One of the worst disasters to befall the U.S. Navy in its history is memorialized in this poignant monument on the Canal Walk.
The USS Indianapolis Memorial is an elegant monument to those who lost their lives on the heavy cruiser in 1945 during World War II. When the ship was downed by a Japanese torpedo, about 300 crewmen were killed instantly, while hundreds more perished in the days that followed from shark attacks, dehydration and saltwater poisoning. Pay your respects to the fallen at this moving tribute on the eastern flank of the Canal Walk.
As you walk along the banks of the canal take in the scenic views of the water. Listen to the rustle of the leaves on the trees lining the waterway in this serene spot, a little northwest of the Mile Square district.
Made of gray and black granite, the monument’s shape resembles the cruiser itself. Inscribed on one side of the memorial is the story of the vessel, which was first launched in 1931. The other side has a list of the names of all those who served aboard the cruiser. Admire the black-and-white image of the enormous vessel as it was at its best. Visit the monument at night, when it is illuminated in bright light.
Just 316 of the vessel’s 1,195 crew personnel survived the shipwreck, after being spotted by a U.S. patrol three days later. The sunken wreckage of the ship was discovered in 2017 near the Philippines by a team funded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen.
The monument was created by the survivors of the shipwreck and was dedicated in 1995. It is open at all times to the public and free to visit.
The USS Indianapolis Memorial is near the Upper Canal and Ransom Place districts in the heart of the city. Stroll north from the city center for 15 minutes to reach the Canal Walk that hosts the memorial. While in the area, make sure to visit neighboring landmarks such as the Madam Walker Legacy Center, Military Park and the Scottish Rite Cathedral.
