How do I go about finding offical 1945 navy pictures of a family member lost at sea?

Question

From the USS Indianapolis...

Answer 1

First, what makes you think there is an official picture?

I would submit a Freedom of Information Act Request to the Department of the Navy.  Be very specific as to who you are looking for, the dates involved and the duty station.  Also, be sure to specify the fact you want any official photographs.

They have the right to charge you for things like making copies and for the time used to search if it's extensive (in this case I don't think it will be an extensive search).

Your congressman, through his/her local office, can assist you  in filing the request in the proper format.  By law you must get an answer within 30 days, however, they are allowed to simply respond that your request has been received and is being processed.

Best of luck.