I recently met Mr. James E. O'Donell. He is a survivor of the USS Indianapolis and was in the water 108 hours before being rescued. I had the great honor of talking to him and then having mine, as well as my grandson's, picture taken with him. We also bought an autographed book signed by Mr. O'Donnell to my grandson. A picture of them together will go with the book so he can have it for years to come as a memorial to this great man and his crew. May their memories remain in the hearts of all Americans and free people where ever they may call home. God bless America and for those veterans who fought and are fighting for us all.  If you would like to see the photos you can go to these links http://www.flickr.com/photos/tnwanderer/2882656855/ and http://www.flickr.com/photos/tnwanderer/2882659565/ .

-- Edited by hkgattis at 16:23, 2008-09-30

I likewise had the privilege of meeting Mr. O'Donnell in April while I was attending/teaching at FDIC (Fire Department Instructor's Conference) in Indy.  I obtained 3 signed copies of the Indianapolis Survivors book from him as gifts for friends (and actually need to get back in touch with him to get more).  Mr. O' Donnell went on to a 35 year career with the Indianapolis Fire Dept. after WWII, so we share the bond of the fire service.  My thanks to him and to EVERY veteran for defending this great country of ours. 

Randy Broadwater
Delaware