Sealift Inc. Reflags M/V Maj. Richard Winters

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In This Issue: AMO DB Pension Plan benefits to increase for active vested members — Page 2 No increase in AMO dues or initiation fees in 2020

— Page 2 Volume 49, Number 11 November 2019 Sealift Inc. reflagsM/V Maj. Richard Winters

Sealift Inc. recently completed the purchase and reflagging of an 8,000 dwt ice- class multipurpose cargo ship, the M/V Maj. Richard Winters. With the family’s permission, the ship is named in honor of the commander of Company E, 2nd Battalion, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division (Easy Company) during the D-Day landings in World War II. The reflagging work on the 350-foot ship was completed at Gulf Copper in Port Arthur, Texas. The M/V Winters is registered in Delaware and will be employed in North Atlantic trades. The M/V Winters is a new addition to the Sealift Inc. fleet, which currently num- bers seven vessels, including the M/V Black Eagle, M/V SSG Edward A. Carter, M/V Maj. Bernard F. Fisher, M/V Capt. David I. Lyon, M/V LTC John U.D. Page and M/V Sagamore. American Maritime Officers rep- The M/V Maj. Richard Winters gets underway in Port Arthur, Texas. Sealift Inc. recently acquired and reflagged the ice-class multipurpose resents all licensed officers working in the cargo ship into U.S. registry. American Maritime Officers represents all licensed officers aboard the M/V Winters. company’s fleet.

Members of American Maritime Officers working aboard the M/V Maj. Richard Winters in October, here in Port Arthur, Texas, included Second Mate Greg Katsirubas, Second Assistant Engineer Michael Barry, First A.E. Michael Fahey, Third A.E. Jonathan Cline, Chief Engineer Jonathan Bartholomew, Chief Mate Joseph Mazzaferro, Third Mate Terrence Blaine and Captain Kyle Wilson.

PagePage 3: Maritime 8: New Safety administrator and Education discusses Plan fleetCourse readiness Schedule at and STAR Updates Center

retirees or their survivors where applicable. AMO DB Pension Plan benefits to increase Nor will it compromise the AMO DB Pension Plan’s commitment to “vested inactive” participants — individuals who no longer 10 percent for active vested members work under AMO contract but who are due benefits at age 65. Retirement income will increase by 10 per- headquarters in Dania Beach, Florida. Plan’s fiscal year on September 30, 2018, Meanwhile, proposals to revise the cent January 1 for active AMO members who This increase will ease one difficulty the Plan’s actuarial consultants reported AMO Defined Contribution (DC) Plan’s benefit had earned benefits from the AMO Defined endured by working AMO members since that the AMO DB Pension Plan had entered calculation formula remain under consid- Benefit (DB) Pension Plan before the Plan that point nearly 10 years ago when the the “green zone” at a funding level of at eration by this Plan’s joint union-employer was suspended as deficient under federal AMO DB Pension Plan became underfunded least 82 percent. The Plan’s “green zone” trustees, who are weighing four options law in December 2009. as defined by the Pension Protection Act status provided the first practical opportu- under which participant age would no lon- An AMO member is considered of 2006. nity to enhance retirement security for AMO ger be a factor — benefits would be based “active” in this specific context if he or she This law established three funding members working in the deep-sea, Great exclusively on years of service in AMO is at work or registered to work under AMO level designations for troubled defined Lakes and inland waters fleets. covered employment. contract and is due a monthly benefit from benefit pension plans nationwide — “red Current actuarial assumptions put The outcome of trustee deliberations the AMO DB Pension Plan upon retirement. zone” for endangered plans, “yellow zone” the AMO DB Pension Plan on track to full on AMO DC Plan reform will be reported The joint union-employer trustees for plans in critical status and “green zone” funding by 2022. immediately to all AMO members. of the AMO DB Pension Plan approved this for plans able to meet their obligations to This increase in monthly benefits will increase in earned monthly benefits during vested participants. not impair the AMO DB Pension Plan’s ability Paul Doell their quarterly meeting October 10 at AMO At the close of the AMO DB Pension to meet its obligations to current AMO National President

AMO members observe meetings of union’s National Executive Board, AMO Plans Board of Trustees American Maritime Officers members attending and observing meetings of the AMO National Executive Board and AMO Plans Board of Trustees in October included Captain Joe Hopkins, Chief Engineer Bryan Hoffmann, Chief Engineer Andrew Centala and Steward Douglas Rogers.

No increases in AMO dues or initiation fees in 2020

Membership dues and initiation fees in American Maritime Officers will not increase in 2020. and investment accounts. This will mark the sixth consecutive year without additional administrative cost I ask that all AMO members maintain “good standing” by paying dues “in advance quar- borne by the AMO membership. This unprecedented milestone is a result of a combina- terly” as required under Article V (Finances) Section (g) of the AMO National Constitution. tion of effective cost containment policies at AMO headquarters and a significant rise I ask as well that applicants for AMO membership meet their obligations to pay initia- in timely dues payments from AMO members in the deep-sea, Great Lakes and inland tion fees — $5,500 for applicants working in deep-sea or Great Lakes fleets, and $3,500 for waters sectors. those employed on inland waters. Initiation fees in all employment sectors are payable in AMO has closed out all but two months with operating budget surpluses since mid- one sum or in equal installments over five years. 2015. These consistent surpluses are often in the six-figure range. For example, the operat- Thank you. ing budget surplus for September 2019 was $131,769.98. These accumulating operating budget surpluses have allowed AMO to close out Paul Doell each year with seven-figure savings — money deposited into growing cash reserve National President

AMO aboard USNS Yano and USNS Shughart

American Maritime Officers members working aboard the USNS Yano and USNS Shughart in October, here in Newport News, Va., included First Assistant Engineer James Wingate (Shughart), Captain Christi Westphal (Yano), Second A.E. Moe Duggins (Yano), Third A.E. Chase Whittemore (Shughart), Chief Mate Eric Thibodeau (Shughart), Third Mate Nolan Lough (Shughart), Electronics Officer Robert Day (Yano) and Chief Mate Jimmy Hairston (Yano).

www.amo-union.org AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER November 2019 3 Maritime Administrator Buzby tours STAR Center, discusses fleet readiness and recent turbo activation In his first visit to STAR Center in nearly commander of Military Sealift Command swered the call and I really appreciate that.” quirements, contested environments and seven years, U.S. Maritime Administrator also spent more than an hour speaking Buzby expressed his interest in hav- threats to the Jones Act. Mark Buzby, U.S. Navy Rear Adm. retired, with AMO members and STAR Center staff ing the results of the turbo activation spur Buzby said U.S. Secretary of Trans- praised American Maritime Officers during a question and answer session, decision makers to fund the necessary portation Elaine Chao is a staunch de- members for successfully manning 22 which covered several issues crucial to recapitalization and maintenance of the fender of the Jones Act. The service and ships operated under AMO contract during the U.S. Merchant Marine. Ready Reserve Force to ensure the fleet voices of U.S. merchant mariners like the a recent turbo activation that tested the He first offered up analysis of the can meet sealift requirements. AMO members in attendance will be vital readiness of the nation’s sealift fleet, results of the turbo activation of about He also gave an update on the new elements in a combined effort to debunk and for their dedication to U.S. national half of the vessels in the Ready Reserve multi-mission vessels being built, which and defeat criticism of and challenges to security objectives. Force fleet. will serve as training ships for the state the nearly 100-year-old cabotage law. Buzby was joined by STAR Center di- “By the end of the first day, about maritime academies. Contracts for design “It’s going to take efforts by all of rectors and staff and AMO officials during 80 percent of the ships were fully crewed. and construction of the first ship could be us, even down to you all in the conversa- a tour of the AMO Safety and Education You all responded very, very quickly when presented in just a few weeks and steel tions that you have with others and back Plan’s training center in Dania Beach, the call went out to light up those 30 some cutting could begin around this time next down any challenges,” he said. “We are which included the newly constructed fire ships,” Buzby said. “That was a real great year, he said. very vigorously upholding and support- field and upgraded bridge and engine sim- takeaway from the exercise. A lot of you AMO members asked Buzby about ing the Jones Act and not allowing any ulators, as well as the memorial site for were on vacation or here training or doing more stringent U.S. Coast Guard ship slippage or unnecessary wavering. We live the crew of El Faro on campus. The former other things. Our mariners, you guys, an- inspections, new mariner training re- and breathe the Jones Act.”

U.S. Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby spoke with members of American Maritime Officers and STAR Center directors and staff, and conducted a question and answer session, which covered several issues crucial to the U.S. Merchant Marine.

Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby speaks with AMO members at STAR Center following a Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby visits the memorial for the crew of El Faro on the AMO tour of the AMO Safety and Education Plan’s training facilities. Plans campus with STAR Center Director of Member Training Jerry Pannell.

American Maritime Officer (USPS 316-920) Official Publication of American Maritime Officers 601 S. Federal Highway Dania Beach, FL 33004 (954) 921-2221 POSTMASTER—Send Address Changes To: American Maritime Officers: ATTENTION Member Services Periodical Postage Paid at P.O. Box 66 Dania Beach, FL and Additional Mailing Offices ISO 9001:2015 Dania Beach, FL 33004 Published Monthly Certificate No. 33975

AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER www.amo-union.org 4 November 2019 U.S. Merchant Marine loses a friend and leader with the death of Congressman Elijah Cummings

and programs that form the collective keel of the U.S.-flag merchant fleet, battling on maritime policy and particulars to keep America’s fourth arm of defense intact. “He was a bastion of knowledge and strength, a voice of leadership and a true friend to mariners, and he will be sorely missed,” Doell said. After the U.S.-flag cargo preference share of U.S. government impelled food-aid shipments was cut by 25 percent as part of a measure to fund surface transportation projects in 2012, Congressman Cummings led the effort to restore the lost cargo preference share and the lost jobs and U.S.- flag capacity resulting from that ill-advised Maryland Democratic Congressman Elijah cut by sponsoring the Saving Essential Cummings — a friend of the U.S. Mer- American Sailors Act. chant Marine and a stalwart advocate on Congressman Cummings was recog- Capitol Hill — died on Thursday, October nized with the Maritime Industry Salute to 17. He was 68. Congress Award by the International Pro- Representing Maryland’s 7th Con- peller Club of the United States in 2013 for gressional District in the U.S. House of his steadfast support of the U.S. Merchant Representatives since 1996, Congressman Marine and American maritime sector. Cummings was the chairman of the Com- During his acceptance speech, he mittee on Oversight and Reform, a senior criticized a separate effort to undermine Congressman Elijah Cummings was recognized with the Maritime Industry Salute to Con- member of the Transportation and Infra- the shipment of U.S. food-aid cargoes to gress Award for his steadfast support of the U.S. Merchant Marine and American maritime structure Committee, and a member of the nations in need and urged those present to sector. In this file photo, the late Helen Bentley was presenting the award in 2013. Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and contact members of Congress to explain Hazardous Materials and the Subcommittee the detrimental impact such a move would on the interests of foreign-flag vessels the Jones Act,” he said. “Let me be very on Coast Guard and Maritime Transporta- have on the American job base and U.S. operated by foreign mariners. clear, the Jones Act must remain the tion, on which he had previously served as defense sealift capabilities. “This would be an intolerable compass by which we steer our nation’s chairman. “The Food for Peace Program has situation and frankly a risk to our national maritime policy.” “Congressman Cummings truly rec- supported American interests domestically security and it does not have to be this Among the numerous boards and ognized and deeply appreciated the value by providing markets for our agricultural way,” he said. commissions on which Cummings served, of the U.S. Merchant Marine and all of its products and supporting our merchant ma- Congressman Cummings worked he spearheaded an effort to strengthen roles — from quality career opportunities rine, and internationally by providing food to safeguard and sustain the Jones Act, the Maritime Transportation Technologies for young Americans to strategic military aid to impoverished countries in desperate affirming the importance of the law and the Program at New Era Academy (NEA) in Bal- sealift service unequaled around the globe,” need,” he said. “If we don’t take action, we American industry it supports throughout timore, and served as chairman of the NEA said American Maritime Officers National won’t have a merchant marine capable of his career in Congress and during the same Maritime Advisory Board, and as chairman President Paul Doell. “He fought hard on serving as a naval and military auxiliary and speech in 2013. of the Maritime for Primary and Secondary Capitol Hill to uphold and advance the laws our national objective will be left dependent “A subject near and dear to me is Education Coalition. U.S. Coast Guard Qualified Assessor requirements for STCW assessments — deadline December 31, 2019 All AMO officers are reminded that, after December 31, 2019, assessments of com- complete application no later than June 30, 2020. petence for STCW (deck and engine) endorsements must be signed by a Coast Guard All AMO senior officers are encouraged to obtain their QA designation in order to approved Qualified Assessor (QA). administer assessments of competence for AMO members completing STCW signoffs QAs must be approved by the Coast Guard as described in Navigation and onboard. Vessel Inspection Circular (NVIC) 19-14, “Policy on Qualified Assessors.” Until Decem- STAR Center has online training and guidance available to assist members ber 31, 2019, the Coast Guard will continue to allow STCW assessments to be signed by in obtaining their QA designation from the U.S. Coast Guard, which is available at an assessor who is not a designated QA, but who meets the requirements specified https://www.star-center.com/qa.html. Additional information on STCW require- in NVIC 02-14. These assessments must be submitted to the Coast Guard as part of a ments can also be found on the STAR Center website. Important revalidation information for Nautical Institute certified dynamic positioning officers

The revalidation of Nautical Institute Dynamic Positioning (DP) certificates began their documents before December 31, 2019. on January 1, 2015 and was phased over five years, concluding December 31, 2019. DPOs due to revalidate their certificates in 2019 should apply and send their documents into the Nautical Institute for processing the same month as their original When can an Offshore DP Certificate be revalidated? certificate was issued. Any DPO whose DP Certificate was issued before 31 December 2014 and has not Additional information from the Nautical Institute is available online at: yet been revalidated should complete their DP revalidation applications and send in https://nialexisplatform.kayako.com/category/6-frequently-asked-questions.

www.amo-union.org AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER November 2019 5 STAR Center to offer Great Lakes Open Water Pilotage Prep Program with start date on January 27, 2020

STAR Center will offer the Great Lakes Open Water Pilotage Prep Program starting January required round trips and submitted a USCG application or received approval to sit for Great 27, 2020. The program is designed to provide qualified U.S. Coast Guard licensed unlim- Lakes pilotage exams. ited tonnage deck officers with the necessary training and experience to obtain USCG Those who are eligible who do not have a USCG approval letter to sit for the pilotage Great Lakes Open Water First Class Pilotage (FCP) Endorsements for the five Great Lakes exams should submit their application to the USCG for testing ASAP. Pilotage Regions. Those who meet the program entry standards should submit a STAR Center applica- Officers who successfully complete this program will be eligible for jobs available with tion requesting enrollment in the Great Lakes Open Water Pilotage Prep Program along with AMO-contracted companies operating vessels on the Great Lakes, and will have the requisite the required USCG approval to test letter ASAP. knowledge and USCG endorsements to be employed as first class pilots in the five Great Lakes Pilotage Regions. https://www.star-center.com/forms/reg.mbr.live.html Officers enrolled in the program will gain knowledge of and proficiency in the pilotage endorsement requirements for the ‘Local Knowledge’ and ‘Chart Sketch’ portions of the USCG Those who require additional information on the program should contact: pilotage exams. Upon attaining knowledge and proficiency in the required areas, officers will be prepared to sit for the USCG pilotage exams for each of the five Great Lakes regions. Jerry Pannell STAR Center Director, Member Training Program Entry standards [email protected] Program participants must have completed or be in the process of completing their Office: (800) 445-4522 Ext. 7507

AMO aboard the American Mariner AMO members Members of working aboard American Mar- the American itime Officers Mariner in working aboard September as the American the ship loaded Mariner in coal at the CSX September, dock in Toledo here in Toledo, included First Ohio, included Mate Ahmed First Assistant Ali and Second Engineer Adam Mate Chase Saile. Raudebaugh.

U.S.-flag cargo movement on Lakes tops 10 million tons in August

U.S.-flagged Great Lakes freighters ciation reported. Coal loads totaled 1.4 million tons, compared with the same point in 2018. moved 10.8 million tons of cargo in Iron ore cargoes for steel produc- a 10.1 percent decrease from 2018 and a Iron ore cargoes totaled 29.9 mil- August, a 7.8 percent increase compared tion totaled 5.3 million tons, an increase 14.6 percent decrease from the month’s lion tons, an increase of 12.5 percent. with August of the previous year. of 5.97 percent compared with a year five-year average. Coal loadings totaled 6.9 mil- The August cargo float was also ago, and August was the fourth con- Year-to-date at the end of August, lion tons, an increase of 6.5 percent. 7 percent above the month’s five-year secutive month in which ore shipments U.S.-flag cargo movement stood at 54.5 Limestone topped 14.6 million tons, an average mark, the Lake Carriers’ Asso- topped five million tons. million tons, an increase of 12.6 percent increase of 13.4 percent.

Captain Colin Bergel (right) turns over the helm to Captain David Laban (left) on the AMO members working aboard the American Spirit in August included First Assistant bridge of the American Spirit. With them is Observing Captain Pandelis Dallas. Engineer Mike Moscaratilo, Chief Engineer Richey Duncan and Third A.E. John Burress. AMO aboard the American Spirit

Members of American Maritime Officers working aboard the American Spirit in August included Third Mate Alvin Eilers, here as the ship ties up to the CN dock to load iron ore in Duluth, Minn.

AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER www.amo-union.org 6 November 2019

AMO hosts conference for First Marine High Voltage contracted employers Safety Course on new equipment completed at STAR Center

American Maritime Officers in October hosted a conference in Washington, D.C. for contracted employers to provide updates and spur discussion on key operational issues, including AMO contracts, AMO benefit plans, government regulations pertaining to the maritime industry, military and commercial manning requirements and job dispatching. Above, AMO National President Paul Doell addresses representatives of AMO-contracted employers during the conference.

The first five-day U.S. Coast Guard approved Marine High Voltage Safety Course on new purpose-built training equipment was completed in October at STAR Cen- ter. Participating in the course was American Maritime Officers member William Gilbert, third assistant engineer on the USNS John Glenn (T-ESD-2).

Legislation to increase dredging approved by House of Representatives

The U.S. House of Representatives sent a through the Harbor Maintenance Tax — be strong bipartisan message October 28 in used for its intended purpose: upgrading support of maritime commerce when it and modernizing the nation’s harbors, ports approved H.R. 2440, the Full Utilization of and waterways. However, during the last 15 AMO National Executive Vice President Mike Finnigan covered AMO contract language, the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund Act. years, some of the money has been divert- upgrades to the AMO Dispatching system and software, and other key operational topics The legislation stipulates that the ed for federal budgetary purposes rather during the conference. money in the fund — which is collected than being used for harbor maintenance.

AMO aboard the USNS Pathfinder

Members of American Maritime Officers working aboard the USNS Pathfinder in Oc- AMO members working aboard the USNS Pathfinder in October included Chief Engineer tober, here around a mural of the ship in Ponta Delgada, Azores, included Third Mate Michael Hadley, First Assistant Engineer Anwar Muthala, Second Assistant Engineer Fintan Moore III, Radio Officer Michael Stone, Captain Mel Santos, Second Mate Dillon Nilo Gler and Third Assistant Engineer Gallal Albaneh. The ship is operated for Military Davidson and Chief Mate Jim Ensz. Sealift Command by Ocean Ships, Inc. Photos courtesy of Captain Mel Santos

www.amo-union.org AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER November 2019 7 Birthday of U.S. Navy celebrated aboard USNS Able

A celebration of the 244th birthday of the U.S. Navy was held October 13 aboard the USNS Able. The theme of the Navy’s birthday for 2019 was “No Higher Honor,” the motto of the USS Samuel B. Roberts. Each member of the USNS Able’s military crew was presented with a ship’s certificate and a written note welcoming them aboard and wishing the U.S. Navy a happy 244th birthday. Following the presentation, the cake prepared by Steward Will Moran was cut and all of the military crew gathered for a photo with a few members of the USNS Able crew. The ceremony was open to all hands and a large number of the crew and personnel onboard attended the celebration.

Captain Henri Naeger, Jr. Master, USNS Able

USNS VADM K.R. Wheeler officers, crew participate in celebration of 75th anniversary of Ulithi Liberation in Federated States of Micronesia

The USNS VADM K.R. Wheeler and USNS Fast Tempo on September 23 joined U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Kiska at the Ulithi Atoll in the Federated States of Micronesia for the 75th anniversary of the liberation of the islands from the Japanese. The event was held on the Island of Falalop, and in attendance were the officers and crew of USNS Wheeler and USNS Fast Tempo. A luncheon was held aboard USNS Wheeler for dignitaries, including the U.S. ambassador to the Federated States of Micronesia. During World War II, hundreds of U.S. Navy ships, including numerous aircraft carriers, a dry dock and a ship that made ice cream, docked and deployed from Ulithi Atoll. To commemorate the occasion, the USNS Wheeler and the USCGC Kiska brought more than 350 ice cream sandwiches for atoll residents, many of whom had never had ice cream.

Among those participating in the ceremony were (from the USNS Wheeler and USNS Fast Tempo) Captain John Mansfield, Chief Mate Patrick Leahey, Chief Engineer Frank Celino, First Assistant Engineer Shannon Wilson, Second Mate Mark Blom, and PAE Richard Bower; Ambassador Robert Riley, Federated States of Micronesia Governor Henry Falan, FSM Lieutenant Governor John Salalu, Susan Ross (public affairs), Lt. Col. Erin Richter, Lt. Cmdr. Erin Elliott (MPSRON 3), chiefs and elders of Ulithi Atoll, and USCGC Kiska com- manding officer and crew.

Captain John Mansfield Master, USNS VADM K.R. Wheeler

AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER www.amo-union.org 8 November 2019 AMO Safety and Education Plan — Simulation, Training, Assessment & Research Center (954) 920-3222 / (800) 942-3220 — 2 West Dixie Highway, Dania Beach, FL 33004 General Courses Combined Basic & Advanced Low Flash Point Fuel Operations (IGF Code/LNG Fuel) Course 5 Days 2 December 17 February 27 April Confined Space Entry 3 Days 2 December 17 February Advanced Fire Fighting 5 Days 24 February 27 April Advanced Fire Fighting Refresher 2 Days 9 December 2 March Basic Safety Training — All 4 modules must be completed within 12 months: Personal Safety Techniques (Mon./Tues. — 1.5 days), Personal Safety & Social Responsibility (Tues pm — .5 days), Elementary First Aid (Wed. — 1 day), Fire Fighting & Fire 5 Days 9 December 2 March Prevention (Thurs/Fri — 2 days) — not required if Combined Basic & Adv. Fire Fighting completed within 12 months. Basic Safety Training — Refresher 3 Days 11 December 4 March Chemical Safety — Advanced 5 Days 24 February ECDIS 5 Days 24 February 20 April Environmental Awareness (includes Oily Water Separator) 3 Days 8 January 27 April Fast Rescue Boat 4 Days 27 January 30 March 20 April 22 June GMDSS — Requires after-hour homework 10 Days 20 January LNG Tankerman PIC 8 Days 18 March LNG Simulator Training — Enrollment priority in the LNG simulator course is given to qualified member candidates for employment and/or observation opportunities with AMO contracted LNG companies. In all cases successful completion of 5 Days 30 March the LNG PNC classroom course is prerequisite. Proficiency in Survival Craft (Lifeboat) 4 Days 17 December 9 March Safety Officer Course 2 Days 5 December 20 February 11 June Tankerman PIC DL — Classroom 5 Days 27 January 1 June Tankerman PIC DL — Simulator 10 Days 9 December 6 January 2 March 13 April 11 May 8 June Tankerman PIC DL — Accelerated Program 10 Days Please Call Train the Trainer 5 Days 16 December 10 February 9 March 13 April 11 May Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties — VPDSD 2 Days 27 February Vessel/Company Security Officer — Includes Anti-Piracy 3 Days 10 February Crowd Management 1 Day Please Call Crisis Management & Human Behavior 1 Day Please Call Basic Training & Advanced Fire Fighting Revalidation (Required by first 9, 16, 23 13, 20 1, 15, 29 credential renewal AFTER 1 January 2017) 2 Days 21 November 5 December January February 19, 23, 26 March 16 April 4, 7, 18 May June EFA (Scheduled with Basic Training Revalidation BUT NOT REQUIRED FOR STCW 2010) 1 Day 19 February 20 May Leadership & Management (required by ALL management level Deck and Engine officers by 1 Jan 2017) 5 Days 9 December 27 January 23 March 18 May

Maritime Security Awareness 1/2 Day Please Call Medical Courses Heat Stress Afloat / Hearing Conservation Afloat 1 day 2 December 6 April Elementary First Aid — Prerequisite for MCP within preceding 6 months 1 day 3 December 21 January 25 February 24 March 5 May 2 June Medical Care Provider — Prerequisite for MPIC within preceding 6 months. Please fax EFA certificate when registering 3 days 4 December 22 January 26 February 25 March 7 April 6 May 3 June Medical PIC — Please FAX MCP certificate when registering 5 days 9 December 27 January 30 March 11 May 8 June Urinalysis Collector Training 1 day 16 December 3 February 15 June Breath Alcohol Test (BAT) — Alco Sensors 3 and 4 only 1 day 20 November 18 December 5 February 17 June Screening Test Technician — QEDs a.m./Alco Mate 7000 p.m. 1 day 17 December 4 February 16 June Radar Courses Radar Recertification 1 day 20 December 13 January 2 March ARPA 4 days 14 January Radar Recertification & ARPA 5 days 13 January Original Radar Observer Unlimited 5 days 6 January Deck Courses Advanced Bridge Resource Management — Meets STCW 2010 Leadership & Management gap closing requirements 5 days 24 February Advanced Shiphandling for Masters — (No equivalency) Must have sailed as Chief Mate Unlimited 5 days 2 December 6 January (P.M.) 9 March 13 April 4 May

Advanced Shiphandling for 3rd Mates — 60 days seatime equiv. for 3rd Mates 10 days 6 Jan. (P.M.) 10 Feb. (P.M.) 2 March 11 May 1 June (P.M.) Tug Training — ASD Assist 5 days 9 December 27 April Basic Meteorology 5 days 13 January Basic Celestial — OICNW 10 days 24 February Dynamic Positioning — Induction (Basic) 5 days 27 January 9 March 11 May Dynamic Positioning — Simulator (Advanced) 5 days 20 April Dynamic Positioning — Revalidation 5 days 9 December 10 February 1 June Navigational Watchkeeping Standardization & Assessment Program 5 days 2, 16 Dec. 13 January 2 March 13 April 18 May 8 June

TOAR (Towing Officer Assessment Record) — Third Mate (Unlimited or Great Lakes) or 1600T Master License required AND OICNW required 5 days 30 March

Advanced and Emergency Shiphandling — First Class Pilots, Great Lakes 5 days 10 February

www.amo-union.org AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER November 2019 9

Deck Upgrade — STCW 2010 — Management Level (NVIC 10-14) — If sea service or training towards management level (Chief Mate/Master) upgrade started ON OR AFTER 24 March 2014 you must adhere to this new program of training. Completion of both required and optional courses listed below will include all Task Assessments required by NVIC 10-14, providing ECDIS, GMDSS and ARPA have been previously completed. Upgrade: Shiphandling at the Management Level 10 days 9 December 6, 20 January 23 March 20 April 1, 15 June Upgrade: Advanced Meteorology — Requires after-hours homework 5 days 20 January 16 March 13 April 11 May 1 June Advanced Stability 5 Days 6 January 2 March 20 April Search & Rescue 2 days 3, 6, 17 Feb. 6 April Management of Medical Care 1/2 day 5, 19 February 8 April Leadership & Management 5 Days 9 December 27 January 17 February 23 March 18 May Advanced Cargo — Optional for task sign-off 5 Days 10 February 30 March 4 May 1 June Marine Propulsion Plants — Optional for task sign-off 5 Days 16 December 24 February 8 June Advanced Celestial — Optional for task sign-off 5 Days 2 December 9 March 27 April 22 June Advanced Navigation — Optional for task sign-off 5 days 9 December 17 February 13 April 15 June Engineering Courses Basic Electricity 10 days 24 February 20 April Diesel Crossover 4 weeks Please Call Engine Room Resource Management (Simulator) 5 days 10 February 4 May Gas Turbine Endorsement 10 days 2 December 13 January 10 February 9 March Marine High Voltage (Classroom) 5 days 3 February 11 May Hydraulics / Pneumatics 5 days 27 January 30 March Machine Shop 10 days 24 February 11 May 15, 19 June Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) 5 days 9 December 10 February 9 March 4 May Refrigeration (Operational Level) 5 days 13 January 16 March Refrigeration (Management Level) Universal Refrigeration Recovery certificate required. Please attach copy with registration. 5 days 20 January 23 March Steam Endorsement 4 weeks 27 January 27 April Controls and Instrumentation 10 days 20 April Welding & Metallurgy Skills & Practices — Open to eligible Chief Mates and Masters on a space available basis. Interested participants should apply online and will be confirmed 2 weeks prior to start date. 2 weeks 2 December 9 March 11 May 1 June

Engine Upgrade — STCW 2010 — Management Level (NVIC 15-14) — If sea service or training towards management level (1A/E-Chief Eng.) upgrade started ON OR AFTER 24 March 2014, you must adhere to this new program of training. Completion of both required and optional courses listed below will include all Task Assessments required by NVIC 15-14. By completing the series, no expiration limitation will be placed on your STCW credential. See STAR Center’s website for full details: https://www.star-center.com/stcw2010-engine.upgrade.html Leadership & Managerial Skills (G500 as amended) — REQUIRED 5 days 9 December 27 January 23 March 18 May ERM (E050 as amended) — REQUIRED (unless previously taken for gap closing or original license) 5 days 10 February 4 May Upgrade: Electrical, Electronics & Control Engineering (Management Level) (E133 as amended) (UPGRADE with tasks) Required unless previously taken 5 days 16 December 3 February 30 March 11 May 8 June for gap closing or original license STCW Upgrade Task Assessment — General: This class is required by all propulsion types (Motor, Gas and Steam) Licensed engineers — OPTIONAL: 5 days 20 January 16 March 1 June Tasks can be signed off onboard STCW Upgrade Task Assessment — Steam (E121 as amended) — OPTIONAL: Tasks can be signed off onboard 5 days 24 February STCW Upgrade Task Assessment — Gas Turbine (E122 as amended) — OP- TIONAL: Tasks can be signed off onboard 3 days 2 March MSC Training Program Basic CBR Defense 1 day 21 November 18 December 7, 24 January 2 April 1, 7 May Damage Control 1 day 20 November 17 December 6, 23 January 1, 30 April 6 May Heat Stress Afloat / Hearing Conservation Afloat 1 day 2 December 6 April Helicopter Fire Fighting 1 day 16 December 8, 22 January 13, 31 March 5 May Marine Environmental Programs (with CBRD) 1/2 day 21 November 18 December 7, 24 January 2 April 1, 7 May Marine Sanitation Devices / Water Sanitation Afloat 1/2 day 11 December MSC Readiness Refresher — Must have completed full CBRD & DC once in career 2 days 21 January 30 March 4 May MSC Watchstander — BASIC — Once in career, SST grads grandfathered 2 days 2 December 3 February 13 April 22 June 4, 14, 28 2, 13, 20 5, 19, 23 MSC Watchstander — ADVANCED — Required for all SRF members 1 day 3, 13 Dec. 17, 31 January February March 14, 24 April 15, 19 May June MSC Ship Reaction Force — Required every three years for SRF members 3 days 4 December 5 February 3 March 15 April 20 May 24 June Small Arms — Initial & Sustainment (Refresher) Training — Open to members & applicants eligible for employment through AMO (w/in 1 year) or 4 days 9 December 13, 27 January 10, 24 9, 16 March 6, 20 April 11 May 1, 15, 29 June MSC on MARAD contracted vessels. February Self-Study, CDs and Online Courses Anti-Terrorism Level 1 Online DOT Hazardous Materials Transportation Training Online EPA Universal Refrigerant Certification Examination Self Study Qualified Assessor Online

Vessel General Permit — EPA On Campus in conjunction with other classes

NOTICE: AMO members planning to attend STAR Center in Dania Beach, Florida — either to prepare for license upgrading or to undergo specialty training—are asked to call the school to confirm course schedule and space availability in advance. NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY AS TO STUDENTS: The Simulation, Training, Assessment and Research Center (STAR), established under the auspices of the American Maritime Officers Safety and Education Plan, admit students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin or sex to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the Center. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin or sex in administration of its educational policies, admission policies and other programs administered by the Center.

AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER www.amo-union.org 0 1 November 2019 DIRECTORY

TOLEDO, OH 43604 AMO NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS One Maritime Plaza, Third Floor FAX: (419) 255-2350 DANIA BEACH, FL 33004-4109 John E. Clemons, National Vice President, Great Lakes 601 S. Federal Highway Mobile: (419) 205-3509 (954) 921-2221 / (800) 362-0513 [email protected] Paul Doell, National President (800) 362-0513 Extension 6003 Mobile: (954) 881-5651 Joseph T. Brown, Great Lakes Representative [email protected] Mobile: (419) 309-1729 Extension 1001 / FAX: (954) 926-5112 [email protected] Charles A. Murdock, National Secretary-Treasurer (800) 362-0513 Extension 6007 Mobile: (954) 789-8944 Michelle Moffitt, Dispatcher ([email protected]) [email protected] (800) 362-0513 Extension 6005 / Mobile: (419) 481-3470 Extension 1004 / FAX: (954) 367-1025 Mike F. Finnigan, National Executive Vice President NEW ORLEANS / MADISONVILLE, LA 70447 Mobile: (386) 986-8495 P.O. Box 970 [email protected] / [email protected] Daniel J. Robichaux, National Vice President, Inland Waters Extension 1011 / FAX: (954) 367-1064 Mobile: (985) 201-5462 Joseph Z. Gremelsbacker, National Vice President, Deep Sea [email protected] Mobile: (954) 673-0680 (954) 367-1036 / FAX: (954) 367-1062 [email protected] Extension 1009 / FAX: (954) 367-1029 SAN FRANCISCO / OAKLAND, CA 94607 Todd Christensen, East Coast Representative 1121 7th Street, Second Floor Mobile: (561) 806-3768 William Barrere, West Coast Representative [email protected] Mobile: (415) 654-2671 Extension 1007 [email protected] Michael J. Thomas, Gulf Coast Representative FAX: (954) 367-1064 Mobile: (954) 290-9775 [email protected] PHILADELPHIA, PA 19113 Robert Silva, Government Liaison 1 International Plaza, Suite 550 Mobile: (954) 765-8149 Chris Holmes, Contract Analyst ([email protected] / [email protected]) [email protected] (800) 362-0513 Extension 4002 / Mobile: (856) 693-0694 Extension 1013 Marie Doruth, Executive Assistant to the National President STAR CENTER Mobile: (954) 290-8109 [email protected] STUDENT SERVICES/LODGING AND COURSE INFORMATION Extension 1017 / FAX: (954) 926-5112 2 West Dixie Highway / Dania Beach, FL 33004-4312 (954) 920-3222 Extension 201 / (800) 942-3220 Extension 201 Dispatch: (800) 345-3410 / FAX: (954) 926-5126 Course Attendance Confirmation: (800) 942-3220 Extension 200 Brendan Keller, Dispatcher ([email protected]) 24 Hours: (954) 920-3222 Extension 7999 / FAX: (954) 920-3140 (800) 362-0513 Extension 1061 / Mobile: (954) 817-4000 Roy Emrick, Jr., Dispatcher ([email protected]) SERVICES (800) 362-0513 Extension 1060 / Mobile: (954) 298-7635 UPDATE CREDENTIALS, DOCUMENTS, TRAINING RECORDS Member Services: (800) 362-0513 Extension 1050 Secure File Upload: https://securetransfer.amo-union.org/ [email protected] / FAX: (954) 367-1066 E-mail: [email protected] / Questions: (800) 362-0513 Extension 1050 MEDICAL CLINIC AMO PLANS OFFICES 2 West Dixie Highway 2 West Dixie Highway Dania Beach, FL 33004-4312 Dania Beach, FL 33004-4312 WASHINGTON, D.C. 20024 (954) 927-5213 (800) 348-6515 / FAX: (954) 922-7539 490 L’Enfant Plaza East SW, Suite 7204 Paul Doell, National President AMO Coast Guard Legal Aid Program Mobile: (954) 881-5651 Michael Reny [email protected] Mobile: (419) 346-1485 T. Christian Spain, National Vice President, Government Relations (419) 243-1105 Mobile: (202) 658-8887 (888) 853-4662 [email protected] [email protected] (800) 362-0513 Extension 7010 / FAX: (202) 479-1188 FAX: (419) 243-8953

AMO PLANS CONTACT INFORMATION

AMO Plans normal business hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Eastern. FAX — Retirement Services: (954) 922-7539 FAX — Medical Plan: (954) 920-9482 Phone: (800) 348-6515 FAX — Vacation Plan: (954) 926-7274 To request a connection with a specific person, dial “0” for the operator. E-mail — Medical Plan: [email protected] Medical Customer Service: extension 12 E-mail — Vacation Plan: [email protected] Retirement Services (Pension, 401(k), MPB, and DC): extension 14 E-mail — 401(k) Plan: [email protected] Vacation: extension 15 E-mail — Retirement Services: [email protected]

www.amo-union.org AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER November 2019 11 American Maritime Officers Agency Fee Policy

1. Any AMO represented non-member AMO represented employees of their right to Board defers to the appeal procedures, not purchase a copy of the transcript, a copy employee, whether publicly or privately object and the procedures for objecting. The the non-member challenger’s appeal shall be available for purposes of inspection employed who is subject to a union security AMO shall also send a copy of these policies shall be filed exclusively with the AMO by challengers at the Union party’s headquar- clause conditioning continued employment and procedures to each person who objected Secretary-Treasurer postmarked no later ters during normal business hours. on the payment of dues or fees, has the right the previous year to inform the person of his than thirty (30) days after the later of the f. The arbitrator shall have control to become an objector to expenditures not or her right to renew the objection for the following two dates: the date the AMO over all procedural matters affecting the ar- related to collective bargaining, contract current year. Secretary-Treasurer has forwarded a letter bitration in order to fulfill the dual needs of administration, grievance adjustment or other 5. The AMO shall retain an independent to the challenger acknowledging receipt of an informed and an expeditious arbitration. chargeable expenditures. A current AMO auditor who shall submit an annual report for the challenge or the date the National La- The arbitrator shall set forth in the deci- member has the right to choose to become the purpose of verifying the percentage of bor Relations Board affirmatively declines sion the legal and arithmetic bases for the an objector, but must assume non-member expenditures that fall within the categories to assert its reviewing jurisdiction. decision giving full consideration to the legal status prior to filing an objection through specified in paragraph 3 above. 9. Except where State law provides an requirements limiting the amount objectors these procedures. An objector’s fees shall be 6. The fees paid by objectors shall be exclusive statutory review procedure or when may be charged. calculated in accordance with this Policy. handled as follows: a challenger proceeds before the National g. Each party to the arbitration shall 2. To become an objector, an AMO rep- a. Objectors who pay fees by hand Labor Relations Board, as set forth in para- have the right to file a post-hearing state- resented non-member employee shall notify shall pay an amount less the percentage of graph 8, all such challenges received by the ment within fifteen (15) days after both par- the AMO Secretary-Treasurer, 601 S. Federal dues and initiation fees ascribed by the audit Union within the time limits specified above ties have completed submission of their cas- Highway, Dania Beach, Florida, in writing of (described in #5 above) to nonchargeable ac- shall be determined by expeditious referral es at the hearing. Such statements may not his individual objection by mail postmarked tivities. AMO shall place said fee in an interest to an impartial arbitrator appointed by the introduce new evidence nor discuss evidence during the month of January each year. Such bearing account. American Arbitration Association (“AAA”) not introduced in the arbitration. The arbitra- employees desiring to object, but who were b. Objectors who are paying fees by under its rules for impartial determination of tor shall issue a decision within forty-five (45) unable to make timely objection because they check-off shall continue to have a fee equal Union fees as modified and approved by the days after the final date for submission of were not subject to an AMO union security to full AMO dues and initiation fee checked off courts and these procedures. The AMO will post-hearing statements or within such other clause as of January, either because they are by the employer and transmitted to the AMO. notify the AAA that challenges of its fees, reasonable period as is consistent with the a new employee or have recently chosen to The AMO shall place its share of the fee in an which have been received from one or more AAA rules and the requirements of law. assume non-member status, must make an interest bearing escrow account and shall individual employees, are to be determined h. The decision of the arbitrator objection within thirty (30) days after becom- return the admittedly nonchargeable share to by an impartial administrator and will include shall be final and binding with respect to all ing subject to union security obligations and the objector. the names and addresses of the individuals findings of fact supported by substantial receiving notice of these procedures. The c. Following completion of the audit who have filed their appeals challenging the evidence on the record considered as a whole objection shall be signed and shall contain (described in #5 above) for a given year, the Union’s fees and who should be notified of the and on other findings legally permitted to be the objector’s current home address and AMO AMO shall rebate to each given objector an proceedings. Thereupon, in accordance with binding on all parties. Union number, if known. Objections may only amount equal to such fees held by the AMO in its rules, the AAA will appoint the arbitrator i. Upon receipt of the arbitrator’s be made by individual employees: no petition escrow which were ascribed by the audit to to the case, notifying the Union and the other award, any adjustment in favor of the chal- objections will be honored. A person who nonchargeable activities. participants. lenger will be made from the escrow account. wishes to continue an objection in a subse- d. If an objector does not challenge a. All appeals shall be consolidated and 10. The provisions of this procedure quent twelve (12) month period shall provide the validity of the audit pursuant to #8 heard as soon as the AAA can schedule the shall be considered legally separable. Should notice of objection each January in the same below within the allotted time the fees held arbitration. All procedures challenging the any provision or portion thereof be held con- manner. in escrow shall become the property of AMO’s fee determinations shall take place in trary to law by a court, administrative agency, 3. The following categories of expen- AMO. If a challenge is filed, the fees held in New York City, and the parties shall be the or an arbitrator, the remaining provisions or diture are chargeable to the extent permitted escrow shall continue to be so held until appellants and the AMO. portions thereof shall continue to be legally by law: the challenge is resolved in accord with the b. Each party to the arbitration shall effective and binding. If, after consultation a. All expenses concerning the negoti- procedures referred to below, at which time bear their own costs including, but not limited with the officers on the AMO Executive Com- ation of agreements, practices and working the fees shall be distributed in accord with to, attorney’s fees and expenses, witness mittee, the President of the AMO determines conditions. said resolution. fees and expenses and travel costs. The that modifications in this procedure are b. All expenses concerning the e. Objectors filing objections in Janu- challengers shall have the option of paying a necessary to maintain its compliance with administration of agreements, practices ary of 2020, in addition to paying fees in the pro-rated portion of the arbitrator’s fees and applicable law, such modifications may be and working conditions, including grievance manner set forth for the above, shall receive expenses. The balance of the arbitrator’s fees made in accordance with the Constitution of handling, all activities related to arbitra- rebates from the AMO for the year 2019, based and expenses and all AMO fees and expenses the AMO. tion, and discussion with employees in the upon the audits (see #5 above) for the fiscal shall be paid by AMO. 11. An objector shall have neither a bargaining unit or employer representatives year ending in 2019, as they may be modified c. Challengers may, at their expense, voice nor vote in the internal affairs of the regarding working conditions, benefits and by the procedures set forth below. be represented by counsel or other represen- AMO which includes, inter alia, the ratification contract rights. 7. The reports(s) of the independent tative of their choice. Challengers need not of a collective bargaining agreement, whether c. Convention expenses and other auditor(s) for the AMO shall be completed appear at the hearing and shall be permitted or not it covers his or her employment. normal Union internal governance and man- as soon as possible following the end of to file written statements with the arbitrator 12. The benefits of nonmembers in an agement expenses. the fiscal year. The report(s) shall include instead of appearing. Such statements shall Agency Shop Agreement are such benefits d. Social activities open to non-mem- verification of the major categories of Union be filed not later than the beginning of the as being eligible to receive the American bers and Union business meeting expenses. expenses attributable to chargeable and hearing before the arbitrator. Post-hearing Maritime Officer, representation in grievances, e. Publication expenses to the extent non-chargeable activities. The AMO shall pro- statements may be filed in accordance with grievance adjustment and arbitration, and no coverage is related to chargeable activities. vide to all objecting non-member bargaining the provisions of paragraph 9(g) below. other contract service benefits received by f. Expense of litigation before the unit employees who are represented a copy d. Fourteen (14) days prior to the members of the AMO. Such nonmembers shall courts and administrative agencies related to of the auditor(s) report(s). start of the arbitration, challengers shall not be allowed attendance at union meetings, bargaining unit contract administration. 8. In the absence of an exclusive be provided with copies of all exhibits or the right to hold or run for any Union office g. Expenses of lobbying for legislative, statutory review procedure, each objector a list of all such exhibits intended to be (elective or appointed), or any voting rights executive branch and administrative agency may challenge the legal and arithmetical introduced at the arbitration by the Union within the Union unless and until they have representation on matters closely related to bases of the calculations contained in the party and a list of all witnesses the Union become members of this Union in accordance the ratification or implementation of bargain- independent auditor report(s) by filing an party intends to call, except for exhibits with the provisions of the AMO Constitution. ing unit contracts and working conditions. appeal with the AMO Secretary-Treasur- and witnesses the Union party may intro- 13. For purposes of job referral, h. All expenses for the education er, 601 S. Federal Highway, Dania Beach, duce for rebuttal. Where a list of exhibits individuals choosing to become Agency Fee and training of members, officers and staff Florida, 33004, together with notice to has been provided, the challenger shall payers shall have the same status under the intended to prepare the participants to better the President of AMO at 601 S. Federal have a right to receive copies of such ex- applicable Shipping Rules as an applicant perform chargeable activities. Highway, Dania Beach, Florida 33004. hibits by making a written request for them until such time as the Agency Fee payer pays i. Other costs of group cohesion and non-member challengers in bargaining to the AMO Secretary-Treasurer. Addition- the total fair share equivalent of the initiation economic action, e.g., demonstration, general units covered by the National Labor Rela- ally, copies of all exhibits shall be available fee specified herein. strike activity, informational picketing, etc. tions Act shall also have the right to seek to inspection and copying at the hearing. Use of the male gender in these j. An appropriate portion of overhead a determination of any issues relating to e. A court reporter shall make a tran- procedures shall be deemed to include the and administrative expenses. these procedures by invoking the juris- script of all proceedings before the arbitrator. female gender. 4. Each December in the American diction of the National Labor Relations This transcript shall be the only official Maritime Officer, the AMO shall publish these Board. If such a challenger chooses not record of the proceedings and may be pur- ADOPTED by the AMO Executive Board policies and procedures to provide notice to to invoke the Board’s jurisdiction, or if the chased by the challengers. If challengers do November 11, 1998

AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER www.amo-union.org 2 1 November 2019

USNS Henson officers, crew visit Ninos Pag-Asa Center in Philippines

Officers and crew members of the USNS Henson visited the International Children’s Advocate, Inc. (Ninos Pag-Asa Center), a residential care facility center for differently-abled children in Olongapo City, Philippines, in October. Among those participating in the visit were Captain Kristin Mangold, Third Assistant Engineer Stephanie Stowe, Second Mate Danielle Garcia-Lance, Radio Officer Joanne Sykes and Second A.E. Brandy White. The USNS Henson is operated for Military Sealift Command by Ocean Ships, Inc.

Photo courtesy of Captain Kristin Mangold

MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP MEETINGS Newport Group phone number, Web address for managing individual Regular monthly membership meetings for American Maritime Officers will be held during the week following the first Sunday of every month AMO Plans retirement accounts beginning at 1 p.m. local time. If you have questions regarding your individual AMO Plans retirement accounts — 401(k), Defined Contribution, Money Purchase Benefit — you can contact the New- Meetings will be held on Monday at AMO National Headquarters (on port Group by phone at 800-650-1065. If you need investment advice, a Newport Tuesday when Monday is a contract holiday). The next meetings will take Group representative can transfer you to a Merrill Lynch advisor. place on the following dates: As before, there will continue to be no fee to consult with a professional investment advisor. You can review your accounts and investment selections online at https://www.newportgroup.com by clicking the “Log In” tab and December 2, January 6, February 3 selecting “Participant Access” from the menu.