Hear stories of survival and the powerful lessons learned in the face of life’s most formidable challenges.

On July 30, 1945, the USS Indianapolis was torpedoed in the South Pacific by a Japanese submarine shortly after delivering components for the atomic bomb. Approximately 300 men were killed on impact, and nearly 900 others were cast into the open ocean. Over the course of four horrific days and nights, the stranded sailors faced relentless shark attacks, hypothermia, dehydration, and hallucinations. When rescue finally arrived, only 317 remained alive.

Join us on September 5th as bestselling author Michael Tougias recounts the true story behind one of the greatest naval tragedies in U.S. history. Drawing from first-hand accounts and meticulous research, Tougias will explore critical questions that still haunt the legacy of the Indianapolis: Why did the Navy fail to notice the ship was missing? Why was it sent unescorted through hostile waters? How did the survivors endure such unimaginable conditions? And why was the ship’s captain court-martialed—was he a scapegoat for the Navy’s own failures?

DATE: Friday, September 5, 2025
TIME: 6-7pm
LOCATION: Gafney Community Room

During this special presentation, Tougias will share chilling stories of survival—and the powerful lessons learned in the face of life’s most formidable challenges. More than a story of tragedy, Tougias frames the Indianapolis as a powerful narrative of courage, endurance, and the lessons learned in the face of overwhelming adversity.

This program is made possible by a grant from New Hampshire Humanities.