We pay tribute to one of the many ships on the east coast who’s journey ended far too soon. On February 11th, 1983, the S.S. Marine Electric was on route to the Brayton Point Power Plant in Somerset MA traveling from Norfolk Virginia. It’s mission was to brave the treacherous Atlantic waters and deliver necessary coal to the power plant. On their journey, a terrible storm took over the ship and caused the vessel to take on water. After the crew sent out a distress signal, the ship suddenly capsized and forced them into 29 degree water. Unfortunately thirty-one of the thirty-four crewmembers did not survive, leaving investigators to look into how this tragedy could have been prevented. It was later discovered that the S.S. Marine Electric was poorly maintained throughout the years and, though a devastation, led to reform in it’s wake. Since then, higher inspection standards have been instilled along with the development of the Coast Guard rescue swimmers team. Though nothing could replace the brave individuals who lost their lives, as a community we can honor their memory by respecting safety protocols along with the ocean itself.
William Mulberry
