INFLECTION POINT: The Tragedy of SS Marine Electric

[D.J.J. Ring, Jr.]

The sinking of the SS Marine Electric on

February 12, 1983, was a tragic event that led to significant maritime safety reforms. The bulk carrier went down approximately 30 miles off the coast of Virginia, claiming the lives of 31 of its 34 crew members. The primary cause of death was hypothermia, as the crew spent approximately 90 minutes in the frigid Atlantic waters before rescue. The incident prompted changes such as stricter inspection standards, mandatory survival suits for North Atlantic routes, and the establishment of the Coast Guard

rescue swimmer program.

INFLECTION POINT: The Tragedy of SS Marine Electric

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