On 12 August 1980, Douglas Kilpatrick, of Norland, Ontario, was Second Engineer of the M.V. Ralph Misener and had just entered the engine-room in response to an alarm when an explosion rocked the ship. Fires broke out and spread rapidly. Oblivious of his injuries, Mr. Kilpatrick resolutely made his way to the control room, started the fire pump and within seconds reported the situation by phone. Then he returned to the engine-room to help fight the fire, well aware by then that he too had sustained burns. His exemplary conduct contributed considerably to restoring safety aboard. He recovered in hospital.