The Guy With Time: The RMS Titanic Disaster

On the fateful night of April 14, 1912, the RMS Titanic, billed as the "unsinkable" ship, embarked on its maiden voyage from Southampton, England, bound for New York City. Among its 2,224 passengers and crew was a young wireless operator named John George "Jack" Phillips. Little did anyone know that Phillips would play a crucial role in the events that would unfold, becoming known as "The Guy With Time" in the aftermath of the tragedy.

Phillips' Early Life and Career

John George Phillips was born on April 11, 1887, in Godalming, Surrey, England. From a young age, he was fascinated by electricity and communication. At the age of 16, he joined the Marconi Wireless Telegraph Company and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a skilled wireless operator.

The Guy With Time The RMS Titanic BOOK 3: Time Machine Series

by Marilyn Migiel

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
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In 1911, Phillips was assigned to the RMS Titanic as the ship's senior wireless operator. He was responsible for maintaining communication between the Titanic and other vessels, as well as relaying messages to and from passengers and crew.

Iceberg Warnings and Distress Calls

As the Titanic sailed into the North Atlantic, Phillips and his fellow wireless operator, Harold Bride, received a series of iceberg warnings from other ships. However, some of these messages were dismissed or ignored due to the Titanic's reputation as an unsinkable vessel.

At 11:40 PM on April 14, Phillips received a specific warning from the SS Californian, which had stopped nearby due to heavy ice. The Californian reported its position and advised the Titanic to alter its course.

Phillips relayed the message to the Titanic's bridge, but it was not immediately acted upon. About 30 minutes later, the Titanic struck an iceberg, tearing a massive gash in its hull.

As the Titanic began to sink, Phillips and Bride sent out distress calls, famously using the newly adopted SOS signal. They worked tirelessly to relay messages and coordinate rescue efforts.

The Guy With Time

Phillips' nickname, "The Guy With Time," originated from a message he sent to the White Star Line's headquarters in New York City. In the message, Phillips provided a detailed account of the Titanic's sinking and its coordinates. He also included a chilling phrase: "Have saved women and children in boats, no time to save men."

This phrase captured the tragic reality of the situation. While women and children were given priority in the lifeboats, many men, including Phillips, remained on board.

Tragic End

As the Titanic's stern rose high into the air, Phillips and Bride continued to send distress signals until the very end. They were last seen in the wireless room, still sending messages even as the ship went down.

Sadly, both Phillips and Bride perished in the sinking. Their bodies were never recovered.

Legacy

John George Phillips' legacy lives on as a symbol of heroism and sacrifice. "The Guy With Time" risked his own life to save others, providing vital information that helped coordinate rescue efforts.

In his honor, the Marconi Company established the Phillips Memorial Lamp, a prestigious award given to wireless operators who have demonstrated exceptional skill and devotion to duty.

The story of the RMS Titanic and "The Guy With Time" continues to captivate people around the world, reminding us of the importance of communication, sacrifice, and the indomitable human spirit.

Additional Information

Full Name:

John George Phillips

Birthdate:

April 11, 1887

Birthplace:

Godalming, Surrey, England

Occupation:

Wireless operator

Ship:

RMS Titanic

Date of Death:

April 15, 1912

Cause of Death:

Drowning

Nickname:

"The Guy With Time"

Memorial:

Phillips Memorial Lamp

Image Descriptions

The Guy With Time The RMS Titanic BOOK 3: Time Machine Series

by Marilyn Migiel

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3240 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	46 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE