From Jaws to Justice: How a Middle School Student Exonerated the USS Indianapolis Captain

In this powerful episode of The Ready Room Podcast, host Ryan Keys speaks with Commander Hunter Scott, USN, whose childhood curiosity evolved into a national campaign that reshaped naval history. At just 12 years old, Scott launched a school project investigating the tragic sinking of the USS Indianapolis, the Navy’s worst sea disaster, and the controversial court-martial of its captain, Charles McVay. Motivated by a brief mention in the film Jaws, Scott’s research turned into a years-long quest for justice. He gathered survivor testimony, navigated political resistance, and ultimately influenced Congress to pass a resolution exonerating McVay. His advocacy also resulted in the awarding of a Naval Unit Commendation to the ship’s final crew. Now a seasoned naval aviator and executive officer, Scott reflects on how his pursuit of truth not only honored forgotten heroes but also shaped his own leadership philosophy and naval career. His story is a testament to the impact one determined individual can have on military legacy and institutional change. What You’ll Learn: How a sixth-grade project inspired by the movie Jaws uncovered a major injustice in naval history The true account of the USS Indianapolis: its top-secret mission, sinking, and the court-martial of its captain How personal persistence and public advocacy led to congressional action The importance of mentorship and leadership in building confidence and purpose Why building networks of “dream builders” is essential for long-term impact How a passion for history transformed into a career in military service The role of storytelling and testimony in preserving and correcting historical memory What Scott’s journey teaches about resilience, service, and leading with integrity Commander Hunter Scott is more than a naval aviator, he’s living proof that curiosity, courage, and conviction can make history. Long before he ever set foot in a cockpit, Scott demonstrated the kind of leadership the Navy prizes most: the moral courage to ask difficult questions and the determination to pursue truth, even when it’s uncomfortable. That mindset has stayed with him throughout his 18-year career in uniform. Today, Scott serves as Executive Officer at the consolidated brig at MCAS Miramar, where his role centers not just on enforcing standards, but on guiding people through accountability and transformation. His experience as both a leader and a listener allows him to approach military service with a unique blend of discipline and empathy. What sets Scott apart isn’t just what he accomplished as a student, it’s how he continues to lead with integrity, invest in people, and use his platform to inspire a new generation of service members to act with purpose and principle. Whether in the air, at the podium, or behind the scenes, his career reminds us that leadership begins the moment you decide to speak up for what’s right. If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube Podcasts. Instructions on how to do so are here . Highlights and YouTube Chapters: [00:00] Intro: A Middle School Project That Changed Naval History [02:06] From Jaws to Justice: The USS Indianapolis Story Begins [08:35] Persistence Through Research: Finding the First Survivor [15:20] The Untold Story of the USS Indianapolis Sinking [27:00] Building Networks of "Dream Builders" for Change [34:50] Navigating Legislative Challenges and Senate Hearings [45:43] Victory: Congressional Exoneration and Recognition [48:19] From Advocacy to Service: Choosing Naval Aviation [58:11] Leadership Lessons: Investing in People and Building Teams [01:07:16] Final Thoughts: The Power of Military Service and Making a Difference Episode Resources: US Navy Website Ryan Keys on LinkedIn Naval Aviation Museum Foundation Website The Naval Aviation Ready Room Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so