Bowman, Charles Edward, TC1c
311 34 19

7000 Milton St
Det-5-Mich
August 25, 1945

Capt. Charles B. McVay III

Dear Sir:

I'm appealing for any information you'd be able to give me about my brother, that was abroad[sic] the Indianapolis that went down. On Aug 14th we received a telegram saying he's missing in Action. His name is Charles Edward Bowman he's a turret Capt & was to get Chief Petty rating Aug 1st. Maybe you know him or know if he's safe or even a word from you of encouragement will surely help us till we hear something more.

If you'll answer back I'll sure be thankful to you.

Again I'll thank you if you'll be so kind as to answer and tell me if you know him or any information you could give

I keep praying that there'll be more of the boys safe

Thank You
Nita Bowman
7003 Milton St
Det-5-Mich

Brother's name Charles Ed. Bowman
Turrett Capt.

Pers - 8240-LK

October 30, 1945

My Dear Mrs. Bowman,

Your letter of August 25th concerning your brother, Charles Edward Bowman, Turret Captain first class, U. S. Navy, has just reached me here in the Bureau of Naval Personnel, where I have been on temporary duty since my return from Guam the middle of last month.

I regret I can add nothing to my letter of September 24th which I trust reached you after your letter to me was written.

It is difficult I know for you to understand why we can not furnish more information. However, when it is realized that the ship sank in the middle of the night in a very short time and that no records whatsoever were saved that may explain our difficulty in piecing together a coherent story.

May I again express my heartfelt sympathy.

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

Mrs. Nita Bowman
7003 Milton St.
Detroit 5, Michigan