Lawrence, Harold Ernest Thomas

He received a Master's degree from the University of Ottawa before retiring from the Navy in 1965.

He was the author of several Canadian naval histories after his retirement.

He was appointed as a Midshipman (Temp.) RCNVR (With seniority dated 08/09/1939).

He served in HMCS Stadacona.

He served in HMCS Andree Dupree.

He served in HMCS Ulna.

He served in HMCS Citadel.

He was appointed as an A/Sub-Lieutenant (Temp.) RCNVR.

He served in HMS Alaunia (armed merchant cruiser).

He was appointed as a Sub-Lieutenant (Temp.) RCNVR.

He served in HMCS Moosejaw.

He served in HMCS Kings (Officer's Training Establishment) for Long Navigation Course 1942.

He was appointed as a Lieutenant (Temp.) RCNVR (With seniority dated 17/08/1942).

He served in HMCS Oakville as Executive Officer 1942.

He served in HMCS Sioux as Gunnery Officer. (Transferred to RCN) 1945.

He was appointed as a Lieutenant RCN (With seniority dated 30/04/1945).

He served in H.M.S. Excellent for RN Long Gunnery Course 1946.

He served in HMCS Crescent as Gunnery Officer 1947.

He was appointed as a Lieutenant-Commander RCN (With seniority dated 17/08/1950).

He served in HMCS Portage (In command) 1955.

He served in HMCS Naden on Staff of Flag Officer Pacific Coast as Staff Officer (Gunnery) 1956.

He served in HMCS Bytown on staff of Director Naval Operational Requirements, NDHQ. (He was retired 17/08/1965.) (He was qualified with a Watchkeeping Certificate.)

He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for leading HMCS Oakville's boarding party onto the sinking U-94 during the battle of convoy TAW-15. "Lieutenant Lawrence was in charge of a boarding party of two which attempted to prevent the scuttling of a U-boat. With complete disregard for his own safety, the Officer, accompanied by a Petty Officer, boarded the U-boat and, having subdued the enemy crew, he took action in an endeavor to prevent the scuttling of the U-boat, notwithstanding the fact that it was then sinking. His spirited and determined conduct was worthy of the highest traditions of the Royal Canadian Navy."