Volume 62, Number 7 July 2000

SIU members recently welcomed new job opportunities aboard the Military Sealift Command's latest vessel, the USNS Charlton (top photo). The prepositioning ship was delivered in SIU Active in May. Pictured above are some of the Seafarers composing the Charlton's first full crew. Page 3. Maritime Day Remembrances New SIU Hall Opens In Baltimore

Construction of the union's new hall in Baltimore was ongoing when this photo was snapped in mid-June, but the facility remained on schedule for a July 1 opening. Page 3. STCW 'In Plain English' ------Page 6 Crews React to SL-7 Pact ______Page7 President's Report Former MSC Commander Progress In Y2K As we enter the second half of the year 2000, it already has Urges New Maritime Policy been a fantastic year for the SIU. Consider what we've accomplished during Adm. Perkins Cites Merchant Marine's the past six months. New jobs on preposition­ ing ships, car carriers, tankers and passenger Essential Role in U.S. National Defense vessels-with many more on the horizon. The Editors note: U.S. Navy Vice and noble sacrifice. Merchant ~ · opening of new SIU halls in Guam and Admiral James B. Perkins, for­ mariners have served in all of Baltimore. Excellent new contracts for the mer head of the Military Sealift America's wars, enduring their fast sealift and Ready Reserve Force vessels, Command (MSC), stated last finest, but most tragic hour during Michael Sacco the latter of which should come to fruition month that the nation must take World War II with a per capita immediate steps to ensure the sur­ casualty rate second only to the soon. vival and growth of the American Marines. There is very good rea­ At the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Merchant Marine. son why the U.S. Merchant Education, new simulators are being installed. They are the Perkins released a paper Marine is called "the vital fourth best of their kind, and will provide new and experienced titled, "Game, Set, Match: The arm of national defense." U.S. Merchant Marine and What if our Merchant Marine Seafarers alike the opportunity to fine-tune their trade. National Defense." In it, he weren't there? The answer is Additionally, members continue to express their strong emphasizes the U.S. Merchant more important than ever, and as endorsement of the historic merger of the National Maritime Marines crucial role in national former Commander of the Navy's Union into the SIU. There is no doubt the merger will benefit security. He also urges continued Military Sealift Command, I saw support for the Maritime Security it every day, up close, and person­ both unions, and I appreciate the overwhelming support you Program and cargo preference al: The U.S. Merchant Marine is have given. laws, plus various tax incentives, absolutely vital to sustain U.S. U.S. Navy Vice Adm. James B. All of these developments begin with you, the rank-and-file among other steps. troops overseas. Perkins, who headed the Military Perkins retired in February Today, many merchant mari­ Sealift Command for two years, member. The pride you take in your work, and the safe, profes­ 1999 after a two-year stint as ners are on duty crewing over 100 says the nation cannot do without sional way you go about your job, bring consistently positive commander ofMSC. auxiliary vessels for the Navy, a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. feedback about SIU members from all segments of the indus­ Here is his report from last while others stand by for the day in by the unlevel playing field of try. month. when they will be called forward international competition. The first Independence Day of to support military operations As a result, our merchant fleet In fact, everywhere I go to represent the SIU, I am heart­ the new millennium is a good abroad. And they most assuredly ened by what others say about our members. is shrinking rapidly, down more time to remember how much this will be. But the real question is: than half since 1981 and facing But, like a sports team that's riding an impressive winning country's freedom depends on the Will the U.S. commercial fleet extinction in international ship­ streak, we can't afford to let down or coast. Because the chal­ U.S. Merchant Marine. One major and manpower be there in suffi­ ping trades. The oceangoing fleet reason: In times of war or interna­ cient numbers when the call lenges and the competition do not end. now numbers only 203 ships with tional crises, 95 percent of the comes? My crystal ball is a bit military utility-including 114 Our industry is heavily regulated by the government, and so weapons, supplies and equipment cloudy. cargo ships, 86 tankers and one we depend on electing representatives who understand the U.S. needed by our forces overseas are In recent years, no economic passenger vessel. fleet's vital role in national security. So much of our liveli­ carried by ships-usually over sector has ebbed so dramatically Meanwhile, the great Ameri­ thousands of miles of ocean. as the U.S. maritime industry. It hoods are tied to politics. can economic powerhouse booms To accomplish this mission, wasn't always so. In 1945, two­ to the point where the world That's why we all must participate in the upcoming elec­ the military uses privately owned thirds of the world's merchant catches pneumonia if the U.S. tions. We must throw all of our support behind the candidates commercial vessels, flying the ships flew the U.S. flag. These sneezes. This country now gener­ who will work to ensure a strong, viable U.S. merchant United States flag, and the U.S. vessels not only fulfilled crucial ates an astounding 25-30 percent Merchant Marine to supplement wartime missions, but dominated marine. As we prepare to elect a new president, a new of all international commerce, but its own transportation assets. the sea-lanes of international less than 3 percent arrives on or Congress and a third of the Senate, I urge you to be involved. And it's been this way for a commerce for decades afterward. leaves our shores aboard U.S.­ This also is an election year for the SIU. Once again, it's long time. The history of the mer­ Those days are over. Except in flag ships. chant marine in military service is a few niche markets, the U.S.-flag important to participate. Every vote counts, so don't sit back characterized by high heroism Merchant Marine has been done Continued on page 5 and let others choose the leadership of your union. Get the facts, make an informed decision and cast your ballot. The more members get involved, the stronger the SIU will be. Another Take on FOC Cruise Ships: As for gaining even more shipboard jobs for the future, our union prides itself on providing the best-trained mariners in the LA Times Bares 'Sweatshops at Sea' world- and so we rely on each Seafarer to work safe, work Runaway-flag cruise lines continue to take a do not complain because they're afraid they will be hard and upgrade whenever possible. The best ammunition the pounding in the U.S. commercial press. fired. SIU possesses when it comes to getting new jobs and keeping The latest piece exposing the conditions on run­ One said he suffered severe burns because he the ones we already have, is the reliable performance of away-flag cruise vessels (also called flag-of-conve­ didn't understand orders given to him in English. Seafarers throughout the industry. nience or FOC ships) appeared May 30 in the Los Along those lines, the.· writers point out that the lan­ Angeles Times and subsequently was reprinted in guage barrier potentially places passengers in The Paul Hall Center is the perfect tool to ensure that the several affiliated newspapers, including The Tampa harm's way. "Because companies recruit in many SIU never runs out of that ammunition. Please take advantage Tribune-Times. countries, plaintiffs' lawyers and U.S. transportation of it. · Written by Christopher Reynolds and Dan investigators question whether crew members can I am proud of the SIU's accomplishments so far this year Weikel, the 2,500-word article explores some of the communicate with crewmates and passengers, espe­ cially in emergencies," they noted. and, going back further~ throughout the 1990s. We have come difficult and often unsafe conditions faced by crews on FOC cruise ships-such as those operated by Those concerns have been borne out more than a long way. Miami-based Carnival Cruise Lines and Royal once in recent years, beginning with the much-pub­ With your continued support and good work, I know we're Caribbean. The authors cited crews who have sued licized Ecstasy fire in 1998. In fact, that accident headed for even better things in the months and years ahead. for millions of dollars in back wages; described touched off an unprecedented flurry of media cover­ questionable medical practices including one sce­ age about runaway-flag shipping that has included a nario in which a crew member lost a hand; and 60 Minutes report, at least two front-page stories in recalled the tragic tale of 31 mariners who died in The New York Times and numerous other press Uolume 62, Number 7 July 2000 accounts. 1998 when their vessel was ordered to sea "despite Runaway-flag ships (passenger and cargo vessels The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org an approaching hurricane." alike) are registered in a nation other than the one of The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published month­ They also interviewed crew members who assert­ ownership. Very often, they carry Third World, ly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Glllf: ed that many of them "plunge into debt" to secure multinational crews-some of dubious qualifica­ Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Au th jobs on the vessels. This often involves not only the tions. Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899- legitimate job-related expenses, but also illegal pay­ By using the runaway-flag scam, shipowners can 0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland ments to recruiters who otherwise may block an avoid paying taxes and hide from labor and envi­ 20790-9998 and at additional offices. POSTMASTER: individual's employment. ronmental laws. Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way Additionally, Reynolds and Weikel pointed out Camp Springs, MD 20746. that many of the crews "are recruited from some of Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Please be advised that SIU headquarters the world's poorest nations," and they face "a wage and an SIU hiring halls will be closed on ······ Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate Editor, Jim scale that often begins at less than $2 an hour." A Guthrie; Art, Bill Brower, Administrative Support, Jeanne Monday, August 21, 2000 for the ob~rvanee minister interviewed for the story described run­ Textor. of Paul Hell's birthday (unless ,. away-flag passenger ships as "sweatshops at sea" Copyright © 2000 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD an ema1gency.arises): Normal business·hot;;rs and "ocean-going maquiladoras." All Rights Reserved. will resume the following worl

USNS Charlton Strengthens Prepositioning Fleet • Length: 950 feet The U.S. Military Sealift as part of a government-mandat­ • Beam: 106 feet Command's newest prepositioning ed initiative to improve Ameri­ • Draft: 34 feet ship has been delivered, and with ca's sealift capability. Six con­ • Displacement: 62)644 it comes new jobs for the SIU. verted vessels round out that Seafarers are sailing aboard fleet, known as the strategic long tons the USNS Charlton, a 950-foot sealift program. • Speed: 24 knots roll-on/roll-off (RO/RO) vessel The next new ship due out is • Cargo space: 390,000 that is scheduled to receive its the USNS Watkins, probably in first assignment early this month. October. It also will be crewed by square feet Bosun T.C. Oneyear said on SIU members. June 21 that the crew is anxious Seafarers composing the initial Source: Military Sealift. Command to begin its next task. crew of the Charlton include "The ship seems to be very Bosun Oneyear, ABs Colbert, Chief Cook Claudia Kammeyer, soun~ but right now we have no Johnny Birdwell, Nathaniel SAs Tawnia Stucker and George indication where it's going," he Carr, Peri Drew, Michael Mayo Gauggel, and Storekeeper Kevin noted. "But no matter what, we '11 and Ferdinand Viniegra, OSs Wortman. be ready." Stephen Gallegos, Greg Baker The Charlton is operated by AB Laurentis Colbert said, and Isaac Diaz, Electrician Maersk Line Limited of Norfolk, "It's a huge ship and it's brand Timothy Pillsworth, QMEDs Va. and is named in memory of new. Overall, everything has been Alan Nelson and Steven U.S. Army Sergeant Cornelius H. fine so far." Campbell, OMUs Jeffrey Bukey, Charlton, a posthumous recipient Constructed at San Diego's Gualberto Salaria and Sergio of the Medal of Honor for his U.S. sealift capacity increased with the recent delivery of the SIU­ NASSCO shipyard, the Charlton Ayala, GUDE Ellis Clayborn, heroic actions during battle in crewed USNS Charlton in San Diego. is one of 14 new builds scheduled Chief Steward Christopher Hale, Korea in 1952. New Hall Opens in Baltimore Fallowing nominal delays in stop directly in front of the hall and construction last month, the said the close access will benefit How To Get There SIU's new hall in Baltimore was area members like him by provid­ scheduled to open July 1, after ing transportation options. "I'm The new Baltimore hall is this edition of the Seafarers LOG happy about that and I'm looking roughly a five-minute drive from went to press. It is located at 2315 forward to the move," he said. the old one on East Baltimore Essex Street. The Essex Street facility is a Street. Seafarers going to the .. It's going to be the most former art studio that has been new hall from East Baltimore beautiful hall in the SIU. I love completely refurbished inside Street can turn right on it," stated Chief Steward Jose and substantially modified out­ Patterson Park Avenue, then left Luaces shortly after seeing the side. It is located in Canton near on Eastern Avenue, right on near-finished product. "It's close Fell's Point, considered an attrac­ to the waterfront and it's in a tively burgeoning area. Montford and right on Essex. good neighborhood. It's going to The Washington Post, in a If going to the new hall from have everything we need. Every major story about Canton in its the inner harbor, take Pratt member should be proud of it." real estate section of June 10, Street, turn right on S. QMED Teddy Wallace and described the area as "Balti­ Broadway, left on Eastern Oiler Loring Callwood also wel­ more's hottest neighborhood Avenue, right on S. Chester comed the move from the old these days, the city's own exam­ Street, slightly left on Boston facility on East Baltimore Street, ple of gentrification in these where the hall had been located times of good housing markets Street, left on Leakin Street and since November 1954. across the country." right on Essex. "The SIU couldn't have In its heyday, the expansive picked a better location for the hall on East Baltimore Street was The new hall: new hall," observed Wallace. "] considered among the best of its 2315 Essex Street know the area well and J'm very kind. Before that building Baltimore, MD 21224 happy with the change." opened, the SIU's Baltimore hall (410) 327-4900 Callwood noted there is a bus was located on North Gay Street.

ships was successfully launched in Jacksonville, Fla. The Cape Columbia Queen Sails; May Light is on target to begin sailing in spring 2001. Additionally, United States Patriot Launches Dec. 9 This issue of the Seafarers LOG went to press more than a week Lines recently announced that the before the Baltimore hall's scheduled July 1 opening. The two photos The new SJU-crewed Colum­ Classic Voyages, the vessel is 218 deep sea cruise ship MS Patriot above, showing parts of the exterior and interior, were taken in mid­ bia Queen riverboat made its feet long and can carry up to 161 will debut Dec. 9 in the Hawaiian June while refurbishment of the Essex Street facility was ongoing. inaugural voyage last month fol­ passengers. It is scheduled to Islands. Formerly Holland Photos of the finished product will be printed in next month's LOG. lowing a June 3 christening in offer cruises in the Pacific America Line's Nieuw Portland, Ore. Northwest. Amsterdam, the Patriot Owned by The Delta Queen Also last month, the first hull 1,212 passengers. Steamboat Co., a New Orleans­ for American Classic Voyages' based subsidiary of American new fleet of coastal passenger

The Columbia Queen debuted last month in Portland, Ore. It will offer QMED Teddy Wallace (left) and Oiler Loring Callwood (right) both say cruises in the Pacific Northwest (right). the new hall is a positive move for the SIU.

July2000 Seafarers LOB 3 Indy Crew to the Rescue Seafare rs' Swift Reactions Save Lives SIU crew members aboard the SS Independence of June 5 some five miles south of Oahu. At approx­ rescued several people recently in two separate imately 10:30 p.m., the vigilant eyes of AB Jessie occurrences while underway in the Hawaiian Bongolan and 3rd Officer Kawika Lucas caught Islands. The actions of Seafarers in both events pre­ glimpses of what they deemed an emergency situa­ vented potential loss of life. tion. By interpreting light signals and flares, they In the first incident, SIU Waiter George Dezafra ascertained that a sailboat they saw had no means of performed the Heimlich Maneuver on Kaye power or other communications. Spargur. What concerned the duo more, however, was the Spargur, a passenger on the Independence from fact that the vessel was pitching and rolling, and SIU Philadelphia Port Agent Joe Soresi (left) discusses the new con­ Tucson, Ariz., was having dinner in the vessel's din­ continually drifting farther away from the islands. tract with Captain Melvin Braddy. ning room May 15. Her otherwise delightful meal They advised the Independences captain of the sit­ was ruined when food lodged in her throat and cut uation and ensured notification of the Coast Guard. off her air supply. The Independence then maneuvered within close Luckily for her, Dezafra was close by and has­ proximity of the vessel and stood by until the Coast tened to her rescue. The Pearle City, Hawaii native Express Marine Crews Guard arrived. No lives were lost. had learned the emergency-response procedure dur­ The Independence is operated by American ing a shipboard training session earlier this year. Approve New Contract Rick Redmond, an instructor at the Paul Hall Center Hawaii Cruises. for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, (Editors Note: The foregoing are just two exam­ SIU members who sail aboard Express Marine tugboats and barges Md., conducted Dezafra's class (and provided the ples of situations encountered by SIU members in have approved a new three-year contract that includes numerous gains. photos accompanying this story). the performance of their daily duties. Should you or Approved in early May, the agreement is retroactive to March 16, Independence Head Waiter Christyn Nawrot, an any SIU member you know have similar experi­ 2000. It calls for wage increases in each year of the pact and also fea­ SIU member who calls Michigan home, comforted ences, please notify the staffof the Seafarers LOG at tures a one-time bonus of $1,000 per member. Other highlights the choking victim once Dezafra bad ensured her air (301) 899-0675; by mail at 5201 Auth Way, Camp include: passages were clear. Springs, MD 20746; or by email at • Prescription benefits for dependents. The second episode occurred during the evening [email protected]) • 100-percent coverage of outpatient care for dependents. • Increased optical benefits. • A doubling of the death benefit. Head Waiter Christyn • Work-rule improvements. Nawrot (left) and • A pension-credit increase. Waiter George Serving on the negotiating committee were SIU Philadelphia Port Dezafra (right) join Agent Joe Soresi, Captain James Dixon, Mate Riley Johnson Jr. and Perry and Kaye AB/Cook Hilton Foster. Spargur in the dining Seafarers ratified the contract via a mail-in secret ballot. The votes room of the were counted May 2 on the tug Russell B. Murray by Captain Miles Independence. The Ireland, Mate Guy Pruitt Sr. and AB/Cook Jesse Gardner. Spargurs, a couple from Tucson, Ariz., Express Marine is based in Pennsauken, N.J. near Camden. The were the center of company operates five tugs and barges that move coal along the East attention recently Coast. They are the Guardian, Russell B. Murray, Baltimore, Consort aboard the vessel and Escort. when Kaye became ill after having food lodge in her airways. Both waiters, mem­ bers of the SIU, assisted the victim in her recovery.

Training Aboard the Independence-­ Crew members aboard the Independence recently underwent onboard emer­ gency squad firefighting Above: Pictured aboard the training. Completing the Russell B. Murray are (from left} exercise were (left to right) AB/Cook Jesse Gardner, Captain Engine Storekeeper Miles Ireland, SIU Port Agent Joe Jonathan Barraca, OS Soresi and Mate Guy Pruitt Sr. Awadh Abdulla and AB The three boatmen counted the Dave Horton. secret ballots which confirmed ratification of a new three-year contract.

Left: Mate Guy Pruitt Sr. (left) and AB/Cook Jesse Gardner count the ballots.

Steward Maiello Memorialized

On May 12, the cremated remains of Chief Steward Robert James Maiello were committed at sea, approxi- mately 50 nautical miles south of Cape Hatteras, N.C. The ceremony took place aboard the Cape Johnson, pictured at right. Brother Maiello passed away Dec. 22, 1999. He was 53 and had been an active SIU member for 10 years.

4 Seafarers LOG July 2000 Merger Discussed in New York

In separate meetings May 9 in IMO Revising Brooklyn, N.Y., members of the SIU (below) and the NMU (left) dis­ cussed the merger of the two unions. SIU President Michael SOLAS Chapter Sacco (center) addressed both gatherings. He is joined by NMU Group Formed to Enhance President Rene Lioeanjie (right) and NMU VP Charlie Stewart (left). By overwhelming majorities and in Passenger-Ship Safety separate votes lasting from Dec. 1, The year 2002 already stands noted Bill Eglinton, director of 1999 through Jan. 31, 2000, out in the maritime industry vocational education at the Paul Seafarers and NMU members because it is a compliance date Hall Center for Maritime approved a referendum to proceed for the amended STCW conven­ Training, who attended the IM 0 with merging the two unions. Next, tion. meeting May 15-26. SIU members will vote during the Now, another revised treaty is During the same session, IMO November­ targeted for implementation that Secretary-General William December SIU gen­ year. O'Neil called for "global consid­ eration eral election During a recent meeting of its of safety issues pertaining Maritime Safety Committee in to passenger ships, with particu­ whether to approve London, the International lar emphasis on large cruise needed constitution­ Maritime Organization (IMO) ships." The safety committee al changes. After began updating Chapter V of the formed a working group that is that, another vote International Safety of Life at Sea scheduled to convene later this will take place for (SOLAS) Convention. IMO aims year, when it will address passen­ SIU members to to consider "the complete revised ger vessel construction and approve or reject draft text" of Chapter V this equipment; crisis and crowd many of the specific December and then apply the management; crew and passenger terms of the merger. final version beginning in July training; personnel evacuation; 2002. and potential risks large passen­ Chapter V concerns shipboard ger vessels may face in the next navigational equipment and sys­ few years. Adm. Perkins States U.S. Needs Merchant Marine tems. The proposed revisions O'Neil said that while the Continued from page 2 mercial shipping assets. Without Maritime Security Program include mandates for voyage data structural integrity of recently such action, maintaining smaller (MSP). Launched in 1996, MSP recorders ("black boxes"), auto­ built large cruise ships isn't in At the same time, the U.S. inventories and moving more underwrites a partnership matic ship identification systems doubt, it is questionable whether Navy has also shrunk dramatical­ supplies via merchant ships between the federal government and ARPA, among others. or not maritime treaties including ly. Since the end of the Cold War, exposes military distribution [and ship] operators in which "Most of the deep sea fleet SOLAS and STCW "duly the active duty fleet has been cut channels to critical shortfalls­ U.S.-flag, U.S. citizen-crewed will easily meet the new require­ address all the safety aspects of almost in half, and is now just which could cost lives. ships, equipment, terminals and ments, but it may impact heavily their operation- in particular, in over 300 ships- the lowest num­ management services are avail­ on the offshore supply industry," emergency situations.•• ber since the early 1930s. "We simply can't do able to the Department of Current (inadequate) ship­ Defense during national emer­ building budgets are drawing the without ships under gencies. With 47 vessels current­ fleet down further. This will, of ly enrolled, the program is autho­ SIU Present at Ratings Task Force Meeting course, make things tougher for the American flag, rized until 2005 and deserves the remaining ships and sailors strong support thereafter. wM provide vital U .S. forwru-d built in American • strict compliance with exist­ presence around the world. With ing cargo preference laws which operating tempo at an unprece­ shipyards, and require that certain U.S. govern­ dented peacetime high, the Navy ment-impelled cargoes be faces very difficult recruiting and manned by shipped on U.S.-flag vessels. retention challenges. American crews as Preference cargoes are the single Still, the Navy must be there most important incentive for when the country calls, and is a vital part of our American operators in the inter­ adapting to the quiet revolution national trades to remain under taking place in the way we sup­ national defense" the U.S. flag, providing a vital port America's men and women base of guaranteed cargo to offset in uniform overseas. Military foreign-flag advantages. Without logistics strategy is changing To avoid such an unacceptable these cargoes, virtually every from "just in case" to "just in possibility, a comprehensive pro­ U.S.-flag vessel in the interna­ time"-an approach dependent gram must be developed to tional markets would be forced upon rapid, reliable delivery of ensure survival and encourage either out of business or out of essential supplies. growth of the U.S. Merchant U.S. registry, [which is] obvious­ Massive warehouses are giv­ Marine. The economic benefits The SIU took part in a meeting of the International Transport ing way to a transportation-based and enhanced defense capabili­ ly unacceptable; and Workers' Federation's (ITF's) ratings task' force May 23-24 in system constantly on the move ties far outweigh incidental and • a range of corporate tax Auckland, New Zealand. The agenda included examination of a through state-of-the-art private non-recurring costs. incentives to grow the fleet and detailed report concerning the worldwide supply of "suitably sector ports and other transit I recommend a balance of narrow the cost disparity between trained" merchant mariners. Above, SIU Executive VP John Fay facilities which speed military government promotional pro­ doing business under the U.S. (center), who chairs the ITF's Seafarers' Section, hears a break­ supplies from factory to foxhole. grams and private sector compet­ flag and that of other nations. down of the report. Below (from left), Fay and SIU Secretary­ The mountains of stock on-hand itiveness initiatives that will help Like most enterprises, interna­ Treasurer David Heindel, a guest at the task force session, are are gone. The Armed Services level the maritime playing field. tional shipping is an industry pictured with Dave Morgan, national president of the New now purchase and deploy sup­ As it is, U.S.-flag vessels must where capital pursues the greatest Zealand Seafarers' Union. plies nearly simultaneously with compete against foreign state­ return for the least expense, with force movement, synchronized to owned ships, subsidized shippers a maximum degree of freedom. It support maximum momentum for and shipyards, and the industrial must become attractive to the troops. cartels of America's strongest investors once more. In other words, essential economic competitors. In this brave new world of materiel is flowing through the At home, our Merchant just-in-time logistics, we cannot pipeline to the right place, at the Marine operates under the most function militarily without a right time, and in the right demanding regulatory regime in robust marine transportation amount. Continued success the world-which costs more, but capability, and it must be ground­ depends on the U.S.-flag com­ assures safety-while foreign ed on a thriving U.S. Merchant mercial fleet, both to carry cargo shipping interests are subject to Marine. A solid partnership with and petroleum, and to provide minimal regulation, enforcement the commercial U.S.-flag fleet is crews for ships held in reserve and taxes. not just the best way, it is the only status. While the new logistics We need a blend of tax incen­ way to get the job done and strategy is both more efficient tives, regulatory relief, capital answer the bell when the next cri­ and necessary, there is less mar­ modernization and increased sis arises- as it will. We simply gin for error. competitiveness, while maintain­ can't do without ships under the With that in mind, the next ing the support provided by tradi­ American flag, built in American president and Congress must tional maritime programs and shipyards, and manned by adopt maritime policies which laws. The most important in­ American crews as a vital part of ensure a U.S.-flag fleet fully clude: our national defense arsenal. They capable of providing crucial com- • sustained funding for the need our helir-and quickly. July2000 Seafarers LOG 5 U.S. Coast Guard Regional Exam Centers STCW in Plain English (Updated as of May 2000) U.S. Coast Guard U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Office Marine Safety Office Vocational Education Director Tackles Regional Examination Center Regional Examination Center Bldg. 14, Rm. 109, Coast Guard Isl. 200 Jefferson Ave., Suite 1302 Alameda, CA 94501-5100 Memphis, TN 38103 Segments ofAmended '95 Convention Phone: (510) 437-3092 Phone: (901) 544-3297 U.S. Coast Guard Editors note: Bill Eglinton, together in 1978, but the U.S. did August 1, 1998: If you started Marine Safety Office U.S. Coast Guard Regional Examination Center director of vocational education not sign onto it until 1991. I your seagoing career (sailing) Regional Examination Center 510 L Street, Suite 100 Claude Pepper Federal Building at the Paul Hall Center and a won't bore you with the details of before this date, you have until Anchorage, AK 99501-1946 51 SW 1st Ave, 6th Floor regular participant in interna­ why we waited so long, but in Feb. l, 2002 to comply with the Phone: (907) 271-6736 Miami, FL 33130-1608 tional forums pertaining to STCW 1992 we started letting everyone revised 1995 STCW Convention. Phone: (305) 536-6548/6874 U.S. Coast Guard and other regulations impacting know that we were now on board However, if you started sailing or Regional Examination Center U.S. Coast Guard the maritime industry, wrote the with this convention, the require­ began maritime training after this U.S. Custom House Marine Safety Office 40 South Gay Street following article. This is the first ments of which we easily met. date, you must be in full compli­ Regional Examination Center Baltimore, MD 21202-4022 in an occasional series intended However, that 1978 conven­ ance with STCW now. 9820 Lake Forest Blvd, Suite P Phone: (410) 962-5132 to keep Seafarers updated on the tion was under revision, and we February 1, 2002: The imple­ New Orleans, LA 70127-3077 Phone: (504) 589-6183 roles governing their trade. stayed tuned for further news mentation period ends and all U. S. Coast Guard Most of the U-8. maritime because who knew what might be seafarers must meet all the Marine Safety Office Regional Examination Center U.S. Coast Guard industry is familiar with our in store for us. Oh boy, what an requirements of the revised 1995 455 Commercial Street Marine Inspection Office nation's rules and regulations understatement! STCW Convention. Boston, MA 02109-1045 Regional Examination Center stemming from the U.S. Coast The heart of the 1995 revised The SIU and the Paul Hall Phone: (617) 223-3040 Battery Park Building New York, NY 10004-8545 Guard which impact our daily STCW Convention puts its Center for Maritime Training and U.S. Coast Guard Phone: (212) 668-7492 lives- anything from pollution emphasis on the training and Education saw these new changes Marine Safety Office Regional Examination Center prevention, to getting our AB or assessment of mariner practical coming. In fact, we got involved U.S. Coast Guard 196 Tradd Street Marine Safety Office QMED endorsement, to our per­ skills (proficiencies). In short, by sending people to the IMO Charleston, SC 29401-1899 Regional Examination Center sonal lives ashore (driving, med­ taking a multiple-choice exami­ meetings as part of the U.S. dele­ Phone: (843) 724-7693 6767 North Basin Avenue ical issues, etc.). nation to become an electrician, gations. Immediately we wrote Portland, OR 97217-3992 U. S. Coast Guard articles in the LOG so the mem­ Phone: (503) 240-9346 But, where did the newest AB, Third Mate/Engineer, won't Marine Safety Office international treaties and conven­ cut it anymore. You must demon­ bership could know what was Regional Examination Center tions come from? strate that you can do your job. taking place, and practically 433 Ala Moana Blvd. U.S. Coast Guard every month the LOG updated the Honolulu, HI 96813-4909 Marine Safety Office SIU members most certainly Hey, isn't this what we have Phone: (808) 522-8264 developments occurring in our Regional Examination Center have heard of the STCW Con­ been saying for years? Don't ask 1519 Alaskan Way South vention by now. The Seafarers me a bunch of theoretical multi­ industry. U.S. Coast Guard Seattle. WA 98134-1192 So, with that history lesson out Regional Examination Center Phone: (206) 217-6115 LOG must have published 50 ple-choice questions, give me 8876 Gulf Freeway, Suite 200 related articles or more over the that piece of equipment and I'll of the way, what do YOU have to Houston, TX 77017-6595 past several years, but I want to show you how it works! do? Unlicensed Seafarers must Phone: (713) 948-3350 U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Office Now~ whom does it affect and concern themselves with two put it in everyday terms-lan­ U.S. coast Guard Regional Examination Center guage that hopefully will give when does it take place? First, the things: having taken a Coast Regional Examination Center 1222 Spruce Street, Suite 8.104E you both a sense of understanding STCW Convention applies to all Guard-approved Basic Safety 2760 Sherwood Lane. Suite 2A St. Louis, MO 63103-2835 mariners working aboard seago­ Training (BST) course or being Juneau, AK 99801-8545 Phone: (314) 539-3091 and a sense of urgency. Phone: (907) 463-2458 The United Nations has an ing merchant vessels, whether on trained and assessed aboard ship U.S. Coast Guard entity that deals with maritime domestic or international voy­ with entries made into your U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Ofc Regional Examination Center issues, the International Maritime ages. Inland and Great Lakes ves­ Training Record Book (TRB) and Regional Examination center Federal Building, Room 501 165 N. Pico Avenue 234 Summit Street Organization (IMO), which i~ sels are not under the STCW if you are a watchstanding deck Long Beach. CA 90802 Toledo, OH 43604-1590 headquartered in London. Mari­ Convention. So, if you sail or engine department person, you Phone: (562) 980-4485 Phone: (419) 259-6395 aboard near-coastal or deep sea need to have a 1995 STCW cer­ time nations that belong to the Members should not expect same-day service for document renewals or IMO (about 133) agree to fotlow ships, listen up! To better under­ tificate. STCW certificates. Please call the REC in advance with your request. various international agreements, stand when these changes kick in, If you do not have Ba.sic called treaties or conventions. you should be aware of three Safety Training or the 199 5 possible. If you hold an endorse­ Examination Center (REC) with Over the year~, the IMO ha.s pro­ important dates. STCW certificate, if required, by ment for lifeboatman that was the following things: your mer­ duced several conventions February 1, 1997: Various February 1, 2002, YOU CAN­ issued before August 1, 1998 and chant mariner's document including the Safety of Life a.t requirements of the amended NOT SAIL ABOARD DEEP you try to renew your MMD (MMD); Training Record Book Sea Convention (SOLAS), the 1995 STCW Convention entered SEA OR NEAR-COASTAL before Feb. 1, 2002. then the only (TRB); BST course certificate, Marine Pollution Convention into force, namely: Basic Safety SHIPS! way you can keep that lifeboat and one (1) passport photo. There (MARPOL) and others. Training (BST); special training The Paul Hall Center at Piney endorsement when renewing is is no charge for the 1995 STCW Almost all of these conven­ for certain types of ships (tankers Point, Md. has been offering the by providing proof of complying certificate. You can also get your tions deal with equipment, con­ and RO/RO passenger ships); and BST classes for some time now. with the Basic Safety require­ certificate through the mail by struction or operational proce­ familiarization instruction when We have many classes scheduled ments of STCW. sending notarized copies of your dures. Only one IMO convention joining a new ship. This marks through the end of this year, and If you sail as AB, Boatswain's MMD and BST certificate and the deals with people- the Standards the beginning of what is called next year we will run these class­ Mate, FOWT or QMED watch­ photo to your nearest Coast Guard of Training, Certification and the transitional period, which es continuously. So, get sched­ stander, you must have a 1995 REC (see listing above of all Watchkeeping (STCW) Con­ means we have five years to put uled for this course! STCW certificate by Feb. 1, 2002. Regional Examination Centers). vention. in place all the new requirements Here's another incentive to To get this certificate, go to any Don't wait till the last minute This convention was put -that is until Feb. 1, 2002. take the BST course as soon as U.S. Coast Guard Regional on _this: the clock is ticking!

The infrastructure for a new state-of­ Operator Certificates (ROC). the-art simulator complex continues to Fully compliant with IMO resolutions Construction Continues take shape at the Paul Hall Center for and the latest STCW code requirements, Maritime Training and Education in Piney the simulator can also be used as a compo­ Point, Md. In addition to the existing nent of the mariner's training and exami­ Lindsey Williams Building, which has nation for the First Class or Second Class On Simulator Complex been refurbished, the aggregate structure Radio Electronics Certificate. will feature a five-classroom addition. The system will have the capability to GMDSS Component to Augment Training Construction on the addition began accommodate two instructors and 10 stu­ about eight weeks ago, according to J.C. dents simultaneously in a multi-functional Wiegman, assistant director of vocational classroom. It also will have the capacity to education at the center. The building's accurately imitate communication between exterior has been completed, and construc­ ships, and among ships and co-stations tion crews will soon move to the inside to using terrestrial satellite communications begin finishing the structure's interior. systems. Both types of communication can "Once completed, the addition will con­ be accomplished with a high degree of tain five classrooms," Wiegman said. realism. "Three of the rooms will be for general Additionally, unlicensed apprentices purpose use, a fourth for multi-functional can be familiarized with the correct opera­ applications and the fifth for our crane sim­ tion of GMDSS equipment for distress and ulator." general communication. The Global Marine Distress Sequencing "We will be training able bodied sea­ System simulator (GMDSS) is one of the men, the limited license people and the many training tools that will be housed in licensed people who need GMDSS," said the complex (articles were published on Russell Levin, an instructor at the center. the shiphandling and engine room simula­ "We also have quite a few people within Construction on the simulator complex addition at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime tors in the May and June editions of the the SIU who already have licenses and Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., began in mid-April. The facility's exterior has Seafarers LOG, respectively). It will be who will be training on this equipment." been completed . Construction crews will soon move to the inside to begin finishing the utilized by Seafarers who seek General structure's interior. Operator Certificates (GOC) or Restricted Continued on page 11

6 Seafarers LOG July2000 'Vote of ·Thanks'

Buoyed by big gains in a new five-year con­ tract covering fast sealift ships, SIU members last month expressed strong satisfaction with the agreement. During three separate shipboard meetings June 8 in Baltimore with SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez, SIU crews on the USNS Wright, Cape Washington and Cape May enthusiastically offered votes of thanks for the union's work in securing major improvements in the fast sealift contract. That agreement cov- 1-----­ ers eight vessels which also are known as SL- 7s. They are the USNS Algol, USNS Altair, USNS Antares, USNS Bellatrix, USNS Capella, USNS Denebola, USNS Pollux and USNS Regulus. As reported last month, the contract keeps the jobs on the eight ships with the SIU. Highlights include substantial wage increases both in full operating status and reduced oper­ ating status; Seafarers Welfare and Pension Plans benefits at their top levels; and inclusion of the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan at 5 percent of base wages. SIU-contracted American Overseas Marine Pictured aboard the USNS Wright are (from (AMSEA) won the pact with the U.S. Military left) Bosun Thomas Moore. GUDE Mark Sealift Command to operate the ships. Canada, SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez, (sit­ The new contract "is well-deserved. It's ting) Chief Steward Richard Mata, SIU great news/' said Bosun John Toomey aboard Baltimore Port Agent Dennis Metz and the Cape May. QMED/Electrician James Weismore. On the Wright, Bosun Thomas Moore described the contractual gains as "incredible. This is a big step forward." Several Seafarers stAted that the new agree­ ment is part1cularly satisfying to the numerous members who have spent considerable time working aboard the fast sealift ships. Telle~ reminded them that the union "always has said the hardest thing is to get that first contract, and once we we 're in, things will improve. It doesn't happen overnight, but this contract proves our point." The USNS Denebola is one of eight fast sealift ships covered Also last month, Seafarers were cautiously by the new five-year contract. Pictured on the vessel after reviewing contract highlights are (seated, from left) SA John optimistic about the recent contract awards by Weber, Chief Cook Dante Black, Chief Steward Gary Lackey, the U.S. Maritime Administration for operation Bosun Willie Reynolds, AB Donald Gearhart, (standing) Wiper of 74 Ready Reserve Force (RRF) vessels. Carlos Perez, AB Ben Shupp, Electrician Ronald Kitlas, Wiper Although several companies protested the Enrique Nunez and OS C. Salim. awards- resulting in a stopgap extension of the existing contract- the SIU secured sub­ stantial wage increases and benefit gains aboard the 45 RRF ships awarded to its con­ tracted operators. The union strongly antici­ pates that when the challenged bids are resolved (tentatively expected by late Septem­ ber), the SIU will end up with a very similar number of ships and an equal or better contract Chief Steward Michelle Besides the new contract, Seafarers on the Cape Washington also compared to the one used in the original award. Hopper (left) discussed the expanding U.S.-flag passenger fleet, the Jones Act and QMED and other issues. Pictured from the left are Bosun Rick James, Taylor Clear Electrician Steve Kafka, QMED Taylor Clear, SIU VP Contracts (right) Augie Tellez, Chief Steward Michelle Hopper and SIU Baltimore Port Agent Dennis Metz.

Above: Seafarers meet aboard the Cape May. Left: Pictured from the left are Baltimore Port Agent Dennis Metz, (rear) AB Billy Ray Hanbury, First Engineer William Camacho, Chief Engineer James Wingate, Second Engineer Jim Van Pelt, Bosun John Toomey, SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez and Steward/Baker John Reid. The officers all are SIU hawsepipers.

July2DOO Seafarers LOG 7 r------.-.------~------

National Maritime Day Nation Honors Merchant Mariners SIU Participates in Several Ceremonies Americans across the nation After noting that more than percent of the nation's cargo at Left and below: Guests paid tribute last month to the 6,000 merchant mariners lost less than 2 percent of America's observe the presenta­ bravery and sacrifices of the their lives "for the cause of free­ total freight cost. U.S. commer­ tion of colors at last thousands of U.S. merchant mari­ dom during World War II," Slater cial ports handle 95 percent of the ners who so honorably have reflected on the admiration nation's international trade." month's Maritime Day served our country, especially President Franklin D. Roosevelt He concluded, "Despite the ceremony conducted those who gave their lives during possessed for the men who com­ challenges, the future is bright" in Washington, D.C. by armed conflict. The occasion was posed the U.S. fleet. He quoted SIU President Michel Sacco the U.S. Maritime National Maritime Day-an the late commander-in-chief as associated the plight of merchant annual observance dating back to having stated: "(Mariners) have mariners during World War II to Administration. 1933 that acknowledges this written one of its most brilliant that of front line soldier. often forgotten group's contribu­ chapters. They have delivered the "The seafarers of World War II tions. goods when and where needed in were attacked from every angle," The SIU participated in sever­ every theater of operations and Sacco explained. "They were al ceremonies, including three in across every ocean in the biggest, bombed from enemy airplanes, Washington, D.C. on May 25 and the most difficult and dangerous fired upon by enemy ships, torpe­ two West Coast observances ear­ job ever undertaken. As time doed by enemy submarines. lier that week. The events in and goes on, there will be greater pub­ Many did not survive. They died near the nation's capital were lic understanding of our mer­ in blazing explosions, in icy conducted by, respectively, the chant's fleet record during this waters, in lifeboats that drifted U.S. Maritime Administration war (World War II)." into oblivion. They burned and (MarAd), the Port of Washington He further illustrated the vital drowned and starved. Propeller Club and the U.S. importance of the maritime industry "But there has never been any Military Sealift Command today to America, noting that it quit in the American merchant (MSC). annually accounts for some three­ marine," the SIU president assert­ fourths of a trillion dollars of ed. "That's why leaders of that MarAd Memorial America's gross national product era, from Roosevelt to Eisen­ MarAd's event in Washington, "Our domestic fleet is one of hower on down, emphatically Sacco said that white cere­ lifetime career in the U.S. mer­ called the Merchant Marine our most productive and cost­ stated that the merchant marine monies such as the memorial ser­ chant marine," he concluded. Memorial Service 2000, took effective modes of transporta­ made all the difference m wm­ vice are important, there is anoth­ Two other speakers were fea­ plact: at the U.S. Navy Memorial. tion," Slater said, ••moving 24 ning the war." er way we as Americans can pay tured at the MarAd ceremony. In his operting remarks, tribute to the thousands who gave Raymond Ebeling, president Maritime Administrator Clyde J. their lives during World War II as and chairman, American Roll­ Hart dubbed the gathering as .. a well as those who served during On/Roll-Off Carriers, urged sup­ day set aside ti'.'.) hDnor the brave other conflicts. port for the Jones Act and the American civilia.ns a.nd merchant "The best way we can honor Maritime Security Program. He mariners who gave their lives to them and confinn that they did also called for .. a new compre­ protect the freedoms we cherish. not die in vain is to keep the hensive and aggressive maritime "It i5 al5o a day for rejoicing~" American flag flying on the high policy." Hart continued, "rejoicing not seas, .. Sacco said. Ebeling said that the begin­ only for their courage and self· Sacco reminded those in atten­ ning point of that new policy tessness. but for their exuberance dance (including Seafarers from must be an agreement by all key and innovation." the Paul Hall Center for Maritime stakeholders on the future role of Noting that th~ event's pur­ Training and Education in Piney the U.S. merchant marine and of pose was to focus on the contri­ Point, Md.) that America depends U.S. flag carriers in terms of sup­ butions of seamen, principally on the sealift provided by a strong port of national defense policy. those who made the ultimate sac­ merchant marine whenever in­ Edward Kelly, vice president, rifice during World War II, Hart volved in conflict. American Maritime Officers, said, "Their passing is reason for "I wholeheartedly believe that who had just returned from the sorrow, their presence reason for Representing the Seafarers at the annual wreath-laying ceremony the young men and women now meeting of the International aboard the Jeremiah O'Brien in San Francisco are retired SIU VP West joy. We honor them with praise entering the industry can look Maritime Organization in Lon­ Coast George McCartney (right) and SIU Representative Chester for their maritime skills honed by Wheeler (second from right). forward to a bright future and a don, reflected on his trip and tough physical work in the seas' shared his impressions on how unforgiving environment." the world views our maritime Keynote speaker Rodney National Maritime Memorial Day Proclamation industry. Slater called the nation's mer­ "At the meetings, the United chant fleet "the United States' May 22, 2000 States is still recognized as a first Navy." Recounting their Americans have always looked to the sea as a source of prosperity and security. Bounded by two oceans and the global leader in almost every­ contributions during the Revolu­ Gulf of Mexico, with the Great Lakes, the ~int Lawrence Seaway, scores of harbors, ports, and Inlets, and thou­ thing," he said. "Included are sands of miles of inland river shorelines, our Nation has been blessed with an unparalleled means of moving passen­ tionary War, the Secretary of gers and freight, protecting our freedom, and linking our citizens with the world. maritime safety, quality and stan­ Transportation said, "The U.S. Today, 95 percent of our imports and exports are moved by water - more than one billion metric tons of cargo dards. However we do not mea­ merchant marine, which defeated - and our waterways currently handle 140 million passengers a year. Our domestic fleet ls one of our most pro­ sure up in the number of ships we ductive and cost-effective modes of transportation, moving 24 percent of the Nation's cargo at less than 2 percent the British navy to gain of America's total freight cost. The men and women of the U.S. Merchant Marine and the thousands of other work­ have or in the number of mariners America's independence, has ers in our Nation's maritime industry have made Immeasurable contributions to our economic strength, standard of at sea, and certainly not in the served our country- and served it living, and leadership in the global marketplace. number of ships we have under The U.S. Merchant Marine plays an equally important role in maintaining our national security. In times of con· well-in every war since 177 5. flict or crisis, the Armed Forces rely upon the Merchant Marine's sealift capability to transport critically needed construction." There is no more devoted com­ equipment and supplies. Time and again, American mariners have demonstrated their willingness and ablllty to meet Kelly said that the IMO and munity of professionals than ohen daunting challenges. From World War II to Korea to Vietnam, from Desert Storm to the Balkans and in numer­ the world look to the United those who serve the nation's ous incidents in between, the U.S. Merchant Marine has responded with courage, patriotism, and a steadfast devo­ States for leadership, and it is tion to duty. marine transportation system." The 21st century wlll hold new challenges for our maritime industry, including an anticipated doubling of cargo essential that we present a and jUllenger traffic In the next cwo decades. If we are to meet those challenges, we must maintain a robust U.S.­ stronger maritime trade commit­ flag fleet, crewed by American mariners. Last September, the Secretary of Transportation presented to the Congress ment to them. a blueprint for modernizing our Marine Transportation System - the wate1Ways, ports, railways, and roads that move people and goods to, from, and on the water. We must build more and better ships, modernize our shipyards, cre­ "In order to live up to our call­ ate d@@per ports for today's ever larger containerships and ocean liners, and maintain a skilled maritime workforce. ing," Kelly suggested, "we must We must also ensure that local, State, and Federal agencies, the U.S. military, the maritime industry, shippers, labor have a national maritime policy unions, environmental groups, and other concerned organlzatlonJ work in partnership to carry out this blueprint. As we celebrate National Maritime Day this year, we also mark the 50th anniversary of the U.S. Maritime that promotes the U.S.-flag mer­ Administration. Throughout the past five decades, the dedicated men and women of this agency have worked to chant marine adequate to meet improve the competitiveness of our maritime Industry in world markets and to strengthen our ability to respond out national and economic securi­ swiftly and effectively in time1 of crisis. On behalf of a grateful Nation, I salute these outstanding public servants ty needs." for their commitment to the U.S. Merchant Marine and to the shipbuilding, repair services, ports, and intennodal water and land transportation systems they need to function efficiently. He concluded his remarks by In recognition of the Importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine to our Nation's prosperity and security, the suggesting that "a most fitting Congress, by a joint resolution approved Hay 20, 1933, has designated May 22 of each year as ~atlonal Maritime memorial for those who have Day·" and has authorized and requested the President to Issue annually a proclamation calling for its appropriate observance. given their lives would be a mer­ Now, therefore, I, William J. Clinton, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 22, chant marine fleet of over 500 2000, as National Maritime Day. I urge all Americans to observe this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, ships, a maritime program and and activities and by displaying the flag of the United States in their homes and in their communities. I also request Former U.S. Rep. Helen Bentley that all merchant ships sailing under the American flag dress ship on that day. more ships capable of functioning presents remarks in behalf of In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-second day of May, in the year of our Lord two as a Navy auxiliary in times of Rep. Herb Bateman. Both are thousand, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-fourth. national emergency. In this man- strong supporters of the U.S. mer­ William J. Clinton chant fleet. Continued on next page B Seafarers LOS July2000 Continued from previous page Vice Presidential Salute

ner, we would honor those who have gone before us." and supported by the Gulfo] Mexico; AmenCa. ·ts :literally Backing from Bateman ~~·~- encircled by waters t1w.t reqµ~re us to rnair,itai~ our ~m- , Congressman Herbert H. petitive edge. The U.S. Merchant Marine, a fleet that is Bateman (R-Va.), chairman of the U.S. built, U.S~ owned, and U.S# crewed, is helping to Special Oversight Panel on the ensure that success in the 21st century. · Merchant Marine of the House A strong America requires a strong merchant marine. Armed Services Committee, was I am proud of our administration's record in promoting scheduled to deliver the keynote the development and maintenance of a modem, efficient address at the Propeller Club's merchant fleet, capable of helping our expanding world annual Maritime Day luncheon. trade. and meeting the needs ofthe military in times of The congressman, however, was conflict, or national emergency. The Jones Act is thefoun­ unable to attend due to a death in dation ofour American.maritime · ind.tlstry a,nd an essen-. his family. ··tial· part of· the fabric .. or our .. n,atjO.tt':s ....gcon.q@ic, . an~,;. Helen Delich Bentley, former national security. I am committed to ensutin{f'f°he pres·< member of Congress from SIU President Michael Sacco discusses the MarAd ceremony with stu­ Maryland and former chairman of dents from the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. the Federal Maritime Commis­ sion, read his prepared speech at harbors on the Great Lakes, Ships would not be under con­ the U.S. Navy Yard. In part, Rep. inland waterways and seacoasts struction in the U.S. today if it Bateman's remarks were as fol­ of the United States .... were not for these laws. And lows: "The maritime industry, the ships would not be flying the "We in the Congress are com­ Congress and the administration United States flag for employing mitted to providing the necessary must continue to plead our case American citizen mariners if it resources and support for the with the American people. An were not for these laws. maritime community so that you informed public will allow us to "We must all vigorously can continue to perform the out­ provide the necessary funding to enforce the letter and spirit of standing work that has proven so preserve maritime power as the these statues while bringing new more than 300 participants and spectators, was hosted by Vice beneficial to our nation. To that underpinning of our national ideas to the table to expand the Adm. Gordon S. Holder, com­ end, we share a set of common security .... U.S. fleet by stimulating growth goals: we must have a strong "I would be remiss if I did not in each pillar of our merchant mander of MSC. Posting the col­ ors and providing music were maritime industry, including a mention several other pillars of marine." members of the U.S. Navy viable and economically compet­ our maritime security. The Jones MSC Ceremony Ceremonial Guard and the U.S. itive U.S.-flag fleet; a strong Act, the Passenger Vessel Navy Band, respectively. shipbuilding industrial base; and Services Act, and the America's "Today, National Maritime Also on hand were the master an economically viable nation­ cargo preference laws are keep­ Day, we take time to remember and crew of the ocean-going tug wide infrastructure of serviceable ing our merchant marine afloat. and celebrate the heroic feats of the men and women who have USNS Mohawk who represented served this nation as merchant MSC ships and America's mer­ mariners. Established in 1933, chant mariners around the world. this special day recognizes the Seafarers from the Paul Hall service and sacrifice of those who Center for Maritime Training and have served ashore and afloat, Education in Piney Point, Md., going in harm's way when neces­ were also in attendance. sary." Admiral Pilling noted that So stated Adm. Donald although the Washington Navy Pillingt vice chief of naval opera­ Yard was a fitting place to tions, during his keynote address acknowledge the mammoth con­ at the MSC ceremony at the tributions of America's men;hant Washington Navy Yard. A mariners to our nation's very wreath-laying ceremony com­ existence, the yard's history isn't memorating the American mer­ as long as that registered by the chant mariners lost to hostile merchant mariners. action followed the admiral's "While the yard contains 200 address. years of history, that number falls The event, which attracted 25 years short of the service given by these gallant men and women," the admiral said. "Their history is full of courageous deeds and selfless sacrifice." After tracing their record from the Revolutionary War to the pre­ sent, Admiral Pilling commented on the historically close relation­ ship merchant seamen have always shared with their uni­ formed comrades. "It is vital that the partnership between the U.S. merchant marine and the U.S. Navy remains strong, especially in these days of 'rightsizing' and shrinking bud­ gets," Admiral Pilling offered. "At the same time, the modem global market requires a powerful maritime force to protect our interests and prevent hostilities. Our maritime forces must be able to prevail in conflict. "As we move into a new mil­ lennium, I have complete faith in the men and women of our mer­ chant marine," he continued. "I know they will be there, whenev­ er the nation calls, a crucial part of our maritime force." Admiral Pilling concluded his remarks with a statement of grat­ itude to all merchant mariners who paid the ultimate sacrifice for this nation. "I extend a heart­ felt thanks and the appreciation of the nation to the men and women of America's merchant marine, for your heroism, your sacrifices, SIU President Michael Sacco your undaunted service."

July2000 Seafarers LOS 9 Maersk Sealand Opens New Houston Terminal New York's 30-Year Lease Approved Maersk Sealand has expanded its operations in tion of a 30-year lease between the port and the Houston with the recent opening of a 71-acre termi­ company. New Jersey's Christie Whitman and New nal. The Terminal Six facility, ceremonially opened York's George Pataki ended a 17-month stalemate by the company and the port of Houston May 17, that had delayed the shipping line's expansion at Attending the ceremonial opening at the Barbours Cut facility are (from includes four cranes. a dozen receiving/delivering Port Elizabeth, N.J. left) Recertified Steward Fernando Urias, AB Travis Corgey, Bosun lanes, six scales plus an additional 16 acres being According to press reports, the governors had John Cain, SIU Safety Director Kenneth Moore, Bosun's Mate Gilbert developed. It features 2000-foot berths and dock­ been at odds regarding which state benefits more Rodriguez, SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, SIU Asst. VP Jim McGee and Electrician Randy Clark. side rail. from its Port Authority revenues. They approved the A number of SIU members and officials attended lease after agreeing to earmark $250 million for the kickoff at the Barbours Cut Container Terminal. New York transportation projects, allow privatiza­ Two weeks later, Maersk Sealand welcomed news tion of the World Trade Center and study a possible from the northeast that the governors of New York and increase in fares for the commuter rail linking the New Jersey finally cleared the way for implementa- two states. Allied Tug Falcon Awaits New Charter Seafarers met with SIU officials aboard the Allied Towing tug Falcon (below) recently in the port of Norfolk, Va. The vessel was in the shipyard getting pre­ pared for a new charter. In addition to distributing copies of the most recent Seafarers LOG and other union forms, officials also discussed the new contract, pensions and the proposed merger of the NMU into the SIU.

Chief Cook Donald Lee Jones

The new terminal already spans 71 acres and will expand by another 16 currently being developed.

USNS Soderman Ties Up In Norfolk

Chief Engineer Hugh L Gibbs Jr. and Captain R. C. Morris and Utility Man Richard E. Hamilton. Port Captain Andy Higbee

SIU officials recently greeted the crew of the USNS Soderman as it tied up in the Port of Norfolk, Va. Officials passed out the latest edition of the Seafarers LOG as well as other SIU forms to crew members. Pictured above (from left) are Chief Steward Ron Jones, SA Herman Stith and Chief Cook Thomas Johnson. Pictured below (from left) are AB Tim Kacer, SIU Representative Pat Vandergrift, Bosun Jeff Saxon and OS Paul Hennessey. Mate Thomas B. Mercer and Port Engineer Wiggins

to Seafarers LOG July2000 Front-Gate Facelift Almost Finished Dredging With the Manhattan Island Two NATCO dredges-the Dodge Island and the Manhattan Island-currently are working in San Juan Bay, P.R. on a nearly year-long project to deepen the shipping channel. At left is the dredging process in operation and (below) the Manhattan Island enters San Juan bay for its first week of work.

The front gate at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is being refurbished. It is scheduled for completion this month. The center is located in Piney Point, Md.

Hart Goes to New Department; II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War- has been Graykowsld Fiiis MarAd Post berthed in Los Angeles for the past 11 years. It is a floating memorial but remains fully operational, The U.S. Department of Transportation recently offering a half-dozen or so one-day cruises to announced that Maritime Administrator Clyde Hart Catalina during the summer. will serve as the acting deputy administrator of the new Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Maintenance and operation of the vessel costs an estimated $200,000 even without any rent, accord­ (FMCSA). During Hart's leave of absence from ing to a report in the Los Angeles Times. MarAd, Deputy Administrator John Graykowski will be its acting administrator. The FMCSA was established Jan. 1. Its mission is to improve roadway safety by preventing com­ mercial motor vehicle-related injuries and fatalities. Graykowski previously served as acting head of ITF Dellvers For Crews MarAd from 1997 to 1998. On Runaway-Flag Ships Simulator Complex Under Construction The International Transport Workers' Federation Continued from page 6 GMDSS. They also developed (ITF) recently reported that in 1999 it recovered more than $23 million in back pay owed to crews on equipment requirements, operat­ Port Waives Rent Levin said the center's origi­ ing procedures and examina­ 551 runaway-flag and other substandard ships. nal GMDSS system was radio­ tions." For Lane Victory The ITF is composed of 570 affiliate unions­ operator Morse Code-based, or Levin said GMDSS training in Los Angeles harbor commissioners last month including the SIU-in more than 130 countries. ship-to-ship. However, things the United States, and in most approved a five-year rent-free agreement with the Those unions represent more than five million have changed tremendously other countries today, is standard­ group operating the historic vessel SS Lane Victory. members. where communications are con­ ized. Signatory nations must The lease is expected to save an estimated $270,000 In addition to securing back wages for the crews, cerned, he added. With the advent comply with Standards of for the U.S. Merchant Marine Veterans of World War the ITF through its 100-plus inspectors last year arrested numerous unsafe ships and ensured that of satellite communications and Training Certification and II, the volunteer association in charge of the ship. The Lane Victory-which served in World War proper repairs were made. the ability of satellites to detect Watcbkeeping (STCW) laws. signals, communications devel­ These prerequisites, the same opers decided that rather than that exist for other countries, retaining a ship-to-ship-based presently are satisfied in the U.S. With St. Louis AMMV Chapter system, a better approach would through a 70-hour course. One be to go ship-to-shore. "They decided on this ap­ requirement in that course is the proach because the shore folks demonstrated ability (for assess­ could manage communication ment) of actually operating the input much better by using a res­ equipment. cue coordinating center," Levin The instructor concluded that offered. "As a result, the the GMDSS simulators should International Maritime Organiza­ help students at the Paul Hall tion (IMO), an IMO subcommit­ Center learn communications tee, and other working groups in systems quicker and hone their various countries developed the ability to interact with them.

SIU President Michael Sacco (fourth from right) and Missouri Gov. Mel Carnahan (fifth from right) greet members of the Samuel Parker Chapter of the American Merchant Marine Veterans during this year's St. Louis Port Council dinner. The event took place April 8. Pictured from left to right are Donald Adams, When completed, the simulator complex addition will contain five class­ SIU St. Louis Port Agent Becky Sleeper, Edward Dierkes, George Ward, Donald Witte, Mike Congardi, rooms. Three of the rooms will be for general purpose use, a fourth for Carnahan, Sacco, Michael Buckley, John Ludwig and Jack Grothe. multi-functional applications and the fifth for a crane simulator.

July2000 Seafarers LOG 11 At the With th llall In and

Right: Port Agent Anthony McQuay conducts a member­ ship meeting at the Jacksonville hall with the help of VP Dean Corgey (left) and Patrolman Bryan Powell.

Catching up on union news during a monthly membership meeting are (from left) OMU Gary Doyen, OMU Patrick McPherson, Chief Cook Jack Hart, Steward/Baker Floyd Bishop and OMU Milton Israel Jr. During a recent union meeting at the Jacksonvil Chief Cook Rob Seim, QEE Hardin Chancey Payne review the Seafarers LOG and discuss t trends in the maritime industry.

Recertified Bosun David Campbell addresses the membership at a recent union meeting. Brother Campbell stressed the importance of upgrading at the Paul Hall Center and the need to bring new recruits into the union. (Campbell completed the bosun recer­ tification course at the school in May.)

Port Agent Anthony McQuay presides over the voting booths while Recertified Bosun William "Scotty" Byrne receives his ballot. Brother Byrne cast the first vote at the Jacksonville hall in the SIU-NMU proposed merger.

Left: Full book members raise their hands to be counted at the Jacksonville membership meeting.

12 Seafarers LOG July2000 ,Memben: ~()UDdthe ri\'llle liall

Recertified Steward Milton Yournett reads about new and upcoming SIU job opportu­ nities while aboard the Atlantic.

The Jacksonville hall has the largest jurisdictional area as well as the largest coastal area of any of Deckhand Derek Dragon unpacks and mixes paint for main­ the SIU ports-spanning the region from the North tenance work at the docks of Crescent Towing and Salvage in Savannah, Ga. Carolina border to Key West, Fla. to Panama City. Needless to say, shipping is very good in Jacksonville1 making many job calls quite competi· tive and action at the counter fast and furious. Serving the membership throughout the region are Port Agent Anthony McQuay along with Patrolmen Bryan Powell (who provided the photos on these two pages) and Harmando Salazar. They meet the ships, tugs and dredges that hit port any· where In their jurlsdlaion and also help the mem­ bers with any business they need to take care of in the hall. SIU Patrolman Bryan Powell (center) meets with two unlicensed apprentices-Ryan Smith {left) and Randolph Cash-aboard the Atlantic, a U.S. Ship Management Co. vessel.

Since December, the port of Jacksonville has taken delivery of four new con­ trainer cranes (like the one at left), for a total of 14. The new cranes help the port keep pace with the growing container trade and are part of a $150 million investment in terminal improvements over the past three years.

Two members of the dock crew at Also at Crowley. Port Agent Anthony McQuay Crowley are OSs Mario Morante and (left) stops to chat with AB Gilberto Chamorro. Jason Powell.

any of the SIU-contracted ships, tugs and dredges come through or are stationed in the port of Jacksonville. The above vessels are just four of a larger number serviced by port officials ecently. From the left are the El Mo"o (Sea Star}; the dredge Dodge Island on the job in Georgetown, S.C.; the PFC William B. Baugh offloading at Blount Island Marine Terminal; and the tug enera/ Oglethorpe of Crescent Towing & Salvage in Savannah, Ga.

July2000 Seafarers LOS 13 . J A VOYAGETOINDIA-1940 by J. Melford Smith Last April, thick rug on the floor that would harbor. Had a drink with a couple Somewhere east ofSuez On Sunday I went to the race the Seafarers cost a fortune in the States. British soldiers, then the three of Where the best is like the track with my British friends, LOG published The windows were of wood us went to the cinema. worst dressed in my new khaki shorts part ofPension­ and pointed at the top. On the The movie was in an ancient Where there ain 't no ten com­ and pith helmet. Won a whole er James M. wall was a picture of King Farouk amphitheater open to the starry mandments bunch of rupees but didn't realize Smith's journal and his Egyptian queen. There night sky. I asked one of my com­ And a man can raise a thirst how much until I returned to the of his trip to was a small table of teak or panions about not having a roof. hotel, emptied all my pockets and India in 1940 mahogany on which were small He said, "What for? It hasn't Saturday, March 23- the ones I had stuffed in my shirt. as an ordinary glasses, ash trays that were never rained here for 105 years!" In Underway at dawn yesterday for Almost $500 ! The most money I seaman aboard the SS Steel meant for use and similar articles Aden, I used five kinds of money Karachi, India. The Arabs in have ever had! On Monday I Age. of beautiful but useless design. -American, English, Arabian, Rastanura stole everything that stopped at the bank and changed it The vessel had steamed past The tea was thick, very sweet Egyptian and Indian. wasn't bolted to the deck. They to American dollars before return­ the Rock ofGibraltar, through the and very good. We chatted about Wednesday, March 13- even stole the flag halyard! Today ing to the ship and had Capt. Suez Canal and called on the Arabia and Egypt and T. E. Underway at 1700 for Rastanura the weather is warm with calm Jones put it in the ship's safe. ports of Alexandria, Egypt and Lawrence before leaving to visit in the Persian Gulf. At sunset we seas as we cross the Gulf of We left Bombay this morning Jidda, Saudi Arabia. the Americans' residence. were pushing our bow into the Oman. I am drawing 100 rupees, at dawn. As we made our way This second segment continues There are seven Americans East Indian Ocean, a flat lazy sea which I hope will last until across the harbor through the in Jidda. here working for Standard Oil of turned to blue and gold by the set- Calcutta. heavy traffic, the sun rose out of California. We were welcomed ting sun. In the east, the first of Sunday, March 24--Easter the ocean to touch the rounded, This evening, Bud, Bill and I with open arms (and scotch and the evening stars was twinkling in Sunday. Fine weather and calm pointed domes of the Taj Mahal went ashore ($5 for round-trip in sodas). We blue seas. There Hotel and slowly flood the city launch) and were escorted around were the first is a full moon with light, chasing the early the city by an Arabian govern­ Americans to these nights, morning mist before it. And so ment official who could speak visit them, and making it very farewell to this great city of the fairly good English. Jidda has no they were gen- beautiful on the East, where east is east and west electric lights, using gas as its uinely glad to midwatch. While is also east. means of illumination. There are see us. Every- off watch, if I'm We are now bound for no paved streets and no side­ one got slightly not working with Columbo, Ceylon with an ETA walks. The streets are hard­ tipsy, and we the deck gang for Thursday. There is a rumor packed dirt, even in the "shop­ arrived at the under supervi- going around that we will go to ping district." There is an abun­ dock at mid- sion of the bo- Singapore from Calcutta and dance of goats, donkeys (which night in a Ford sun, I lie on deck back to the States via Honolulu. are painted all colors of the rain­ touring sedan and read. At pre- Around the world cruise! bow), dirty dogs, cats and camels. in high humor sent am reading The Arabs, however, are most and noisy song. "History of the Columbo, Ceylon kindly and not at all aggressive. I Saturday, United States" Friday, April S-Arrived in much prefer them to my late March 9- by Emerson Fite. Columbo early Wednesday Egyptian fiends, er, friends. Woke up this ,...... "":-- Am surprised at evening. We moored the ship to a My guide and interpreter was morning with a how much I still buoy in the polluted harbor. well dressed in the native garb of hangover. and -~~11".a• have to learn My watch partner, Bill Marks, flowing silken robes, leather san­ my mouth felt about American had bought a tailored white dals and a blue silk sash. His like the Russian ~....-:o~------~~:...__.~:::::J history. sharkskin suit in Bombay and headdress was the customary tur­ Army had been marching through a deep blue sky. Tuesday, Macch 26-Arrivcd was wearing it for the first time. ban with a one-inch diameter it in their stocking feet_Too many Thursday, March 14--Was in Karachi, which is at the mouth There were three bum.boats tied black cord wrapped twice around. scotch and sodas, no doubt. really warm on deck today. of the Indus River. Went ashore in up at the foot of the gangway. Bill It is the badge of authority for Blistering hot today. Underway Didn't get up 'til noon. This is the afternoon. Found the place went tripping merrily down the government officials. for Aden at 1600. really splendid cruising compared very interesting and the prices gangway. He jumped into the first We walked through the dark Sunday, March 10--Got up to my two years as a Marine on lDw. Underway for Bombay on boat, which tipped dangerously. streets flanked by buildings that at noon. Have been reading the USS Houston. There has been Wednesday. Off balance, he jumped into the were ornate but centuries old_ "Beau Geste" by P.C. Wren. a ship in sight all day with guns Friday, March 29- We second boat with the same result. There was a distinctly oriental which I finished after getting off mounted aft and no flag. We arrived in Bombay about noon. The third boat was a complete odor that I could Mt define, and I watch. Very good story. Played ~hanged course just in case. Went to a movie in the evening. miss, and poor Bill wound up in saw no women except two or "quoits" this afternoon. It's like Friday, March l~Fish on Saw "Balalaika," then had dinner the oily harbor water with his three shrouded black creatures horseshoes but with eight-inch the menu today. Nothing of inter- at the Taj Mahal Hotel-"The white sharkskin suit A comical that somehow didn't resemble in rings made of rope. The sea is est to write about. 1380 miles to Gateway to India." performance but a real loss for any way the female of the species. smooth as glass and it's hotter our next port of call. Weather Bill. From a minaret came the wail of a than hell. We pass a ship every very hot-am getting a good tan. Bombay Nights I went ashore in a bumboat at muezzin: plaintive, lonesome and two or three hours. ETA at Aden Tuesday, March 19-For the Englishmen and ladies in a cost of one-half rupee. Columbo searchingly thin, calling the faith­ is Tuesday morning. past three days we have been evening clothes, beggars every- is a singularly beautiful town and ful to evening prayer. The Monday, March. 11-The cruising steadily northeast at 10 where crying "Bakshish, Sahib," has a fine European-style busi­ Moslems pray five times a day, weather is very hot but we have a knots through the Indian Ocean. gharreys (horse-drawn carriages) ness district, elegant English tea and the muezzins, or priests, have strong wind and a choppy sea. Today we entered the Persian and rickshaws, Indian girl prosti­ rooms and the Grand Oriental the "good fortune" to be blinded This wind is called a "khamsin," Gulf from the Gulf of Oman. tutes, some not more than chil­ hotel. The city is clean, and the while still young babies "so that which means "50" in Arabic, Both countries are in sight. On dren, Anglo-Indians called native housing districts are a mile they may see no evil." because it blows 50 days a year. the port side, the high, desolate "Chichi's," and some of the most or more from the main shopping We went through the east gate Passed two islands near the and rugged mountains of the beautiful architecture in the area. in the walled city and were on the entrance to the Red Sea. We stand Arabian Peninsula; to starboard, world. The locals wear class The native Ceylonese are not road to Mecca for about 100 watches only since it's too hot to the low rolling coastal plain of marks on their foreheads and in so ragged as elsewhere in the yards. There was a camel caravan work on deck. Persia (Iran). We will be arriving their noses. Colorful saris on the East. Transportation is by rick­ camped alongside the road with in Rastanura Thursday morning. women. And people, people shaw or trams and also fast motor the camels tethered nearby. Being GuH of Aden This evening there is a yellow everywhere. buses. The dock where I landed is an old farm boy from the mid­ Tuesday, March 12-Entered moon lying low over the East The weather was bot and the a very modem one with a money­ west, I couldn't resist trying to the Gulf of Aden this morning. Indian Sea, reminding me of nights beautiful. Sitting on the changing place at the entrance. make friends with one of the ani­ Raised land at 1400 and tied up to more romantic moments. Just one veranda with my British friends Opposite the dock is the Grand mals. When I went to pat him buoys in Aden harbor at 1600. year since Palm Beach. Ah, and a lovely Chichi girl named Oriental, so I stopped in. There (her?) on the nose, the beast made Went ashore after dinner. There romance! Perhaps things will Terry. Thought of "The Romance was dancing in the ballroom with a swipe at me with huge yellow isn't much of interest here work out better in the future. of the East" Can't remember the some rather bored-looking teeth, and I fell over backward, although Aden is the fueling port Read "Half a Loaf' by Grace author: British colonials dressed in much to the merriment of the for all ships going to and from the A. Lewis, a tenderly romantic The lilt of liquid Malay tunes evening clothes and their very, bedouins, who were rolling on Far East. This is a British military novel of the trials and tribulations Azure tropic skies very snobbish women. The the ground with laughter. post where duty should be avoid­ of a young author and his wife. The warmth ofsunlight on atmosphere was a bit dull so I Returning to the center of the ed if possible. It is incredibly bar­ Thursday, March 21- lagoons left. Perhaps Kipling had it right town, the government chap invit­ ren, consisting of huge rugged­ Arrived at Rastanura this mom- Laughter in dark eyes. when he wrote about some girls ed us to his house for tea. More looking mountains of volcanic ing. A most desolate place with From distant lands these mag- back home in merry old England: dark alleys. On the floor in the rock and, incidentally, one of the nothing to signify its existence ics come Beefy face and grubby hand entrance hall lay about a dozen hottest places on earth, with tem­ but a few oil tanks. Flat desert, no Where love andfragrance Law, what do they under- ragged pilgrims, one of whom peratures running to 130 degrees. trees. The British pilot who meet stand? had a dangerous looking dagger. I There are a few Allied mer­ brought the ship in said, "When The lute and zithers gentle I've a sweeter, neater maiden stepped over them all very care­ chant ships in the harbor, all the wind isn't blowing like hell strum In a cleaner, greener land fully. Up five short flights of armed. While ashore, I walked from the north, it's blowing like Is stilled by desert heat. On the road to Mandalay. stairs and into a well-furnished around the English settlement. hell from the south." It is so hot From many a visioned room with a platform bed built then down through the native and dry we are thirsty all the unknown land To ·be continued around two sides. There were quarter and back to the Crescent, time. I wonder if Kipling was in a A mystic world afar in a future issue of the which is a tree-lined street run­ situation like this in northern Mongolia, Tibet, Samarkand about two dozen pillows of vary­ Seafare-rs LOG . . ing and beautiful design and a ning along the shoreline of the India when he wrote: Andfabled 'Zanzibar!

14 Seafarers LOG July 2000 Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea MAY 16 - JUNE 15, 2000

*TOTAL REGISTERED TOTAL SHIPPED **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups AU Groups Trip AU Groups Class A Class B Class C Class A Class B Class C Reliefs Class A Class B Class C Port DECK DEPARTMENT Tuesday: September 5* New York 29 7 .. 6 21 IO 4 . *change created by Labor Day holiday : Philadelphia 7 5 2 3 4 2 · Baltimore 6 s 0 s 2 1 Algonac u ••••••••••••••• .Friday: August 11, September S Norfolk 13 12 11 9 12 9 3 22 11 8 9 11 5 5 4 18 8 Baltimore ...... -.o..... Tuursday: August 10, September 7 7 12 10 10 32 10 7 Duluth ...... • + ••••••••••••Wednesday; August 16, September 13 24 10 7 59 26 18 3 17 9 2 .. : :·:::. ·: ..43 11 .. 5 Honolulu .•. n ••• ~~; ...... Friday: AriguSt 18,. Septembet lS .} 23 12 3 39 18 7 6 25 6 ll 23 43 11 7 4 4 5 5 3 3 8 3 11 5 7 8 4 17 7 19 18 4 4 0 3 2 2 6 2 1 2 2 1 254 143 87 184 120 71 108 420

··.29 ·7 5 3 3 1 6 6 2 6 6 8 4 10 12 5 13 7 2

Mobile 4 1 Personals New Orleans 5 4 0 4 12 6 1 10 5 2 1 38 10 8 FRIENDS OF JAMES E. HILL 17 2 0 7 42 10 I James E. Hill would like to hear from shipmates who . 20 2 0 8 32 11 4 served with him aboard the Penn Vanguard or the Keva 3 12 3 12 35 3 4 Ideal. His address is 410 East Oak Ave., Apt. 7, Tampa, 3 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 FL 33602. 6 8 9 6 1 ·· o ...... '13 l 0 0 Crusader Pays Off in New York I 2 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 26 112 38 21 58 259 77

ENTRY DEPARTMENT 20 .. ,.... 2 16'' 0 10 43 l4 0 0 0 .2 2 2 0 1 .3. :·:. 2 10 0 0 17 16

These photos were snapped aboard the Crusader (CSX) during a recent stop in New York. Above (from left) Electrician Kevin Cooper and AB John Walsh enjoy a late dinner. Below (left) Bosun Roberto Diaz meets with SIU New York Safety Director Jack Sheehan, and (right) 4 5 Steward Joe Emidy finishes up his galley duties for the 38 43 ..... 2 . evening . 19 2 3 .. 15 0 21 0 0 0 0 0 2 41 199 171 25 109 126 0 85 290 290

Totals All Departments 608 493 337 434 356 258 224 970 655 504

*"Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port.

July2000 Seafarers LOG 15 Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes MAY 16 - JUNE 15, 2000 CL - Company/Lakes L-Lakes NP-Non Priority *TOTAL REGISTERED TOTAL smPPED **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups All Groups All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Class CL Class L Class NP Class CL Class L Class NP

Port DECK DEPARTMENT Algonac 0 0 17 4 0 Port ENGINE DEPARTMENT .. Algonac 0 ·: 0 .:7~.:. .. ·: ·:· .. °() .. 0 : Port A~gonac .: .:!:,,,. :: .. ::s·.·.;:x·}:x•:r:.f Port Algonae

Totals All Depts 0 53 48 0 32 18 0 19 21 *"Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port.

Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters MAY 16 - JUNE 15, 2000 *TOTAL REGISTERED TOTAL SHIPPED **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups All Groups All Groups Class A Class B Class C Class A Class B Class C Class A Class B Class C

Totals 0 1 0 0 5

Totals All Depts 4 2 11 7 2 7 12 0 31 *"Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port.

PIC-FROM-THE-PAST

This photo was sent to the PfilLAl>ELPIDA .. Seafarers LOG by Pensioner 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19'148' Arthur Longuet of Carson {215). 336-3818 City, Nev. . . · P,INB.Y llO~T . The picture was snapped eo. Bmc 1s. Piriey Point. MD 20674 in the summer of 1947 ...'. . :.:· ....: {'.!PD t)94-00l~ . aboard the Governor Graves, a Waterman Steam­ ship Corp. vessel, which was en route to France. Longuet is in the second row, fourth from right (marked with an "X"). He sent this photo to the LOG. hoping someone might rec­ ognize himself. Brother Longuet, now 72, joined the SIU in 1945 in his native New York. He sailed in the deck department and retired in 1991. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she sould like to share with the LOG readership, it should be sent to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 207 46. Photographs will be returned, if so requested.

16 Seafarers LOS July2000 Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead.

recertified bosun who New York and engine department, first sailing Steamship Lines, Inc. Brother WALTERW. upgraded his skills several first sailed aboard the Transyork, a Trans Rosich last sailed in 1999 aboard LeCLAIR, A times at the Paul Hall aboard the Western Associates vessel. The the Cape Gibson, operated by 64, joined the Center for Maritime Training and Westchester­ Jacksonville resident last sailed Patriot. He currently resides in SIU in 1960 in this year aboard the NPR Inc.­ Education in Piney Point, Md., is operated San Bruno, Calif. the port of among the six Seafarers announc­ Charle,ston. A operated Mayaguez. ing their retirements this month. native of New York. A Brother Walter W. LeClair Puerto Rico, native of New has some 30 years of service with Brother Alicea CLIFFORD A MELROSE, 75, Hampshire, the SIU in addition to his tenure worked in the steward depart­ began his career with the SIU in YUSEF Brother LeClair was a member of with the U.S. Army. ment. He last sailed this year 1974 in the port of Seattle. A SALAHI, 71, the deck department. He first member of the steward depart­ In addition to Brother LeClair, aboard the Producer, operated by hails from sailed aboard an Interocean ment, Brother Melrose 's first each of the five other retirees CSX Lines. Brother Alicea Astoria, N. Y. Ugland-Management Corp.vessel. sailed in the deep sea division. resides in Ponce, P.R. ship was the Sea-Land Galloway. Brother Salahi An honorably discharged veteran, Three of the retirees were The Deadwood, S.D. native last joined the SIU he served in the U.S. Army from members of the steward depart­ sailed in 1984 aboard the in 1972 in the 1958 to 1960. Brother LeClair ment, two shipped in the engine PAULT. Weschester-operated Arcon. port of San department and one sailed in the BABBIN, 62, Brother Melrose currently resides Francisco. A upgraded his skills several times deck department. hails from in Rapid City, S.D. native of Yemen, his first ship at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg On this page, the Seafarers Jacksonville, was the Noon Day, a Waterman School in Piney Point, Md. and LOG presents brief biographical Fla. A native Steamship Corp. vessel. He was a completed the bosun recertifica­ accounts of the retiring Seafarers. of Boston, FRANCISCO M. ROSICH, 59, member of the engine depart­ tion program there in 1974. The Brother joined the MC&S in 1972 in the port of San Francisco. Brother ment, last sailing this year aboard Chatham, Mass. resident last DEEP SEA Babbin joined the SIU in Rosich is a native of Peuto Rico. the Green Island, also operated sailed in 197 6 aboard the PEDRO A. ALICEA, 66, joined 1972 in the port of Seattle. He His first ship was the Santa by Waterman. Brother Salahi Anchorage, operated by Sea-Land the SIU in 1977 in the port of worked as a member of the Mariana, operated by Delta calls Lackawanna, N. Y. home. Services. Mayaguez Incident Recalled In Television Shaw, Letter The 1975 ordeal of the SS Mayaguez, one of the most famous SIU­ crewed ships ever, recently was recalled in a one-hour feature on the Discovery Channel. "Seized at Sea" aired May 14. The show focused mainly on rescue efforts by the U.S. Marine Corps. Navy and Air Force that followed the Mayaguez s capture by Cambodian rebels (the Khmer Rouge) off that country's coast. It fea­ tured recently declassified film footage of the mission and included interviews with President Gerald F Drd, Mayagui!z crew members and military personnel. Additionally, Charles G. Raymond, president of CSX Lines (for­ merly Sea-Land, which operated the Mayaguez), sent a letter to the U.S. Ambassador in Cambodia concerning the 25-year anniversary of the incident and a related ceremony. The letter is reprinted here:

The Honorable Kent Wiedemann Ambassador Embassy of the United States of America 27 EO Street 240 Phnom Penh Cambodia

Re: Ceremony Commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Mayaguez incident

Dear Ambassador Wiedemann: l!~~-J~~~~··' Twenty-five years ago this morning, the United States Navy, Air Force and ·,;.itJ~!fng ·ai heati(fuaitil-$;J~i.,g4ent Paul Hall Marine Corps launched a military rescue effort against the forces of the Cambodian Khmer Rouge. Their sole mission was to free the forty officers and crew members of the U.S.-flag merchant vessel Mayaguez. The ship, operated by our company, Sea-Land Service, had been seized by a Cambodian gunboat -~~~~!r·· ia~;::tnt=~=an four days earlier while on a routine commercial voyage from Hong Kong to .. pdj~i:·.(i.q-i:·;~ij~i;::;. .. cation,, training ~nd... Thailand. The crew was taken forcibly from the ship and held in an unknown location. This action represented a direct attack by the Khmer Rouge on the sov­ =a~\~ " THJS MONTH :::0~· ereign territory of the United States of America and the illegal detention of its cit­ ···: . Pf .. · .. POint':· ~d· ....;.,. .. _ _..minated ra~ izens . ·~• uu ~loo .. at .. . ney . " ...• . Tragically, forty-one American servicemen lost their lives during the suc­ ·:;_:.~9. ~tain yo~ng ' l;nei( ·.··y JN SJU HISTORY ·: flionth at a diplomat• cessful completion of the mission. As a result of the courage and sacrifice of the fJQi.:.. entf'Y#-vid .. JOb.s ...... ·i.(:.(Onf~rtPC.e. ..CQn.- .. , : members of the rescue team, the Mayaguez's crew was released by their cap­ <~~~?lm~(t~q~™g ..: aucte~;·:,: •. ;;~ ·;·; ~~~~r :. ~f . $lgnifkant:· ~eviiio11s ...ai~~d ~ · . ·. . and clear around the world. U.S.-flag merchant ships and American seamen will .: wot!dfil<~~ameri:w ·: qualifY · f0r promotions <... ,.. :·: .... ·Improving shipboard safet)t. ·· be protected on the high seas with the same vigor and determination as our bor­ ·.· ~ft!!i' ;; $~@fit•:rand siX· ...... the safety'.:. of seamen was the primari .. ·new .. that Mr. Ambassador, please pass on our thanks and lasting gratitude to the .>stol! :·: ~~'°arters . buildlnr".in camp Springs, consideration .in the updating of the members of the United States' armed forces attending your ceremony today for ...: ..:: M4~ /~/~~tf.~g ::. c,Omi>t.e.tio'-1· · The buildfitr.ls ... lntematk>nal. Con\fei1don of the Standards of their service to our country and for the ultimate sacrifice of their comrades twen­ ·· IObted just' minutes by car from downtown ·Training#' Certification and Watchkeeping ty-five years ago. They gave their lives to protect not just the men of the ·': W.~J~~@1: ...Q~C. All of.Jhe ~erior wo~k (STCW),. a 17-year-old pact that has t 13 Mayaguez, but the American merchant marine and its crews wherever they sail. :.. J\~ · tiien .:completed; "and· interior·work is signatory countries whose fleets represent tld~~·'- ~:aJ(.!1Jg · rapidly. nearly 95 percent of the world's merchant- Sincerely, 'i:;Xi!i ;: 5~J14irir ·should be ready for occupation ~Ip tonnage .. Charles G. Raymond President July2DOO Seafarers LOB ., 7 DEEP SEA passed away April 9. He began his to 1945, he served in the U.S. Navy. Kentucky, he worked in the deck sailed as an career with the MC&S in 1942 Mobile, Ala. was his home. department and upgraded his skills electrician and BLEWETT DAVIS aboard the Oliver Wendell Holmes. at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg upgraded his Born in Idaho, he worked as a chief L.J. MAY School, where he graduated from the skills at the ~~= Pensioner bosun recertification program in Paul Hall steward, last sailing aboard the Pensioner L.J. May, 72, died Blewett Davis, 1982. His last ship was the Samuel Center for President Roosevelt, an American February 27. He started his career 76, passed away L. Maritime President Lines vessel. Brother with the MC&S in 1945, sailing Cobb. A resident of Camden, April 13. Born Training and Johnston was a ·resident of aboard the Matsonia, a Matson NJ., he retired in May 1991. in Texas, he Education. His Manzanita, Ore. and retired in May Navigation Co. vessel. Brother May began his SIU first and last 1983. worked in the steward department EDWARD J. SMITH career in 1965 vessels were operated by Sea-Land in the port of and began receiving his pension in Pensioner Edward J. Smith, 89, DAVID KNIGHT February 1969. He was a resident of passed away March 14. He joined Service. From 1963 to 1967, he Wilmington, served in the U.S. Navy. Puyallup, Pensioner San Jose, Calif. the MC&S, sailing as a member of Calif. His first Wash. was his home. ship was the Sreel Flyer. Brother David Knight, the steward department. Brother Davis worked in the deck depart­ 89, died April WILLIAM NEAL Smith resided in Weymouth, Mass. ment. Prior to retiring in October 6. Brother Pensioner and started receiving his pension in GILBERT T. WOLFE 1988, he sailed aboard the Overseas Knight joined William Neal, October 1973. ! Pensioner Juneau. The Abernathy, Texas resi­ the Seafarers in 83, died March · Gilbert T. dent was a veteran of World War II, 1941 in the port 17. After a 20- TERRELL J. STAFFORD Wolfe, 70, having served in the U.S. Coast of New Orleans. year career in Pensioner passed away Guard from 1942 to 1945. The Louisiana the U.S. Navy, Terrell J. March 16. A native sailed in he joined the Stafford, 87, native of JEROME J. FAHEY the steward department and started SIU in 1960 in died April 6. A Maryland, he receiving his pension in October the port of native of :... began his career Jerome J. Fahey, 58, died November 1972. He made his home in --"-"-' Norfolk, Va. Louisiana, he with the 10, 1999. A native of New York, he Jacksonville Beach, Fla. first sailed with the Seafarers in His first ship was the Andrew began sailing Seafarers in Jackson, a Waterman Steamship with the 1943 in the port of Baltimore. 1986 aboard the USNS Assurance, JOSEPH J. KUNDRAT operated by Sea Mobility, Inc. He Corp. vessel. Born in Kentucky, he Seafarers in Brother Wolfe sailed in the deck sailed in the deck department and Pensioner worked in the steward department 194 7 from the department and began receiving his upgraded his skills at the Seafarers Joseph J. and upgraded his skills at the SIU's port of Galveston, Texas. Brother pension in July 1984. Towson, Md. Harry Lundeberg School of Kundrat, 84, training center in Piney Point, Md. Stafford worked in the engine was his home. Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. passed away Brother Neal last sailed aboard the department, last sailing aboard the Jefferson Davis, a Waterman From 1958 to 1962, he served in the March 22. Born Santa Lucia, operated by Delta SAUL F. ZAMBRANO U.S. Navy. Brother Fahey last sailed in Pennsylvania, Steamship Lines and began receiv­ Steam.ship Corp. vessel. A resident Pensioner Saul in 1997 aboard the Cpl. Louis J be began his ing his pension in September 1983. of Lecompte, La., he retired in Zambrano, Hauge Jr., operated by Maersk Line. sru career in He made his home in Chesapeake, September 1978. During World War F. 87, died recent- He was a resident of Ingleside, 1944. Brother Va. II, he served in the U.S. Navy from Texas. ~~;;;;.;;;.;;;.;;;..;;;;;;;;;;.:;;.:.;;;;;i Kundrat worked 1942 to 1945. .. ly. Born in in the steward department and SAMUEL · · Ecuador, he started his NORMAN L. FERGUSON upgraded his skills at the Seafarers PAPPAS STEVE SZANTO Harry Lundeberg School, where he career with the Pensioner N6rman L Fergu~(')t1, 82, Pensioner Pensioner Steve SIU in 1969, graduated from the steward recertifi­ Szanto, 73, passed away February 27. Brother Samuel Pappas, sailing aboard cation program in 1980. Prior to 72, passed away passed away Ferguson joined the Marine Cooks retiring in December 1982, he sailed the Beatrice & Stewards (MC&S) in 1943. Born recently. Born March 5. Victory. The deck department mem­ as a chief steward aboard the in Illinois, he Brother Szanto in Mississippi, he sailed as a chief Westminster, Md. was his ber upgraded his skills at the Osprey. started his joined the sru steward and began receiving his home. Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. pens.Qn in May 1973. H., made his career with the in 1944 in the Prior to retiring in September 1980, Seafarers in port of New home in Suison City, Calif KANE K. LEETEG Brother Zambrano worked aboard 194 7 in the pon of Mobile, Ala. York. Born in the Arecibo, a Puerto Rico Marine PETER GONSALVES Pensioner Kane Brother Pappas worked in the deck West Virginia, Management, Inc. vessel. He made K. Leeteg, 67, department, last sailing aboard a he sailed in the deck departn1ent and Pensioner Peter his home in Manta Manabi, died February Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. began receiving his pension in Ecuador. Gonsalves, 68, 22. Brother A resident of New Orleans, he stan­ August 1980. Virginia Beach, Va. died April 9. He Leeteg joined @d r@c@iving his pension in June was his home. ROBERT E. ZIMMERMAN started his the Seafarers in 1993. From 1954 to 1956, he served ~areer with th~ 1952. A native in the U.S. Army. RALPH G. TURNER Pensioner MC&S in 1961 RobertE. of Washington, Pensi

18 Seafarers LOG July2000 I - 1

Beach, Calif.; Panama Canal; MAERSK COLORADO dental program and prescription Manzanillo, P.R.; and Freeport, (Maersk), April 16-Chairman coverage for dependents. New Bahamas. Mohamed S. Ahmed, Secretary toaster needed in crew messhall as Ray A. Garcia, Deck Delegate well as first-aid kits. Vote of thanks INTEGRITY (U.S. Ship Mgmt.), David J. Joseph, Engine Delegate given to steward department for ~~, DiEfllllll~lr~ April 9-Chairman Felix A. -· Ray Avie Jr., Steward Delegate great job. Next port: Portland, Ore. ·,iiffh11,St1afaretS LOG attemji~{tiijrliJI '$Jnifnt digasts ol anlOR shlpboanl Santiago, Secretary Stephanie L. Allan D. Bright. Chairman report­ !Jii "' minute8 ·a&/J0$8ibl~. .. '{!nt~~~tlt1h; ;becausa ttl $/Ja" Sizemore, Educational Director ed payoff April 20 in Long Beach, OVERSEAS VIVIAN (OSG Ship .. ,... ,.,. ····p1Jmltatto11f.'· $iiiii11 ;wlllbe'omltted. .\\ft)/. "" · .,.,,. . . I · ,.. · , .; Dennis R. Baker, Deck Delegate Calif. Coast Guard inspection to Mgmt.), April 9--Chairman union'S department. Clay Brown, Engine Delegate· take place at that time. He noted Daniel W. Seagle, Secretary Pablo "10,ffsbi,,, minutes 11rs1:are 'le;;sweit by the contract Michael C. McNally, Steward safe voyage with good crew and P. Lopez, Educational Director ffi!Ji11se Issues requifing afhlntjlJn or resolution are addressed by the union Murray W. Roberson. Everything 1 Delegate John Padilla. Chairman read schedule of courses available +lff;~;;ttpon receipt o~t/Jeshlps minutes. The minutes gre then forwarded thanked crew for working together at Paul Hall Center. Relief steward going well, according to chairman. >;@~/!!: ...... :.: . :.:: t'1.the.S.eafarers LOG tor publication. .. ··· . and maintaining ship's lounge. ·, ·;';', --~·' '" ." . ' ... ,, .. "·. ·:-·.. :: . . . Educational director advised every­ one to check expiration dates on Stopover in South America SAM HOUSTON (Waterman C. Hoppenworth, Engine documents. Renewals can take sev­ Steamship Corp.). March 26- Delegate Roderick Frazier, eral days to weeks. Treasurer Chairman Mark S. Downey, Steward Delegate Isabel Sabio. announced $40 in movie fund. Secretary Roderick K. Bright, Payoff set for Corpus Christi, Three movies purchased last trip; Educational Director Michael L. Texas. Ship to load gasoline for all contributions welcomed. No Mefferd, Deck Delegate Gregory Perth Amboy, N.J. and then return beefs or disputed OT reported. Hickman, Engine Delegate on Citgo charter to Florida. Suggestions made for contracts Prentiss R. Smith, Steward Secretary reminded crew members department to raise maintenance Delegate Ovidio Crespo. leaving ship to get clean linen for and cure rates and furnish prescrip­ Chairman expressed thanks from reliefs. Educational director tion coverage for dependents. Vote captain for putting out engine room stressed importance of upgrading of thanks given to steward depart­ fire in Charleston before shoreside skills at Piney Point. No beefs or ment for delicious baked goods and help arrived. Job well done. disputed OT reported. Com­ menu variety. Suggestion made for Treasurer announced $450 in ship's munications received stating com­ company to supply refrigerators to - fund. No beefs or disputed OT pany headquarters moving to old all crew members. Request made reported. Deck delegate requested Kirby/Sabine location in Port for LOG to publish addresses of clarification on pay for daymen Arthur, Texas. New dryer requested senators and congressmen on standing watch. Suggestion made for crew laundry as well as station­ Capitol Hill (see page 20 ~ June to form credit union. Vote of ary bike in exercise room (or issue). Next ports: Boston, Mass. thanks given to steward department access to officers' exercise room). and Elizabeth, N.J. for good job. Microwave in crew mess also KODIAK (CSX Lines), April needed. Suggestion made for con­ 9- Chainnan Garry D. Walker, While at anchor in the port of Guayaquil, Ecuador recently, crew AMBROSE CHANNEL tracts department to look into being (IUM), Secretary Michael F. Meany. members aboard the Maersk Tennessee wait at the bow for able to call for relief after 90 days April 2-Chairman Mario M. Payoff scheduled April 11 upon bunkers to be loaded. From the left are Chief Mate Kurt Breitfeller, Romero, Secretary Elena R. instead of 120 and receiving vaca­ arrival in Tacoma, Wash. Day off Bosun Jerry Borucki. ABM John Wagner and Second Mate Curley, Educational Din;ctor tion after completing 60-da.y relief for all hands April 12; check with Deborah Hennen. The vessel is on a San Antonio, Texas to Stephen R. Treece, Deck Delegate job. Insurance cards requested. boarding patrolman. Old business Guayaquil to Long Beach, Calif. run. R@jlinnld A. Watkins, Engine Vote of thanks given to steward taken care of. including heat in Deltgate Jerome • Dooms, department. rooms and condition of linen lock­ Steward Delegate Jimmy White er. Treasurer announced $4,300 in Jr. Recently recertified bosun HM/ DYNACHEM (IUM). April ship's fund. No beefs or disputed stated regular steward to return in Payoff scheduled in New Orleans Romero s.aid h~ is aboard ship to L9-Chnirman Robert J. OT reported. Letter of thanks Long Beach. This was his first time after clearing immigration and cus­ help solve problems in all three Coleman, Secretary Ronald received from company regarding on Maersk ship and he enjoyed toms. Galley gang to have cook­ depanments. but crew should first Tarantino, Engine Delegate securing of 7,000-gallon propane trip. He reminded crew members to out/barbecue every Sunday. talce complaints to department del­ Victor Quloto. Chairman went tank that broke loose in a storm. check seamen's documents and Secretary suggested crew members ega.te. Education diri:ctor encour­ over old business, noting receipt of Special meals (lobster and t-bone STCW for expiration and suggest­ upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center aged Seafarers to upgrade skills at new washer dryer and TV, thllllk steak) provided by company a.s ed upgrading skills at Paul Hall and get necessary endorsements for Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, to Capt. Jose Leonard. He thank you for avoiding disaster Center. Educ~tional director higher jobs. Better ratings mean Md. for better wages and job secu­ announced payoff May l in Lake with no injuries. Vote of thanks advised crew to think and practice more money. No beefs or disputed ricy. Sug2estion made for crew to Charles, La. and reminded crew given to bosun's wife, Letty Jo safety at all times. No beefs or dis­ OT reported. Vote of thanks given

donate money for purchase of members to check expiration date Walker1 for dona.ting homemade puted OT reported. Request made to chief cook and his crew for job videotapes. Crew members on z-cards and other documents jams and jellies to crew. Thanks for refrigerators for crew rooms. well done. requested ship address for receipt before it's too late. Secretary also given to chief steward and his Vote of thanks given to steward of mail and LOGs. Thanks given to advised everyone to check pay department for job very well done. department, especially Chief Cook PRODUCER (CSX Lines), April steward department for job well vouchers and see captain or dele­ Bright. 11-Chairman William J. Card, done. gate as soon as possible for LIBERTY WAVE (Liberty Secretary David A. Cuningham, changes. Treasurer welcomes dona­ Maritime), April 23-Chairman MAERSK TEXAS (Maersk), Educational Director Alan A. ATC OHIO (ATC), April 23- tions of all amounts for movie, Ronald Charles, Secretary Fred­ April 16-Chairman John M. Rogers II, Deck Delegate William Chairman Timothy D. Koebel, satellite and gym equipment funds. erick L. Washington Sr., Educa­ Zepeda, Secretary Donna M. D. Brinson Jr., Engine Delegate Secretary Gregory G. Keene, No beefs or disputed OT reported. tional Director Jeffery T. Field, DeCesare, Educational Director Terry J. Mouton, Steward Educational Director Larry F. Suggestion made for contracts Engine Delegate Carl L. Turner. Edward C. Mancke, Steward Delegate Cecilio E. Suarez. Phillips, Deck Delegate Jess F. department to look into raising Bosun announced payoff in New Delegate Clancy T. Hennigan. Chairman stated payoff to take Chalker, Steward Delegate vacation pay and including extra Orleans April 25. Vessel will then Chairman noted repair of ice place in Elizabeth, NJ. April 14. Tommy E. Belvin. Chairman incentives in next contract. Also return to Haifa, Israel. Secretary machine, but part still on order for Vessel stores to be delivered at that spoke about new direct deposit requested cost of living increases asked crew members to clean washer. Ship will dock on arrival time. Chairman also noted captain option in place and said he would for pensioners and coverage for rooms and reefer boxes and turn in in Long Beach, Calif. April 10. put out revised schedule of vessel's inform crew members when ATC prescription drugs for dependents. keys before leaving ship. Educa­ Everything running smoothly. arrival on West Coast but is subject course to be offered at Piney Point. Everyone asked to help keep tional director suggested everyone Secretary thanked his department to change. He reminded crew No beefs or disputed OT reported. lounge and crew laundry clean and take advantage of upgrading oppor­ members, especially Chief Cook members to check STCWs and z­ Clarification received from head­ separate plastic items from regular tunities at Paul Hall Center. No beefs Hennigan, for excellent job. cards for expiration dates. quarters regarding weekend shift trash. After Lake Charles, ship or disputed OT reported. Clarifica­ Educational director urged all to Educational director urged every­ work. Suggestion made for con­ heading to Port Everglades, Fla. tion needed on DEU's cleaning of upgrade at Piney Point and to be one to upgrade at Piney Point. He tracts department to negotiate with lounge and laundry areas. aware of z-card expiration (every will check class offerings for those ATC to return to option of receiv­ INNOVATOR (U.S. Ship Mgmt.), five years). No beefs or disputed getting off and wanting to attend ing cash for transportation after April 16-Chairman John E. MAERSK CALIFORNIA OT reported. Suggestion made for courses there. Treasurer stated successful completion of work Stout, Secretary Louis Nicoud, (Maersk), April 16-Chairman contracts department to reinstate $750 in ship's fund. No beefs or tour. Next ports: Valdez, Alaska Educational Director Tesfaye James T. Martin, Secretary time off on freighters. Request disputed OT reported. Bosun read and Ferndale, Wash. Gebregziabher, Deck Delegate William P. McGee, Educational information as to Money Purchase several articles from LOG and Klaus E. Tammler, Engine Director James T. McParland, Pension Plan. reminded everyone to keep updat­ EL YUNQUE (IUM), April 28- Delegate Gregorio A. Blanco, Deck Delegate Dirk W. Adams, ed on new information about union Chairman Ronald Mena, Secretary Steward Delegate Andy N. Steward Delegate Ivan R. Salis. OVERSEAS HARRIETTE (OSG and maritime industry. Recom­ Francis E. Ostendarp Jr., Deck Campollo. Chainnan announced Chairman noted. AB James Rose Ship Mgmt.), April 9-Chairman mendations made for contracts Delegate Blair C. Baker, Engine ship going into yard in Korea in taken ill April 15 in Panama Canal. Gary L. Dates, Secretary Mark A. department to look into increasing Delegate Jimmie R. Graydon. June for about three weeks. He Will be gone at least until ship Flores, Deck Delegate Joseph pension due to rising cost of living, Chairman announced payoff in thanked everyone for keeping ship arrives in Charleston, S.C. April Carrillo, Engine Delegate Michael and lowering seatime and age Puerto Rico at 1O a.m. Educational clean and separating garbage. 19. Treasurer Jeffrey A. Lagana Gay, Steward Delegate Marco requirement for pension. Bosun director advised crew members to Educa.tion.al director urged crew announced $728 in ship's fund. Guity. Chairman thanked everyone thanked steward department for upgrade at Paul Hall Center when­ members to take advantage of edu­ Two new vacuum cleaners pur­ for job well done. Separate pay great food and keeping areas clean. ever possible. No beefs or disputed cational and upgrading opportuni­ chased in Peru. No beefs or disput­ vouchers to be issued for Saturday Chief steward commented to bosun OT reported. Seafarers informed of ties available at Paul Hall Center. ed OT reported. Suggestion made and OT work due to lack of cash and deck gang about great new dock change in Jacksonville. Next Treasurer stated $709 in ship's for contracts department to look on board ship. Secretary noted trip paint job on aft house. New mat­ port: San Juan, P.R. fund. No beefs or disputed OT into reducing seatime needed for to North Korea very educational. tresses to be ordered for everyone reported. Suggestion made for con­ pension. Another suggestion made No beefs or disputed OT reported. by end of month. Entire crew HM/ DEFENDER (IUM), April tracts department to look into to have one person to a room when Suggestions made for contracts thanked Messman Suarez for keep­ 9--Chairman Juan Castillo, reducing time needed for vacation upgrading at Piney Point. Sincere department to look into being able ing messhalls spotlessly clean and Secretary Steven R. Wagner, from 120 days to 90 days. Steward thanks given to steward depart­ to leave ship after six months and well stocked. Next ports: Eliza­ Educational Director Charles J. department given vote of thanks ment for job well done and to deck receive transportation and unem­ beth; San Juan, P.R.; Jacksonville, Brockhaus, Deck Delegate Robert for job well done. Next ports: Long department for wire change on crane. ployment. Also suggested upgraded Fla.

July2000 Seafarers LOG 19 SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT PENSION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report for SID Pacific District Pension Plan, 94-6061923 for the fiscal year ended July Know Your Rights 31, 1999. The annual report has been filed with the Internal Revenue Service, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). FINANCIAL REPORTS. The PAYMENT OF MONIES. No Basic Financial Statement Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, monies are to be paid to anyone in Benefits under the plan are provided by the plan. Plan expenses were $13,560,893. These expenses included $892,001 Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters any official capacity in the SIU in administrative expenses and $12,668,892 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 4,560 persons were District makes specific provision for unless an official union receipt is participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all these persons had yet earned the right safeguarding the membership's given for same. Under no circum­ to receive benefits. money and union finances. The con­ stances should any member pay any The value of the plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $147,907,172 as of July 31, 1999, compared stitution requires a detailed audit by money for any reason unless he is to $156,888, l 93 as of July 31, 1998. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $8,981,021. certified public accountants every given such receipt. In the event This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets, which is the difference between the value of the plan's assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of year, which is to be submitted to the anyone attempts to require any such assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $4,579,872, including employer contributions of $29,212, membership by the secretary-trea­ payment be made without supply­ and earnings from investments of $4,549,539, and other income of $1,121. surer. A yearly finance committee ing a receipt, or if a member is Minimum Funding Standards of rank-and-file members, elected required to make a payment and is by the membership, each year given an official receipt, but feels An actuary's statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. examines the finances of the union that he or she should not have been and reports fully their findings and required to make such payment, Your Rights to Additional Information recommendations. Members of this this should immediately be reported You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below committee may make dissenting to union headquarters. are included in that report: reports, specific recommendations 1. an accountant's report; CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS and separate findings. 2. assets held for investment; AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of 3. transactions in excess of 5 percent of plan assets; and the SIU Constitution are available 4. actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds in all union halls. All members To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of the administrator of the SID of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes Pacific District Pension Plan, 522 Harrison Street, San Francisco, CA 94105-3104. The charge to cover copying costs will and Inland Waters District are should obtain copies of this consti­ be $2.50 for the full annual report, or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. administered in accordance with the tution so as to familiarize them­ You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets provisions of various trust fund selves with its contents. Any time a - and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying agreements. All these agreements member feels any other member or notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accom­ specify that the trustees in charge of officer is attempting to deprive him panying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a or her of any constitutional right or charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. these funds shall equally consist of You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan, 522 Harrison Street, union and management representa­ obligation by any methods, such as San Francisco, CA 94105-3104 and the U.S. Dept. of Labor (DOL) in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. tives and their alternates. All dealing with charges, trials, etc., as Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the DOL should be addressed to: Public Disclosure expenditures and disbursements of well as all other details, the member Room, N-5507, Pension and Welfare Benefit Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, trust funds are made only upon so affected should immediately Washington, DC 20210. approval by a majority of the notify headquarters. trustees. All trust fund financial EQUAL RIGHTS. All members records are available at the head­ are guaranteed equal rights in Thailand in Seattle quarters of the various trust funds. employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set SIDPPING RIGHTS. A mem­ forth in the SIU Constitution and in ber's shipping rights and seniority the contracts which the union has are protected exclusively by con­ negotiated with the employers. tracts between the union and the Consequently, no member may be employers. Members should get to discriminated against because of their rights. Copies know shipping race, creed, color, sex, national or of these contracts are posted and geographic origin. available in all union halls. If mem­ bers believe there have been viola­ If any member feels that he or she tions of their shipping or seniority is denied the equal rights to which rights as contained in the contracts he or she is entitled, the member between the union and the employ­ should notify union headquarters. ers, they should notify the Seafarers SEAFARERS POLITICAL Appeals Board by certified mail, ACTIVITY DONATION return receipt requested. The proper SPAD. SPAD is a separate segre­ address for this is: gated fund. Its proceeds are used to Augustin Tellez, Chairman further its objects and purposes Seafarers Appeals Board including, but not limited to, fur­ 5201 Auth Way thering the political, social and eco­ Camp Springs, MD 20746 nomic interests of maritime work­ ers, the preservation and furthering Full copies of contracts as of the American merchant marine referred to are available to members with improved employment oppor­ Steward department members on the APL Thailand recently met with SIU Tacoma Safety Director at all times, either by writing direct­ tunities for seamen and boatmen Jamie Overby aboard the vessel in Seattle. They discussed the latest union news including the pro­ ly to the union or to the Seafarers and the advancement of trade union posed merger of the NMU into the SIU. Pictured from left to right are ACU Tim Ellis, Chief Cook Appeals Board. concepts. In connection with such Enrique Garrido and Chief Steward Cynthia Caster. objects, SPAD supports and con­ CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU tributes to political candidates for contracts are available in all SIU elective office. All contributions halls. These contracts specify the FRANCIS X. THOMAS native of are voluntary. No contribution may Virginia, he wages and conditions under which be solicited or received because of Pensioner an SIU member works and lives ltiJ!~I Dep~rtures · . joined the force, job discrimination, financial Francis X. aboard a ship or boat. Members Thomas, 72, Seafarers in reprisal, or threat of such conduct, ·:co~tbi~~d ftom p~ge i a should know their contract rights, as .· .. died February 1979. Boatman or as a condition of membership in well as their obligations, such as fil­ 18. After 22 West worked in the union or of employment. If a years in the U.S. the deck depart­ ing for overtime (On on the proper sailing aboard the P.F. Martin, a contribution is made by reason of Navy, he began ment and sheets and in the proper manner. If, McAllister Towing Co. vessel. the above improper conduct, the his Seafarers upgraded at the at any time, a member believes that Boatman Simone worked in the deck member should notify the Seafarers career in 1967 Paul Hall an SIU patrolman or other union departmertt and upgraded his skills Center for Maritime Training and International Union or SPAD by in the port of official fails to protect their con­ at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg certified mail within 30 days of the Norfolk, Va. Boatman Thomas sailed Education. A resident of Chesa­ tractual rights properly, he or she School. The Pennsylvania native last contribution for investigation and as a captain and attended an educa­ peake, Va., he sailed primarily should contact the nearest SIU port sailed as a pilot aboard a Curtis Bay appropriate action and refund, if tion conference at the Seafarers aboard Allied Towing Co. vessels. agent. Towing Co. vessel. A resident of involuntary. A member should sup­ Harry Lundeberg School. The Dover, Tenn., he retired in August port SPAD to protect and further his Pennsylvania native last worked GREAT LAKES EDITORIAL POLICY - THE 1988. During World War II, he or her economic, political and aboard an Atlantic Towing Co. ves­ SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers served in the U.S. Coast Guard from social interests, and American trade sel and began receiving his pension LOG traditionally has refrained 1943 to 1946. RAYMONDE. SALMI union concepts. in October 1989. Portsmouth, Va. from publishing any article serving was his home. Pensioner the political purposes of any indi­ Raymond E. vidual in the union, officer or mem­ NOTIFYING THE UNION-If HERBERT I. SWARTZ ROBERT A. WATSON Salmi, 79, died ber. It also has refrained from pub­ at any time a member feels that any March 28. The of the above rights have been vio­ Pensioner Herbert I. Swartz, 71, Pensioner Rohen A. Watson, 70, lishing articles deemed harmful to passed away January 25. A native of Ohio native the union or its collective member­ lated, or that he or she has been passed away February 25. Born in joined the denied the constitutional right of New Jersey, he joined the SIU irt Pennsylvania, he joined the SIU in ship. This established policy has 1972 in the port of Philadelphia. He Seafarers in been reaffirmed by membership access to union records or informa­ 1969 in the port of Philadelphia. 1961 in the port tion, the member should immedi­ worked in the deck department and Boatman Watson sailed primarily action at the September 1960 meet­ of Cleveland. ately notify SIU President Michael upgraded his skills at the Sill's aboard Interstate Oil Transport Co. ings in all constitutional ports. The training center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Salmi Sacco at headquarters by certified vessels as a member of the deck responsibility for Seafarers LOG Prior to retiring in March 1990, worked in the deck department, sail­ mail, return receipt requested. The department. A resident of policy is vested in an editorial Brother Swartz sailed aboard an ing primarily aboard Great Lakes address is: Philadelphia, he started receiving his board which consists of the execu­ Interstate Oil Transport Co. vessel. Towing Co. vessels. A resident of pension in February 1992. tive board of the union. The execu­ Michael Sacco, President During World War II, he served in Parma, Ohio, he began receiving his pension in June 1982. He was a vet­ tive board may delegate, from Seafarers International Union the U.S. Marine Corps. from 1942 to among its ranks, one individual to 5201 Auth Way 1947. He was a resident of Clifton, PAULG. WEST eran of World War II, having served carry out this responsibility. Camp Springs, MD 20746. Heights, Pa. Paul G. West, 58, died February 3. A in the U.S. Army from 1941to1945. 20 Seafarers LOG July2000 With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: Documents proving 120 UPGRADING APPLICATION days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page ofyou_ .r union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All FOWT. AB and QMED anlicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $280 with their allJllication. The payment should be made with a money order only. oavable to LMSS. BEGIN END COURSE DATE DATE Telephone Date of Birth ______Deep Sea Member D Lakes Member D Inland Waters Member D

If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed Social Security#______Book# ______Seniority ______Department ------U.S. Citizen: Yes D No [J Home Port Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held ______LAST VESSEL:------Rating: ____ Date On: ------Date Off: Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? [J Yes D No SIGNATURE ______DATE If yes, ~lass#------­ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only ifyou Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? D Yes D No present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any ques­ If yes, course( s) taken tions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. --~------~-~------RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Paul HaU Center for Maritime Training and Education, Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. D Yes D No Firefighting: D Yes D No CPR: D Yes D No The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qual­ ified, of any race, nationality or sex.. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, Primary language spoken ------access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. July2000 Seafarers LOG 21 Paul Hall Center Graduating Classes

Able Seaman - SIU members successfully completing the AB curriculum May 26 are (in alphabetical order) Adel Alameri, Robert Arneel, Benjamin Barnes, Ronald Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 601 - Unlicensed apprentices Burris Jr., Jimmie Casey, Deronja Clark, Antony Cruzvergara, Carey Hatch, David in class 601 graduating from the water survival course are (from left, kneeling) Nathaniel Heindel Jr., Ausberto Laspinas, Lito Mariano, Brian McLamon, Royal Mobley, Nestor Miller, Malik Hunt, Bryan Hill, Ole Olesen, David Provost, Kenneth Green, (second row) Montoya Jr., Lawrence Richardson Jr., Russell Roberts and Ziting Xu. Their instructor, Deshawn Stephenson, Patrick McAlpin, Stiles Anderson, Gilberto Figueroa Jr., William Bernabe Pelingon, is in the back row, fifth from left. Yurick, Joshua Ellerbee, Jerramy McNeil and Bryan Mccallum Jr.

Liillittd L -CtDH - Graduate5 of the 6-week limitecJ licen$e ¢:0urs~ ar~ (in alphaMtieal l'.lrder) Billy Barletto, Robert Boudreaux, Shane Boudreaux, William Bruce, Michael Cascio, Victor DiGiorgio, Troy Gros. Gregory Jarvis. s~ott Morton and Blaine Tompson. This course includes inland and international rules of the road, piloting in coastal waters, weather observations and forecasting, among other topics.

Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) - Earning their graduation certificates for completion of the tanker familiarization/assistant cargo (DL) course May 19 are (from left, kneeling) Michael McErlean, Benny Perez, Carlos Castillo, Dorothy Carter, Kameron Kamaunu, Elpidio Toyco, (second row) Guy Todd II, Brian Guiry, Gregorio Abalos Jr., Karl Roy Jr. Angel Perez, Crista Arnold, James Reily, Thomas Powe, Cuthbert Forbes, (third row) Chris Todd, Tyrone Brown, Christopher Cummings, Lawrence Rose, Clinton Gillins, Timothy Kotsis, Shauntay Shavies, Sherrod Frazier, Steven Ruiz, William Harris, Kyle Bailey, Michael Repko, Bernard Baker, Eric Bridges and Charles James. Their instruc­ tor, Jim Shaffer, is at far left.

Unlicensed Apprentice Graduation - After all the hard work and Upgraders Water Survival - SIU members graduating from the water survival class studying, unlicensed apprentices completing their third and final phase of study April 28 are (from left, kneeling) Radfan Alkamlani. Joseph Ashworth, Bernabe Pelingon are (in no particular order) Dwayne Brock, Roderick French, Phillip Hartline, (instructor), Ziting Xu, Ausberto Laspinas, (second row) Michael Joel, Faustino Onato, Alberto Richard Huffman, L.G. Johnson, Charles Joswiak, Travis Kirchhofer, Steven lnsong, Jimmie Casey, Joel Rosete, Lito Mariano, Carey Hatch, Russell Roberts, Bakr Elbana, Pollard, Chad Reynolds and Joseph Rutter. (third row) Benjamin Barnes, Gregory Baker, Gerry Querubin, Michael Repko, Royal Mobley and Scott Brady. 22 Seafarers LOB July2000 Paul Hall Center Graduating Classes

FOWT - Earning their FOWT endorsements May 12 (and giving the thumbs-up sign) are (in alphabetical order) Mohamed Ahmed, John Alicea, Charles Billips, Daniel Borden, Michael Bragdon, Louis Champa Jr., Christopher Corpuz, Byron Harris, Thomas Hawkins, Orlando Herrera, Michael Jarvi, Robert Kane, Cornell Knox, Paul Kucan II, Louis Nickerson, Rocky Olds, Ramon Sanchez, Joseph Schrack, Al Seay, Edgar Shrode, Dana Thomas, Jason Tracey, Donald Tye, Jevon Vontoure and David Watkins. Their instructor (not pic­ tured) was Mark Jones.

,)

Steward Department Skills

Guvernment Vessels - With instructor Greg Thompson (standing, fourth from right) are students who completed the government vessels \;Ourse April 14. ln\;luded in Learning specific the group are Corinthis Thomas, Dulip Sookhiram, Michael Davis, Clinton Gillins, Joao culinary skills which will prepare them Cordeiro. John Kolodziej, Gerry Querubin, Bakr Elbana, Adeeb Saleh, Joel Rosete, Luis to sail as a chief cook are (left) Lopez and Jacob Scott. Chef/Instructor John Dobson with Simone Solomon, (above) Dana Wash­ ington and Chris Amlgable, and (below) Breon Lucas and Jonathan Gibson.

CPR/First Aid - Instructor Jennifer Langford (kneeling, left) joins graduates of the CPR/first aid course, including Dorothy Carter, Jioia deLeon, Heather Frizzelle, Romeo Rivera. Faustino Onato. Wendelyn Sugui, (second row) Bill Churney, J.D. Berger, Greg Baker, Tom Woerner, Kameron Kamaunu, Scott Brady and Derrick Sullivan.

Advanced Galley Operations - Ready to cook aboard any ship following completion of the advanced galley operations course are (from left, front row) Able Seaman - Instructor Larry Malone (standing, right) works closely with AB Gregory Blaylock, Elida Miguel, Joel Ramos, Jack Savin, Dulip Sookhiram, Vincente students in the April 28 graduating class. They include Efrain Collazo, Alvin Clark, Molina, (second row) Instructor Ed White, Gerry Querubin, Radfan Alkamlani, Nathaniel Salter, Bernard Beof, Cornelio Villaflor, Dionisio Baldevia and Clifton Bianca Bennett, Robert Dillinger and John Leahey. Doon is.

July2000 Seafarers LOB 23 SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT SIU Pacific District Pension Plan -page20 Seafarers Welcome MSC Commander Admiral Holder Visits SIU-Crewed Gopher Stat.e

SIU members aboard the prepositioning William R. Button, 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez, ship Gopher State recently welcomed a trio Pfc. Dewayne T. Williams. SP5 Eric G. of special visitors, led by U.S. Navy Vice Gibson, Ltc. Calvin P. Titus and the SS Admiral Gordon S. Holder, commander, Petersburg. Military Sealift Command (MSC). "The squadron's mission is to provide Holder toured the ship in Guam. He was swift and effective sea transportation of accompanied by Rear Admiral Tom Fellin, vital equipment and supplies to a designat­ base commander of U.S. Navy Forces ed area of operations," notes MSC. The ves­ Marianas in Guam; and Captain Philip sels "can leave port and sail literally any­ Briscoe, commander of MSC's Maritime where in the world and bring combat sup­ Prepositioning Ship Squadron (MPSRON) port and equipment the U.S. Marines and Three. Army need to accomplish their missions .... The Gopher State is a crane ship owned Since its inception, the squadron has operat­ by the U.S. Maritime Administration and ed in support of operations Desert Storm in operated by Interocean Ugland the Persian Gulf and Restore Hope in Management. It is one of eight ships cur­ Somalia, as well as other numerous exercis­ rently serving in MPSRON Three. The oth­ es and operations from California to ers are the 1st Lt. Jack Lummus, Sgt. Korea."

AB Jonathan Davis

OS Rodolfo Zena, OS Louis Anderson

Left: OS Dionce Bright

Bosun Nathaniel Leary

Left: Seafarers also welcomed aboard Rear Admiral Tom Fellin, base commander of U.S. Navy Forces Marianas in Guam (fourth from left); and Captain Philip Briscoe, commander of MSC's Maritime Prepositioning Ship Squadron Three (third from left). Pictured from left to right are Chief Steward Herbert Davis (rear), AB Philip '% Perry, Capt. Briscoe, Radm. Fellin, AB James McCarthy, Gopher State Capt. Tim McGeein, OS Dionce Bright, AB Jonathan Davis and AB Jesus Olbes. AB Ronald Makowiecki

Admiral Gordon s. Holder, MSC commander (fifth from left), recently was welcomed aboard the Gopher State in Guam. Pictured on the ship (from left) are A6 Roncild Makowiecki, AB Jonathan Davis, SA Adele George, OS Louis Anderson, Adm. Holder, AB Jesus Olbes, Bosun Nathaniel Leary, AB Charles Corley, AB Philip Perry and OS Dionce Keeping their fellow crew members well fed are (from left) Bright. Chief Steward Herbert Davis, SA Adele George, SA Jeffrey Mitchell, Chief Cook Wayne Webb and SA Anthony Grant.

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