Capt. Robert Heron Burton, R.N.

The Royal Navy's corvette, HMS Orpheus, commanded by Captain Robert Heron Burton was carrying supplies and troops when it struck the Manukau bar. The seas pounded the Orpheus mercilessly and only one small boat managed to get away. As the ship sank, the men climbed into the rigging. Unfortunately neither the signal station nor the crew of a nearby steamer realised what was happening. Rescuers arrived too late to prevent a catastrophe which was to result in the death of 189 of the 259 aboard, including Captain Burton.