couldn't stop crying through the rest of his story. Thank you for your service and sacrifice. 🇺🇲
@@lawnmanmartinfan7909 Me too,Just overwhelming on heart strings.
Robert Shaw should have won an Academy Award for the scene in Jaws where he described the ordeal to Brody and Hooper. He did it so good you swore he actually was there and went through that. This man and his shipmates were so brave....true heroes!!
That was one of the all time great scenes
I thought he was a legit survivor until I was 30 years old (40 now)... since I knew of so many actors actually in WWII back then.
Starting at 6:45, the next few minutes as he describes the ship going down are the most amazing, heart trembling account of any combat in any war that I've ever heard. And I've heard a lot of accounts. Many hundreds if not a thousand at this point. You can still hear the fear in his voice all these years later.
And this is a million times better than that crap Nicolas Cage Indianapolis movie
It’s thanks to Jaws that I watched this one too.
There is a reason they are called the Greatest Generation. I was in tears listening to his account of what they went through during the war for our country. God bless all our veterans!
Love this guy, my Navy Dad just passed aged 92 so I’m familiar with second world war stories on the seas. What we owe them can never be repaid, but we can at the very least give our thanks to all the men and women who fight
Amen
Sorry for your loss
Of course Americans don't realise that the sort of thing would happen if you stop terrorising the world to sell military equipment
I can't imagine the fear of bobbing in the water in the dark night waiting for shark to attack from below, may these heroes rest in peace,
did any get attacked by sharks?
@@sevendoubleodex so many got disemboweled or eaten…
@@soggyciggy well after googling it, there were no shark attacks
Maybe try listening to this man telling you what happened.
@@sevendoubleodex I’d take this guys account of the story over any article on Google he was there. God rest this heroes soul.
I'm a 25 year Navy vet with a good chunk of sea time under my belt. I can't begin to imagine the horror of that experience. Thank you, shipmate, for sharing your pain with us. God bless you!
did you cheat on your spouse with some boat boos ?
@@libirdinowski6270 Someone's salty.
@@Aw-ns1qx always
Quite a story, and he didn't even mention the ubiquitous Oceanic Whitetip Sharks, which were picking off the weak and injured among the survivors...
Yes the oceanic white tip is very aggressive and is the most likely to eat man they are scavengers
This man was my uncle. He was the real deal. He had a real love for his country. I keep a USS Indianapolis, on my bookshelf in my library.
❤❤❤
As a Hoosier grandson of a WW2 navy veteran, as well as a historian, I've read two of the books on this account, and I do not pass through downtown Indy without reflection on these men, your uncle as well, all heroes, and their experience. They were a cut above. Your uncle's testament of faith right here was the most beautiful part of the saga.
Well then i guess your cousin is also in the comments saying he's their uncle.
You and a few others claim he is your uncle😂. Who do we believe in this chat?
I wasn't ready for this. I'm a grown man... this great Hero has me balling my eyes out. Where do we find such men now?
I might've come across one or two, but they're old gentlemen now. I hear there're lines of young men wanting to chop off their nuts. Not sure what's going on there, I'm just glad my son didn't join that line. I also heard that youth used to be the worrying reason for adults thoughout History, but that was just an evolutive thing, the elders being concerned about the youth, however, they never ended justifying the worries, but now, now it seems to be a thing indeed, a young man that has his manhood chopped off... you can't glue that back, you know...
Anyway, may you have a nice day sir.
you weren't balling your eyes out. a very strange lie.
TikTok.
@@danielbyrne470 Hey, shut it.
Shut up, troll! You think this stuff is a joke?? Im sure you couldn't do what he did.@danielbyrne470
My neighbor was a survivor of the USS Indianapolis. He could tell you every crazy detail of his experience
please contact me. I am a journalist from Ukraine, I would like to ask a few questions about your neighbor
.
Is he still alive?
@@thel-dawg868 unfortunately no he passed away a few years ago
Damn. Did anyone get his story?
@@thel-dawg868 I will have to ask his grand daughter she moved into the house.
I was so glad when he met Spooner on the Catalina. So glad to know that they both survived. Happy Veterans Day to all those who have and continue to serve.
Thank you.
Happy Veterans Day to you too!
Me too!!
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I still remember the story. Both from the Smithsonian documentary and in the recent book on the USS Indianapolis is where I heard and read it. Harrell looked after Spooner right before the sinking since he was new. Like story he tells here what happened during the ordeal, how they reunited is something. While Harrell was inside the PBY with other men he heard a long banging sound. He looked over towards where the sound was coming from and saw someone trying to open a can of green beans with a gas can. What Harrell noticed was the man had sores around his eyes even with a bandage wrapped around his head. It was Spooner, he couldn’t believe it. He crawled over to him and asked to have some of the green beans. Spooner told him to get away but Harrell told him who it was and just embraced each other and cried. Both men shared that can of green beans drinking the juice saying it was the best. They stayed in touch up until Spooner’s death in 1996. Now they’re reunited along with the rest of the crew.
I sobbed the entire time. Thank you Edgar for your service. Thank you, Memoirs of WWII. The whole time, all I could think was: and we think we’ve got problems? Most of our problems are almost entirely mind-made distress. If only we heard about these realities of war more frequently and just as intensely. Maybe then we’d know how lucky we are, and maybe we’d finally stop that foolish man-made distress too.
Your government doesn't like you knowing about war because Americans are usually the ones that start them like World War I
The effect that this war had on these soldiers is hard to fathom, PTSD wasn’t recognized, society was vastly different from today. You didn’t talk about personal issues or mental health problems. They just buried it😢 this story is as horrific and mind destroying as any from WWII. Both of my grandfathers served, one on Guadalcanal and the other in the Navy during the battle of Midway. Some how they both survived and went on to live beautiful lives. I wish I’d had more opportunities to talk to them about the experience ❤
This conflict was because the Germans lost the first one and they were betrayed by the Americans who sold them all the equipment . Stop causing Wars and this sort of thing won't happen
I am a 68 year old Vietnam era veteran and have seen and experienced many violent things in life but this man brought tears to my eyes and left me speechless.what saved this man was his faith in God and his courage and determination to survive.God bless all the crew of the Indianapolis and may they rest in peace. These are the people that make our country safe for us.we need to appreciate and take care of them much better than we do.
Welcome Home Daniel!! God Bless You and all who have served our country and the world!!!!
Bravo fellow Veteran .US Navy Vet Corey Davis
Thank you for your service! I agree, we need to take care of ALL of our veterans that serve our country.
God also punished them through the experience of hell. If you believe in God yet go to war to fight another human God will punish them and does which is why war is hell.
What horrible things you must have seen and experienced.Many bloody battles,where were you when you had to endure these horrific encounters?🤔This video,and your comment brought tears to my eyes as well.
My late friend Ralph Smith was a survivor . He didn't like to talk about it . He had one newspaper clipping. His kids didn't realize what their dad went through. RIP Mr. Ralph.
“There’s praying and there’s praying.” Best sermon I’ve ever heard in my life. Sir, thank you for your service and I hope to meet you on the other side.
How terrifying to feel things brushing past your legs under water, knowing they were aggressive sharks and wondering if you would succumb to the dreaded fate that so many men suffered. Knowing that if you bled out, you wouldn't be alive for much longer.
Rest in Peace Edgar Harrell. what a legend
He is still alive
@@johndurrer7869he passed man…
@@johndurrer7869
No he isn’t
@@johndurrer7869when you know, you KNOW..........
Not gonna lie. This was a rough one to listen to this Veterans' Day. Those poor guys.
They were nazis too
@@GabrielMatos. do what? This man was not a nazi. You have the wrong war.
I feel for what the old man went through but I felt like I was listening to a revival instead of a documentary.
@@JohnDavis-yz9nq if so, he came by it honest.
@@jvleasure that was about as weird of a video that I’ve ever seen. The jibberish talk that he was doing. Don’t you know that poor man has had some hellish nightmares about that. Those kind of dreams don’t ever go away. The men of that era gave so much to this country.
"We cant make it if we dont try" i dont think truer words have ever been spoken, this is probably one of the hardest men to ever live, this is one of the most heart wrenching insane stories i have ever heard, these dudes went through hell and back, him and spooner are some legends
I can hear the pain in his voice and it brings me to tears. Lord, my God, why must so many people endure so much hurt. 🙏
I was crying the entire video. This hit hard
Sometimes He chooses the strongest among us to inspire the rest. Not all of us could handle such an ordeal, so we need earthly heroes to encourage us to do and be our best. 👽✌️
Because the American government likes causing Wars to sell military equipment and World War II was because the Germans lost the first one where you sold them the equipment and then changed sides
@@Psychodermiathat makes no sense. God stop fucking with your creations
As a Navy veteran, this is one of the first stories we heard when I enlisted in the late 90s.
Thank you for your service!
I was in the navy in the 80's. I remembered the story from Jaws. Never could get it out of my mind when we had a battle drill.
Yes they don't tell you about the horror your country has inflicted on the world including starting World War 1
@@MemoirsofWWIIhang hang on what are you talking about they've never won a war by themselves and you're thanking them lol
I'm a pretty tough & strong guy but when that WAR HERO uttered those words...
There are some times you pray & then there are some times "YOU PRAY" I felt neither tough nor strong. This is the best interview of a WW2 vet I think I've ever watched period. Excellent work!
That was the most iconic line of all the interviews on this channel.
Maybe you should stop causing Wars and this sort of thing wouldn't happen
He saved Spooner. Amazing
I would love to know how Spooner lived out his life after such a difficult time. I imagine Edgar and Spooner remained friends to the end.
And now we know why we call this gentleman and others like him a member of the greatest generation.
Not the greatest generation just the most obedient . But of course if you didn't cause wars that wouldn't happen
The heroism of the rescue pilot to throw himself into that situation is inspiring. God bless.
Facts
When he closed his eyes and said that when he thinks of it he can remember it all, I found myself saying “then please don’t think of it” out loud to the tv. What a horror he endured. Waiting for your turn. Thank you Edgar.
I'm surprised this video doesn't have millions of views this is incredible.
The part where he a talked about how he started to pray and a certain brunette waiting for him, that got me.,brought a few tears to my eyes. I actually felt the pain with him.
I cried pretty good myself. No matter what, never give up. And fight and live to the last beat of the heart.
Grandpa's best friend was one of the 900 that didn't make it. Our town had three men on her. Only one made it back and when I met him, i couldn't speak. I remembered to speak when I met my second survivor... Jim Jarvis. Was wearing his "USS INDIANAPOLIS SWIM TEAM" shirt.
haha! God bless him!
That’s hilarious! Comedy is tragedy plus time
If your wearin that shirt then youd best be a survivor because ANYBODY ELSE wearin that shirt for a laugh would get a right hook in the face...RESPECT
My buddy's Father was one of the survivors of the USS Indianapolis. His fathers name was Louis DeBernardi. I was stunned when he told me. And the stories of survival he told me his Father went through. He survived by floating on that webbing that they use to climb up or down on the ship. It is something that I will never forget.
That man captured the essence of survival, and I was glued to every word he spoke. He relayed it in such a way, you could feel what he was feeling, smell and taste the oil. I thank God for his message of hope and faith.
Imagine the sheer terror of floating in the ocean in complete darkness knowing that sharks were swimming around waiting for their next meal. I feel like I would have a heart attack from the fear.
The thought of thousands of men waiting on their Captain to declare abandon ship over the loudspeaker, and that command never coming made me tear up.
It speaks to the insane amount of discipline and respect those men must of had for their vessel. Hold on as long as you can…
Semper Fi Marines. And Happy Veterans days to everyone who’s served
Well no shit if not they could be jailed
@@stomper5432 even if the ship of sinking ?
@@mosthated2469 yah it would be considered going awol
@@mosthated2469 trying to think of the military term but just woke up lol but yah pretty sure they would have been dishonorable discharged altho in this situation im sure ppl would have understood depends on the captain
@@stomper5432 I think you're looking for the word Deserter or desertion. Below is pasted from WIKIPEDIA (who you can't always trust fyi)
The tradition says that a captain will be the last person to leave a ship alive before its sinking or utter destruction, and if unable to evacuate the crew and passengers, the captain will not save himself even if he can.[2] In a social context, especially as a mariner, the captain will feel compelled to take this responsibility as a social norm.
In maritime law, the ship's master's responsibility for their vessel is paramount no matter what its condition, so abandoning a ship has legal consequences, including the nature of salvage rights. Therefore, even if a captain abandons their ship in distress, they are generally responsible for it in their absence and would be compelled to return to the ship until the danger to the vessel has relented. If a naval captain evacuates a vessel in wartime, it may be considered a serious crime similar to desertion, unless the captain subsequently returns to the ship at the first opportunity to prevent its capture and rescue the crew.
Jesus, when this brave man started talking about his prayer, my eyes filled with tears
My grandpa was on the Pennsylvania in Pearl Harbor. Then the Memphis. He lived through a bombing only because his buddy wanted one more cup of coffee before racking out for the night. This man reminds me completely of him. Fair seas, USS Indianapolis....
my great uncle served in the pacific on a destroyer. he's still around, he's 96 years old now. he shelled Imo Jima before the landing. he was in several major engagements. he's a true hero and the anchor of our family. his beloved wife of 70 years passed in 2018. he just stopped driving a couple years ago.
We'd like to hear his memoirs. ❤
Iwo Jima Was Brutal, And Shelling Had Little Effect, Because The Island Was
So VERY Heavily Fortified.
I cried so hard. I can't fathom what they went through. Truly, the greatest generation.
I'm glad most are gone so they can't see us funding neo natzees in Ukraine.
@@thesorrow88 exactly
generation that blow up millions of peoples life
@Ben-tv3ui sounds like your going to have tremendously long road my friend
I went through worse
The book "In Harm's Way" was sad, yet inspiring, in telling the story of the USS Indianapolis. It's definitely worth a read. I'm honored to have a copy that was signed by Veteran Harrell.
To men of the USS Indianapolis. Thank you for your sacrifice and service. God bless everyone of them and thier families.
Mr Edgar Harrell is a Hero and Legend! The USS Indianapolis Marine that stood guard over the device which was instrumental with ending the war with Japan. God Bless you Mr Harrell, I hope to meet you some day, if not in this lifetime, then God willing in Eternity!
I don't think he's going to god Haven
@@johngohl he is.
@@johngohl leave your democrat racism and hate somewhere else. If they want to believe then let them. Just cause you hate your self doesn't mean anyone else has to suffer.
@@dickfitswell3437 You need interpreting lessons colored boy, go back to School Biden supporter
@@johngohl ur weird bro
What’s a real shame is lots of people these days don’t respect what these soldiers did for this country and gave their lives for the freedoms we all have.
True but how do we change that? Just being the change. Reminding them that Veteran and Memorial day are every day. We pray,honor and respect their sacrifice with how we live ours!
We already had freedom before the war
because remember everything non german or not pure bread german was essentially planned to be eradicated to make room for Lebensraum( pure bread german livng space)
but seeing you profile picture I don't have high hopes that you'll have the braincells to even look past your own biases
They're not heroes they just did their forced job
I love the parts where he won't let Spooner give up and tied him to the raft. At the end he literally said that Spooner had gotten himself untied and then decided to cling to the raft. I feel like it insinuating he tied him enough it would have been hard to get untied. Gave him something to focus on other that dying.
To not only survive this horrific situation but be strong enough to recall and live it again to share the story to future generations is unbelievable. Thank you sir.
You can tell he’s reliving it as he tells the story 😢
Today in the UK we remember those who didn’t make it through our wars. We also thank those who fought for our freedom. Every one of them a hero.
I'm always thankful I have had a life and not been to war.
Today in the UK we might as well not have bothered. I'd rather we'd lost and lived under occupation that be replaced as a people in our own land in our "victory".
Did you see about the bomb going off at liverpool at 11 today? Right as the nation falls silent..
@@ingurlund9657 put your hope and trust in God and not in man. This life isn’t meant to be perfect but know there is hope in our Savior. I agree with much of what you said though.
@@ingurlund9657 The only benefit would be perhaps you would end up in an oven one day as well
I have heard this story before, but never from a survivor. I had chills the whole time. No way could I imagine what these people went through, but I am glad they made it.
Every red blooded American should watch these videos,most Americans can’t comprehend what these soldiers went through back then, just heartbreaking, My grandfather was in WW1 and my father was drafted during Vietnam, I try and thank every vet that I can recognize and God Bless You
While I was in ATD back in 89 , Indianapolis veterans had a fund raising booth for their memorial. I signed over my whole check. I got to talk with some of them. It was one of the most incredible experiences of my life.
Wow
This has been the most difficult video I’ve ever had to watch. I could see Edgar reliving it as he told it. To all those who survived and all those perished on the Indianapolis, I wish you fair winds and following seas.
How about you just stay home and stop causing Wars and your people won't die
The way he closes his eyes as he’s telling his story, you can tell that he’s seeing it all in his mind and he’s right back there in that moment reliving it.
What a Precious Soul. He was truly from the Greatest Generation. Thank You for sharing this remarkable story! God Bless him & all the other Brave Souls that stood for our Country. ❤
The most intense and moving interview ever posted. I can’t imagine his ordeal but he was going through it again as he told his story . Much respect and honor .
They should make a movie about the sinking of the USS Indianapolis!
@@Elly3981 They actually did make one it was titled "USS Indianapolis: Men of Courage".
My Dad was the corpsman on the Tranquility, one of the hospital ships that picked up the survivors of his horrible event. It was so horrific that even decades later he refused to talk about it.
My grandpa was a medic in the South Pacific. We could never get him to share his experience. Never.
I would not talk about it. The actual event, not the details.
@@jasonfritz838I don’t blame him. Nobody wants to relive that trauma.
Why hasn't a movie been made about this incredible man's story?
You know about the Jaws story on this?
I'm 64 ,I am so so sorry. I'm balling as this story is being told. Thank you for this history telling. Our children and grandchildren need to hear stories like this ,that maybe they would understand our celebration of our veterans. That's why I stand for our flag. God bless to all our vets . When you see a vet ,say thank you, and mean it .
That's bravery. To CHOOSE this.
My dad’s second wife’s first husband was one of the 317 survivors of the Indianapolis. My dad knew him, even used to go bird hunting with them when he was a teenager. I knew an artist who did a print of an LPD rescuing some of the survivors. I framed one as a memorial for his wife and each of their kids. The greatest generation for sure.
Bird hunting? ffs😡
@@westaussie965What's wrong with hunting birds? If one has a hunting license, there's no problem
I am a combat veteran and his story and the way he said it gave me goosebumps. Thank a vet we don't know what to say back but we do feel special for the recognition. God bless us all
Thank you for your service and for watching!
Thank you for your service 🙏
Thanks to every man and woman who can live that life so others don't have to.
You're not a war veteran... You watch GTA v videos. You can't bullshit
That's when men were men. They believed in honor, country, family, and their fellow soldiers. These men were made of steel. My grandfather was in WWII and got a Purple Heart for being shot many many times. He used to tell his grandchildren about the war and about how amazing the United States was back in those days and how everybody was United. I lost him 5 years ago. He was an amazing man. It was an absolute honor to be able to listen to this man story aboard the Indianapolis. God Rest him
I cannot thank my friend TJ enough for thinking about me and to send this due to my “service and faith”. He knew for sure it would impact me. Boy was he right!
Man... I first read a book about this in middle school (I'm 31 now), and I've heard several stories over the years, but when he started talking about hanging onto the rail... this Marine teared up. From one brother to another, thank you and may you rest in peace.
What a beautiful human. Thanks for your service soldier. America needed it, you supplied it. 🙏
Listening to his telling of such a harrowing and horrifying story still brought me warmth in many parts. An absolute master storyteller
I met Edgar Harrell at a Louisville KY. military show doing a book signing for his incredible book. He signed my book "Semper Fi and God Bless." A legendary Marine that had a huge influence on my faith. God bless you!
Men who built America truly the greatest generation. Thank you
Like many here, I cried watching this and that’s a first for a RUclips video. What a testament to bravery, faith, and the will to survive. Mr. Harrell must have been an amazing man. May all those boys Rest In Peace.
The emotion in his voice I heard from my father many times. They suffered things we can never imagine and I hope we never see anything on this scale again.
This made me cry hearing him yell “I want to live”. RIP sir and thank you for protecting all of us. My dad just died in February and he was a 26 year military vet who served in the Vietnam War and I hear his stories and I have his diary. Can’t imagine what everyone has gone through in war. Wars that should never have happened!
Deb remember freedom isn’t free our nation has had to fight to gain it and will have to fight to keep it if we can ever hope to end wars it starts at the poles votes have consequences we must vote with our minds not our hearts
My dad was career military & served in two wars. No wars should ever happen however, they do & we're incredibly lucky to be related to men who were courageous & patriotic enough to fight for the freedoms we enjoy today. Sadly, their sacrifices & the sacrifices of those who gave their all are not appreciated as they should be. It's too bad we can't end war altogether.
@@georgecarberry9222 Completely agree. Wars are brutal. Those who start them tend to be safe behind lines, not with their lives on the line.
I met a navy world war ll USS Indianapolis veteran in a restaurant in Okeechobee. He told me his whole story. I was a marine veteran His wife wouldn’t sit down the whole time to he finished his story. That was a lot of respect from his wife.
Sir, I'm a Veteran of Operation Freedom as a Specialist for the Army and like to say Thank You for your Service.As I listened to you I couldn't help but be moved and feel emotion to your experience as a fighting Marine during WW2.I understand why your considered the greatest generation but for those who don't all they have to do is watch and listen to the heroism that so many displayed in that confict.All I can do is help those who have come after us the knowledge of your sacrifice and what it means to be a American.
Now he is at home with the Captain of his soul, Jesus Christ! Beautiful episode!!
Man we really have nothing to complain about. RIP Mr Harrell.
I am overwhelmed with respect and emotion for this man and what his true story
God bless him and all those brave men. AS an Australian Navy and Army Veteran GOD BLESS. R.I.P
His voice combined with this excellent editing... priceless.
This is the history that should be taught in History Class!
Cried unashamedly throughout.
THANK YOU & ALL YOUR BUDDIES for your service.
This is one soul who will NEVER forget your, courage, & the sacrifice & that of your families.
Thank you sir.😔
💔
🤘
They weren't called the greatest generation for nothing! Waiting in shark infested waters! Shear terror,!
@@jefferygrady3181 They saved not only our country but the world!
How is it all I can say is "Thank you for your service" for that?😳
Seems woefully inadequate.
RIP to ALL those have left us & courage to those who still fight the good fight!
Much love & respect!😔
💖
🤘
Came to make sure I wasn't the only one that cried throughout this man's story. What a freakin hero.
@@jefferygrady3181 I try to imagine seeing a shipmate floating 10yds away and then disappearing only to reappear missing his lower half. Pure horror and fear they all went thru. I have no doubt some of them did what Spooner wanted to do....dive down so far you'll run out of breath before you can return to the surface. Unimaginable. I know movies have been made about this event but would like to see one made about this man's story and the events of coming home. Angelina Jolie's movie was great and was either about this vessel or another. Great movie and great story
If I was a history teacher, his story and many more like his would be played in my class. In their own words. They are the better teachers on this far more than I ever could be.
I had a great uncle pass away serving in the Navy in the Pacific, if I remember correctly it was during the battle of Midway. This description was horrifying. I appreciate the strength it must have taken for him to share all this.
I have long known about the USS Indianapolis tragedy but, to hear this story told so powerfully by this survivor... this true hero is heart wrenching. To make it through an ordeal which would alter your life and stay with you forever. Rest in paradise Sir...your work on earth is done. 💖
You tell that when he raises his voice he is right back in that water trying to survive
Hi a Brit’ here. I first heard of the USS Indianapolis through the movie Jaws but after watching the Nic Cage film last night looked up what RUclips had on the subject. This was the second video I watched…WOW, what a recollection from Edgar… what a HERO. When he recounted his story and his prayer to God it moved me to tears. May he rest in peace.
How is he a hero
@@TheQC92 🤡
@@TheQC92?
@@TheQC92 Sometimes just surviving and living to tell the tale is an act of heroism, like this man did. And shame on you for asking such an idiotic question
Me too
When I'm having a bad day and think that things can't get any worse I think about what these brave men went through and things don't seem so bad.
When I was a kid in the 80s and 90s before my great grandpa died having him as a war vet was awesome he was my hero I will always miss him 😢🇺🇸♥️ he was one of the survivors of D-Day he also served in the army for WW2 he was an awesome grandpa I will miss him😢😢