The Extraordinary Life of Fifth Officer Harold Lowe: From Titanic Survivor to World War I Hero

Harold Godfrey Lowe (21 November 1882 – 12 May 1944) was the Fifth Officer on board the RMS Titanic during its fateful voyage in 1912. Despite his relatively low rank, Lowe played a pivotal role in the ship's evacuation and rescue efforts. His bravery and resourcefulness saved countless lives, earning him the admiration of survivors and the respect of his fellow crew members.

Titanic Valour: The Life of Fifth Officer Harold Lowe

by Inger Sheil

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3351 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	207 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Early Life and Career

Harold Lowe was born in Llanrhos, Caernarfonshire, Wales, to David Lowe, a ship's carpenter, and Elizabeth Jane Roberts. He had a passion for the sea from a young age and began his maritime career as an apprentice on a sailing ship. After gaining experience on several vessels, Lowe joined the White Star Line in 1906 and served on various cargo and passenger ships before being assigned to the Titanic in 1912.

The Titanic Disaster

On the night of April 14, 1912, the Titanic struck an iceberg and began to sink. Lowe was on the bridge at the time of the collision and immediately took action. He assisted in lowering lifeboats and ensuring that women and children were evacuated first. Lowe himself took command of Lifeboat 14, which became known as the "Miracle Boat" due to its successful rescue of 53 people.

As the Titanic continued to sink, Lowe skillfully maneuvered Lifeboat 14 away from the suction and debris. He spent several hours searching for survivors in the icy waters and eventually rescued five additional people from the water. Lowe's actions that night earned him widespread praise and recognition. He was awarded the Silver Medal of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and the United States Congressional Gold Medal.

World War I Service

After the Titanic disaster, Lowe continued his maritime career. When World War I broke out in 1914, he joined the Royal Navy Reserve and served as a lieutenant on various ships. He patrolled the English Channel and participated in the evacuation of Gallipoli. Lowe's bravery and leadership skills were once again evident during the war. He was mentioned in dispatches and awarded the Distinguished Service Cross (DSC) for his actions.

Later Life and Legacy

After the war, Lowe returned to civilian life and worked for several shipping companies. He eventually retired from the sea in 1936 and settled in Deganwy, Wales. Lowe's experiences on the Titanic and in World War I had a profound impact on his life. He became an advocate for maritime safety and promoted the use of lifeboats and other emergency equipment.

Harold Lowe passed away in 1944 at the age of 61. He was survived by his wife, Florence, and three children. Lowe's legacy continues to inspire seafarers and rescue workers around the world. His bravery, resourcefulness, and dedication to saving lives are a testament to the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Harold Lowe: A Hero Remembered

Harold Lowe's heroic actions on the night of the Titanic disaster and his subsequent service during World War I earned him a place in history as a true hero. His legacy continues to inspire seafarers and rescue workers around the world. Lowe's story reminds us of the importance of courage, dedication, and the indomitable human spirit in the face of adversity.

Titanic Valour: The Life of Fifth Officer Harold Lowe

by Inger Sheil

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3351 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	207 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE