American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier Fleet Expands As Company Welcomes Three Newest Ships

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In This Issue: American Pride rescues three from sinking fishing boat in Gulf of Mexico — Page 3 AMO seeks ‘first responder’ exemption from IRS pension rule — Page 2 Volume 49, Number 10 October 2019 American Roll-on Roll-off Carrier fleet expands as company welcomes three newest ships

In a ceremony held September 20 in the Port of Baltimore, American Roll-on Roll- off Carrier (ARC) christened the motor vessels ARC Resolve, ARC Integrity and ARC Independence, welcoming three of the most versatile ships to the U.S.-flag commercial fleet. Among those attending the ceremony were representatives of the Maritime Administration (MARAD), Depart- ment of Defense (DOD), maritime labor, the Maryland Port Administration (MPA), the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC), and a myriad of ARC customers and business partners. ARC President and CEO Eric Ebeling welcomed guests to the Helen Delich Bent- ley Port of Baltimore, a fitting venue since it is ARC’s largest port of call and also the largest RO/RO port in the nation. Ebeling gave special thanks to MPA Executive Di- The ARC Resolve gets underway from Baltimore following the christening ceremony on September 20. The ship is operated for American rector Jim White and the entire MPA team Roll-on Roll-off Carrier by TOTE Services and is manned in all licensed positions by American Maritime Officers. for their hospitality and support during the week. He also noted a critical factor to the larly U.S. Transportation Command. new investment. Witnessing these three May they sail safely and boldly with the success of the U.S. maritime sector is a The keynote address was delivered vessels flying the U.S. ensign and enrolled American crews for years to come.” strong public and private sector partner- by Maritime Administrator Mark “Buz” in the Maritime Security Program (MSP) Seafarers International Union (SIU) ship with the Department of Transporta- Buzby, who noted: “The Maritime Adminis- should be a welcome sight for us all as we President Michael Sacco commented on tion and its maritime component, MARAD, tration and the Department of Transporta- work to grow the U.S.-flag fleet to support the importance of the addition of these and the Department of Defense, particu- tion are so pleased to see ARC making this America’s economic and national security. three new RO/RO vessels to the MSP fleet, stating: “Whether we’re going to war or mobilizing for a humanitarian mission anywhere around the globe, we’ve got to have reliable ships, with loyal American mariners, delivering the goods. “The men and women who sail aboard the (vessels) are America’s fourth arm of defense, and part of a legacy that has supported our troops, not for years, but for centuries,” Sacco said. Remarks were also made during the ceremony by MPA Executive Director Jim White, Captain Mike Murphy of American Maritime Officers (AMO), and the Director of Strategic Plans, Policy and Logistics at U.S. Transportation Command, Maj. Gen. Michael Wehr. The ship sponsors were Georgina Fitzgerald for ARC Resolve, wife of ARC Group Chairman Raymond Fitzger- ald; Carol Henry for ARC Integrity, wife of Transportation Institute President James Henry; and Pat Ridlon for ARC Indepen- dence, wife of AIS EVP and General Counsel John Ridlon. All three of the vessels will be AMO members working aboard the ARC Resolve on September 20 during the christening in Baltimore included (left to right) Third Mate enrolled in MSP, the bedrock congressional Connor Alwan, Captain Jon Phillips, Third Assistant Engineer Heather Lade, First A.E. Frederick Kotoku-Sackson, Chief Mate Kami Bucholz and Chief Engineer Ed Horton. ARC Ships — Continued on Page 6

PagePage 2: AMO8: New officers Safety and man Education 22 surge Planand reserveCourse Scheduleships in turbo and Updatesactivation

in military support and economic services. AMO seeks ‘first responder’ exemption Many of these officers are considering alternative career options ashore, where secure, comfortable retirement is for them from IRS pension rollover rule a much brighter prospect. We believe the modest Section 402 (c) (4) exemption we seek would encourage Editor’s note — As this issue of American flagged cargo ships serving commercial grim reality focuses appropriately on mar- these vessel officers to remain in their Maritime Officer went to press, the joint trade markets — ships that are available itime policy through legislation to expand jobs at sea and continue to be available for union-employer trustees of the defined ben- on demand to the Department of Defense the U.S. merchant fleet and add to the jobs defense shipping assignments when the efit AMO Pension Plan and of the AMO Defined for sustained supply and resupply of U.S. this fleet provides. The President’s March 4 alarm sounds. Contribution Plan were to consider various Armed Forces abroad during prolonged Executive Order compliments this effort by Under this exemption, active vested proposals to ease the difficulties resulting conflict. These ships and their civilian easing the transition of qualified men and American Maritime Officers Pension Plan from the December 2009 suspension of the officer and crew complements delivered women from military service to rewarding participants with 20 years or more of sea AMO Pension Plan as deficient under the 95 percent of the critical cargoes to U.S. jobs at sea in the private sector. service in the U.S. merchant fleet would federal Pension Protection Act of 2006. The military personnel in Afghanistan and However, we believe a Section 402 have the option of collecting all or portions decisions made in these trustee meetings Iraq during the long-term response to the (c) (4) exemption would slow the troubling of their earned but dormant monthly bene- will be reported to all deep-sea, Great Lakes terrorist attacks upon the United States on decline of the available maritime indus- fits from the Plan while continuing to work and inland waters AMO members and their September 11, 2001 — a mission that lasted try workforce considerably until broader aboard ship. families as quickly as possible. some 14 years. Congressional and administrative measures These vested benefits would be In a recent related development, In an Executive Order on March 4, are in place. rolled over directly to the vessel officers’ AMO National President Paul Doell sent the 2019, President Trump acknowledged As the principal source of U.S. Coast separate, individual AMO Pension Plan Mon- following letter to Treasury Secretary Steven this threat to defense shipping capabil- Guard-licensed U.S. merchant marine ey Purchase Benefit defined contribution Mnuchin and to President Donald Trump. In ities when he said: “A robust merchant officers qualified for defense shipping retirement savings accounts, where these this letter, Doell made a national security marine is vital to the national and services, American Maritime Officers is benefit amounts would increase through case for an exemption from an Internal Rev- economic security of the United States. concerned that a significant retirement return on investment. enue Service rule governing retirement funds Credentialed United States merchant security issue within our ranks could force Upon actual withdrawal from the — an exemption that would result in greater mariners support domestic and inter- many of the highly skilled, loyal, depend- shipping industry at age 65 or older, these retirement savings for active AMO members national trade, are critical for strategic able and accomplished marine engineers officers would receive their American Mari- with at least 20 years of covered employment defensive and offensive military sealift and deck officers we represent to leave time Officers Pension Plan benefits directly under the AMO Pension Plan. operations, and bring added expertise to the American shipping industry early for each month, instead of through rollover to federal vessel operations. work ashore. This would exacerbate a their Money Purchase Benefit accounts. The Department of the Treasury “Unfortunately, the United States defense dilemma confronted each day by Our proposed Section 402 (c) (4) ex- and its Internal Revenue Service have an faces a shortage of qualified merchant U.S. Transportation Command in the De- emption would serve legitimate and lasting immediate opportunity to blunt a direct mariners,” the President continued. “As partment of Defense and by the Maritime national security interests by helping to and growing threat to U.S. national security our strategic competitors expand their Administration. ensure a sufficient number of licensed through an emergency “first responder” global footprint, the United States must Our specific difficulty rests with the civilian seagoing personnel able and willing exemption from Section 402 (c) (4) of the retain its ability to project and sustain defined benefit American Maritime Officers to serve in military contingencies. Internal Revenue Code for U.S. civilian sea- forces globally. This capability requires Pension Plan, which was suspended as defi- The risk is real — in a one-front going professionals whose work is invalu- a sufficient core of credentialed mer- cient under the 2006 Pension Protection Act conflict, the maritime manpower shortage able to U.S. Armed Forces worldwide. chant mariners available to crew the in December 2009. Earned monthly retire- would limit U.S. mobilization capability and The issue here is a perilous necessary sealift fleet.” ment benefits remain at the level calculated impair long-term U.S. troop supply strategy; shortage of civilian American merchant An August 2019 sealift readiness at that point nearly 10 years ago. in a two-front emergency, the U.S. would be mariners the Department of Defense analysis commissioned from RAND The American Maritime Officers paralyzed at the domestic shorelines. relies on exclusively for shipping services Corp, in Santa Monica, California by the Pension Plan did not suffer insolvency, Given the urgency of the situation in support of U.S. military personnel Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, but it struggled through endangered and outlined here, I ask respectfully that the deployed overseas in a crisis. These made the same compelling point in its critical status as defined by the Pension Internal Revenue Service give all due, merchant mariners staff fleets of cargo report to the CNO: “There is a national Protection Act until the end of its fiscal timely consideration to our request for vessels owned by the U.S. Navy’s Military shortage of qualified personnel that year on September 30, 2018, when the Plan’s a Section 402 (c) (4) exemption. I will Sealift Command and by the Maritime directly affects the ability to man the actuarial consultants reported the Plan’s answer any questions you may have during Administration in the U.S. Department of surge sealift fleet — mariner manning funding status at 82.3 percent. deliberations, and I can provide you with Transportation — ships standing by for may be sufficient for initial activation, Having endured 10 years of nagging additional supporting documents as you immediate mobilization in wartime. but activation crews may have long uncertainty, many of the ships’ officers we may require. These mariners also work aboard waits for replacement crews.” represent doubt that they will ever receive Thank you for your time and active, privately owned and operated U.S.- The uniform national response to this the benefits they earned during many years attention.

AMO officers crew 22 surge and reserve ships in turbo activation

Members of American Maritime Officers working aboard the S/S Curtiss, an aviation maintenance support ship, during the large-scale turbo activation in September, here in San Diego, Calif., included Third Mate Taylor Dial, Chief Engi- neer Roy Silliker, Captain Eric Swanson and Third Mate Emily Bull. With them is Commander of Military Sealift Command Pacific, and Commander Task Force 33, Capt. Gabe Varela. The Curtiss, operated by Crowley Government Services, was one of 16 Ready Reserve Force (RRF) ships and six surge sealift ships operated by AMO-contracted companies activated in September. AMO officers successfully manned the 22 ships at full operating status within the time requirements for FOS. When in reduced operating status, the RRF ships are managed by the Mari- time Administration. When in full operating status, they are managed by MSC. RRF and surge sealift ships are operated by private-sector vessel operating companies and manned by U.S. merchant mariners.

Photo courtesy of Captain Eric Swanson

www.amo-union.org AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER October 2019 3

commercial fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. The vessel had an inherent leak and was American Pride rescues three from self bailing via a bilge pump. On Sunday, September 15, the fishing boat lost power and the crew began manually bailing the sinking fishing boat in Gulf of Mexico boat. They activated their Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon and The Jones Act tanker American Pride started distress signals. They did not have rescued three people in a life raft from a an onboard battery operated VHF and sinking fishing boat on September 18 in the were unable to communicate with other Gulf of Mexico approximately 45 miles west vessels in the fishing fleet. Using para- of Egmont Key. chute flares, they were able to hail another While the ship was eastbound to fishing vessel on Monday while about 70 Tampa, Fla., American Pride Chief Mate Brian miles offshore, and were towed in about Enos spotted a foundering boat at 5:48 10 miles. The fishing vessel towing them p.m. The ship turned and traveled to the stopped and had them drift until another boat, which was sinking with the bow down vessel could come over and tow them. and stern out of the water, the name CAPT They waited at this location bailing water BOB visible on the stern. The officers and for a day and received a tow on the night crew did not see anyone in the water in the of September 17 for about 15 miles into the vicinity of the sinking boat. safety fairway. The owner of CAPT BOB The ship notified U.S. Coast Guard was going to have a vessel come out in Sector St. Petersburg, and received Chief Mate Brian Enos (second from left) greets the three crew members of CAPT BOB the morning to tow them back to Madeira instructions to take photos and send them onboard the American Pride. Beach. At approximately 4 a.m. on Sep- to the Coast Guard. As the American Pride tember 18, the water from the leak was too approached the boat a second time, Chief U.S. Coast Guard Sector St. Peters- said Captain Michael Stutevoss, master on much for the crew to bail and the boat had Mate Enos spotted orange smoke and a burg was notified and dispatched a helicop- the American Pride. “This is just what we do. submerged to a point where water was parachute flare, below which a life raft was ter and a response boat, and asked that the It’s my duty. It’s the law of the sea.” coming over the top of the gunwales. The located, approximately three nautical miles life raft be retrieved. The three survivors Once on scene and alongside the crew deployed the life raft and boarded southwest of the CAPT BOB. were brought aboard the American Pride’s ship, the response boat launched by Coast with the EPIRB in hand. The man-overboard signal was rescue boat and the life raft was towed Guard Station St. Petersburg embarked In an earlier incident, Coast Guard sounded and the American Pride’s crew back to the ship. the three people from the American Pride Sector St. Petersburg reported responding mustered. The rescue boat was prepared At 7 p.m., the survivors boarded and transported them to Station St. to an EPIRB alert from the CAPT BOB on for deployment and the starboard accom- the American Pride via the starboard Petersburg, where they were released in Sunday, September 15. Once on scene, the modation ladder was rigged as the Ameri- accommodation ladder and were provided good condition. Jayhawk aircrew located the fishing vessel can Pride made for the life raft. with food, water, showers, clothing and “The quick and selfless actions of at anchor and stable, but was unable to At 6:42 p.m., the rescue boat — blankets. The life raft was retrieved and the American Pride crew saved three lives establish radio contact. crewed by Third Mates Alexander Todd brought onboard, and the rescue boat was today,” said Coast Guard Sector St. Peters- The American Pride is operated for and Colin Hecklinger, and Third Assistant brought up and secured. The American burg Commander Capt. Matthew Thompson. American Petroleum Tankers by Intrepid Engineer Mark Menton — was deployed and Pride remained in the area awaiting the The three crew members of CAPT Personnel and Provisioning and is manned approached the life raft. They found two arrival of the Coast Guard response boat BOB, a commercial fishing vessel, reported in all licensed positions by American Mari- men and one woman onboard, all in good to transfer the survivors. they had departed Madeira Beach some- time Officers and in all unlicensed positions health with no injuries observed. “People ask me how I feel about it,” time prior to Sunday, September 15 for by the Seafarers International Union.

Crewing the American Pride’s rescue boat, here with the three crew members of CAPT BOB onboard, were Third Mates Alexander Todd and Colin Hecklinger, and Third Assistant Engineer Mark Menton.

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 October 2019 STAR Center to upgrade Radar simulators; Radar Recertification unavailable during upgrade work period starting November 15

Starting Friday, November 15, 2019, and ongoing for the remainder of the year, STAR Center Specifically, under the new rule (and policy) to renew a Radar Observer Endorsement, a will be upgrading its Radar simulators and will be unable to provide Radar Recertification or mariner must provide evidence of ONE of the following: other Radar training during that time. AMO members and applicants are encouraged to plan 1. Completing an appropriate approved or accepted original, refresher, or recertifica- any required training prior to that date or delay until January 2020. However, should any tion course (46 CFR 11.480(d)); member require Radar Recertification during that period, he or she may apply in advance for 2. Meeting the requirements in 46 CFR 10.227(e)(1)(v) of having instructed a Coast reimbursement under the STAR Center Non Resident Training Program, the application for Guard approved or accepted Radar course at least twice within the past five years (46 CFR which is available at: https://www.star-center.com/forms/nrt.app.html. 11.480(f)); As published in AMO Currents on June 10, 2019, those AMO members and applicants 3. Having at least one year of relevant sea service within the last five years in a who have accrued 365 days of sea service in the previous five (5) years should no longer position that routinely uses Radar for navigation and collision avoidance purposes (46 CFR need a formal recertification certificate, as detailed below: 11.480(g)). Mariners will be considered to have met the requirement in 46 CFR 11.480(g) for U.S. Coast Guard publishes long-awaited Radar Observer final rule relevant service routinely using Radar for navigation or collision avoidance if they have at The U.S. Coast Guard has published the final rule titled: “Amendments to the Marine least one year of service as master or mate in the previous five years on vessels that are Radar Observer Refresher Training Regulations.” The rule amends the requirements for re- REQUIRED TO BE FITTED WITH RADAR. The policy letter provides a list of specific vessels/ newal of a Radar Observer Endorsement for mariners who have at least one year of relevant tonnages to which this provision applies. service in the previous five years, or who have taught a Coast Guard approved or accepted Mariners who have served on vessels other than those required to be fitted with Radar Radar course at least twice within the past five years. and listed in the policy letter, or in capacities other than master or mate, should provide doc- The final rule is effective July 22, 2019 and can be found in the Federal Register at umentation of their relevant service on a vessel equipped with Radar in a position in which Amendments to the Marine Radar Observer Refresher Training Regulations, 84 Fed. Reg. they routinely used Radar for navigation and collision avoidance purposes. 26580 (June 7, 2019): https://www.regulations.gov/document?D=USCG-2018-0100-0077. Service on vessels that do not get underway or occasionally get underway for short Associated CG-MMC Policy Letter 03-19 provides guidance for renewal of endorsements as voyages, such as vessels in reduced operating status (ROS), will only be credited for days the Radar Observer (Unlimited), Radar Observer (Inland), and Radar Observer (Rivers). The Policy vessel was underway. Letter can be found online at: https://tinyurl.com/y249gpju. Mariners who cannot meet the relevant service requirements must provide evidence The most significant change in the new rule is the elimination of the requirement of having completed an approved or accepted original, recertification, or refresher course that a mariner actively using their MMC complete an approved or accepted refresher or appropriate to the Radar Observer Endorsement being renewed within five years of applica- recertification course to maintain a Radar Observer Endorsement. A mariner who serves in tion submission. a relevant position onboard a Radar-equipped vessel for one year in the previous five years STAR Center will be monitoring and adjusting the scheduled offering of Radar Recerti- will no longer be required to complete a Coast Guard approved or accepted Radar refresher fication courses to reflect the reduced demand as a result of this rule change. or recertification course per 46 CFR11.480 to renew his or her Radar Observer Endorsement. Any questions regarding these courses should be directed to Jeffrey Jones, Head, This rule also eliminates the requirement to carry a certificate of training if the Radar Deck Department, at 800-942-3220 Ext. 7721 or via e-mail: [email protected]. Observer Endorsement is on the MMC, and allows the Radar Observer Endorsement and MMC Enrollment questions or applications should be directed to Student Services at 800- to expire at the same time. 942-3220 Ext. 201 or via e-mail: [email protected].

AMO aboard the Cason J. Callaway

The Cason J. Callaway passes under the Aerial Lift Bridge into Du- luth Harbor in August. American Maritime Officers represents the licensed officers and stewards onboard the Key Lakes vessel.

AMO members AMO members working working aboard the aboard the Cason J. Calla- Cason J. Callaway in way in August, here in Su- August included First perior, Wis. included Chief Mate Don Parker and Engineer Robert Nichol. Second Mate Matt Goudreau.

Second Assistant Engi- Steward Edward neer Tom Bayer pokes the Bush prepares dinner fire onboard the Cason J. onboard the Cason J. Callaway. Callaway.

www.amo-union.org AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER October 2019 5 Merchant Mariners of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act approved by House of Representatives

On September 19, Congressman John lives on the line for this country, braving would not be the great nation it is today Garamendi (D-CA) announced the bipartisan German and Japanese submarines in their without their valiant service of yesterday. Merchant Mariners of World War II Congres- Liberty Ships as they delivered critical I urge Congress to support this important sional Gold Medal Act of 2019 passed the supplies to our service members in the Eu- bill and recognize this dwindling group of House of Representatives unanimously. ropean and Pacific theaters. Unfortunately, Merchant Marine Veterans from WWII who “Throughout the Second World War, their sacrifice is commonly overlooked. have served our nation so admirably,” said our armed forces relied on the Merchant “A Congressional Gold Medal would Christian Yuhas, vice president of Ameri- Marine to ferry supplies, cargo and give them the recognition they deserve, can Merchant Marine Veterans and a chief personnel into both theaters of operation, and that’s why I introduced this bill: to give engineer merchant mariner. and they paid a heavy price in service to these veterans and their families the honor The Merchant Mariners of World their country,” Rep. Garamendi said. “The and respect they are owed. I’m pleased War II Congressional Gold Medal Act was Merchant Marine suffered the highest per that this bill has passed the House and I will introduced in the Senate simultaneously capita casualty rate in the U.S. Armed work to ensure it passes the Senate and by Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK). Reps. Forces during World War II. An estimated becomes law,” Rep. Garamendi said. Congressman John Garamendi (D-CA) Don Young (R-AK) and Susan Brooks (R-IN) 8,300 mariners lost their lives, and another “The time has come for our nation speaks on the floor of the House of Repre- are the original cosponsors in the House of 12,000 were wounded, to make sure our to provide a well-deserved thank you and sentatives on the passage of the Merchant Representatives. service members could keep fighting. Yet, honor the remaining Merchant Marine Mariners of World War II Congressional “I want to thank the more than 300 these mariners who put their lives on the Veterans of WWII with a Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2019. “I’m proud to have members of this House who cosponsored line were not even given veteran status Gold Medal. This group of unsung heroes worked on this bipartisan legislation with the bill, allowing it to come to the floor until 1988. nobly served our country by operating the original cosponsors, Representative Don for passage. And I also want to thank Ms. “Last year, I got the chance to meet ships that transported critical supplies Young of Alaska and Representative Susan Brooks and Mr. Young, who carried on in the with three World War II Merchant Mariners: to front lines of the war, and in doing so Brooks, who I see is joining us here on the previous Congresses,” Rep. Garamendi said. Charles Mills of Texas, age 97; Eugene suffered a casualty rate higher than any floor ... five years of work have brought The union that became American Barner from Kansas, age 92; and Robert other branch of the military. In fact, one us to this point. My hope is that the Senate Maritime Officers was founded in May 1949 Weagant from Illinois, age 92,” Rep. Gara- out of every 26 casualties during WWII was will finally send this bill to the President’s by U.S. Merchant Marine veterans of World mendi continued. “These mariners put their a volunteer Merchant Mariner. America desk so it can be signed into law.” War II.

AMO aboard tanker American Freedom in Jones Act trade

Members of American Maritime Officers working aboard the Jones Act tanker American Freedom in July included Second Assistant Engineer Taylor Jewett, Chief Engineer James Gushee, First A.E. Cory Fales, Second Mate Steven Meyer, Third Mate Lee Scafidi, Third Mate Taylor Lacy, Chief Mate Robert Whitby, Cargo Mate Ernest West III, and Captain Scott Moser. The ship is operated for American Petroleum Tankers by Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning.

Appropriations legislation, lawmaker reaffirm importance of Jones Act

Fiscal year 2020 appropriations legisla- funding the enforcement of the Jones The legislation, among other tional resources to its Jones Act Division tion that advanced through the Senate Act through Customs and Border Protec- things, states: “The Committee notes of Enforcement in New Orleans, Louisiana. Appropriations Committee at the end of tion,” Sen. Kennedy said. “The Jones Act improvements to CBP’s enforcement of Continuing a previous administrative September includes language urging more protects thousands of jobs in America. It the Jones Act on the Outer Continental provision, funds are prohibited from being aggressive enforcement of the Jones Act is critical to our national security. If we Shelf. However, the Committee urges CBP used to issue future waivers related to on the Outer Continental Shelf. don’t know how to build ships, if we lose to take more aggressive enforcement a release from the Strategic Petroleum During mark-up of the legislation, the ability to build ships, God forbid we get action and to issue swift, transparent, and Reserve until the Secretary has consulted Senator John Kennedy (R-LA) lauded the in a war where ships are required, we’re meaningful penalties to deter violations with the Department of Energy and the De- enforcement language contained in the bill not going to be able to go to Amazon and ... The Committee recognizes the need for partment of Transportation and represen- and remarked upon the importance of the buy new ships. The Jones Act protects our uniform application and enforcement of tatives of the maritime industry and taken Jones Act. shipbuilding ability in America, and that’s the coastwise laws across the U.S. and adequate steps to ensure enforcement of “I want to thank the committee for very important.” directs CBP to continue to dedicate addi- the Jones Act.”

AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER www.amo-union.org 6 October 2019 Military, government transportation leaders highlight crucial roles of Maritime Security Program, U.S.-flag fleet

Speaking at the ceremony held Sep- are patriots. They answered the call and tember 20 in the Port of Baltimore for they are ready to take those ships to sea,” the christening of the American Roll-on Buzby said. Roll-off Carrier (ARC) ships ARC Resolve, Addressing the role of the Maritime ARC Integrity and ARC Independence, Security Program and the fleet of 60 Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby and U.S.-flagged ships the program supports in U.S. Transportation Command Director of international trade, Maj. Gen. Wehr noted Strategic Plans, Policy and Logistics Maj. bringing new vessels into the MSP fleet Gen. Michael Wehr welcomed the ships to furthers the nation’s strategic advantage the U.S.-flag fleet and highlighted the im- over adversaries when projecting military portance of key elements of U.S. maritime force around the globe and sustaining policy, including the Maritime Security military operations overseas. Program (MSP). “There is no doubt the most cost ef- All three of the ships will be enrolled fective way to do business is through the in MSP and the Voluntary Intermodal MSP,” he said. “It’s effective. It’s efficient Sealift Agreement (VISA). and it’s a true testament of this nation’s By adding new ships to the U.S. economic strength and what we do in registry and incentivizing more U.S. defense. At TRANSCOM, we depend on this companies to use U.S-flag maritime for relationship.” their shipping needs, the entire nation The Maritime Security Program Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby USTRANSCOM Director of Strategic Plans, benefits, Buzby said. Using MARAD as supports a fleet of 60 militarily-useful Policy and Logistics Maj. Gen. Michael Wehr an educational platform to explain to military strength is inextricably tied to U.S.-flagged ships, which are crewed by elected officials and other important the maritime industry.” U.S. merchant mariners and operate in in- vital importance to the health of the mar- decision makers the many essential The names of the three newest ARC ternational commercial trades. The ships itime industry and our national security,” benefits of a strong maritime industry ships exemplify American virtues, but also and their corresponding privately-owned Buzby said. “There have been many op-eds has been a focus for Buzby, who said the represent the spirit of the merchant mar- intermodal cargo systems and networks written lately — much of them slanted and vitality of the industry is a simple math iners who will crew the ships, Buzby said. are available to the Department of Defense based on long-ago-debunked falsehoods. equation. Earlier in the day, he had visited the Ready for military sealift operations and in Let me be very clear: The Jones Act is the “We need a strong, properly-sized Reserve Force ship Cape Wrath, which was national security emergencies. fundamental cornerstone of our nation’s U.S.-flag fleet, including U.S.-flag one of 27 RRF ships activated in the month maritime policy. It has been for the past 99 merchant ships in regular international of September in a large-scale fleet testing Jones Act support years. Without it, our domestic maritime trade like these three ships,” Buzby said exercise. In his address, he emphasized Buzby’s keynote address encom- industry — afloat and ashore — would fold. in his keynote address during the cere- the vital service of U.S. merchant mariners passed the new ARC ships and the mar- You need only ask folks in Australia how mony. “Fewer U.S.-flag ships mean fewer and their importance to military sealift itime industry as a whole, including the things are going there after they repealed trained mariners for sealift. readiness. Jones Act and the U.S. domestic shipping their version of the Jones Act. I, for one, “The U.S. maritime industry is “Those crews were home — they industry and the 650,000 American jobs do not want to see our national internal all about economic security. It’s about were on leave or in training just a few the law supports. maritime logistics chain and the jobs that national security. It’s about trade and hours ago and now they have been called. “I can’t stand here this morning go with it (given) to a foreign power. Not on it’s about jobs,” he said. “America’s And they have answered. Damn right they without mentioning the Jones Act and its my watch.”

values. Ebeling noted: “With these three carrier (PCTC) 199m long with a beam of a beam of 32.26m, a 14.15m (w) and 7.04m ARC Ships additional ships, ARC stands poised to 32.26m. She has a 14.15m wide and 7.04m (h) stern opening, and stern ramp rated for Continued from Page 1 operate a fleet of 10 ships for the fore- high stern opening, with a stern ramp cargo up to 240 metric tons. seeable future, a net increase of four rated for cargo weighing up to 240 metric These three new vessels each have maritime readiness program, and the ships since 2016, and incidentally our tons. The vessel is a sister ship to ARC’s a main deck that can accommodate car- Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement largest fleet ever, strengthening ARC’s M/V Patriot. goes up to 6.5 meters in height (21.32 ft.), (VISA). Consistent with past practice position as the leading U.S.-flag RO/RO M/V ARC Integrity and M/V ARC Inde- which will make them among the most ca- and company tradition, the new vessels global logistics provider.” pendence are sister ship large car/truck pable vessels in the U.S.-flag commercial were named to reflect core American M/V ARC Resolve is a pure car/truck carriers (LCTCs) — each is 237m long, has fleet for government and project cargoes.

ARC President and CEO Eric Ebeling joins ship sponsors Georgina Fitzgerald for ARC Resolve, wife of ARC Group Chairman Raymond Fitzger- American Maritime Officers members ald; Carol Henry for ARC Integrity, wife of Transportation Institute President James Henry; and Pat Ridlon for ARC Independence, wife of AIS working aboard the ARC Resolve during the EVP and General Counsel John Ridlon; AMO member Captain Zachary Krissoff; and AMO East Coast Representative Todd Christensen during christening ceremony included Second the ceremony on September 20. Mate Paul Szalus.

www.amo-union.org AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER October 2019 7

U.S.-flagged ships, U.S. merchant mariners provide vital, reliable sealift for U.S. military

The addition of the three newest Ameri- The new vessels will be enrolled in the position where they have to rely can Roll-On, Roll-Off Carrier ships to the the Maritime Security Program, a fleet of on foreign tonnage and foreign crews. U.S.-flag fleet bolsters the U.S. military and commercial vessels that can be called on by That’s just good common sense,” Sacco signals a resurgence for the U.S. Merchant the U.S. military for sealift operations, and said. “That’s why continuing to support Marine, said Seafarers International Union the Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement. the MSP is so important.” President Michael Sacco during his remarks Support for the MSP and other pro- Participation in the MSP also at the christening ceremony for the ARC grams that encourage utilization of the U.S. continues a proud tradition of U.S. Resolve, ARC Integrity and ARC Independence maritime industry’s resources has been merchant mariners supporting the U.S. held in Baltimore, Md. on September 20. vital to sustaining the industry itself, Sacco Armed Forces, Sacco continued. “When I think about these newly said. Only 81 U.S.-flagged vessels currently “The men and women who will reflagged ships, my first thought is operate in international trades, and many of crew these ships are real patriots. I’m about jobs,” Sacco said. “The two quick- those are supported by the MSP. going to speak for the overall maritime est ways to fix [the mariner shortage] The public-private partnership em- labor pool when I say we are damn problem is adding new ships and gener- bodied in the MSP has been ideal for the proud to be the fourth arm of the ating more cargo. maritime industry, the military and U.S. defense for this country,” he said. “They “If we have the ships and the cargo, government, and has helped immensely are part of a legacy that has supported we won’t have any problem attracting in preventing the military from having to our troops for centuries. And you better people to our industry and keeping them,” depend on foreign entities to deliver in believe they are ready right now today he said. “The U.S. Merchant Marine is still a times of conflict, he said. to answer the call and support our SIU President Michael Sacco great way to make a living.” “We must never put our troops in troops if the balloon goes up.”

Short-term continuing resolution funds government, extends authorization for Export-Import Bank through November 21

President Trump on September 27 signed a ber 30 had the continuing resolution not bank’s charter was also due to expire at the loan guarantees and financing for U.S. short-term continuing resolution averting a been approved and signed. close of the fiscal year. manufacturers. These activities generate government shutdown and extending fund- In addition to providing stop-gap The Export-Import Bank now has heavy-lift and other project cargoes for ing for federal programs through November funding for federal programs and agencies, a full administrative quorum, which is U.S.-flagged merchant ships, as goods 21 at current levels. the continuing resolution among other required to approve transactions valued produced and shipped as a result of these Federal funding would have expired things extends the charter of the U.S. at more than $10 million. At no cost to U.S. transactions are subject to U.S. cargo at the close of fiscal year 2019 on Septem- Export-Import Bank until November 21. The taxpayers, the Export-Import Bank provides preference requirements.

Maritime administrator commends U.S. merchant mariners as RRF and surge sealift ships are crewed for turbo activation

Captain Nicholas St. Jean and Chief Mate William Butler, Jr. greet Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby onboard the Cape Wrath on September 20 as the Ready Reserve Force ship was crewed during the recent turbo activation. In a speech later that day, Buzby said: “Those crews were home — they were on leave or in training just a few hours ago and now they have been called. And they have answered. Damn right they are patriots. They answered the call and they are ready to take those ships to sea.”

At right: American Maritime Officers members working aboard the Cape Wrath in Baltimore as the ship was activated included Captain Nicholas St. Jean, Chief Engineer Jack Andrews, Second Mate Cody Yost, Third Mates Michael Panettieri and Justin Reidy, and Chief Mate William Butler, Jr.

AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER www.amo-union.org 8 October 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 23 October 2 December 17 February Advanced Fire Fighting 5 Days 11 November 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 28 October 27 January 6, 20 April 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 12 November 17 December 9 March Safety Officer Course 2 Days 5 December 20 February Tankerman PIC DL — Classroom 5 Days 28 October 27 January Tankerman PIC DL — Simulator 10 Days 9 December 6 January 2 March 13 April 11 May Tankerman PIC DL — Accelerated Program 10 Days Please Call Train the Trainer 5 Days 21 October 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 4, 7, 21 9, 16, 23 13, 20 19, 23, 26 credential renewal AFTER 1 January 2017) 2 Days 21 October November 5 December January February March 16 April 4, 7, 18 May EFA (Scheduled with Basic Training Revalidation BUT NOT REQUIRED FOR STCW 2010) 1 Day 23 October 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 5 November 3 December 21 January 25 February 24 March 5 May Medical Care Provider — Prerequisite for MPIC within preceding 6 months. Please fax EFA certificate when registering 3 days 6 November 4 December 22 January 26 February 25 March 7 April 6 May Medical PIC — Please FAX MCP certificate when registering 5 days 11 November 9 December 27 January 30 March 11 May Urinalysis Collector Training 1 day 18 November 16 December 3 February Breath Alcohol Test (BAT) — Alco Sensors 3 and 4 only 1 day 20 November 18 December 5 February Screening Test Technician — QEDs a.m./Alco Mate 7000 p.m. 1 day 19 November 17 December 4 February Radar Courses Radar Recertification 1 day 30, 31 October 13, 14 November 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 6 January Chief Mate Unlimited 5 days 18 November 2 December (P.M.) 9 March 13 April 4 May

Advanced Shiphandling for 3rd Mates — 60 days seatime equiv. for 3rd Mates 10 days 4 November 6 Jan. (P.M.) 10 Feb. (P.M.) 2 March 11 May 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 28 October 27 January 9 March 11 May Dynamic Positioning — Simulator (Advanced) 5 days 18 November 20 April Dynamic Positioning — Revalidation 5 days 9 December 10 February Navigational Watchkeeping Standardization & Assessment Program 5 days 28 October 11 November 2, 16 Dec. 13 January 2 March 13 April 18 May 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 October 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 Upgrade: Advanced Meteorology — Requires after-hours homework 5 days 20 January 16 March 13 April 11 May Advanced Stability 5 Days 21 October 6 January 2 March 20 April Search & Rescue 2 days 28 October 3, 6, 17 Feb. 6 April Management of Medical Care 1/2 day 30 October 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 18 November 10 February 30 March 4 May Marine Propulsion Plants — Optional for task sign-off 5 Days 16 December 24 February Advanced Celestial — Optional for task sign-off 5 Days 2 December 9 March 27 April Advanced Navigation — Optional for task sign-off 5 days 9 December 17 February 13 April Engineering Courses Basic Electricity 10 days 28 October 24 February 20 April Diesel Crossover 4 weeks 21 October Engine Room Resource Management (Simulator) 5 days 28 October 11 November 10 February 4 May Gas Turbine Endorsement 10 days 28 October 11 November 2 December 13 January 10 February 9 March Marine High Voltage (Classroom) 5 days 21 October 3 February 11 May Hydraulics / Pneumatics 5 days 27 January 30 March Machine Shop 10 days 24 February 11 May Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) 5 days 28 October 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

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 28 October 10 February 4 May Upgrade: Electrical, Electronics & Control Engineering (Management Level) (E133 as amended) (UPGRADE with tasks) Required unless previously taken 5 days 21 October 16 December 3 February 30 March 11 May 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 Tasks can be signed off onboard STCW Upgrade Task Assessment — Steam (E121 as amended) — OPTIONAL: Tasks can be signed off onboard 5 days 4 November 24 February STCW Upgrade Task Assessment — Gas Turbine (E122 as amended) — OP- TIONAL: Tasks can be signed off onboard 3 days 11 November 2 March MSC Training Program Basic CBR Defense 1 day 21 November 7, 24 January 2 April 1, 7 May Damage Control 1 day 20 November 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 19 November 16 December 8, 22 January 13, 31 March 5 May Marine Environmental Programs (with CBRD) 1/2 day 21 November 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 18 November 21 January 30 March 4 May MSC Watchstander — BASIC — Once in career, SST grads grandfathered 2 days 4 November 2 December 3 February 13 April 4, 14, 28 2, 13, 20 MSC Watchstander — ADVANCED — Required for all SRF members 1 day 1, 5 November 3, 13 Dec. 17, 31 Jan. February March 14, 24 April 15, 19 May MSC Ship Reaction Force — Required every three years for SRF members 3 days 6 November 4 December 5 February 3 March 15 April 20 May Small Arms — Initial & Sustainment (Refresher) Training — Open to members & applicants eligible for employment through AMO (w/in 1 year) or 4 days 28 October 12 November 9 December 13, 27 10, 24 9, 16 March 6, 20 April 11 May MSC on MARAD contracted vessels. January 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 October 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 October 2019 11 In memory of the crew of El Faro

Family members, friends, and American Mari- time Officers and Seafarers International Union brothers and sisters attend a memorial service on October 1 for the crew of El Faro at the Jacksonville, Fla. memorial site for the 33 crew members who lost their lives when the ship sank in Hurricane Joaquin on October 1, 2015.

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 November 4, December 2, January 6 selecting “Participant Access” from the menu.

AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER www.amo-union.org 2 1 October 2019 Crew of Ocean Jazz celebrates safety milestone

Members of American Maritime Officers working aboard the heavy-lift ship Ocean Jazz as the vessel marked more than 520 days of operation without a lost time injury on October 1 included Second Mate Nick Bruni, Chief Engineer Josh Wallace, Third Mate James Sanzone, Chief Mate Gervin Mendonca, Captain Mike Erskine, First Assistant Engineer Aaron Jandreau and Second A.E. Ellie Coulter. With them are Deck Cadet Dom Esposito (fourth from left) and Engine Cadet Lukas Peregoy (third from right). The Ocean Jazz is operated in the Maritime Security Program fleet by Crowley Liner Services.

Photo courtesy of Captain Mike Erskine

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.

U.S. Coast Guard personnel tour USNS Bowditch in Guam

American Maritime Officers members Chief Engineer Kenneth Ennenga, Captain Randy Diaz and Chief Mate Alexandra Hagerty gave U.S. Coast Guard personnel a tour of the oceanographic survey vessel USNS Bowditch in Guam, a U.S. Navy port. Third Assistant Engineer Gavin Randall made a presentation during the tour in the ship’s engine room with First A.E. Marisol Garcia. The USNS Bowditch is operated for Military Sealift Command by Ocean Ships, Inc.

Photo courtesy of Chief Mate Alexandra Hagerty