We all know about the sinking of the Titanic. But I just learend about Captain Arthur Rostron of the Carpathia. His decisive leadership unquestionably saved hundreds of lives. The Carpathia rescued 705 survivors of the Titanic.
Rostron immediately diverted after the Carpathia received the distress signal, ordering heat and hot water shut off to provide more steam. The ship did 17.5 knots (3.5 times its rated speed) at night through perilous ice fields with extra watch looking for icebergs and reached the lifeboats in three and a half hours. On his orders, the decks of the Carpathia were filled with food, water, blankets, and medical supplies for the survivors.