Johnston, Earl Rankin BM2
670 20 87

Captain McVay

May God bless you in the good fortune of being saved from the great disaster the came to our beloved ship Indianapolis),

My son, BM2c Earl Johnston was a member of your crew, was in the First Division. If you have any information as to his fate, won't you please let me know.

There were 10 Tulsa people on your boat - if possible please let us know if any were picked up. I know it is a hard thing for you to do and am asking a lot of you. Johnston was on a Turret gun.

Those missing is Annis, Johnston, Russ, Wakefield, Geo Roberts, LeRoy Russ, Winnerholm, Crews and several others which I cannot remember their names. Do not hesitate on telling me facts as that is what I want. I wish you a speedy recovery and if you are in Tulsa Okla, would welcome you as our house guest anytime.

Hoping to hear from you soon. I remain one of the boys mother.

Mrs R. E. Richey
816 N. Florence Place
Tulsa, Oklahoma.

U.S.S. INDIANAPOLIS (CA35)
Survivor Group

30 August 1945.

Mrs R. E. Richey
816 N. Florence Place
Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Dear Mrs Richey.

I have received your letter inquiring about your son Earl R. Johnston, BM2c. It is with regret that I have to tell you that he is not among the survivors and is listed as missing in action. I can not hold out much hope as I feel sure he went down with his ship. His shipmates and I share with you your grief and sorrow.

If any additional information is obtained by the Navy Department I am sure that it will be passed on to you at once by that department.

Very Sincerely Yours,

CHAS. B. McVAY, III.
Captain, U.S. Navy