In Loving Memory

On July 10, 1966, the RMS Queen Mary was making her way across the north Atlantic Ocean when she encountered fog. It was standard protocol for the Bridge to close all watertight doors as a safety precaution. About 7 seconds before all doors closed, a warning bell would ring to notify any person who may be near the door.

If a crew member found themselves on the "wrong" side of the door, there was a hydraulic hand lever that the person could pull to open the door manually. However, once the lever was released, the door would begin to close again. It was very important for the individual opening the door, to make sure that the door was fully cranked open, before trying to pass through it.

Sadly, for Fireman "J," he did not open the door wide enough, before attempting to pass through it, and tragically lost his life in an area of the Aft Engine Room known as Shaft Alley.

There have been many rumors about this young man (whose full name I will not say, out of respect for his family). These rumors include that he was playing a game of chicken, jumping back and forth through the door, as well as the fact that he may have even been murdered. These rumors are just that...rumors. I have been doing extensive research in preparation for the publication of my book, which deals with the engine and boiler room personnel of steamships, including the Queen Mary. Through my research, I have interviewed several different engineers and firemen who all worked on the Queen Mary at the same time as "J." All of them provided me the same information. There were no games of chicken, no foul play.

With that, I pay my utmost respect, honor and love to this young man. May he rest in peace, and in love.