2025 House Resolution 213

Whereas, November 10, 2025, marks the 50th anniversary of the tragic sinking of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald, which occurred on Lake Superior, claiming the lives of all twenty-nine crew members aboard; and

Whereas, The SS Edmund Fitzgerald, a 729-foot Great Lakes freighter, was one of the largest and most famous vessels of its time, and its sinking remains one of the most enduring maritime tragedies in the history of the Great Lakes; and

Whereas, The crew members aboard the Edmund Fitzgerald—Captain Ernest M. McSorley, First Mate Michael J. Armagost, and the remaining twenty-seven men—gave their lives in service to the Great Lakes maritime industry, leaving a legacy of courage, professionalism, and commitment; and

Whereas, The loss of the Edmund Fitzgerald has profoundly impacted the families, friends, and communities of the crew members, as well as the entire maritime industry and the people of the Great Lakes region; and

Whereas, The sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald on that fateful night, during a fierce storm, highlighted the dangers faced by those who work on the Great Lakes and the need for continued advancements in safety measures, weather forecasting, and maritime technology; and

Whereas, The memory of the Edmund Fitzgerald and its crew lives on through the dedication of institutions like the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum at Whitefish Point, which serves as a site of remembrance and education; and

Whereas, The song “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald,” written and performed by Gordon Lightfoot, has become an iconic tribute to the tragedy, immortalizing the lives lost and ensuring that future generations remember the significance of the event; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body commemorate the 50th anniversary of the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald. We honor the memory of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald and its twenty-nine crew members on the 50th anniversary of its sinking by recognizing the sacrifice, courage, and indomitable spirit of those who perished; and be it further

Resolved, That we encourage all citizens, organizations, and institutions, particularly those in the Great Lakes region, to observe this solemn anniversary through acts of remembrance, education, and reflection, ensuring that the story of the Edmund Fitzgerald continues to be told for generations to come; and be it further

Resolved, That this resolution be widely distributed and read aloud at ceremonies, gatherings, and events dedicated to the remembrance of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald, and that a permanent record of this resolution be kept as a tribute to the enduring legacy of the vessel and its crew.