I am a high school teacher in Michigan.  I teach social studies and have done a great deal of studying of U.S. History from WWII to present.  Sadly though, I never heard of the story of the USS Indianapolis until I moved into a new neighborhood and met a nice elderly gentleman that neighbors referred to as Smitty.  I got to talking to him one day as he walked his dog as he did each morning and afternoon.  He told me a little about his experience on the Indianapolis and briefly touched on the survival at sea.  I was very intrigued about his story so that night I spent hours searching the internet for more information.  I've read several books now on the history of the Indy and its last voyage as well as stories of the survivors. 

I am so thankful to Mr. Smith (Smitty) for bringing to light this event in our history that I most likely would have known little, if anything, about had he not said something to me.  As a teacher, I now make sure to tell the story of the Indy to each and every one of my classes.  Mr. Smith told me that he felt many young people today have no appreciation for the history and acts of heroism that older Americans gave us so that the young people of today can have the rights and freedoms that they have now.  As my way of thanking Mr. Smith for his service to our country, I am making the solid promise that I will make sure each student that walks through my door has a great appreciation for those involved with the Indianapolis and that they never forget what those heroes gave up for those of us alive today.