He was re-commissioned in World War II, serving as the commander of a naval ammunition depot on Iona Island in New York.

He commanded the Lake Denmark Powder Depot, and was in charge when lightning struck the location, causing a large explosion of millions of dollars' worth of ammunition.

As Governor, he discriminated against the Samoan people, believing they had little ability to plan or administer, and were generally lazy.

[1] He shut down some local occupational training facilities, and outlawed the sale of alcohol to men under 18, and to all women.

Governor Dowling denied a resolution from the Eastern District that sought to establish a legislative assembly known as the Fono.

"[1] Dowling viewed the slow adoption of the English language after thirty-five years of occupation to be troublesome.