The October 1972 issue of Sealift, in an article titled "Courage Wins High Honors," describes an incident relevant to the distinguished sea career of Ill. Donald P. Garrido, 33°, Grand Cross. The magazine notes that Meritorious Civilian Service Awards were presented by Rear Admiral J. M. Will to the Master and 20 crewmembers that participated in the USNS General C. H. Muir's rescue of 119 persons from the SS Tripolitania, an Italian passenger vessel, on February 15, 1953. During a winter gale in the Mediterranean, the Muir went to the aid of the storm-battered ship, which had a hole in her hull in the area of the engine room. The Muir's lifeboats made four trips in daylight and one in darkness to transfer the survivors, their hand baggage, and a pet dog. All onboard were rescued without injury and taken to Augusta, Sicily. The award cited "the teamwork, loyalty, devotion to the sea, and well-oriented training of the officers and crew."

Captain Garrido, USNR, was one of the 20 crewmembers receiving the Meritorious Civilian Service Award noted above. He was the 2nd Officer aboard the Muir and commanded Lifeboat No. 2 during this daring sea rescue. Congratulations, Ill. Garrido! You are a true Masonic hero!