Ship's Log: The Marine Electric - The Shipwreck That Changed the Coast Guard
The Marine Electric sank during a storm in 1983, killing 31 of 34 on board.
This episode was originally published in August of 2024.
The bulk carrier SS Marine Electric went down on February 12th, 1983, 30 miles off the coast of Virginia during a severe winter storm. The World War 2 era ship had been been deteriorating for years and suffered from rust, corrosion, failed pumps, and faulty safety features that the ship's owners, Marine Transport Lines had neglected to repair. Only 3 out of 34 crewmembers survived the wreck. Many Coast Guard reforms were developed as a result of this tragedy, including the formation of the US Coast Guard rescue swimmer program.
Written, edited, and produced by Rich Napolitano. All episodes can be found at https://www.shipwrecksandseadogs.com. Original theme music by Sean Sigfried. Listen AD-FREE by becoming an Officer's Club Member ! Join at https://www.patreon.com/shipwreckspod
Shipwrecks and Sea Dogs Merchandise is available! https://shop.shipwrecksandseadogs.com
You can support the podcast with a donation of any amount at: https://buymeacoffee.com/shipwreckspod
Join the Into History Network for ad-free access to this and many other fantastic history podcasts! https://www.intohistory.com/shipwreckspod
Follow Shipwrecks and Sea Dogs
- Subscribe on YouTube
- Follow on BlueSky
- Follow on Threads
- Follow on Instagram
- Follow on Facebook
- Follow on TikTok
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
