Volume 41, Number 6 June 2011 AMO Headquarters opens for business

Among those attending the grand opening of American Maritime Officers Headquarters Tuesday, June 7 in Dania Beach, Fla., were (left to right) AMO Secretary-Treasurer José Leonard, Seafarers International Union President Michael Sacco, U.S. Maritime Administrator David Matsuda, Congressman Allen The plaque dedicating the American Maritime Officers Headquarters to the mem- West (R-FL), Commander of Military Sealift Command Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, bership of AMO was unveiled following the first monthly membership meeting held AMO National President Tom Bethel, Dania Beach City Commissioner Walter June 6 at AMO Headquarters at 601 S. Federal Highway in Dania Beach, Fla., Duke, Seventh District Coast Guard Commander Rear Adm. William across the street from the AMO Plans and STAR Center campus at 2 West Dixie Baumgartner and AMOS President and American Maritime Officers Plans Co- Highway. The plaque reads: “HEADQUARTERS - Dedicated with admiration, Chairman Anthony Naccarato. The Congressional, military, labor, industry and respect and gratitude to the men and women of - AMERICAN MARITIME OFFI- government leaders each made a presentation during the grand opening cere- CERS - The nation’s largest union of merchant marine officers - June 6, 2011 - We mony commending the seagoing membership of AMO, the union's leadership pledge ourselves to a level of service equal to the standards of excellence set and its service to the nation's commerce, defense and security. Union offices each day by the finest licensed seagoing professionals in the world.” were moved to the new building the same week.

More coverage of the grand opening of American Maritime Officers Headquarters will be featured in the July edition of American Maritime Officer. New AMO jobs as laker M/V Great Republic fits out under contract with Key Lakes IV

American Maritime Officers will rep- members under the new agreement secured resent all licensed officers and stewards by the union. working aboard the M/V Great Republic “It’s the most maneuverable vessel on under a new five-year agreement. The 634- the Great Lakes,” said Dave Schultze, man- foot laker is now managed and operated by ager of fleet human resources for Key Lakes. Key Lakes IV Inc. “It was originally designed to go up and Formerly operated by American down the Cuyahoga River forward or back- Steamship Company as the American ward at the same speed. It has twin screws Republic, the ship spent much of last sea- and twin engines, eight rudders, and bow and son in lay-up. Key Lakes is currently fitting stern thrusters. It can spin around virtually out the Great Republic, which is expected to without moving forward.” get underway in early June. First launched in 1981, the ship is the At left: The M/V Great Republic pre- most recently built self-propelled U.S cargo pares to get underway after fitting-out ship on the Great Lakes. The Great in Toledo, Ohio. American Maritime Republic will operate between various ports Officers represents all licensed offi- on the Lakes in the coal in stone trades, pro- cers and stewards on the ship under viding continued employment for AMO a new contract with Key Lakes IV.

National Maritime Day: AMO Essentials honoring the service of STAR Center course ◆ U.S. merchant mariners schedule: Pages 8-9

The Color Guard of Veterans of Foreign Wars Rifle STAR Center registration ◆ Post 2967 presents the colors during the National application: Page 11 Maritime Day commemoration May 22 at the American Merchant Marine Veterans Memorial and Walls of Honor in San Pedro, Calif. The ser- ◆ AMO directory: Page 10 vice and sacrifice of American merchant mariners, particularly veterans of World War II, were recog- nized and remembered at National Maritime Day ◆ AMO membership meeting ceremonies across the nation in May. Page 6 schedule: Page 10

Copyright © 2011 American Maritime Officers ■ 601 S. Federal Highway ■ Dania Beach, FL 33004 ■ (800) 362-0513 ■ [email protected] 2 • American Maritime Officer June 2011 AMO Headquarters reflects commitment to service

By Tom Bethel common themes: the wartime roles of the Democratic Rep. Debbie Wasserman to the standards of excellence set each day by National President privately owned and operated U.S. merchant Schultz, who offered congratulations and the finest licensed seagoing professionals in fleet and civilian American merchant continued support to AMO. the world.” Already the mariners; the contributions made to the Upon adjournment, I was privileged To me, the plaque says it all. nation’s leading Dania Beach and South Florida communi- to unveil a plaque to be mounted in the union of licensed ties by AMO; our union’s remarkable rise lobby of the new building. “Dedicated with Editor’s note: the ceremony mark- merchant mariners, and sustained security over 62 often turbu- admiration, respect and gratitude to the men ing the grand opening of the AMO head- A m e r i c a n lent years; our union’s leadership on nation- and women of American Maritime Officers, quarters building occurred as this issue of Maritime Officers al maritime policy in the Executive and the nation’s largest union of merchant American Maritime Officer was going to reached yet another Legislative Branches of the federal govern- marine officers,” the plaque reads. “We press. Additional coverage of the events will pinnacle on June 7 ment; the impact of regulation on the abili- pledge ourselves to a level of service equal be included in the July issue. with the grand ty of merchant mariners to do their jobs and opening of our advance in their careers. union’s first-ever Speaking on behalf of the AMO Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz fully functional national executive board, I opened the pro- national headquar- gram by dedicating the beautiful structure addresses first regular membership ters building. to all deep-sea, Great Lakes and inland Seagoing AMO members and their waters AMO members, and by explaining meeting at AMO Headquarters families joined dignitaries from govern- that the new building is a far more fitting ment, labor and industry in marking this symbol of the unmatched quality AMO significant occasion during a daylong cele- members represent. bration at the site at 601 South Federal I also pointed out that seagoing AMO Highway in Dania Beach, Florida. The members — not AMO officials, representa- building is across the street from the tives or employees — had performed the small, cramped two-story office that had symbolic groundbreaking to begin the pro- housed the AMO administration and sup- ject, and that seagoing AMO members had port staff for some 20 years and from the approved construction of the building in a expanding AMO Plans complex that 90-day union-wide secret ballot policy refer- includes the AMO Safety and Education endum in 2009. This referendum was not Plan’s STAR Center — which provides all required under the AMO National AMO members with the advanced training Constitution, but I wanted AMO members they need to remain the best at what they to make the call — they had done so much do at sea each day. to secure our union’s superior standing, and After the invocation from the Rev. I wanted their collective voice heard on this Thomas O’Dwyer of the Church of the important initiative. Little Flower in Hollywood, participants In addition, I reaffirmed my adminis- heard from several speakers: Florida tration’s commitment to continued sound Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz addressed the first month- Republican Rep. Allen West, who presented financial management and to ever-increasing ly membership meeting at AMO Headquarters, congratulating AMO on American Maritime Officers with a United operating efficiency, a cause made easier in the completion of the new building in Dania Beach, Fla. States flag that had flown over the Capitol several ways by the new building. The in Washington; Dania Beach City structure and the land are owned outright by Commissioner Walter Duke; Seafarers AMO, so the operating expenses will be International Union President Michael minimal. Having all administrative depart- Sacco, president of the AFL-CIO Maritime ments under one roof will result in addition- Trades Department; Maritime Administrator al substantial savings (lower utility bills, David Matsuda; RADM Mark H. Buzby, for example), and our union will no longer commander of the U.S. Navy’s Military have to rent space from AMO Plans for Sealift Command; RADM William D. monthly AMO membership meetings and Baumgartner, U.S. Coast Guard 7th other union functions. American Maritime Officer (USPS 316-920) District, Miami; and Anthony Naccarato, The day before the grand opening, I Official Publication of American Maritime Officers co-chair of AMO Plans and president of the chaired the inaugural regularly scheduled 601 S. Federal Highway Washington-based American Maritime AMO headquarters monthly membership Dania Beach, FL 33004 Officers Service. meeting in the new space. During the meet- (954) 921-2221 These speakers struck separate yet ing, I was honored to welcome Florida Periodical Postage Paid at Dania Beach, FL, and Additional Mailing Offices Published Monthly

Congressional action needed to American Maritime Officers National Executive Board

address Lakes dredging crisis Thomas Bethel, National President José Leonard, National Secretary-Treasurer Robert Kiefer, National Executive Vice President Joseph Gremelsbacker, National Vice President, Deep Sea John Clemons, National Vice President, Great Lakes Charles Murdock, National Vice President, Inland Waters Michael Murphy, National Vice President, Government Relations

National Assistant Vice Presidents: Brian Krus, Senior National Assistant Vice President Donald Nilsson, National Assistant Vice President Daniel Shea, National Assistant Vice President David Weathers, National Assistant Vice President

Representatives: Stan Barnes

Editor: Matt Burke Assistant Editor: Amber Wilkie Contributing Editor: Paul Doell

POSTMASTER—Send Address Changes To: American Maritime Officers ATTN: Member Services P.O. Box 66 Support your AMO VPAF Dania Beach, FL 33004 June 2011 American Maritime Officer • 3 House authorizes full funding for MSP in fiscal 2012

The U.S. House of Representatives, ing for the Maritime Security Program. 60 U.S.-flag militarily-useful commercial al emergencies. with a vote of 322 to 96, in May passed The legislation (H.R. 1540) autho- vessels, used to transport equipment and “This year’s defense authorization the National Defense Authorization Act rizes a total of $186 million to be spent supplies to troops overseas and support bill meets the national security needs of a for Fiscal Year 2012, including full fund- in fiscal year 2012 to maintain a fleet of operations during national or internation- nation at war while preparing our warfighters for the threats of tomorrow,” said House Armed Services Committee Chairman Howard “Buck” McKeon (R- CA). “With the tough fiscal times facing House Armed Services Committee members: our country, the bill treats every taxpayer dollar as precious. Sound fiscal steward- full funding of Maritime Security Program ship is essential to protecting our nation- al security. We address the breathtaking imperative for U.S. defense sealift operations size and scope of our national security challenges by providing for the common defense in an efficient, fiscally responsible In a letter to the House by the Department of Defense in time of war the Department of Defense by MSP par- manner.” Appropriations Committee Chairman or other international emergency. Most ticipants who are continuously develop- In a letter to House Appropriations Tom Latham (R-IA) and Ranking importantly, the Maritime Security Program ing, maintaining and upgrading their sys- Committee Chairman Tom Latham (R- Member John Olver (D-MA), the House and the uninterrupted operation of its mar- tems. In contrast, the commercial mar- IA) and Ranking Member John Olver (D- Armed Services Committee chairman, itime security fleet of 60 U.S.-flag militari- itime industry, through the MSP, will MA), Rep. McKeon and many members ranking member and dozens of members ly-useful commercial vessels ensures that provide the Department of Defense with of the Armed Services Committee noted of the Armed Services Committee urged America will in fact be able to support and these same vessels and global intermodal the tremendous cost savings provided by full funding for the Maritime Security supply our troops overseas. It guarantees system at a cost to the taxpayer of $186 the MSP, and the enormous cost that Program for fiscal year 2012. Signing that American flag vessels and American million in FY ‘12, a fraction of what it would be incurred if the government had the letter were Chairman Howard “Buck” crews will continue to be available to trans- would cost our government to do the job to replace the sealift and intermodal capa- McKeon (R-CA), Ranking Member port the supplies and equipment our troops itself. bilities of the fleet with government Adam Smith (D-WA), Todd Akin (R- need to do their job in behalf of our nation. In other words, without funding owned and managed ships. They referenced MO), Duncan Hunter (R-CA), Allen It is extremely important to note that the MSP and ensuring the continued a 2006 report estimating the cost to the West (R-FL), Candice Miller (R-MI), the failure to approve the requested funding operation of its maritime security fleet, government to replicate MSP vessel Howard Coble (R-NC), Rob Wittman of the Maritime Security Program will not America would either have to place the capacity and capabilities at $13 billion. (R-VA), Don Young (R-AK), Walter only put American troops at risk, but will safety of our troops and the security of Without the sealift capacity provid- Jones (R-NC), Frank LoBiondo (R-NJ), weaken America’s overall security interests our nation in the hands of foreign ship- ed by MSP, the representatives continued, Michael Grimm (R-NY), Bob Filner (D- and will cost the American taxpayer signifi- ping interests or be forced to spend bil- the government might turn to foreign CA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Timothy cantly more than the amount requested for lions of dollars more of the taxpayer’s interests to fill the needs met by MSP Bishop (D-NY), Nick Rahall (D-WV), FY ‘12 for the MSP. Without having the dollars to achieve the commercial sealift vessels. This would leave the country Kathy Castor (D-FL), Rick Larsen (D- MSP and its maritime security fleet to rely capability that will be lost if the request- dependent on countries that may not share WA), Madeleine Bordallo (D-GU), on, the options available to the Department ed funds for MSP are not appropriated. our goals and values and would encourage Robert Brady (D-PA), Bennie of Defense and to our country to meet During Congressional considera- the outsourcing of American jobs. Thompson (D-MS), Russ Carnahan (D- America’s commercial sealift capability tion of the reauthorization of the MSP “In other words, without funding MO), Laura Richardson (D-CA), requirements are totally unacceptable. in 2003, General John W. Handy, the MSP and ensuring the continued oper- Corrine Brown (D-FL), Norm Dicks (D- On the one hand, our country would Commander in Chief, United States ation of its maritime security fleet, WA), Loretta Sanchez (D-CA), Michael be faced with the option of giving foreign Transportation Command, told America would either have to place the Michaud (D-ME), Brian Higgins (D- flag shipping interests and their foreign Congress that: “as we look at opera- safety of our troops and the security of our NY), Chellie Pingree (D-ME) and Mike mariners, interests who may not share tions on multiple fronts in support of nation in the hands of foreign shipping McIntyre (D-NC). America’s goals, objectives and values, the the War on Terrorism, it is clear that interests or be forced to spend billions of We are writing to request that fund- responsibility for supporting and advancing our limited defense resources will dollars more of the taxpayer’s dollars to ing for the Maritime Security Program America’s security interests overseas. These increasingly rely on partnerships with achieve the commercial sealift capability (MSP) be included in the Fiscal Year foreign flag shipping services will have to be industry to maintain the needed capabil- that will be lost if the requested funds for 2012 appropriations bill for the paid for by the United States and it means ity and capacity to meet our most MSP are not appropriated.” Departments of Transportation, Housing our country will be encouraging the out- demanding wartime scenarios…MSP is “This bill would not have been pos- and Urban Development, and Related sourcing of American maritime jobs as we a cost-effective program that assures sible without the dedication and profes- Agencies in the amount of $186 mil- spend taxpayer dollars on foreign flag ships guaranteed access to required U.S.-flag sionalism of my friend, [Armed Services lion, the same amount proposed to be and their foreign crews. commercial shipping and U.S. mer- Committee] Ranking Member Adam obligated by the Administration. This On the other hand, our country would chant mariners when needed…MSP is a Smith,” Rep. McKeon said. “I also want amount is the minimum necessary to be faced with the option of having the vital element of our military’s strategic to thank our subcommittee chairmen, all ensure that the U.S. Maritime Department of Defense build, maintain and sealift and global response capability.” the members of the committee and the Administration, in conjunction with the operate the requisite vessels itself, at a We ask again that you support this staff for their tireless efforts on behalf of Department of Defense, has the tremendous cost to the American taxpayer. highly efficient and low-cost public-pri- the men and women of our armed ser- Congressionally-authorized amount In fact, a 2006 report prepared for the vate partnership by including $186 mil- vices.” available to fully implement the MSP National Defense Transportation Association lion in your Subcommittee’s FY ‘12 Designed to serve U.S. national for FY ‘12 as set forth in Public Law – Military Sealift Committee concluded that appropriations legislation in order to security and defense transportation needs, 108-136, the National Defense “the likely cost to the government to repli- fully implement the MSP in FY ‘12. In the MSP maintains military access to Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2004. cate just the vessel capacity provided by the so doing, you will be saving the commercial tonnage and intermodal infra- The MSP was originally enacted MSP dry cargo vessels would be $13 bil- American taxpayer billions of dollars structure, and allows the military to to ensure that the United States has the lion.” In addition, the United States because the Department of Defense will move equipment and goods quickly and U.S.-flag commercial sealift capability Transportation Command has estimated that be able to utilize privately-owned U.S.- efficiently at minimal cost. All 60 MSP and trained U.S. citizen merchant it would cost the U.S. Government an addi- flag vessels to meet its commercial sealift vessels are U.S.-flagged and manned by mariners available to crew the govern- tional $52 billion to replicate the “global requirements rather than buying and U.S. citizens. AMO represents all ment and privately-owned vessels needed intermodal system” that is made available to maintaining this capability on its own. licensed officers working aboard 15 ships in the MSP fleet.

AMO aboard the LMSR USNS Pililaau American Maritime Officers members working aboard the USNS Pililaau in April, here in Corpus Christi, Texas, included (left to right) Third Assistant Engineer Tim Nagle, Second A.E. Thomas Gay, Chief Engineer Christopher Dinnes, Third Mate Mike Hasson, Third Mate Frank Porcellini and Capt. Tina Vanderploeg. The USNS Pililaau is operated by American Overseas Marine for Military Sealift Command. 4 • American Maritime Officer June 2011 Sen. Begich: support Jones Act, MSP, cargo preference

Sen. Mark Begich (D-AK) vowed to maintain and improve the “viability of our the MTD meetings, expressed similar con- 2010. “This program is vital to ensuring protect the Jones Act from its would-be maritime interests” by investing in needed cern over recent attacks on the Jones Act. the country has the U.S.-flag strategic detractors and support successful programs maritime infrastructure such as dredging. He lamented the recent loss of Jones Act sealift capabilities it needs, as well as a like the Maritime Security Program and Sen. Begich vowed to protect the champions on Capitol Hill, adding that it trained workforce of American merchant “Food for Peace” cargo preference require- Jones Act and criticized those “few mem- is important to reach out to new members mariners during times of war or interna- ments. bers of Congress and special interests” of Congress. The American Maritime tional emergency,” he said. The maritime industry “employs involved in attacks on the Jones Act during Partnership — the largest coalition ever Cargo preference requirements for thousands of hardworking Americans and is the oil spill containment and cleanup assembled to represent the domestic mar- U.S. food aid further support the a vital component of our nation’s com- efforts in the Gulf of Mexico last year. He itime industry — will be “stepping up its American maritime industry, Sen. Begich merce and economic recovery,” he said. thanked the MTD for its work to debunk response” to Jones Act criticism to help said. “Some of our greatest foreign poli- Speaking before the Maritime Trades “disingenuous arguments” from these maintain the $100 billion American mar- cy comes from the rest of the world see- Department Executive Board meetings this detractors. There is “inherent value in hav- itime industry, he said. ing American foreign aid arriving on year, Sen. Begich credited his appreciation ing a fleet of American -built, -owned and The Maritime Security Program is U.S.-flag vessels.” He cited relief work for maritime services with his experiences -crewed vessels,” he said. another critically important component to in Haiti following a devastating earth- in Alaska, where maritime transportation Mark Ruge, director of American a vibrant domestic maritime industry. Sen. quake last year as a prime example of the is the primary means of freight movement, Maritime Partnership (formerly Maritime Begich proudly recalled his vote to appro- domestic maritime industry supporting he said. Sen. Begich urged Congress to Cabotage Task Force), also speaking before priate full funding for MSP in 2009 and U.S. diplomacy objectives.

AMO members fit-out M/V Roger Blough

American Maritime Officers members working aboard the M/V Roger Blough during fit-out, here in Duluth, Minn., included Chief Engineer Brian Donaldson, First Assistant Engineer Jeff Darga, Second A.E. Clarence Houle, Second A.E. Rich Wysocki and Third A.E. James Curtis. The Roger Blough is operated by Key Lakes Inc. AMO repre- sents the engineering officers and stewards aboard the vessel.

New cross-border trucking deal with Mexico raises Congressional concerns on security, safety, spending

In a May 4 letter to Secretary of gram. In 2007, votes were taken to require ty of our highways. spective to ensure that the vehicle is being Transportation Ray LaHood, 44 members of safety related restrictions to the pilot pro- The earlier demonstration project operated by a licensed driver and has com- Congress expressed strong concerns ab out gram and, in 2009, the pilot program was showed serious gaps in the Federal Motor pleted a safety inspection. With the limited and opposition to the Obama administra- terminated by Congress. While we under- Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) number of Mexican trucks that participated tion’s new deal with the Mexican govern- stand the need to work to remove the unfair ability to properly manage the program in this demonstration there is concern with ment to permit Mexican trucking compa- tariffs that Mexico has imposed on U.S. when they failed to assure that every the FMCSA’s ability to properly monitor a nies unrestricted access to U.S. roadways. agriculture products as a result, doing so Mexican truck was properly inspected at the future demonstration project. Signing the letter were Congressional repre- should not come at the expense of the safe- border. This is critical from a safety per- In addition, the program will require sentatives Duncan Hunter (R-CA), Daniel that Mexican motor carriers have Electronic Lipinski (D-IL), Nick Rahall (D-WV), Dan On Board Recorders (EOBRs) on their vehi- Burton (R-IN), Candice Miller (R-MI), cles. This requirement comes at the same Peter DeFazio (D-OR), Bob Filner (D-CA), NAFTA surface trade value hits time FMCSA is working on a rulemaking Sam Graves (R-MO), Walter Jones (R-NC), to require EIBRs for all U.S. carriers. An Gary Miller (R-CA), James McGovern (D- record high absent a cross-border appalling difference, however, is that funds MA), Steven LaTourette (R-OH), Shelley from the Highway Trust Fund will be used Berkley (D-NV), Betty Sutton (D-OH), trucking program with Mexico to pay for these devices for Mexican truck- Frank LoBiondo (R-NJ), Ted Poe (R-TX), ers while U.S. drivers will be required to pay Pete Visclosky (D-IN), Mike Michaud (D- Trade using surface transportation U.S. trade by value with Canada and for their EOBRs themselves. We feel this is ME), Jerry Costello (D-IL), Leonard between the U.S. and its North American Mexico moved on land, 9.8 percent an inappropriate use of the highway funds Boswell (D-IA), Tim Ryan (D-OH), Jason Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) partners moved by vessel, and 4.4 percent moved and an unreasonable expenditure for taxpay- Altmire (D-PA), Bill Huizenga (R-MI), Joe Canada and Mexico was 15.6 percent by air. ers. Baca (D-CA), Thaddeus McCotter (R-MI), higher in March 2011 than in March The value of U.S. surface trans- More importantly with the recent rise Loretta Sanchez (D-CA), Alcee Hastings 2010, reaching $80.8 billion, according portation trade with Canada and Mexico in violence in Mexico and the changing tac- (D-FL), Bruce Braley (D-IA), Linda Sanchez to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics in March was up 18.5 percent compared tics of the Mexican drug cartels, we are also (D-CA), Michael Doyle (D-PA), Elijah (BTS) of the U.S. Department of with March 2006, and up 60.9 percent concerned that moving forward with this Cummings (D-MD), Pete Stark (D-CA), Transportation. March 2011 was the compared with March 2001, a period of cross border trucking program at this time is Russ Carnahan (D-MO), Andre Carson (D- highest month since collection of data 10 years. Imports in March were up not in the best interests for security along IN), Mark Critz (D-PA), Bill Pascrell (D- began in 1994, beating the previous 52.2 percent compared to March 2001, our border. The EI Paso Intelligence Center NJ), David Loebsack (D-IA), Michael record set in April 2008 by 8.8 percent, while exports were up 72.3 percent. reports that commercial vehicles are widely- Capuano (D-MA), Chris Smith (R-NJ), Jon not adjusted for inflation. U.S.-Mexico surface transporta- used by Mexican drug trafficking organiza- Runyan (R-NJ), Gary Peters (D-MI), Tim This record high was reached with tion trade totaled $32.1 billion in tions. Setting up a program that allows Holden (D-PA), Martin Heinrich (D-NM) no cross-border trucking program in March, up 15.3 percent compared with Mexican long-haul trucks to cross the bor- and Carolyn McCarthy (D-NY). place between the U.S. and Mexican March 2010. March was the first month der and move freely throughout the U.S. We are writing to express our con- governments. Under the terms of on record that U.S.-Mexico trade has could increase this method of smuggling by cerns over the announced agreement between NAFTA, trucks operated by Mexican exceeded $30 billion. the drug cartels and serve as a resource for the U.S. and Mexico regarding cross border trucking companies are limited to a 20- The TransBorder Freight Data are their criminal activity. trucking. Based on the recently released mile commercial zone within the U.S. a unique subset of official U.S. foreign Again, we do not believe this cross details by the Department of Transportation, border, beyond which trade cargoes are trade statistics released by the U.S. border trucking program is in the best inter- we have concerns that this proposed pro- delivered by U.S. trucks. Census Bureau. New data are tabulated ests of the taxpayer or our security. The cur- gram could impact the safety of our roads Surface transportation includes monthly and historical data are not rent system of Mexican carriers operating and may create a security breach along our freight movements by truck, rail, adjusted for inflation. March within a defined commercial zone is work- southern border. pipeline, mail, Foreign Trade Zones and TransBorder numbers include data ing well for both safety and border security. Over the years, Congress has demon- other means. In March, 85.8 percent of received by BTS as of May 20. We strongly oppose the Administration’s strated its opposition to this ill-advised pro- cross-border trucking proposal. June 2011 American Maritime Officer • 5 Great Lakes As Lake Michigan Carferry/Pere Marquette stalls, some American Maritime Officers members await initial deposits into AMO Defined Contribution Plan retirement accounts

A total of 36 AMO-contracted employers have signed the documents required Lake Michigan Carferry/Pere Marquette needs to sign the AMO Defined for their participation in the new AMO Defined Contribution Plan. Only one Contribution Plan Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and Trust Documents so AMO-contracted employer — Lake Michigan Carferry/Pere Marquette — has yet its man-day contributions to the AMO Plans can be appropriately directed to the to sign documents required for participation in the new AMO Defined Contribution individual DC Plan accounts of the AMO members working aboard its vessels. Plan. AMO National President Tom Bethel has now taken the principal role in The failure of this lone employer to sign the required documents continues actively pursuing Lake Michigan Carferry/Pere Marquette to secure the required sig- to needlessly delay deposits into the individual Defined Contribution Plan retire- natures on the AMO DC Plan MOU and Trust Documents. The membership will ment accounts of American Maritime Officers members working for the company. be kept informed of developments with this issue.

Great Lakes cargo float for April up 8 percent from 2010 levels

U.S.-flagged freighters on the Great U.S.-flag dry bulk carriage on the Great Lakes: April 2006-2011 — net tons Lakes carried 8.2 million tons of cargo in April, an increase of 8 percent compared Commodity 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 Average with 2010, but slightly less than the five- Iron Ore 4,763,473 4,755,529 4,609,218 1,737,342 3,982,958 4,404,862 3,969,704 year average for the month, the Lake Carriers’ Association reported. Coal 2,324,179 2,278,243 2,117,685 1,924,019 1,627,904 1,841,143 2,054,406 Iron ore cargoes were up 10.6 percent Limestone 2,735,647 2,478,711 2,145,602 1,123,319 1,656,407 1,680,381 2,027,937 over last year, while coal totals increased 13.1 percent over April 2010 numbers. Iron Cement 312,823 299,867 230,852 142,820 241,259 185,872 245,524 and coal have both seen dramatic increases over last year’s float, but limestone has Salt 98,758 62,336 81,833 132,596 98,035 79,802 94,712 shown only slight improvement, the LCA Sand 26,837 0 34,392 0 16,123 0 15,470 reported. Since the start of the shipping season, Grain 59,604 54,850 19,648 36,481 0 38,200 34,117 U.S.-flagged carriers have moved a total of 14.1 million tons, an increase of 11.5 per- Total 10,321,321 9,929,536 9,239,230 5,096,577 7,622,686 8,230,260 8,441,870 cent over total float at the same point last year. Total carriage is also up 2.2 percent Source: Lake Carriers’ Association compared with the five-year average.

M/V Great Republic enters service on the Great Lakes AMO members working aboard the M/V Great Republic as it prepared to get underway at the beginning of June, here in Toledo, Ohio, included Second Assistant Engineer James Curtis, Steward Douglas Rogers, Chief Engineer Mike Harrison, First A.E. Matthew Williams, Capt. Joseph Hooker, Second A.E. John Brightman, First Mate James Fisher, Third Mate Richard Bruning, Third A.E. Dale Miller and Second Mate Nicholas Velkoff. With them here is AMO Senior National Assistant Vice President Brian Krus.

Lower water levels aggravate dredging crisis on the Lakes

Low water levels in the Upper Great Congress has failed to appropriate funding to tenance contains about $6 billion. assessed on imported and domestic cargo – Lakes are compounding the dredging crisis properly dredge the region’s waterways and Activity to release funds from the has increased recently, with several bills by forcing vessels to carry far less than their harbors, even though an available surplus of Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund — funded before Congress to mandate spending from full capacity. funds specifically collected for harbor main- by the Harbor Maintenance Tax, which is the HMTF match deposits into the fund. “We’re light-loading something awful here,” said Lake Carriers’ Association Vice President of Corporate Communications Glen Nekvasil. “We’ve got ships that back Fit-out aboard in 1997 were carrying 71,000 tons in a trip. Their first trip of this season they only had H. Lee White 59,000 onboard. So between the dredging crisis and the low water levels, we’re getting creamed.” AMO members working aboard the Lake Superior is down an inch from M/V H. Lee White during fit-out, last year and a foot from long-term averages, here in Superior, Wis., included while Lakes Michigan and Huron are also Chief Engineer Darryl Bertrand, lower than normal for this time of year, Second Assistant Engineer Brent reported 91.3 KUWS for Business North. McConnell and Third A.E. Andy The low water levels magnify prob- Morgan. The ship is operated by lems caused by the decades-long neglect of American Steamship Company. waterways on the Lakes. For years, 6 • American Maritime Officer June 2011 Service of American merchant mariners recognized, remembered at National Maritime Day ceremonies

During ceremonies in Washington, commercial sealift capability and has come D.C. commemorating the 79th annual to America’s aid in the most crucial times National Maritime Day, officials from the in our nation’s history.” U.S. Navy, Congress and Maritime Also speaking at the National Administration expressed their gratitude for Maritime Day ceremony, Rear Adm. Mark the service and sacrifice of U.S. civilian Buzby, commander of Military Sealift mariners. Command, acknowledged the “great debt of Speaking before a wreath-laying gratitude we owe the men and women of the ceremony, U.S. TRANSCOM Commander U.S. merchant marine.” For more than 62 Gen. Duncan McNabb recognized the many years, he said, “MSC has benefited from the thousands of mariners who gave their lives professionalism and expertise of America’s in World War II. “Without their painstaking merchant mariners. Wherever and whenever Photo: Capt. Shawn Hagerty efforts, we would have never won the war,” duty calls, they deliver.” On May 22, 2011, while underway at sea, the crew of the M/V Freedom assem- he said. He added: “We depend on them every bled to commemorate National Maritime Day. During the ceremony, AB Fred “We need no reminder of the day to meet the mission requirements of the Wood recited President Barack Obama’s 2011 National Maritime Day proclama- outstanding dedication and sacrifice of our best ocean transportation system in the tion. Afterwards, the crew honored all past, present and future U.S. mariners merchant mariners throughout our nation’s world.” with three strikes on ship’s bell followed by a moment of silence. Participants in history,” Gen. McNabb continued. National On May 22 of each year, America the observance included (front) Oiler Walter Van Washington, Steward Anthony Maritime Day gives us “the opportunity to celebrates the merchant mariners who Brown, Oiler Romeo Cruda, Oiler Moriah Collier, OS Erick Johnson, AB formally thank our merchant mariners for support our country’s national defense Frederick Wood, (back row) Third Mate Robert Buff, Third Assistant Engineer their amazing dedication and is a time for requirements and honors those who Douglas Foley, Second A.E. Scott Kern, Chief Mate Paul Champion, Chief us to pause to remember our great mariners sacrificed their lives in service to the nation. Engineer Mark Booth, First A.E. Jacob Barto, Capt. Shawn Hagerty, AB Craig who gave their lives in the struggle of Observances were held, among other Pare, AB Frank Revette, Bosun Arthur Cross, Chief Cook Arlene Thomas, SA democracy and freedom over tyranny and locations, in Dania Beach, Fla., Galveston, Juan Martinez and OS Rudolfo Jackson. oppression. The merchant marine has Texas, San Pedro, Calif. and at sea on U.S.- always been the linchpin in our U.S. flagged vessels.

AMO members Max Paulus and Jeff Hall attended the National Maritime Day ceremony in San Pedro, Calif. With them are AMO National Assistant Vice President Danny Shea and AMO retiree John Daly. The American Merchant Marine Veterans Memorial Committee hosted a National Maritime Day observance and memorial service at Gen. Duncan McNabb, commander of the U.S. Transportation Command, greets the American Merchant AMOS Legislative Consultant Brenda Otterson, AMO Assistant Legislative Director Marine Veterans Phree Baker and AMO Legislative Assistant Paulette Brown during National Memorial and Walls of Maritime Day events in Washington, D.C. Honor.

In times of peace or war, the civilians serving in the United States Merchant Marine have helped keep our Nation safe and prosperous. We depend on these men and women serving on our ships and tugs, in our ports and shipyards, close to home or far at sea, to connect businesses, service members, and citizens around the world. On National Maritime Day, we honor their invaluable contributions to America’s economic strength and security. — President Barack Obama, 2011 National Maritime Day Proclamation

AMO members attending the National Maritime Day observance hosted by American Maritime Officers and STAR Center in Dania Beach, Fla. included Capt. TAMUG Deck Cadet Alex Boudreaux, MM&P Vice President, Gulf Ports, Wayne Jan Kummernes, master on the M/V Honor, Don Elderkin, second mate on the Farthing, MEBA Houston Branch Agent Dana Woodruff, SIU Houston Port Agent M/V Honor, Nelson Crespo, chief mate on the OSG tug Freedom, Capt. Kenny Mike Russo and AMO National Assistant Vice President Dave Weathers gather Collins, master on the Seabulk tug Broward and Capt. Jerry Borden, master on the to observe National Maritime Day in Galveston, Texas, on May 20. A ceremony Seabulk tug Buccaneer. The event, held May 23 at the I.T. Parker Community and wreath laying were held at the Merchant Marine Memorial Plaque at the offi- Center featured keynote speeches from the mayor of Dania Beach, Patricia Flury, cial tall ship of Texas, Barque of 1877 Elissa. and Capt. Christopher Scraba, U.S. Coast Guard Sector Miami. June 2011 American Maritime Officer • 7 Maritime Industry ‘Sail-In’ calls at 161 Congressional offices

Building on the success of last year’s cooperation is a powerful tool for educating inaugural event, the second annual Maritime Congress about the importance of our Industry Congressional ‘Sail-In’ May 4 drew industry.” more than 180 industry representatives and The industry representatives met with accomplished visits to more than 161 members of Congress and their staffs to Congressional offices. discuss issues key to the industry, building House Transportation and awareness of the obstacles to and benefits of Infrastructure Committee Chairman John waterborne transportation. In their office Mica (R-FL) addressed the audience of visits, participants stressed the vital role of maritime company representatives, union the U.S. maritime industry in national officials and employees, merchant defense — supplying necessary sealift in mariners and other industry professionals. times of war and national emergency, and In his keynote speech, he emphasized the maintaining a pool of highly trained mariners need to bring maritime into the intermodal to operate the vessels. They also highlighted transportation planning process. He also the 1.6 million American jobs sustained by said a maritime section would be part of the U.S. maritime industry. Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Rep. John Mica (R-FL) the upcoming transportation “During our second annual event, we addressed the more than 180-member gathering of maritime industry reauthorization bill. saw increased participation and increased representatives before they split into groups to call on members of Congress. “The more than 180 people that visited outreach,” said American Maritime Officers Congressional offices represented a broad Service Legislative Consultant Brenda spectrum of industry professionals – union Otterson. “We made new friends and representatives, company presidents, mariners strengthened longstanding relationships, and more – which sent a powerful message to demonstrating to Congress that the U.S. Congress: we work together,” said AMO maritime industry provides critical military National President Tom Bethel. “Our and economic benefits for the country.”

AMO National Vice President, Government Relations Michael Murphy and rep- resentatives from Crowley Maritime Corp., CSI Group and CSL International meet with Mississippi Democratic Rep. Bennie Thompson (second from right).

California Democratic Rep. Gary Miller (third from right) discussed maritime issues with (left to right) AMOS President Tony Naccarato, AMO National Assistant Vice President Dave Weathers, American Steamship Company President David Foster, Kevin McMonagle, ASC Vice President, Human Resources and Risk Management, and AMOS Legislative Consultant Brenda Otterson.

Maritime industry representatives from AMO, AMOS and SIU Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman meet with Rep. Tom Latham (R-IA), chairman of the House Subcommittee on Transportation Appropriations.

Maritime industry representatives meet with Rep. Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN).

Rep. Mazie Hirono (D-HI) and Legislative Assistant AMO Legislative Director Paul Doell, California Marine Affairs and Jeremy Horan (right) speak with President of Navigation Conference Executive Director Jim Hausssener and Capt. Totem Ocean Trailer Express John Parrott. Patrick Wright of MEBA meet with Rep. Charlie Dent (R-PA). Boustany applauds colleagues for support of RAMP Act

Representative Charles Boustany (R- Maritime Industry Congressional Sail-In May Annually, the HMTF — funded by the in recent years. LA) praised the 91 members of the House of 4, Rep. Boustany commended his colleagues Harbor Maintenance Tax, which is assessed on “Louisiana is a global leader in trade, Representatives who have co-sponsored the for their support of H.R. 104. The legislation imported and domestic cargo — accrues more and proper maintenance of our ports is critical Realize America’s Maritime Promise would require Congress to each year than $1 billion, but only approximately half for our exports to grow,” Rep. Boustany said. (RAMP) Act. appropriate funds deposited in the Harbor of those funds are used for maintenance The RAMP Act was referred to the In a statement released after a meeting Maintenance Trust Fund (HMTF) for their dredging. This has created an enormous House Committee on Rules and the with maritime representatives during the intended purpose: maintenance dredging of surplus, while the nation’s ports and Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. U.S. ports and waterways continue to degrade. The Great Companion legislation was introduced in the navigational chan- Lakes navigation system, in particular, has Senate by Senators David Vitter (R-LA) and nels. suffered from a lack of maintenance dredging Mary Landrieu (D-LA).

At left: Congressman Charles Boustany, Jr., (R-LA) meets with maritime industry and labor rep- resentatives during Sail-In May 4 in Washington, D.C. With Rep. Boustany here are AMO member Capt. Robert Lansden (third from left) and President of CEO of Pacific-Gulf Marine Todd Johnson (left). Also in the picture are Sarah Branch, director of government relations for the Offshore Marine Service Association (OMSA) and OMSA President and CEO Jim Adams. 8 • American Maritime Officer June 2011 American Maritime Officers Simulation, Training, Assessment & Research Center 2 West Dixie Highway • Dania Beach, FL 33004 • (954) 920-3222

General Courses

ABS NS5 Fleet Mgmt Software 3 days 5 July 12 October 19 December

Advanced Fire Fighting 5 days 18 July 1 August 19 September 3 October 7 November 5 December 16 January

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 & 5 days 26 September 12 December 9 January Fire Prevention (Thurs/Fri - 2 days) - not req. if Combined Basic & Adv. Fire Fighting completed within 12 months

Basic Safety Training - Refresher 3 days 28 September 14 December 11 January

Crowd Management 1 day Please call

Crisis Mgmt & Human Behavior 1 day Please call

ECDIS 5 days 27 June 11 July 22 August 12 September 24, 31 October 7, 28 November 5 December 9, 23 January

Effective Supervision 2 days Please call

Fast Rescue Boat 4 days 5, 25 July 22 August 19 September 11, 31 October 14 November 5 December 30 January

GMDSS 10 days 8 August 10 October 28 November 23 January

LNG Tankerman PIC 8 days 30 November

LNG Simulator Training - Enrollment priority in the LNG simulator course is given to qualified member candidates for employment and/or observation opportunities with AMO 5 days 8 August 12 December contracted LNG companies. In all cases successful completion of the LNG PNC classroom course is prerequisite.

Proficiency in Survival Craft (Lifeboat) 4 days 24 October 19 December 17 January

Safety Officer Course 2 days 25 July 26 September 9 November 9 January

Tankerman PIC DL - Classroom 5 days 14 November

Tankerman PIC DL - Simulator 10 days 20 June 11 July 22 August 24 October

Train the Trainer 5 days 20 June 15 August 17 October 12 December 30 January

Train the Trainer - Simulator Inst. 5 days Please call

Vessel/Company Security Officer 2 days 6 July 7 November 19 December 11 January

VSO - Anti-Piracy Module 1 day 8 July 9 November 21 December 13 January

Deck Courses

Advanced Bridge Resource Management 5 days 25 July

Advanced Shiphandling for Masters - (No equivalency) Must have sailed as 5 days 15 August 26 September 12 December Chief Mate Unlimited

Advanced Shiphandling for 3rd Mates - 60 days seatime equiv. for 3rd Mates 10 days 20 June 8 August 19 September 10 October 5 December 9 January

Adv. / Emerg. Shiphandling - First Class Pilots, Great Lakes 5 days 30 January

Bridge Resource Management Seminar 3 days 15 November

Integrated Bridge System (IBS) / Prodded Propulsion Trg 5 days 14 November

Locking & Docking for First Class Pilots - Great Lakes 5 days Please call

STCW Deck Officer Refresher - Great Lakes 3 days 19 July

TOAR (Towing Officer Assessment Record) - Third Mate (Unlimited or Great 5 days 27 June PM 15 August PM 28 November 23 January Lakes) or 1600T Master License required AND OICNW required

Tug Training - ASD Assist (Azimuthing Stern Drive) 5 days 1 August 24 October 14 November

Visual Communications (Flashing Light) - Test only! 1 day Scheduled as required

Engineering Courses

Advanced Slow Speed Diesel 10 days 28 November

Basic Electricity 10 days 11 July 10 October

Diesel Crossover 4 weeks 11 July 3 October

Engine Room Resource Management 5 days 8 August 12 December

Environmental Awareness (includes Oily Water Separator) 3 days 11 July 19 September 7 November 19 December 17 January

Gas Turbine Endorsement 10 days 15 August 31 October 5 December 9 January

High Voltage Safety Course (Classroom) 3 days 15 August 31 October

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) 5 days 8 August 24 October

Refrigeration (Operational Level) 5 days 23 January

Refrigeration (Management Level) 5 days 30 January

Steam Crossover 4 weeks 9 January

Welding & Metallurgy Skills & Practices - Open to eligible Chief Mates and Masters on a space available basis. Interested participants should apply and will be 2 weeks 25 July 26 September 28 November 30 January confirmed 2 weeks prior to start date.

Engine STCW / Original Engineer Training Routes - Engine STCW training routes are aimed at Great Lakes members wishing to transition to Deep Sea. Original Engineer training is available to members, Galley Courses & Original License Courses applicants and sponsored students seeking original license.

Advanced Fire Fighting 5 days 19 September 5 December RFPNW Assessments 1 day Please call

Basic Safety Training 5 days 26 September 12 Dec, 9 Jan Marlin Spike 1 day Please call

EFA/MCP 4 days 4 October 29 Nov, 24 Jan 40-hour Able Seaman 5 days Please call

Proficiency in Survival Craft (Lifeboat) 4 days 12 September 19 Dec, 16 Ja Original License (Great Lakes) Courses - Deck & Engine A/R Please Call

Basic Electricity (for Original Engineers only) 10 days 10 October 20 February Food Safety, Sanitation & Nutrition (ServSafe) 5 days 30 January

Original 3A/E Preparation and Exams A/R 24 October 5 March Culinary Fundamentals 10 days Please call

Self-Study CDs and Online Programs - Available for use when attending other approved classroom courses

Afloat Environmental Protection Coordinator CD DoT - Hazardous Material Transportation Training CD

Anti-Terrorism Level 1 Online EPA Universal Refrigerant Certification Examination Self-study

Crew Endurance Management CD Prudent Mariner’s Guide to Right Whale Protection CD

Vessel General Permit - EPA CD June 2011 American Maritime Officer • 9 MSC Training Program Basic CBR Defense 1 day 1, 29 July 2 September 28 October 18 November 2 December 27 January

Damage Control 1 day 30 June 28 July 1 September 27 October 17 November 1 December 26 January

Heat Stress Afloat / Hearing Conservation Afloat 1 day 11 July 1 August 17 October

Helicopter Fire Fighting 1 day 16 June 26 September 12 December 10 January

Marine Environmental Programs (with CBRD) 1/2 day 1, 29 July 2 September 28 October 18 November 2 December 27 January

Marine Sanitation Devices 1/2 day 14 July 10 November 20 January

Medical PIC Refresher - Note: Not MSC approved 3 days 29 August 12 October 8 November

MSC Readiness Refresher - Must have completed full CBRD & DC once in career. 5 days 26 September 12 December 9 January

MSC Watchstander - BASIC - Once in career, SST grads grandfathered 2 days 14 July

MSC Watchstander - ADVANCED - Required for all SRF members 1 day 18 July

MSC Ship Reaction Force - Required every three years for SRF members 3 days 19 July

SAMM - Shipboard Automated Maintenance Management 3 days 27 June

Small Arms - Initial & Sustainment (Refresher) Training - Open to members and applicants eligible for employment through AMO (within 1 year) or MSC on MARAD 3 days 27 June 11, 25 July 15, 29 August 12, 26 Sept. 11, 24 October 14, 28 Nov. 12 December 9, 23 January contracted vessels Water Sanitation Afloat 1/2 day 14 July 10 November 20 January Medical Courses

Heat Stress Afloat / Hearing Conservation Afloat 1 day 11 July 1 August 17 October

Elementary First Aid - Prerequisite for MCP within preceding 12 months 1 day 12 July 2 August 13 September 4, 18 October 14, 29 Nov. 24 January

Medical Care Provider - Prerequisite for MPIC within preceding 12 months. Please 3 days 13 July 3 August 14 September 5, 19 October 15, 30 Nov. 25 January fax EFA certificate when registering

Medical PIC - Please fax MCP certificate when registering 5 days 18 July 8 August 19 September 24 October 5 December 30 January

Urinalysis Collector Training 1 day 25 July 15 August 26 September 12 December 18 January

Breath Alcohol Test (BAT) - Alco Sensors 3 and 4 only! 1 day 26 July 16 August 27 September 13 December 19 January

Saliva Screening Test - QEDs only! 1/2 day 27 July 17 August 28 September 14 December 20 January

Medical PIC Refresher - Note: Not MSC approved 3 days 29 August 12 October 8 November Radar Courses

Radar Recertification 1 day 24 June 8 July 1 August 6, 19 Sept. 3 October 14 November 12 December 19, 20 January Radar Recertification at Toledo Maritime Academy - Non-Resident Training, 1 day 23 June 15 September 17 November 15 December 26 January apply to Student Services, Dania Beach ARPA 4 days 20 September

Radar Recertification & ARPA 5 days 19 September

Western Rivers Recertification 1 day Please call

Original Radar Observer Unlimited 5 days Please call

Deck Upgrade at the Management Level - Successful completion of this program will satisfy the training requirements for STCW certification as Master or Chief Mate on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC). This program will complete ALL 53 Control Sheet assessments of the training requirements for STCW. Course completion certificates do not expire. Operational level officers (3/M and 2/M) interested in advancing to Chief Mate/Master (Management) Level are encouraged to start obtaining the required courses as soon as practical after acquiring OICNW experience. Advanced Navigation and a USCG approved ECDIS course must be completed within 12 months of each other to satisfy the Management Level upgrade course and assessment requirements. All 9 courses booked simultaneously (excluding Celestial Navigation) - 25% discount applied to individual rate. 5 courses booked simultaneously - 10% discount (group rate) will apply. Discount will apply on 8th and/or 9th course as appropriate, after paying for and completing the first 5 courses. All 9 courses MUST be booked at STAR Center.

Celestial Navigation 5 days 20 June 8 August 17 October 5 December

Upgrade: Advanced Meteorology 5 days 27 June 15 August 24 October 28 November

Cargo Operations 9 days 22 August 3 October 12 December 9 January

Marine Propulsion Plants 5 days 18 July 12 September 31 October 12 December 23 January

Upgrade: Stability 5 days 1 August 19 September 7 November 12 December

Watchkeeping 1: BRM 3 days 27 July 5 October PM 30 November 11 January

Watchkeeping 2: COLREGS - Watchkeeping 1 & 2 must be completed within 12 5 days 1 August 10 October 5 December 16 January months of each other

Upgrade: Shiphandling at the Management Level 10 days 20 June 22 August 17 October

Shipboard Management 5 days 18 July 12 September 31 October 23 January

Upgrade: Advanced Navigation (includes Simulator) 5 days 8 August 19 September 7 November 30 January

ECDIS - Advanced Navigation and the USCG approved ECDIS to be completed within 5 days 15 August 26 September 14 November 12 months of each other. Suggested dates follow. See also deck courses above.

Self-Study License Exam Preparation A/R Please call

Officer in Charge of a Navigation Watch (OICNW) - Completion of this program will satisfy the training requirements for STCW certification as Officer In Charge of a Navigation Watch (3M/2M) on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC). This program will complete ALL Control Sheet assessments.

Celestial Navigation 10 days Please call

Ship Construction & Stability 5 days Please call

Emergency Procedures & SAR 4 days Please call

Meteorology 5 days Please call

Cargo Handling & Storage 5 days Please call

Magnetic & Gyro Compass 3 days Please call

Electronic Navigation 5 days Please call

Terrestrial Navigation 10 days Please call

Watchkeeping 10 days Please call

Basic Shiphandling at the Operational Level 5 days Please call

Self-Study License Exam Preparation A/R Available to those students who completed their courses at STAR Center. Please call to schedule.

MARAD Training Program - (11 day package comprised of courses below) Students will be nominated and assigned by their contracted company and shall attend all 11 days. Any places not taken by the contracted companies shall be made available to the membership on a chronological order basis.

Small Arms - Initial & Sustainment (Refresher) Training - Open to members and applicants eligible for employment through AMO (within 1 year) on MSC or MARAD 3 days 26 September 12 December 9 January contracted vessels.

Elementary First Aid 1 day 16 June 29 September 15 December 12 January

Drug Collector Training 1 day 17 June 30 September 16 December 13 January

Breath Alcohol Test Collector 1 day 18 June 1 October 17 December 14 January

Advanced Fire Fighting 5 days 3 October 5 December 16 January

NOTICE: AMO members planning to attend the union’s Center for Advanced Maritime Officers’ Training/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 Center For Advanced Maritime Officers Training (CAMOT) and Simulation Training Assessment and Research Center (STAR), established under the auspices of the American Maritime Officers Safety and Education Plan, admits 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. 10 • American Maritime Officer June 2011

SAN FRANCISCO / OAKLAND, CA 94607 1121 7th Street, Second Floor Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-5301 (800) 362-0513 ext. 5001 Daniel E. Shea, National Assistant Vice President ([email protected]) HEADQUARTERS FAX: (510) 444-5165

DANIA BEACH, FL 33004 NORWOOD, NJ 07648 601 S. Federal Highway 463 Livingston Street, Suite 102 (954) 921-2221 / (800) 362-0513 PMB 60 Thomas J. Bethel, National President Donald R. Nilsson, National Assistant Vice President ([email protected]) / Mobile: (202) 251-0349 ([email protected]) José E. Leonard, National Secretary-Treasurer ([email protected]) (800) 362-0513 ext. 3004 Jack Branthover, Special Assistant to the National President Mobile: (201) 913-2209 ([email protected]) FAX: (954) 926-5112 WASHINGTON, D.C. Joseph Z. Gremelsbacker, National Vice President, Deep Sea WASHINGTON, D.C. 20024 ([email protected]) 490 L’Enfant Plaza East SW, Suite 7204 Charles A. Murdock, National Vice President, Inland Waters (202) 479-1166 / (800) 362-0513 ext. 7001 ([email protected]) Thomas J. Bethel, National President FAX: (954) 920-3257 ([email protected]) / Mobile: (202) 251-0349 Dispatch: (800) 345-3410 J. Michael Murphy, National Vice President, Government Relations FAX: (954) 926-5126 ([email protected]) / Mobile: (202) 560-6889 Brendan Keller, Dispatcher ([email protected]) Paul Doell, Legislative Director ([email protected]) Robert Anderson, Dispatcher ([email protected]) Phree Baker, Assistant Legislative Director ([email protected]) Member Services: Extension 1050 ([email protected]) FAX: (202) 479-1188 PORTS STAR CENTER

TOLEDO, OH 43604 STUDENT SERVICES/LODGING AND COURSE INFORMATION The Melvin H. Pelfrey Building 2 West Dixie Highway One Maritime Plaza, Third Floor Dania Beach, FL 33004 (419) 255-3940 (954) 920-3222 ext. 201 / (800) 942-3220 ext. 201 (800) 221-9395 Course Attendance Confirmation: (800) 942-3220 ext. 200 FAX: (419) 255-2350 FAX: (954) 920-3140 John E. Clemons, National Vice President, Great Lakes 24 Hours: (954) 920-3222 ext.7999 ([email protected]) Brian D. Krus, Senior National Assistant Vice President TRAINING RECORDS SYSTEM: ([email protected]) Lisa Marra Donald Cree, Great Lakes Special Assistant to the National President (954) 920-3222 ext. 7118 ([email protected]) FAX: (954) 925-5681 Stan Barnes, National Representative ([email protected]) [email protected] Bruce DeWerth, Dispatcher ([email protected]) MEMBERSHIP SERVICES PHILADELPHIA, PA 19113 2 International Plaza, Suite 422 MEDICAL CLINIC AMO PLANS Robert J. Kiefer, National Executive Vice President ([email protected]) 2 West Dixie Highway 2 West Dixie Highway (800) 362-0513 ext. 4001 / 4002 Dania Beach, FL 33004 Dania Beach, FL 33004 Mobile: (215) 859-1059 (954) 927-5213 (800) 348-6515 FAX: (610) 521-1301 FAX: (954) 929-1415 FAX: (954) 922-7539 LEGAL GALVESTON, TX 77551 2724 61st Street, Suite B Joel Glanstein, General Counsel Michael Reny PMB 192 437 Madison Ave. AMO Coast Guard Legal David M. Weathers, National Assistant Vice President 35th Floor Aid Program ([email protected]) New York, NY 10022 (419) 243-1105 / (888) 853-4662 (800) 362-0513 ext. 2001 (212) 370-5100 Mobile: (419) 346-1485 Mobile: (409) 996-7362 FAX: (212) 697-6299 [email protected]

Unannounced changes to USCG medical form cause problems for mariners

The U.S. Coast Guard’s National were submitted with the application pack- Fla., can contact the clinic to ensure the ical clinic can be reached by phone — (954) Maritime Center has apparently made more ages. proper version of the form is completed for 927-5213 — FAX: (954) 929-1415 — or e- than one unannounced change to Form CG- For the NMC to accept an application their individual application. The AMO med- mail: [email protected]. 719K, the Merchant Mariner Credential for a new or renewal Merchant Mariner Medical Evaluation Report. This form, Credential, the most recent revision of the which is available on the National Maritime form — CG-719K Rev. (01-09) — must be Center (NMC) Web site, is required as part submitted with the application. This form is of the submission of files for a new or available on the NMC Web site: renewal Merchant Mariner Credential. www.uscg.mil/nmc/medical.asp. On more than one occasion, it American Maritime Officers members would seem the text contained in the last who have completed a physical exam to page of this form has been revised and the include with an application for a new or form reposted to the NMC Web site with renewal Merchant Mariner Credential, but no announcement. There have now been have not yet submitted the application pack- reports of the NMC rejecting applications age, must have the physician who adminis- from mariners seeking a new or renewal tered the physical download and fill out the Merchant Mariner Credential because the most recent revision of CG-719K. Regular monthly membership meetings for AMO will be held during the most recent revision of CG-719K was not AMO members who took their phys- week following the first Sunday of every month at 1 p.m. local time. submitted, and older versions of the form ical at the AMO medical clinic located on Meetings will be held on Monday at Headquarters in Dania (on — obtained from the NMC Web site — the STAR Center campus in Dania Beach, Tuesday when Monday is a contract holiday) and on Wednesday in Toledo. The next meetings will take place on the following dates:

For more information, see: ‘NMC — update to the Mariner DANIA BEACH: July 5 (Tuesday), August 8 Medical Evaluation Form 719K’ on Page 11 TOLEDO: July 6, August 10 June 2011 American Maritime Officer • 11

License upgrade at STAR Center MSC provides new security courses to STAR Center

STAR Center has received and will one of this course to continue. now provide the following three courses Initial dates for these courses at STAR from Military Sealift Command (MSC): Center are as follows: •Two-day Security Watchstander •Two-day Security Watchstander Basic — this course is required once in a Basic: July 14 career and those who have taken the “Ship •One-day Security Watchstander Security & Tactics (SST) Course” are grand- Advanced: July 18 fathered and do not require the Security •Three-day Ship’s Reaction Force Watchstander Basic Course. (SRF) Team Member: July 19. •One-day Security Watchstander Additional dates will not be Advanced — this course is required annu- announced until completion of the first ally for all Ship Reaction Force members. It classes. Any questions regarding this train- includes handcuffing techniques, baton use ing should be directed to Director of and takedowns. Member Training and Officer Development •Three-day Ship’s Reaction Force Jerry Pannell at (800) 942-3220 ext. 7507 American Maritime Officers member David Baker in May successfully (SRF) Team Member — this course is or via e-mail to [email protected]. completed all U.S. Coast Guard exams to upgrade to an unlimited chief required every three years for SRF members. Enrollment questions or applications mate’s license after preparing at STAR Center. With him here is STAR It replaces the SST course. Note: all stu- should be directed to Student Services at Center Director of Training Phil Shullo. dents must successfully complete the (800) 942-3220 ext. 201 or via e-mail to Practical Weapons Course (PWC) on day [email protected]. NMC — update to the Mariner Medical Evaluation Form 719K

The following bulletin was issued the partnership the NMC desires to have Miami. NMC has since reworked the 719K the current version of the 719K from the May 20 by the U.S. Coast Guard’s National with industry and has led to the remedying form so that it is printable and also added pre- NMC’s webpage only as it contains all the Maritime Center. of a true problem. approved OMB/CG changes in the last sec- requirements for a complete medical applica- Recently the National Maritime NMC took immediate actions to iden- tion of page 9 which request the mariner’s tion located online. Center (NMC) made several minor changes tify the problem and found out that there were Medical Practitioner’s: License Number, NMC would like to recognize and to the Mariner Medical Evaluation Form some errors with the 719K form that was Office telephone, and Office address. heartily thank Captain Jerry Pannell, 719K due to several technical errors. linked from the NMC’s webpage to the main Until a final revision number is pro- Director, Member Training & Officer Several weeks ago the NMC was contacted Coast Guard webpage that were causing prob- vided by OMB, NMC and all RECs are Development and Captain Phil Shullo, by the Star Center, Dania, Florida regarding lems with mariners and their physicians abil- accepting 719K forms that have and do not Director of Training at the Star Center for inconsistencies with the USCG 719K ity to print the form once filled in. In addi- have these three items only. What the REC bringing this important matter to our Revision (01-09) form their members were tion, there were two versions of the form and NMC is not accepting are any 719K attention. having rejected at REC Miami. This identi- being used by mariners with very minor dif- forms that have been otherwise modified or fication of a problem with mariner creden- ferences but were significant enough to affect altered by a third party. NMC encourages all B.K. Eisentrout tialing processes is an excellent example of a mariner’s application acceptance at REC mariners and their medical providers to use Deputy Director 12 • American Maritime Officer June 2011 USNS Watson supports joint exercise with South Korea

Between February and April, Military Sealift Command vessels supported Exercise Key Resolve/Foal Eagle, one of two large-scale annual joint exercises between the United States and the Republic of Korea, MSC reported. More than 10,000 U.S. forces and 200,000 Korean personnel participated in the exercises, which simulate and prepare troops for a possible attack. In an emergency, MSC could support the evacuation of thousands of individuals and deliver dry cargo and fuel to ground forces. MSC vessel USNS Watson supported a portion of the exercises in Busan, Korea. Photo: U.S. Navy The USNS Watson is operated by Ocean Ships Inc. and manned in all licensed positions AMO member Third Mate Christian Suric familiarizes Military Sealift Command by American Maritime Officers. Expeditionary Port Unit 112 with the USNS Watson in Busan, Korea.

USTRANSCOM commander: T-AGOS vessels hold cargo preference element of exceptional safety records U.S. food-aid a major factor in Maersk Line Ltd. fleet in DOD sealift readiness AMO-Manned T-AGOS vessels years), USNS Observation Island (6.3 and other AMO-manned vessels in the years), USNS Loyal (3.8 years) and the Responding May 4 to a request from Afghanistan and Iraq has been moved by sea Maersk Line Limited fleet hold eight of USNS Able (2.6 years). Rep. Steven LaTourette (R-OH) for the U.S. in U.S. Flag vessels. the top 15 positions in the company’s A lost time incident (LTI) is Transportation Command’s views on the Through programs like the Maritime roster for longest period without a lost defined as an accident resulting in a impact of a reduction in the Food for Peace Security Program (MSP) and cargo prefer- time incident. crew member sustaining an injury program on U.S.-flag sealift requirements, ence laws, the Department of Defense “Just about the entire T-AGOS requiring him or her to miss at least USTRANSCOM Commander Gen. (DoD) gains access to U.S. Flag commer- fleet is in the top one-quarter for safety one shift, and the number of LTIs Duncan McNabb wrote the following letter. cial sealift and transportation networks issues,” said Capt. John Marshall Fink, occurring onboard a ship serve as a Maintaining U.S. Flag sealift readi- while ensuring the continued viability of master of the AMO-manned T-AGOS maritime industry standard for measur- ness is a top priority for the United States both the U.S. Flag fleet and the pool of cit- vessel USNS Loyal. “I’m so proud of ing safety performance. Transportation Command. Sealift is the pri- izen mariners who man those vessels. The this.” The prevention of LTIs through mary means for delivering combat forces movement of U.S. international food aid AMO-manned vessels with the constant care, awareness and safety edu- and sustainment during major and contin- has been a major contributor to the cargo we longest spans of no lost time incidents cation is key to MLL’s company-wide gency operations. USTRANSCOM’s part- have moved under the cargo preference law include the USNS Effective (9.7 years), safety program, “Drive to Zero.” The nership with the U.S. commercial sealift that our U.S. commercial sealift industry USNS Impeccable (8.7 years), Maersk program’s name is derived from its stat- industry is a vital component in meeting the depends on. Any reductions will have to be Virginia (8.3 years), Maersk Carolina ed goal of ensuring shipboard safety by nation’s strategic sealift requirements. To offset in other ways to maintain current (6.8 years), Maersk Missouri (6.8 striving to eliminate all accidents. date, over 90 percent of all cargo to DoD sealift readiness. USNS Button serves key role in Pacific Horizon 2011 exercise

Military Sealift Command vessels ship’s cargo hold onto the RRDF and then USNS SGT William R. Button and the to a motorized causeway ferry for delivery Ready Reserve Force Ship S/S Curtiss — to the beach. The ship’s deck cranes trans- both manned in all licensed positions by ferred non-motorized cargo. In the final American Maritime Officers — recently phase of the exercise, the equipment was supported an at-sea exercise designed to test returned to the USNS Button. the military’s capability to offload equip- Meanwhile, the Curtiss participated ment without the use of port facilities. in helicopter operations with Marine As reported in the April edition of Aviation Logistics Squadron 39 some 20 American Maritime Officer, Pacific miles north of the USNS Button. The sce- Horizon 2011 involved the offload of nario started as a humanitarian operation approximately 200 pieces of Marine Corps and moved into security enforcement as field equipment and the participation of simulated local forces obstructed efforts to 2,500 sailors and Marines and the 64 U.S. U.S. Navy photo: MC1 Bryan Niegel bring in aid. contract civilian mariners working aboard The USNS SGT William R. Button at anchor with a roll-on/roll-off discharge facil- The exercises concluded on March 11 the vessels. ity platform attached to it during exercise Pacific Horizon 2011 — the exercise, and the ships departed the area on March The vessels arrived off of Camp which was held near Camp Pendleton in early March, allowed Marine and Navy 13. The USNS Button traveled to Marine Pendleton’s Red Beach in Southern units to practice moving combat equipment from ship to shore. Corps Blount Island Command in California on March 2, Military Sealift Jacksonville, Fla. and the Curtiss returned Command reported. The ships’ crews par- to reduced operation status at Naval Station ticipated in pre-operations and safety brief- San Diego. ings and drills, preparing to offload the The USNS Button is operated by equipment. Meanwhile, Navy personnel General Dynamics American Overseas delivered and attached a nine-section roll- Marine in the Maritime Prepositioning on/roll-off discharge facility (RRDF). Program. The S/S Curtiss is operated by “Having a couple of days to prepare Crowley Liner Services in the Maritime and get everyone into the right frame of Administration’s Ready Reserve Force. mind before we start moving equipment Vessels in the Ready Reserve Force fleet really makes a difference for us in terms of come under the operational control of safety,” said AMO member Capt. David MSC when activated. Eddy, master of the USNS Button. “We want to provide a good service to our mil- At left: A deck crane aboard the itary members, but we also want to provide USNS Button lifts a section of the a safe platform for them as well. That’s Improved Navy Lighterage System, more important to me than how many composed of motorized and non- pieces of equipment that we can move.” motorized barges to ferry cargo For three days, the USNS Button’s between ship and shore, on to the ship crew and military cargo handlers offloaded as cargo operations concluded during tracked and wheeled vehicles from the U.S. Navy photo: Sarah Burford exercise Pacific Horizon 2011.