In Harm’s Way is the story of the sinking of the USS Indianapolis in the Pacific Ocean during World War II. The author of the book details life on the submarine, WWII, and the multiple identities one simultaneously holds while serving in the military (e.g., parent, spouse, sibling, friend). The most compelling aspect of the book is the description of the submarine sinking; from the initial torpedo strike, to the inspiring and tragic fight for survival in the shark-infested waters, the book highlights the various ways humans respond to tragedy and crisis. For those that survived and were rescued, this experience remained with them for a lifetime. For some, the unbelievable ordeal served as an inspiration for a new lease on life, whereas others were haunted for years by what they witnessed.

This book assists counselors in their professional development because counselors might be working with those currently serving in the military, including those who have returned from war and areas of conflict. It is the responsibility of counselors to educate themselves’ about military life, including the challenges associated with such commitments. However, counselors must ensure that generalizations are not made about experiences; each client’s military service is unique and personal to that individual. Counselors can take their clients’ lead in the pace in which they share their stories, listen empathically, develop rapport, advocate for their client and provide therapeutic support. Counselors may not know the lived experience of military life, but they can cultivate a safe space for those with military service to express their feelings and reflect upon their experiences. By facilitating opportunities for self-exploration and healing, counselors can positively impact those who survive tremendously challenging situations, like those that survived the sinking of the USS Indianapolis.