Titanic Forum | TDTSC

Good evening. I'm researching the career of my great uncle, James Holland Walker who was 3rd officer on the Ionic and Baltic in 1927 and 1929 when he was decorated for gallantry during two rescues at sea. Can anyone tell me where I could find the White Star crew records? Many thanks.

Hi. I can't remember any details right now, but I believe I am aware of James Holland Walker who I think was in charge of the lifeboat aboard Baltic used to rescue the crew of a schooner called Northern Light in 1929. You may know, I believe there is audio/video footage of him describing the event and possibly even some showing the rescue.

I'm not too sure where you can find crew records of use. Possibly the archives of the University of Liverpool may have something?

Hi, yes you're quite right about the film of one of his rescues. I have a copy of it and it's wonderful to see him and hear his voice after all these years! He was 3rd officer on the Baltic and in charge of the boat that was launched to save the crew of a foundering schooner, the Northern Lights. He was decorated for this rescue in 1929 and also for an earlier one in 1927. I'm trying to track down his medals which were sold at auction in 2008. I'm also trying to get some detail of his career at sea which is a bit sketchy on this side of the family. I have been in touch with the University of Liverpool but it's not looking too hopeful. Thanks for your interest and advice.

And it's great to see and hear him after all these years! I have a copy of it. The Northern Lights, a ship that was sinking, had him as its third officer on the Baltic. He was in charge of the boat that was sent to save its crew. He was given an award for this saving in 1929 and another one in 1927. I want to find his medals that were sold at a sale in 2008. I'm also trying to find out more about his work at sea, which isn't very clear on this side of the family.
@escape road

You can start with the National Museums Liverpool, which holds documents, letters, and awards related to his heroic rescues in 1927 and 1929. Online resources like the Encyclopedia Titanica forum and GG Archives offer crew lists and passenger records that may include his service details. Discussions on the Titanic Forum can provide guidance on accessing White Star Line archives. There’s also a Fox Movietone News story from 1929 featuring Walker during the rescue, offering valuable visual context. These resources together can give a thorough view of his maritime career.