Here’s what the US Navy learned about shark attacks during World War II

World War II was the first time humans fought over warm, tropical waters where sharks reside. Many feared that if their ship sank or their plane went down, they would be at the mercy of the sharks.

To help ease the fear, the US Navy funded research to develop a shark repellent. One man, Stewart Springer, commented on the irony of it all:

"It was OK to give one's life for one's country, but to get eaten for it was another matter." 

We spoke with Mary Roach about this incredible story and learned whether the shark repellent the Navy came up with worked. You can read more fascinating stories about humans at war in Roach's new book, "Grunt: The Curious Science of Humans at War."

 Produced by Delano Samuels and Jessica Orwig

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