USS Indianapolis CA-35
Lost At Sea

Name: James Bernard ANNIS Jr.
Rank / Rating: CEM-Chief Electrician's Mate
Service #: 342 13 82
DOB: Jun 20, 1920
From: Joplin, Missouri
Parents: James Bernard and Elizabeth Pearl (Griffin) Annis
Went Aboard: Jan 21, 1940
Age When Ship Went Down: 25 years, 1 months, 10 days
Spouse: Geraldine (Hawkins) Annis
Children:
Grandchildren:
Bio Submitted By: Admin
Date Posted: Jul 30, 2025

James Bernard Annis, Jr. was born June 20, 1920, in Joplin, Missouri, the eldest son and second child of James Bernard (1888-1968) and Elizabeth Pearl Griffin Annis (1893-1969). James was described by his brother John as a quiet young man, and John recounts many good memories growing up with his brother. There was a five-year age difference between them, and the two boys ran in different circles, but John says, "He (James) kept his eyes open for me."

Following the lead of his father, who was a career Navy man and veteran of WWI, James enlisted in the US Navy in 1939 after graduating from high school in Lowry City, Missouri. He attended "boot" training at USNTC (United States Naval Training Center), Great Lakes, Illinois, boarding Indianapolis January 21, 1940, at the age of 19. He then earned the rank of Seaman 2/C. Jim returned home on leave in the spring of 1943, while the Indy was undergoing a refitting at Mare Island Navy Yard. Once home, he married his high school sweetheart of six years, Geraldine Hawkins. He returned to his ship after his leave was over and resumed his duties. James participated in all ten of the major battles that won Ten Battle Stars for the crew of Indianapolis. Upon James’ death July 30th, 1945 his wife and family placed a stone at Lowry City Cemetery, Lowry City, Missouri. James was awarded a Purple Heart posthumously.