Barker, Robert Craig RT1c
6264105

Charles B. McVay III
Captain U.S. Navy

Re: Pers-8249-eid Robert Craig Barker U.S.S. Indianapolis

Dear Captain McVay:

Thank you kindly for your most welcome letter. It contained the most information I've received from the Navy.

The first week my husband was in Boot Camp we talked over the changes Navy Life would mean to us and that is when I learned to never say Why. So now that the Navy says my Darlin is gone I feel I have a right to ask a few Whys.

Why was the Indianapolis sent from guam [sic] to Leyte alone? Why was she so long overdue and no action taken? What caused the explosions?

I realize I am only one of hundreds of thousands that are wondering what happened to their loved ones, I don't mean to be selfish or unreasonable, [sic] I'd just like the truth of the circumstances. If it cannot be told I'd appreciate knowing and you need not say why.

I know how you must feel living thru such a terrible experience and my heart goes out to you.

Thank you again

Very truly,
Mary Lou Barker
1220 S. Olive #9
Los Angeles, Calif.

Pers-8249-LK
October 8, 1945

Dear Mrs. Barker

Your letter of October 1st which contained certain questions relative to the INDIANAPOLIS reached me this morning - I will answer such of your queries as I can.

It is my personal opinion that the ship sank as the result of two under-water explosions. These explosions could be the result of the ship hitting mines or by being hit by torpedoes - I have no facts and therefore can only guess as to which it was that struck the ship.

The other questions you have asked are matters of policy of which I have no knowledge and consequently would not have any information on which to base an answer.

I am sorry not be able to help you further and am most appreciative of the kind and sympathic [sic]vein in which your letter was written.

Very sincerely,
CHAS. B. McVay, III
Captain, U. S. Navy

Mrs. Mary Lou Barker
1220 S. Olive #9
Los Angeles, California