Red Bulb

The HMCS Haida, now a tourist attraction, stands as the last surviving Canadian Tribal-class destroyer from WWII, proudly anchored in Hamilton, Ontario's harbour.

These remarkable vessels were pivotal in safeguarding convoys across the Atlantic, which were crucial to Britain’s survival during its fight against Nazi Germany. As you tour one of these ships, it’s awe-inspiring to think about how they withstood the perilous conditions of the stormy Atlantic, especially during those brutal winter gales.

These warships are packed with photo opportunities thanks to their military gear, but the challenge is capturing the essence of their story in a single shot.

In this case, I chose to focus on a solitary red light. Red signifies danger, and what better way to evoke the constant peril faced by the ship's crew during the Battle of the Atlantic? This lone red bulb, there were many throughout the ship, stands as a poignant reminder of the ever-present threat. Imagine the fear that must have gripped a crew member racing down a cold, gray steel corridor, illuminated only by the red glow of these flashing bulbs, with the klaxon’s deafening wail echoing off the ship's steel walls.

This simple red light encapsulates the relentless danger that these vessels and their crews faced during their service.