Department-Level Exercise (DLE) Series

Through this series, the Department of the Air Force is preparing to be a stronger, more lethal deterrent force, to provide an advantage against competitors and adversaries across all domains, and to ensure regional stability in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

The DLE series will incorporate multiple command exercises into one overall threat deterrence scenario, including Resolute Force Pacific (REFORPAC), Resolute Space, Mobility Guardian, Emerald Warrior and Bamboo Eagle 25-3.

It will also integrate multiple allies and partners in specific component exercises with shared interests. Partner integration is critical to U.S. efforts to ensure regional and global peace and stability and provides a decisive advantage against complex threats.

Harold Bray: The Last Survivor from the USS Indianapolis (CA 35)

Naval History and Heritage Command

Video by Rachel Rakoff

June 12, 2026 | 3:16

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On June 13, 2026, the last living survivor of the sinking of the cruiser USS Indianapolis (CA 35), Harold Bray, turned 99 years old. A Japanese submarine torpedoed the ship shortly after midnight on July 29, 1945. Indianapolis sank in just 12 minutes, leaving approximately 900 sailors, including the 18-year-old Bray, stranded in the water. Five days later, US Navy ships finally rescued Bray and his shipmates, only 316 of whom survived the harrowing ordeal.

After Bray left the Navy, he moved to Benicia, California, where he has lived with his family for more than seven decades. He has spoken about his ordeal numerous times and has become a well-known fixture in his community.

The Naval History and Heritage Command wishes Harold Bray a Happy Birthday and thanks him for his service! More