In Erik Larson's "Dead Wake: The Last Crossing of the Lusitania," a haunting image emerges of seagulls preying on both the deceased and the living during a tragic disaster. Witnessing these birds dive towards the ocean, Turner recounted the horrific scene where they targeted the eyes of bodies drifting in the water. The presence of gulls became a grim indicator for rescuers, signaling the location of victims in the aftermath of the catastrophe.

This traumatic experience profoundly affected Turner, instilling in him a lasting aversion to seagulls. His son, Norman, shared that Turner harbored such animosity that he resorted to carrying a rifle, aiming to eliminate as many seagulls as possible, a habit he maintained until his retirement. This reflects how intense experiences can shape our perceptions and reactions long after the events have passed.