In this episode of the Crux True Survival Story Podcast, hosts Julie Henningsen and Kaycee McIntosh delve into the remarkable WWII-era survival story of 8-year-old Ray Downs and his family. On May 19, 1942, aboard the merchant ship Heredia, the Downs family’s voyage from South America to New Orleans takes a devastating turn when their ship is struck by torpedoes from a German U-boat. The episode recounts young Ray’s vivid memories of the terrifying moments following the attack, the incredible ordeal the family faced floating for 18 hours at sea, and the miraculous series of events leading to the rescue and reunion of the entire family. By the end of their harrowing tale, listeners will be amazed by the resilience and ingenuity displayed by Ray and his family in the face of overwhelming odds.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:15 Setting the Scene: World War II Era

00:55 The Downs Family Background

01:53 Voyage on the Heredia

04:30 The Night of the Attack

09:10 Chaos and Survival

14:11 Adrift in the Open Ocean

14:47 A Father's Ingenious Distraction

16:55 A Miraculous Rescue

18:56 Reunion Against All Odds

23:20 Life After the Ordeal

26:38 Closing Remarks and Listener Engagement

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