The U.S.S. Indianapolis was a battle ship of brave men. On July 30, 1945, the U.S.S. Indianapolis was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine. Some crew members perished as the ship sank, while others fought to survive in the ocean, hoping and praying to be rescued. Today, now 57 years later, there are many life lessons to be learned, especially by my grandfather, James E. O'Donnell, a survivor.

My grandfather, spent five days in the ocean fighting to survive. He had courage and faith in God to survive. He also learned to never give up or to take life for granted, good qualities that he passed onto family and friends.

I learned many lessons in my life based upon what happened to my grandfather many years ago. I learned there are many heroes in our life that should be acknowledged and respected for their actions. I learned to love life and never give up no matter what challenge I face.

There are lessons my grandfather and I have learned through the tragic ordeal of the U.S.S. Indianapolis. I am so proud of my grandfather and the others aboard the ship. My grandfather does not believe that he is a hero for surviving, he believes the real heroes are the ones still at sea. I am honored to be the granddaughter of James E. O'Donnell.