Volume 42, Number 1 January 2012 New jobs for AMO aboard Maersk Illinois First of two new heavy-lift ships enters service under U.S. flag with Maersk-Rickmers

The heavy-lift ship Maersk Illinois Limited and Rickmers-Linie (America) to Bethel said. “Maintaining U.S. cargo pref- completed the re-flagging process Dec. 30 serve the U.S.-flag project cargo market. erence statutes requires effective political and loaded its first cargo under U.S. reg- Both ships will provide break-bulk and action on Capitol Hill by AMO and other istry in Mobile, Ala., adding new tonnage project cargo service for shippers requiring American maritime interests. Meeting the the U.S.-flagged project cargo fleet and U.S.-flagged vessels. demand for U.S.-flag service generated by bringing new jobs to the membership of “This exciting expansion of the U.S.- these statutes requires the kind of industrial American Maritime Officers. flag fleet is a testament to both the entre- innovation executed here by Maersk- The sistership of the Maersk Illinois, preneurial effectiveness of Maersk and Rickmers. The successful outcome has the Maersk Texas, will also come under the Rickmers, and the significance of political resulted in the expansion of the AMO job U.S. flag, and like the Maersk Illinois, will action to American merchant mariners and base, creation of new seagoing and shore- be manned in all licensed positions by U.S.-flag carriers,” said AMO National side jobs in the U.S. maritime industry, the AMO members. President Tom Bethel. addition of two recently built ships to the Acquired last September, the recent- “U.S. cargo preference requirements U.S.-flag fleet and a new project cargo ser- ly built ships are operated by Maersk- generate work in U.S.-flag commercial vice that supports the nation’s commerce, Rickmers U.S. Flag Project Carrier, a new trades by supplying project cargoes security and national defense needs.” partnership formed by Maersk Line, financed by the U.S. Export-Import Bank,” At 19,500 dead-weight tons, the Maersk Illinois is 148 meters (about 486 The heavy-lift ship Maersk feet) long and can carry 20,000 cubic Illinois was re-flagged Dec. 30 and loaded its first cargo under meters (about 706,394 cubic feet) of U.S. registry in Mobile, Ala. The cargo. With two onboard cargo cranes pro- vessel is operated by Maersk- viding a maximum lift of 480 metric tons, Rickmers and is manned in all the ship is ideally suited for carrying a licensed positions by American wide range of large and heavy cargo, such Maritime Officers. A sistership, as generators, locomotives, wind turbines and gas turbines. the Maersk Texas, will also be Capt. Jason Stancil hoists the Stars re-flagged by Maersk-Rickmers. See Maersk Illinois ◆ Page 2 and Stripes aboard the Maersk Illinois. Ocean Titan rescues seven from North Atlantic

The M/V Ocean Titan in the early load of cargo, including a shoreside crane hours of Dec. 9 conducted a heroic rescue with a high center of gravity, “I knew long at sea in the Atlantic Ocean, saving the before the rescue that I had on board one lives of all seven crew members of the of the best crews, top to bottom, that I had bulk carrier M/V Florece as their vessel ever set sail with.” AMO officers sailing sank in extremely rough seas. aboard the Ocean Titan with Capt. Hill The tanker M/V Afrodite collided during the rescue included Chief Mate with the M/V Florece at about 3:30 a.m. The captain Thomas Lisante, Second Mate Daniel that morning approximately 250 miles from the Landgrebe, Third Mate Zachary Gray, southwest of Land’s End in the Bay of M/V Florece Chief Engineer John Vlahakis and First Biscay, according to VesselTracker. An thanks Assistant Engineer Sean Donovan. hour later, the ship sank as the Ocean Capt. Chris Capt. Hill reported, in part, the fol- Titan arrived on scene. AMO member Hill, master lowing: Capt. Christopher Hill, master of the of the “From my bridge and with the scene Ocean Titan, described in detail the rescue Ocean of the collision lying broad on my star- operation, which was conducted in “near Titan, which board bow at about four miles, I could gale force winds and 12- to 14-foot seas saved all clearly see that the FLORECE was in a on a pitch-black and bitterly cold winter seven crew bad way. She lay broadside to the heavy North Atlantic night.” members of swell and was heeled such that a goodly As noted by Capt. Hill in his report, the Florece despite conditions at the time and a full Dec. 9. See Ocean Titan ◆ Page 7

In memory of AMO A responsible A direct link: AMO AMO Essentials founding member approach to jobs and the STAR Center course Gordon Spencer: changing Great Voluntary Political ◆ schedule: Pages 8-9 1924-2011 Lakes industry Action Fund STAR Center registration ◆ application: Page 11 Page 6: Gordon W. Spencer, a Page 2: In the last days of 2011, Page 3: The AMO legislative prominent figure in the historic AMO and American Steamship staff succeeded on several fronts growth of AMO and a U.S. mar- Co. came to terms on a tentative in 2011, advancing elements of ◆ AMO directory: Page 10 itime policy icon for many years successor contract to the collec- U.S. maritime policy that directly on Capitol Hill, died at his home tive bargaining agreement that generate and maintain U.S.-flag ◆ AMO membership meeting in Virginia Beach Dec. 21. was extended last year. jobs for AMO members. schedule: Page 10

Copyright © 2012 American Maritime Officers ■ 601 S. Federal Highway ■ Dania Beach, FL 33004 ■ (800) 362-0513 ■ [email protected] 2 • American Maritime Officer January 2012 A responsible approach to changing Lakes industry

By Tom Bethel In time, this contract will help 1972 was the rise of the “thousand footer” operating companies remaining in the wake National President American Maritime Officers regain its long- and the consequent displacement of scores of of steel’s decline endured bankruptcies, held, rightful position as the only U.S. mer- smaller vessels — and of the jobs these retrenchment and reorganization, all influ- In the last chant marine officers’ union of any signifi- smaller vessels provided. enced essentially by the same economic and days of 2011, cance on the “Fourth Seacoast.” Another factor harmful to the Great political factors that brought down Big Steel. A m e r i c a n American Maritime Officers lost its Lakes industry and its job base was the fall of The tentative AMO-ASC agreement Maritime Officers singular status on the Great Lakes in July the Midwest basic steel industry, which gen- acknowledges that failure to adapt to change and American 2003, when Interlake Steamship Co. — a erates most of the cargoes hauled by the bulk means failure to survive. But it also confirms Steamship Co. — longtime AMO employer — signed a collu- boats. The “Steel Trust” fleets that once dom- that change can be accepted without sacrific- our union’s largest sive, cut-rate contract with the Marine inated Great Lakes shipping — U.S. Steel ing steady, rewarding employment for AMO employer on the Engineers’ Beneficial Association while a Corp., Bethlehem Steel Corp. and Inland officers or competitive opportunity for Great Great Lakes — valid agreement between AMO and Interlake Steel Co. — no longer exist, and the “pat- Lakes employers. came to terms on a was still in effect. This happened because of tern” wage and benefit bargaining that was As always, I welcome comments and tentative successor lazy leadership in the AMO administration in the Steel Trust tradition is now pointless. questions from AMO members. Feel free to contract to the col- office at the time. The independent Great Lakes vessel call me on my cell at (202) 251-0349. lective bargaining A year later, Grand River Navigation agreement that expired last August 1. A mail Co. launched its Great Lakes operation with a ballot ratification vote by the AMO engi- substandard top-to-bottom contract with the neers, mates and stewards in the ASC fleet International Organization of Masters, Mates will be completed later this month. and Pilots. Grand River carries cargoes that This settlement follows a brief summer had traditionally gone to more established strike by our union against ASC, the indefi- U.S.-flagged Great Lakes bulk vessel operat- nite extension of the previous AMO-ASC ing companies under AMO contract. contract, much communication between my Interlake — apparently intent on administration and the ASC vessel officers, monopolizing the Great Lakes iron ore, coal and difficult but determined negotiations and stone trades — underbids ASC and other between AMO and ASC. And I can say com- rivals by about 35 percent, and Grand River fortably that this pending deal meets my prin- would take any opportunity to expand its cipal objectives — it protects the economic cargo share. interests of the AMO officers in the ASC fleet Interlake’s aggression, Grand River’s in several substantial ways, and it strengthens ambition and the resurgence of MEBA and ASC’s competitive capabilities. the MM&P on the Great Lakes were factors This agreement also reflects a practi- in the AMO-ASC negotiations. But there was cal, realistic and long overdue shift in union something else driving the talks — a mutual policy with respect to the Great Lakes. It is a understanding that Great Lakes maritime responsible first step toward lasting reform industry and labor could no longer operate as that will ensure long-term job and benefit though the nature of the business had not security not only for the AMO members in changed so dramatically in the last 40 years. the ASC fleet, but for every AMO officer The most conspicuous, tangible trans- sailing the Lakes. formation in Great Lakes shipping since

ging process completed, allowing us to Maersk Illinois introduce our modern ship and bring new Continued from Page 1 value to the U.S.-flag project cargo mar- ket,” said Dave Harriss, director of ship After loading its first U.S.-flag cargo management and chartering at Maersk in Alabama, the Maersk Illinois sailed for Line, Limited. “We are now looking for- Ghana. The vessel will make port calls ward to bringing the Maersk Texas into the American Maritime Officer (USPS 316-920) around the globe on inducement. U.S.-flag fleet as we continue to build the Official Publication of American Maritime Officers “We are pleased to see this re-flag- service.” 601 S. Federal Highway Dania Beach, FL 33004 (954) 921-2221 Periodical Postage Paid at Dania Beach, FL, and Additional Mailing Offices Published Monthly

American Maritime Officers National Executive Board

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 AMO members work- Michael Murphy, National Vice President, Government Relations AMO members working aboard the Maersk Illinois as ing aboard the it entered service under U.S. registry included Capt. Maersk Illinois in National Assistant Vice Presidents: Jason Stancil, Chief Mate Matthew Patriquin and Third December included Brian Krus, Senior National Assistant Vice President Mate Michael Vollenweider. Capt. Tomas Malo. 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 AMO members working aboard the Maersk Illinois in December included First P.O. Box 66 Assistant Engineer Sean Holmes and Chief Engineers Tim Herlihy and Chris Dania Beach, FL 33004 Gay. With them here is AMO National Assistant Vice President David Weathers. January 2012 American Maritime Officer • 3

Election Commission are available on the A direct link: AMO jobs and the FEC Web site (see sidebar). Unsettled issues Our union has done well in Voluntary Political Action Fund Washington. But we cannot become com- placent. We cannot take legislative gain for By Paul Doell granted. Legislative Director The Jones Act and the cargo prefer- ence laws are always vulnerable to chal- Our thanks to the deep-sea, Great lenge, and programs like the MSP and PL- Lakes and inland waters AMO members and 480 are subject to annual budget debate. applicants for AMO membership who con- And, at the holiday break, there were sever- tributed to the American Maritime Officers al unsettled specific issues. Voluntary Political Action Fund in 2011. For example, AMO and AMOS in The money you directed to the fund was a 2011 were able to short-circuit a move by practical investment in long-term job and major U.S. exporters to eliminate or reduce benefit security for all seagoing AMO mem- the U.S.-flag cargo preference requirement bers and their families, and there was sub- linked by law to exports financed by the stantial return on this investment. U.S. Export-Import Bank, which must be Midway through the 112th Congress, reauthorized for the long term this year. The we can report that the Jones Act and the statutory U.S.-flag share was safe at the cargo preference laws are intact, and that the break, but the exporters this year are likely to Maritime Security Program is funded at the intensify their effort. authorized level in fiscal 2012. PL-480, the In addition, the House of humanitarian food export program that is so Representatives in 2011 approved a U.S. important to several AMO employers, is The Maersk Virginia is one of four containerships operated by Maersk Line, Coast Guard authorization bill amendment funded at nearly $1.5 billion — much more Limited in the Maritime Security Program and manned in all licensed positions that would make it more difficult for the than many had anticipated under current by American Maritime Officers. Funding for the Maritime Security Program fleet Executive Branch to waive the Jones Act federal budget conditions. of 60 U.S.-flagged vessels must be approved by Congress on an annual basis. unnecessarily, as the Obama administration These central elements of U.S. mar- did 52 times last summer to allow foreign- itime policy provide jobs for deep-sea, Great Congressional staff. These meetings were in No AMO membership dues or initia- flagged tankers to carry crude oil drawn Lakes and inland waters AMO members, addition to Congressional calls made jointly tion fee receipts are steered into the fund. down from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve including the new employment resulting with U.S. maritime industry coalitions, leg- The AMO Voluntary Political Action Fund between U.S. ports. The effort now shifts to from the addition of 18 vessels to the AMO islative hearings and coalition conferences. pays no salaries and covers no AMO official the Senate, where a companion measure is fleet in 2011. Each of these activities is critical to or employee benefits. The fund does not pending. In addition, a bill signed into law late American Maritime Officers as the nation’s cover business expenses. Separate measures to free up funding in the year restored domestic trading privi- largest union of merchant marine officers, The AMO Voluntary Political Action for harbor and channel dredging and to end leges to three U.S.-built, U.S.-owned lique- but frequent direct Congressional contact is Fund is used exclusively to support the re- the discriminatory double taxation of fied natural gas tankers that had sailed for a by far the most important. However, AMO election campaigns of federal lawmakers imported cargoes transshipped in the U.S. by time under a foreign flag. These ships will cannot make a clear, consistent and credible known to support the U.S. merchant fleet water had gained real traction in the House carry ethane from Pennsylvania to Texas Capitol Hill case for the U.S. merchant fleet and American merchant mariners. Neither — if these bills are not enacted this year, the under the Jones Act — and American without the opportunity to do so — and this party affiliation nor political ideology is a opportunities to allow merchant vessels to Maritime Officers will fill the licensed posi- opportunity expands in direct proportion to factor behind campaign contributions made operate at peak efficiency and to encourage tions on each of the vessels. This one-of-a- the strength of the AMO Voluntary Political from the fund. Disbursements from the fund private investment in short sea shipping ser- kind domestic service and these new AMO Action Fund. are distributed equally, or close to it, vices will have been lost in the 112th jobs are expected to begin following com- between Republicans and Democrats, liber- Congress. pletion of a pipeline link and other shoreside ... and the AMO VPAF als and conservatives. The only criterion we American Maritime Officers will be infrastructure in 2013. The AMO Voluntary Political Action apply is a candidate’s demonstrated commit- out front on these issues when Congress Fund is supported entirely by personal con- ment to U.S. merchant vessels and the jobs reconvenes later this month, and we ask that A leadership role ... tributions made by AMO members, appli- these vessels provide. And maritime policy all AMO members and applicants for AMO Our union’s legislative staff in cants, officials and employees. These contri- is the only issue we discuss on either side of membership keep us in the fight by partici- Washington took a leadership role on these butions can be made directly via check or the political divide in Congress. pating in the American Maritime Officers issues and others, working closely with money order, through the official AMO Web All of the AMO Voluntary Political Voluntary Political Action Fund to the great- Brenda Otterson, legislative consultant to site or through authorized payroll deductions Action Fund contribution and financial dis- est possible extent. American Maritime Officers Service — a or deductions from vacation benefits. closure documents required by the Federal Meanwhile, AMO members and trade association of U.S. deep-sea, Great applicants with questions about specific Lakes and inland waters merchant vessel issues or our union’s support of specific can- operating companies that employ AMO Political contributions tracked online didates specific candidates can call me any- members and applicants. When it comes to time at the AMO Washington office at (202) the legislative agenda, the interests of AMO Complete contribution disclosure reports for the AMO Voluntary Political 479-1166 or on my cell at (954) 882-4297. and of these employers are mutual. Action Fund are available on the Federal Elections Commission’s Web site at this AMO members and applicants are also In 2011, the legislative staff participat- address: www.fec.gov/finance/disclosure/srssea.shtml. invited to visit our union’s office in the cap- ed independently in more than 100 meetings On the search page, select an election cycle and enter “American Maritime ital and make rounds with the legislative with members of the House of Officers” in the ‘Name’ search field. staff if their travel plans bring them to Representatives and the Senate and with key Washington.

national headquarters in Male. Emmert also USNS Button completes Maldives mission visited with Col. Ismail Sharif, principal director of the Maldivian Coast Guard. The representatives discussed the possibility of The Maritime Prepositioning Force crew a U.S. Navy active-duty staff of 10 increased bilateral cooperation and training ship USNS SGT William R. Button in personnel led by a U.S. Navy captain who is operations in the future. December served as a platform for military responsible for the tactical control of all “We wanted to assess the local hospi- and cultural forums in the island nation of squadron ships. MPS Squadron Two also tals’ capabilities,” said MPS Squadron Maldives, Military Sealift Command has a civil service medical service officer Two’s Medical Service Officer David reported. and four contract personnel responsible for Larkin, who toured two local hospitals in The USNS Button is the flagship of maintaining equipment on board. central Male with Emmert. “We are forward MSC’s Diego Garcia-based MPS Squadron The USNS Button arrived in Male, deployed to a remote part of the world, and Two, which has a current fleet of 12 non- Republic of Maldives, on Dec. 11, where Photo: Sgt. Jason Fudge if we are underway and close to Male with combatant, government-owned and -char- U.S. Navy officials conducted bilateral The maritime prepositioning ship a sick or injured crewmember on board, I tered cargo ships that carry military equip- exchanges with senior Maldives National would now feel comfortable sending them USNS Sgt. William R. Button served in ment and supplies for rapid delivery to U.S. Defense Force officials, as well as cultural Pacific Horizon 2011. here for treatment.” forces ashore in the event of a contingency exchanges and a community-relations During the visit, nine crewmembers or humanitarian operation. event. friendly and open people.” from MPS Squadron Two collected litter The USNS Button, which is operated “Building and fostering relations is Emmert and representatives from the along a half-mile stretch of beach on Kaffu by General Dynamics American Overseas what this visit was all about,” said U.S. Defense Attache office for Sri Lanka and Villigli, an atoll about a mile from Male. Marine and is manned in all licensed posi- Navy Capt. Charles “Gene” Emmert, com- the Maldives met with Col. Mohmed Ziyad, MPS Squadron Two and Maldivian military tions by American Maritime Officers, car- mander, MPS Squadron Two. “That’s been the plans and operations director for the personnel also shared a meal of local cui- ries in addition to the ship’s officers and easy because the Maldivians are very Maldives National Defense Force, at its sine to further the cultural exchange. 4 • American Maritime Officer January 2012 AMO 401(k) Plan: additional information regarding

costs relating to the administration of the institutional investment changes Plan - including participant distributions, loans, hardship withdrawals, etc. - are paid AMO Plans is providing the following ■ Columbia Large Cap Core: this ter of 2009. It also ranks in the lower quartile for entirely by employer contributions. additional information regarding the timing fund is the replacement for the Davis NY for the most recent one-year, three-year and There are no administrative costs applied to of investment changes for the AMO 401(k) Venture Fund. In the investment options five-year performance data, and currently Plan participants. Plan, the process followed prior to making matrix of funds, this replaces the managed carries a Morningstar rating of two stars on a Plan movement out of one mutual changes, and any costs that may be involved fund in the Large Cap Blend classification. five-star scale. The MFS Moderate fund and into another does not result in any when changes are made. This information The Davis NY Venture Fund has been on Allocation Fund carries a five-star rating and additional fees or charges to the Plan. By pertains to the document mailed to all Plan the Plan’s watch list since the fourth quarter has been in the top quartile for the most being on a fee structure based upon total participants November 28, 2011, and to of 2009, and with its recent sub-par perfor- recent one-year, three-year and five-year per- dollars invested in the Plan by the partici- future mailings from the AMO 401(k) Plan. mance, it now ranks in the lower quartile for formance data. pants, migration to high-performance funds The following process is employed the most recent one-year, three-year and ■ Wells Fargo Advantage Growth: is in the best interest of both the Plan partic- on a continuing basis between the 401(k) five-year performance data, and currently This fund is a new addition to the Large Cap ipant, who will have available the best in Plan trustees and the Plan investment con- carries a Morningstar rating of two stars on Growth classification. The fund carries a each class of investment funds, and the pro- sultants at Morgan Stanley Smith Barney. a five-star scale. The Columbia Large Cap five-star rating from Morningstar and has fessionals employed by the Plan, as their fee On a quarterly basis, the investment con- Core Fund carries a five-star rating and has exceeded the benchmark for Large Cap would be enhanced by superior fund perfor- sultants provide the trustees with a been in the top quartile for the most recent Growth funds for the most recent one-year, mance. detailed written report for the 401(k) Plan, one-year, three-year and five-year perfor- three-year and five-year time periods. The By utilizing an open-architecture plat- in addition to meeting with the trustees a mance data. fund currently holds $5.4 billion in assets and form, the Plan is not tied to one fund family minimum of three times per year to review ■ JP Morgan Large Cap Growth: this the fund manager has been in place since the - such as Vanguard, T. Rowe Price or Fidelity the overall performance of the Plan, the fund is the replacement for the American inception of the fund (August 2002). - to provide the majority of the investment allocation models in the Plan’s invest- Funds Growth Fund of America. In the ■ Blackrock Global Allocation Fund: choices. This structure gives the trustees the ments and the individual mutual funds in investment options matrix of funds. This This fund is a new addition to the Moderate ability to have the top funds available while the Plan. With this performance review, if replaces one of the two managed funds in the Allocation Funds classification and would maintaining the ability to qualify for the insti- warranted, the trustees will place mutual Large Cap Growth classification. This fund become the default fund for the Plan. The tutional-class category of a mutual fund, funds on the Plan’s watch list for under- has been on the Plan’s watch list since the fund carries a four-star rating from which typically carries a much lower mutual performance (relative to the other funds in third quarter of 2010 and it also ranks in the Morningstar and has exceeded the bench- fund fee. As a result, the current average their respective peer group). If the perfor- lower quartile for the most recent one-year, mark for Moderate Allocation funds for the mutual fund fee for the AMO 401(k) Plan is mance of a mutual fund on the watch list three-year and five-year performance data, most recent one-year, three-year and five- .78 percent. When the MetLife Stable Value dramatically improves over the subse- and currently carries a Morningstar rating of year time periods. The fund currently holds GIC Fund (which carries no fee) is factored quent quarters, it could be returned to nor- three stars on a five-star scale. The JP $52.4 billion in assets and the fund manager in, the fund fee is actually .59 percent. These mal status; however, if a mutual fund con- Morgan Large Cap Growth Fund carries a has been in place since 1989. numbers are dramatically lower than 401(k) tinues to under perform for a period of five-star rating and has been in the top quar- Plan industry averages. These numbers illus- time, it will be replaced by a mutual fund tile for the most recent one-year, three-year The professional service fees charged trate the benefit of the AMO 401(k) Plan’s that shows superior performance within and five-year performance data. by the Plan’s investment advisor, Morgan open-architecture platform - the lower the the respective asset class. These are the ■ MFS Moderate Allocation Fund: Stanley Smith Barney, and custodian, fund fees, the more retained by each partici- circumstances under which the three this fund is the replacement for the Dodge & Wilmington Trust, are based on a small per- pant in the fund. mutual funds identified in the November Cox Balanced Fund. In the investment centage of the total dollars invested in the Although there are currently no time- 28 mailing are being removed and options matrix of funds, this replaces one of Plan by the participants. The professional frame requirements for notification of Plan replaced in the Plan. The trustees also the three managed funds in the Moderate service fee charged by the Plan’s record fund changes, 30 days’ or greater notice will approved the addition of two new funds to Allocation Funds classification. Like the keeper, The Newport Group, is based on the be given to all Plan participants for any the Plan’s investment options. Below is a Davis NY Venture Fund, this fund has been total number of participants in the Plan. investment option changes that may occur in recap analysis of the changes to the Plan: on the Plan’s watch list since the fourth quar- These professional service fees and all other the future. AMO members urged to renew TWIC on schedule

American Maritime Officers strongly would presently apply to some AMO mem- rent TWIC, members may face delays in the TWIC a integrated component of the recommends all AMO members renew their bers working in inland waters trades, partic- renewing their MMC, and other work-relat- mariner documentation process and we sim- Transportation Worker Identification ularly aboard tugs engaged exclusively in ed complications. In fact, as part of the new ply do not want any AMO member to run Credential (TWIC) on schedule in order to docking and ship assist roles, AMO strongly policy, the Coast Guard requires mariners to into problems for failing to maintain a cur- avoid complications in eligibility for work, recommends all AMO members renew their submit a signed certificate acknowledging rent TWIC. as well as delays in obtaining or renewing a TWIC cards on schedule. the potential for delays in processing an “Around the end of 2012, a good por- Merchant Mariner Credential. “The Coast Guard obtains essential MMC application if they are applying for a tion of TWICs will be due for renewal,” In Policy Letter 11-15, the U.S. Coast information from the Transportation Security TWIC exemption. Murphy added. “I recommend AMO mem- Guard announced limited exemptions to the Administration in order to process Merchant “The TWIC program has its problems bers renew their TWICs early.” TWIC program for some mariners working Mariner Credential applications,” said AMO and AMO’s recommendation is a practical A Coast Guard bulletin issued Dec. 23 in certain capacities aboard specific vessel National Vice President for Government matter, not an endorsement of the program,” on the limited TWIC exemptions is available types. Although these limited exemptions Relations Michael Murphy. “Without a cur- Murphy said. “The Coast Guard has made at: www.uscg.mil/nmc. AMO aboard the Liberty Sun

American Maritime Officers members working aboard the Liberty Sun in AMO members working aboard the Liberty Sun in October, here in New October, here in New Orleans, La., included Second Assistant Engineer Jeff Orleans, La., included Chief Mate Ruben Abasolo, Second Mate Robert Bouffard, Chief Engineer Matt Shea, Third A.E. Chris Anderson and First A.E. Swinburne, Third Mate Mary Frandino and Capt. Mike Tolley. Toby Kessler. January 2012 American Maritime Officer • 5 ‘Invest in American Jobs Act’ would bolster production at U.S. steel mills, increase demand for Lakes shipping

Legislation submitted in December ers, supplying work for an estimated 110 als abroad. capacity and more than 50 percent of all would strengthen “buy American” provi- American mariners. “Current law contains gaping flaws American heavy manufacturing is in the sions for steel, iron and manufactured The “Invest in American Jobs Act of that can be exploited by foreign companies Great Lakes basin. To produce a ton of goods, bolstering production in the Great 2011” (H.R. 3533) was submitted by Rep. looking to have their products substituted steel, 1.5 tons of iron ore, 400 pounds of Lakes region and sustaining jobs through- Nick Rahall (D-WV). The legislation for our own in the construction of American fluxstone and a quantity of metallurgical out the area. would require all steel, iron, and manufac- infrastructure,” Rep. Rahall said. “These coal must be delivered, most often on U.S.- The proposed legislation would sig- tured goods used to construct federal-aid loopholes have undercut U.S. businesses flagged Great Lakes freighters. nificantly boost steel production, creating highway projects be produced in the United and allowed American job opportunities to H.R. 3533 was referred to the House manufacturing jobs and presumably requir- States, closing existing loopholes that allow be shipped overseas.” Committees on Transportation and ing the activation of more U.S.-flagged lak- some major projects to source their materi- Half of the nation’s steelmaking Infrastructure and Financial Services.

Maintaining, AMO aboard the modernizing Great Republic

U.S.-flagged The M/V Great Republic, operated by Key Lakes, ties up alongside the dock in Toledo, Ohio, in lakers will November. AMO represents the licensed officers and stewards keep Lakes onboard the Great Republic.

American Maritime Officers mem- shipyards bers working aboard the Great Republic in November, here in Toledo, Ohio, included Steward busy this Douglas Rogers, Chief Engineer Michael Harrison and Capt. winter Joseph Hooker. With them here are AMO National Representative More than 1,200 boilermakers, Stan Barnes and AMO Senior welders, electricians and other skilled National Assistant Vice President craftsmen will be hard at work this winter Brian Krus. maintaining and modernizing U.S.-flagged Great Lakes freighters when they lay up between late December and mid-January. The major U.S.-flag operators will community in which it is wintering. the vessels for nine-plus months of 24/7 Worn steel and other materials are invest more than $75 million in their ves- Sub-freezing temperatures aren’t the operation. recycled as much as possible, but in what sels so the fleet will be ready to replenish only challenge facing Great Lakes ship- For a few vessels, the winter lay-up might be something of a first, one job is stockpiles of iron ore, coal, cement, salt and yards and their craftsmen. Many vessels is even shorter. The Joseph L. Block, for going to help heat homes this winter. The limestone when shipping resumes in lay-up right after the locks at Sault Ste. example, often loads iron ore in Escanaba, entire wear deck on a barge is being March. Marie, Mich., close on Jan. 15, and get Mich., for delivery to Indiana Harbor, Ind., replaced and the 75,000 board feet of oak The work scheduled for this winter is underway when the locks reopen on March until the end of January and then opens that lumber that must be removed will then fuel as varied as the cargoes the fleet carries. 25. That leaves but nine weeks to prepare trade around March 10. wood-burning furnaces. Eight vessels will be drydocked for the out- of-water survey of the hull the Coast Guard requires every five years. Lakes November U.S.-flag cargo float improves Although a study has determined that Great Lakes freighters produce 70 percent U.S.-flagged Great Lakes freighters over November 2010, while limestone 11 percent and limestone cargoes were 3 less emissions than trains and 90 percent in November transported 10 million tons cargoes were up more than 20 percent, the percent ahead of 2010 figures. Coal was less than trucks in moving a ton of cargo, of dry-bulk cargo, an increase of 2.4 per- LCA reported. Coal totals were nearly down 5.9 percent. that ratio will only get better with a number cent compared with October and an unchanged from the previous year. November cargo totals were up 3.8 of main and auxiliary engine upgrades increase of 11.9 percent compared with The year-to-date cargo float in percent above the month’s five-year aver- scheduled for this winter. the same period in 2010, the Lake November stood at 85 million tons, an age mark. The year-to-date float at the end The industry’s commitment to Carriers’ Association (LCA) reported. increase of 4.6 percent compared with the of November was down 1.4 percent com- reducing the potential that lakers’ ballast The iron ore float jumped 14 percent same time frame in 2010. Iron ore was up pared with the five-year average. might spread a non-indigenous species introduced by an oceangoing vessel is evi- U.S.-Flag Carriage Year-to-Date: 2006-2011 (net tons) denced by a number of vessels being fitted with high ballast water intakes. November 2011 Traditionally vessels take on and dis- Average Commodity 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 charge ballast water through seachests, as 2006-2010 many as 18, located close to the bottom of the hull. High ballast water intakes not Iron Ore 44,576,124 42,341,430 44,680,865 20,460,705 37,794,523 41,935,703 37,970,729 only reduce the potential that a fish or 22,676,386 22,554,751 22,498,847 19,025,618 19,437,290 18,300,064 21,238,578 other living organism will be drawn in, Coal they lessen the amount of sediment taken 27,006,668 24,449,700 23,250,335 16,487,816 19,751,472 20,366,145 22,189,198 up with ballast water. Limestone Other projects include renewal of 3,752,179 3,344,078 3,082,188 2,695,027 2,615,613 2,636,999 3,097,817 steel in cargo holds, replacement of con- Cement veyor belts in unloading systems, upgrades 1,035,514 1,128,706 1,110,823 1,132,968 1,205,539 1,292,998 1,122,710 of communication and navigation equip- Salt ment, and overhauls of galleys. The major shipyards on the Lakes are Sand 399,158 438,169 343,843 262,805 212,032 300,859 331,201 located in Sturgeon Bay and Superior, Wis.; Erie, Pa.; and Toledo, Ohio. Smaller Grain 298,810 358,589 215,202 287,777 246,161 214,497 281,308 “top-side” repair operations are located in Cleveland, Ohio; Escanaba, Mich.; Total 99,744,839 94,615,423 95,182,103 60,352,716 81,262,630 85,047,265 86,231,542 Buffalo, New York; and several cities in Michigan. It is estimated that a vessel gen- Source: Lake Carriers’ Association erates $800,000 in economic activity in the 6 • American Maritime Officer January 2012 AMO founding member Gordon Spencer: 1924-2011

Gordon W. Spencer, a prominent fig- ure in the historic growth of American Maritime Officers and a U.S. maritime pol- icy icon for many years on Capitol Hill in Washington, died at his home in Virginia Beach Dec. 21 after a brief illness. He was 86. Spencer, who held union book #S-2, was among those recruited by the late, leg- endary Seafarers International Union of North America President Paul Hall to build the Brotherhood of Marine Engineers in New York City as an affiliate of the SIUNA. The BME evolved into the union known today as AMO. Spencer, an Australian native who sailed as a marine engineer in the U.S. and Norwegian merchant fleets during World War II, brought the BME into the Port of Philadelphia, where he organized officers and crews aboard harbor and ocean-going tugs in the mid-1950s. He also helped orga- nize deep-sea fleets and serviced ocean- going vessels under BME contract from his Philadelphia base. Spencer also established the new union in the Port of Norfolk, where he served as an organizer and as a representa- Gordon Spencer and the late Raymond McKay (second and third from left) are sworn in as officials of the Brotherhood of tive for both the BME and the Seafarers Marine Engineers, the union that would evolve into American Maritime Officers. International Union. Spencer’s professional triumphs in Trades Department in the American become leaders in the House of Gordon Spencer’s remarkable foresight.” Philadelphia and in Norfolk included the Federation of Labor-Congress of Industrial Representatives and in the Senate,” Bethel Commenting earlier on Spencer’s first-ever health insurance and retirement Organizations, and who had lobbied with continued. “Many of these lawmakers were death, Bethel said: “”I had the privilege of benefits for tug officers and crews. Hall in the capital in support of the Cargo instrumental in sustaining the U.S. merchant working with Gordon in Washington for Spencer was appointed to the BME Preference Act of 1954 — proved to be a fleet in domestic and international trade.” many years. He had an easy, disarming executive board and rose through years of wise choice for the legislative position. Bethel, who worked with Spencer for charm, a subtle wit and a keen instinct, all of service to become executive vice president “One of Gordon’s first strategic several years in Washington, said the 1985 which combined to make him one of the and, later, secretary-treasurer of AMO when moves in Washington was outreach to the cargo preference amendment that raised the most respected and most well liked figures the union was named District 2 Marine Republican Party,” AMO National U.S.-flag share of humanitarian food aid on Capitol Hill. I will miss Gordon Engineers’ Beneficial Association and President Tom Bethel recalled. “He and exports, the defeat of a broad-based Jones Spencer’s friendship and his counsel — the District 2 Marine Engineers’ Beneficial District 2 took some heat from the labor Act repeal movement in the mid-1990s and joy of the Christmas season is tempered sig- Association-Associated Maritime Officers. movement because of it — at the time, labor enactment of the Maritime Security Act in nificantly by his passing.” In the mid-1970s, District 2 MEBA- leaders in D.C. saw support for Republicans 1996 “would not have happened without the Gordon Spencer is survived by his AMO President Raymond T. McKay as heresy. Republican support Gordon Spencer had wife, Rosemary, his daughters, Kylie assigned Spencer to the union’s legislative “But, as always, Gordon was right on cultivated in both the House and the Senate Spencer Brinkley and Megan Jones, and staff in Washington, D.C. Spencer — who the mark — the Republicans District 2 sup- over many years — in fact, every element three grandchildren — Spencer Brinkley, had helped Hall establish the Maritime ported at Gordon’s direction went on to of U.S. maritime policy today is traced to Adelaide Brinkley and Gordon L. Jones.

Gordon Spencer with Congressman Don Young (R-AK), who at the time this photo was taken was the chairman of the House Transportation and Gordon Spencer with the late Charles Crangle, who had been AMO’s director of Infrastructure Committee. congressional and legislative affairs for nearly 20 years at the time of his death.

Gordon Spencer with Rep. Walter Jones (R-NC), Gordon Spencer with former Senator Trent Lott, Gordon Spencer with former Congressman Jim who represents North Carolina’s Third District. who at the time was majority leader of the Senate. Saxton, who served from 1984 to 2009. January 2012 American Maritime Officer • 7 AMO first responders participate in Donjon-SMIT LLC Salvage Marine Fire Fighting Network activation drill

American Maritime Officers mem- American responders is managed for Donjon-SMIT bers Dec. 8 participated in an activation drill Maritime through the PRONAV FlexCrew℠ pro- in the New York area for the Donjon-SMIT Officers mem- gram, and was established and manned LLC Salvage Marine Fire Fighting bers serving in early this year through a cooperative effort Network. PRONAV Offshore Services LLC the Dec. 8 between PRONAV and the AMO manages this nationwide network of first Donjon-SMIT Dispatching Department. responders for Donjon-SMIT. network activa- The participants in the drill Dec. 8 PRONAV has recruited AMO offi- tion drill in the expressed satisfaction with the experience cers to serve as first responders in 41 U.S. New York area of working with Donjon-SMIT and affiliat- Coast Guard Captain of the Port Zones in were Michael ed representatives, and with their receptive- the continental U.S., non-contiguous Funk, Tim Kelly ness to the involvement and ideas of the states and U.S. territories. The AMO first and Erich AMO officers. responders help fulfill an important man- Becher. With “Throughout the day, they asked us date of new Coast Guard regulations, them here is for input to their plans and seemed very which require each tank vessel calling at a Chris Law of interested in what we had to say,” Becher U.S. port to pre-designate a marine sal- Martin and said. “I think we were able to give them a vage company within its tank vessel Ottaway. few new ideas that may benefit the program response plan to ensure rapid response to as it evolves and matures. It was a pleasure any casualty involving damage to the ves- quality of the equipment prepared for and Donjon-SMIT organization in emergency to be a part of the program and I look for- sel with the potential to spill oil. made available to the first responders. response to marine casualties of any kind. ward to participating in any activities that AMO members serving in this activa- “I was very pleased with the exercise Their organization and preparedness were they may ask us to be involved in.” tion drill were Michael Funk, Tim Kelly and last week,” Becher wrote. “It was profes- very impressive to see,” he wrote. PRONAV in October announced an Erich Becher. All described the drill, pre- sionally run and very informative. The main AMO officers working as first increase in the frequency of network activa- sentations and discussions involved as purpose, and what I believe the PRONAV responders on their vacation time are paid tion drills to meet anticipated U.S. Coast informative and professional, and each participants took away from it, was to better per day of activation for service in the Guard requirements. The Coast Guard has expressed their interest in continued partici- acquaint us with the role of the firefighting SMFF Network, whether the activation is in favorably viewed the approach of employ- pation in the Donjon-SMIT Salvage Marine first responders in the SMFF network. response to an actual incident or for a pre- ing merchant marine officers as first respon- Fire Fighting Network (SMFF). AMO offi- “In addition, we saw firsthand the paredness exercise. The PRONAV ders, and the service is being offered to cers also commended Donjon-SMIT on the capabilities and resources of the joint FlexCrew℠ SMFF Network of AMO first other salvage organizations.

and tried to keep enough way on the ship course over ground, speed over ground turn, wait for a swell that was to their lik- Ocean Titan to prevent broaching while at the same and the anemometer, adjust speed, give ing then lunge for the rope ladder. It Continued from Page 1 time proceeding slowly enough so that I rudder commands and keep an eye on the should be noted that some of the survivors could stop upon reaching the raft. Too nearest liferaft. I instructed the Chief Mate chose not to wait and braved the transition portion of her hull could be seen in the slow and I would lose control of the bow out on deck to tell me which way to swing from raft to ladder without a harness.” lights of the nearby AFRODITE. Her and run the liferaft down; too fast and I’d the bow once rafts were alongside or near- After all seven made it onboard, “I appearance was grotesque. As I looked at fly by the raft and risk getting the raft ly so. His performance was stellar. I made arrangements with the jurisdictional the stricken ship, and right before my caught under my stern. revved the engines ahead and astern and Coast Guard to make a quick port call into eyes, the FLORECE sank. She sank nei- “As I closed on the liferaft, the went hard to port and hard to starboard on Lisbon, a day and a half away, to disem- ther by the stern nor by the bow. She sank scene became dreamlike. Each breaking the rudder to remain on station against the bark the survivors,” Hill reported. “We, suddenly and bodily while lying flat on wave was lined with unrecognizable wind and seas. After achieving a position the crew of the OCEAN TITAN, would in her starboard side; there one second and debris from the FLORECE. Lights were to windward, and with the liferaft on my that day and a half get to know the men we gone the next. Her lights, her AIS infor- flashing everywhere from locator beacons beam, I used the engines and rudder to rescued well enough to know that they mation and her radar image were all attached to lifejackets and liferings which maintain a constant heading without mov- were worth the risks we took. instantly lost. Watching the FLORECE had gone adrift on the water, orange ing ahead or astern and used the wind to “The seven survivors were put sink was, on the one hand, amazing and on smoke from emergency smoke canisters carry me to the rafts. Once close to the ashore in the Port of Lisbon on the the other, horrifying. was being whipped across the water by the rafts, I used the engines and rudder to find evening of 10 December. All were in good “Within a few minutes of watching winds, reflective tape could be seen flash- a happy medium between blocking the health and in good spirits. The OCEAN the ship sink and while still a little stunned ing everywhere and distress flares were swell and minimizing the roll and tried to TITAN was showered upon arrival into by what I’d just seen, a distress flare was being fired from the rafts in rapid succes- maintain that circumstance just long Lisbon with high praise.” fired in my direction from a distance of no sion and in every direction. Most of all I enough to drag the survivors onto my In a thoughtful handwritten letter to more than a mile or two off my starboard will remember how insignificant the lifer- decks. We did this by throwing a heaving Capt. Hill, the captain of the Port of bow. My lookout immediately reported a afts looked under my bright deck lights line to the raft and, after the men in the lif- Cascais, wrote in part: “Please accept this liferaft in the water. I was closer by two rising and falling with each massive wave eraft had tripped their sea anchor, my crew very small token of our appreciation for a miles to the liferaft than the AFRODITE, and how helpless, how scared the sur- hauled the raft into the vicinity of our pilot job very well done in the best tradition of but was still under the presumption that vivors looked in their survival suits wav- ladder. A safety harness made off to a safe- seamen in general and those belonging to the AFRODITE was in the process of per- ing their arms from the liferaft canopy’s ty line was then lowered to the raft for the the U.S. merchant marine in particular.” forming the rescue.” open hatchway. survivors to secure over their survival John Toner, technical director for A report posted on “I had to watch the compass, the suits. After donning the safety harness, Maritime Management, responsible for vesseltracker.com stated the Afrodite had propeller pitch indicator, speed indicator, and with my crew tending the safety line the Florece, also expressed his gratitude to attempted to “deploy its fast rescue craft course indicator, rudder angle indicator, on deck, the men in the liferaft would, in the officers and crew of the Ocean Titan: but had been unsuccessful due to the sea “I would like to send our sincere and swell.” Responding to an earlier offer of heartfelt gratitude to you and particularly assistance, the Afrodite had previously Captain Hill and his crew for the noble, informed Capt. Hill the situation was “in professional and valiant actions on Friday hand.” morning to save the entire crew of our “Upon seeing the flare, I backed the vessel Florece. engines hard, called all hands and raised “In these days of procedures, audits the AFRODITE’s captain on the VHF,” and endless inspections it is easy to lose Hill reported. “I explained to him that I sight of the real profession of seamanship was much closer to the liferaft than was he and the need for prompt decisions and and asked again if he needed assistance. actions which you demonstrated in rescu- The captain, this time and without hesita- ing men in peril on the high seas. tion, acceded and asked me to make an “You were their only chance of sur- attempt at rescue. I informed the vival at that location. There are many sons, AFRODITE’s Captain that I would try, daughters, wives, mothers, fathers and but was not sure given the heavy weather friends of the men you have saved who will that I could maneuver my vessel close be thinking of you and how you have enough to the survivors to rescue them. I brought their loved ones back safely.” asked him to steam slightly to the South The 390-foot heavy-lift ship Ocean thereby providing me with some addition- Titan is operated by Pacific-Gulf Marine al sea room and changed my course. AMO member Second Mate Daniel Landgrebe greets the seven survivors from and manned in all licensed positions by “I steered to windward of the liferaft the M/V Florece onboard the Ocean Titan. American Maritime Officers. 8 • American Maritime Officer January 2012 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 20 March

Advanced Fire Fighting 5 days 13 Feb 12 March 2 April 7 May 11 June 9 July 13 Aug

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 6 Feb 5 March 23 April 21 May 25 June 6 Aug Fire Prevention (Thurs/Fri - 2 days) - not req. if Combined Basic & Adv. Fire Fighting completed within 12 months

Basic Safety Training - Refresher 3 days 8 February 7 March 25 April 23 May 27 June 8 Aug

Crowd Management 1 day Please call

Crisis Mgmt & Human Behavior 1 day Please call

ECDIS 5 days 13, 27 Feb 9 April 21 May 18 June 16 July 20 Aug

Effective Supervision 2 days 6 Feb

Fast Rescue Boat 4 days 11, 15 Feb 12 March 30 April 5, 18 June 9 July 27 Aug

GMDSS 10 days 2 April

LNG Tankerman PIC 8 days 30 May

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 11 June contracted LNG companies. In all cases successful completion of the LNG PNC classroom course is prerequisite.

Proficiency in Survival Craft (Lifeboat) 4 days 21 Feb 14 May

Safety Officer Course 2 days 20 Feb 2 April 21 May 30 July

Tankerman PIC DL - Classroom 5 days 13 February

Tankerman PIC DL - Simulator 10 days 30 April 25 June 16 July 20 Aug

Train the Trainer 5 days 27 February 16 April 11 June 20 Aug

Train the Trainer - Simulator Inst. 5 days Please call

Vessel/Company Security Officer 2 days 8 February 14 May 1 August

VSO - Anti-Piracy Module 1 day 10 February 16 May 3 August

Deck Courses

Advanced Bridge Resource Management 5 days Please call

Advanced Shiphandling for Masters - (No equivalency) Must have sailed as 5 days 27 February 12, 26 March 7 May - PM 20 Aug Chief Mate Unlimited

Advanced Shiphandling for 3rd Mates - 60 days seatime equiv. for 3rd Mates 10 days 14 May

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

Bridge Resource Management Seminar 3 days Please call

Dynamic Positioning - Basic 5 days Please call

Dynamic Positioning - Advanced 5 days Please call

Integrated Bridge System (IBS) / Prodded Propulsion Trg 5 days 11 June

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

STCW Deck Officer Refresher - Great Lakes 3 days Please call

TOAR (Towing Officer Assessment Record) - Third Mate (Unlimited or Great 5 days 23 January 12 March PM 23 April 21 May Lakes) or 1600T Master License required AND OICNW required

Tug Training - ASD Assist (Azimuthing Stern Drive) 5 days 14 May 27 Aug

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

Engineering Courses

Advanced Slow Speed Diesel 10 days 19 March 7 May

Basic Electricity 10 days 20 February 30 April 9 July

Diesel Crossover 4 weeks 13 February 16 July

Engine Room Resource Management 5 days 5 March 9 April

Environmental Awareness (includes Oily Water Separator) 3 days 2 April 4 June 9 July

Gas Turbine Endorsement 10 days 12 March 7 May 11 June 20 Aug

High Voltage Safety Course (Classroom) 3 days 12 March 30 July

Steam Crossover 5 Days 4 June

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) 5 days 5 March 14 May 23 July

Refrigeration (Operational Level) 5 days 9 April 20 Aug

Refrigeration (Management Level) 5 days 16 April 27 Aug

Steam Crossover 4 weeks 4 June

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 9 April 14 May 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 13 February 7 May RFPNW Assessments 1 day 8 March 30 Aug

Basic Safety Training 5 days 21 May Marlin Spike 1 day 9 March 31 Aug

EFA/MCP 4 days 1 May 40-hour Able Seaman 5 days 23 April

Proficiency in Survival Craft (Lifeboat) 4 days 14 May Original License (Great Lakes) Courses - Deck & Engine A/R Please Call

Basic Electricity (for Original Engineers only) 10 days 20 February Food Safety, Sanitation & Nutrition (ServSafe) 5 days 6 Feb

Original 3A/E Preparation and Exams A/R 5 March Culinary Fundamentals 10 days 6 Feb

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 January 2012 American Maritime Officer • 9

MSC Training Program

Basic CBR Defense 1 day 2, 30 March 20 April 18 May 22 June 13 July 24 Aug

Damage Control 1 day 1, 29 March 19 April 17 May 21 June 23 Aug

Heat Stress Afloat / Hearing Conservation Afloat 1 day 19 April 29 May 20 Aug

Helicopter Fire Fighting 1 day 6 March 24 April 22 May 26 June 7 Aug

Marine Environmental Programs (with CBRD) 1/2 day 2, 27 March 20 April 18 May 22 June 13 July 24 Aug

Marine Sanitation Devices 1/2 day 22 March 5 April 7 June 12 July

Medical PIC Refresher - Note: Not MSC approved 3 days 22 Feb 16 April 30 May

MSC Readiness Refresher - Must have completed full CBRD & DC once in career. 5 days 6 Feb 23 April 21 May 25 June

MSC Watchstander - BASIC - Once in career, SST grads grandfathered 2 days 16 Feb 3 May 26 July

MSC Watchstander - ADVANCED - Required for all SRF members 1 day 20 Feb 7 May 30 July

MSC Ship Reaction Force - Required every three years for SRF members 3 days 21 Feb 8 May 31 July SAMM - Shipboard Automated Maintenance Management 3 days 27 Feb 16 July Small Arms - Initial & Sustainment (Refresher) Training - Open to members & applicants eligible for employment through AMO (w/in 1 year) or MSC on MARAD 3 days 13, 27 February 12, 26 March 16, 30 April 14 May 11, 18 June 9, 23 July 6, 20 Aug contracted vessels. Remedial shoot will be afforded on Day 4 for at least 1 weapon if passing score not attained. Water Sanitation Afloat 1/2 day 22 March 5 April 7 June 12 July Medical Courses

Heat Stress Afloat / Hearing Conservation Afloat 1 day 21 February 19 April 29 May

Elementary First Aid - Prerequisite for MCP within preceding 12 months 1 day 28 February 1 May 12 June 17 July 21 Aug

Medical Care Provider - Prerequisite for MPIC within preceding 12 months. Please 3 days 29 February 2 May 13 June 18 July 22 Aug fax EFA certificate when registering

Medical PIC - Please fax MCP certificate when registering 5 days 5 March 7 May 18 June 23 July 27 Aug

Urinalysis Collector Training 1 day 12 March 14 May 25 June 30 July

Breath Alcohol Test (BAT) - Alco Sensors 3 and 4 only! 1 day 13 March 15 May 26 June 31 July

Saliva Screening Test - QEDs only! 1/2 day 14 March 16 May

Medical PIC Refresher - Note: Not MSC approved 3 days 22 February 16 April 30 May Radar Courses

Radar Recertification 1 day 21, 27 February 19 March 20 April 7 May 25 June 6 July 6 Aug Radar Recertification at Toledo Maritime Academy - Non-Resident Training, 1 day 23 February 22 March 26 April 23 Aug apply to Student Services, Dania Beach ARPA 4 days 8 May

Radar Recertification & ARPA 5 days 7 May

Western Rivers Recertification 1 day Please call

Original Radar Observer Unlimited 5 days 30 April

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 6 February 9 April 14 May 2 July

Upgrade: Advanced Meteorology 5 days 20 February 2 April 21 May 18 June

Cargo Operations 9 days 27 February 16 April 29 May 9 July

Marine Propulsion Plants 5 days 12 March 30 April 11 June 23 July

Upgrade: Stability 5 days 13 February 19 March 7 May 25 June

Watchkeeping 1: BRM 3 days 29 February 18 April 6 June 25 July

Watchkeeping 2: COLREGS - Watchkeeping 1 & 2 must be completed within 12 5 days 5 March 23 April 11 June 30 July months of each other

Upgrade: Shiphandling at the Management Level 10 days 13 February 19 March PM 2 April 14 May PM 18 June

Shipboard Management 5 days 12 March 30 April 23 July

Upgrade: Advanced Navigation (includes Simulator) 5 days 30 January 19 March 7 May 16 July

ECDIS - Advanced Navigation and the USCG approved ECDIS to be completed within 5 days 6 February 26 March 14 May 9 July 12 months of each other. Suggested dates follow. See also deck courses above.

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

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 16 July

Ship Construction & Stability 5 days 20 February 30 July

Emergency Procedures & SAR 4 days 13 February

Meteorology 5 days 27 February 20 Aug

Cargo Handling & Storage 5 days 6 February 6 Aug

Magnetic & Gyro Compass 3 days 5 March 27 Aug

Electronic Navigation 5 days 12 March 13 Aug

Terrestrial Navigation 10 days 19 March

Watchkeeping 10 days 2 April

Basic Shiphandling at the Operational Level 5 days 16 April

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 March contracted vessels. Elementary First Aid 1 day 29 March

Drug Collector Training 1 day 30 March

Breath Alcohol Test Collector 1 day 31 March

Advanced Fire Fighting 5 days 2 April

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 January 2012

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]) AMO NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS FAX: (510) 444-5165

DANIA BEACH, FL 33004 NORWOOD, NJ 07648 601 S. Federal Highway 463 Livingston Street, Suite 102 — PMB 60 (954) 921-2221 / (800) 362-0513 Donald R. Nilsson, National Assistant Vice President Thomas J. Bethel, National President ([email protected]) ([email protected]) / Mobile: (202) 251-0349 (800) 362-0513 ext. 3004 José E. Leonard, National Secretary-Treasurer ([email protected]) Mobile: (201) 913-2209 Jack Branthover, Special Assistant to the National President ([email protected]) WASHINGTON, D.C. FAX: (954) 926-5112 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 Mobile: (954) 531-9977 / FAX: (954) 367-1025 ([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 Robert Anderson, Dispatcher ([email protected]) ([email protected]) / Mobile: (954) 882-4297 Member Services: Extension 1050 ([email protected]) Phree Baker, Assistant Legislative Director ([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 (wbar [email protected]) [email protected] Bruce DeWerth, Dispatcher ([email protected]) MEMBERSHIP SERVICES PHILADELPHIA, PA 19113 MEDICAL CLINIC AMO PLANS 2 International Plaza, Suite 422 2 West Dixie Highway 2 West Dixie Highway Robert J. Kiefer, National Executive Vice President ([email protected]) Dania Beach, FL 33004 Dania Beach, FL 33004 (800) 362-0513 ext. 4001 / 4002 (954) 927-5213 (800) 348-6515 Mobile: (215) 859-1059 FAX: (954) 929-1415 FAX: (954) 922-7539 FAX: (610) 521-1301 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 / FAX: (409) 737-4452 (212) 370-5100 Mobile: (419) 346-1485 Mobile: (409) 996-7362 FAX: (212) 697-6299 [email protected]

Officers, crew of USNS Dahl conduct toy drive benefiting 71 children

The officers and crew members of addition to the toy drive, the crew donated “We’re proud of our crew members doing this during Christmas time,” the USNS Dahl in 2011 conducted a fourth $2,000 as a Christmas gift for adults at the and thank them for taking the time in Kleinschmidt told the Saipan Tribune. annual toy drive for the Kardiat’s Guma shelter. Esperanza (House of Hope) shelter in the “This campaign started several Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana years back and it became a tradition for Islands (CNMI). A total of 71 children at us,” Kleinschmidt told the newspaper. “So the shelter were beneficiaries of the every time we’re here on the island, we try Christmas drive, the Saipan Tribune to do something for them during reported in mid-December. Christmas. This year, they gave us a list of The USNS Dahl is one of eight large 71 children from the shelter, and so while medium-speed roll-on/roll-off vessels we were in Okinawa a couple of weeks operated by Ocean Ships Inc. for Military ago, our crew took the time to shop for Sealift Command. The LMSR, which is these kids.” stationed in the CNMI, is manned in all The toys were chosen for children licensed positions by American Maritime ages 15 months to 17 years, he said. Officers and in all unlicensed positions by AMO members Third Mate Kevin Regular monthly membership meetings for AMO will be held during the Seafarers International Union. Reilly and Second Mate Tom Kozarski did the week following the first Sunday of every month at 1 p.m. local Guma Esperanza is a shelter for bat- the toy shopping in Okinawa and Ocean time. Meetings will be held on Monday at AMO National tered women and their children, and for Ships contributed $500, as well, said Headquarters (on Tuesday when Monday is a contract holiday). The victims of human trafficking. USNS Dahl Storekeeper Bill Fortner. next meetings will take place on the following dates: AMO member Capt. Kurt The officers and crew members Kleinschmidt told the Saipan Tribune wrapped the presents before giving them 2011 marked the fourth annual toy drive to representatives of Guma Esperanza to AMO NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS: February 6, March 5 conducted by crew of the USNS Dahl. In distribute to the children. January 2012 American Maritime Officer • 11

AMO members train at STAR Center, prepare for license upgrade exams

American Maritime Officers members completing Fast Rescue Boat training at AMO members completing Fast Rescue Boat training at STAR Center in STAR Center in December included Daniel Socarros, Wesley Yarnall, David December with instructors David Greenhouse and Tim Scanlon included Mike Wasiloski and Milosz Racborski. McCarthy, Mike Kurr, Jon Nadean and Marc Pottey.

USNS Stockham receives Bravo Zulu for outstanding service

Fleet Commodore Gene Emmert ciate the professionalism, stewardship, Dec. 9 commended the officers and camaraderie and commitment that crew of the USNS GYSGT Fred W. ensured Stockham was always ready to Stockham for their outstanding service answer the call. Fair winds and follow- as part of Maritime Prepositioning ing seas. Again, well done, shipmates.” Squadron Two in Diego Garcia. The The USNS Stockham, operated by USNS Stockham is manned in all Maersk Line, Limited, is part of the licensed positions by American Military Sealift Command’s preposi- Maritime Officers. tioning program in Diego Garcia. “Bravo Zulu to the officers and Vessels in the prepositioning program crew of the USNS Stockham for their are especially configured to transport AMO member Anthony Amandola Jr. in December successfully passed all superb execution of duties while supplies for the U.S. Marine Corps and exams to upgrade to first assistant engineer, motor and gas turbine, after prepar- assigned to the MPS2 squadron in are available in case of need for combat ing at STAR Center. With him here is STAR Center Engineering Instructor Diego Garcia,” Emmert wrote. “I appre- or humanitarian aid. Rosemary Mackay. 12 • American Maritime Officer January 2012

Specifically, the bill would amend the Outer House approves bill to secure domestic Continental Shelf Lands Act to ensure all of the nation’s laws are applicable to the emerging offshore renewable energy mar- offshore wind energy jobs for Americans ket on the Outer Continental Shelf. There are many hurdles facing off- shore wind and solar projects, but as the The U.S. House of Representatives Energy Resources Act (POWER Act), H.R. vides important certainty so investors can industry grows, there will be substantial in December passed legislation to clarify 2360, was introduced by Rep. Jeff Landry confidently support offshore renewable need for qualified mariners to operate ves- that offshore wind farms must comply (R-LA) and approved by voice vote. projects and create new jobs for American sels to install, service and maintain off- with the same laws as offshore oil and gas “The POWER Act makes an impor- offshore workers. I applaud all who joined shore wind turbines and other equipment. production. If approved by the Senate and tant clarification to ensure wind energy me in voting for final passage of the bill.” The POWER Act, if signed into law, signed into law, the legislation would cre- follows the same playbook that has made The legislation, if passed, would would help ensure those jobs go to ate a strong job market for American U.S. offshore oil and gas production such close a loophole in existing law that allows American mariners. mariners. a nationally important, job-creating field,” offshore renewable energy resources to be The POWER Act will now move to The Providing for Our Workforce and Rep. Landry said. “The POWER Act pro- installed or serviced by foreign workers. the Senate for consideration.

New measure AMO aboard the introduced to Liberty Eagle reduce travel burden for TWIC users

U.S. Senator Kelly Ayotte (R-NH) in December introduced legislation to limit the number of in-person trips necessary to apply for and receive a Transportation American Maritime Officers mem- Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). bers working aboard the Liberty The legislation (S. 1966) would Eagle in October, here in Houston, require the Secretary of Homeland Security Texas, included Chief Mate Jeff to reform the process for enrolling, activat- Powell, Capt. Jack McAuliffe, First ing, issuing and renewing TWIC cards so Assistant Engineer Joe McHattie, that applicants are not required to visit a Second A.E. Robert Shaughnessy, designated enrollment center more than Third Mate Charles Davis and once. Companion legislation has been Third A.E. Scott Cukierski. introduced in the House by Rep. Steve Scalise (R-LA). “Current TWIC requirements place a financial burden and time constraints on workers who rely on these cards for USNS Dahl serves as platform for U.S. employment,” Sen. Ayotte said. “As mil- lions of TWICs approach renewal begin- ning in 2012, it is critical that we resolve Marine Corps Force Recon Platoon this problem. My legislation would remedy one of the TWIC program’s major flaws The following article was released by The Force Reconnaissance and ensure that workers do not have to the U.S. Marine Corps. It is republished Marines used the top down-bottom up make multiple, costly trips in order to here with permission. The USNS Dahl method to clear the ship and secure key receive TWIC cards.” is one of eight LMSRs operated for locations on the vessel. AMO National Vice President for Military Sealift Command by Ocean “The best thing about the VBSS Government Relations Michael Murphy has Ships Inc. and manned in all licensed was we were able to do a top down and encouraged AMO members to apply for a positions by American Maritime then bottom up clearing of the ship, with renewal TWIC early to avoid delays as this Officers. a full mission profile,” said 2nd Lt. renewal bubble nears. Ashley Thompson, Force By Lance Cpl. Kris Daberkoe Photo: Capt. Caleb D. Eames Reconnaissance platoon commander Kings Point Marine Corps Bases Japan Marines with Force Reconnaissance with the 31st MEU. “We started clearing Platoon, 31st Marine Expeditionary the top of the ship via helicopters, fast- ABOARD THE USNS DAHL - A Unit, fast-rope from a U.S. Air Force roping in, and boarded the ship from the training vessel helicopter hovers 25-feet above the UH-60 Sea Hawk helicopter to the bottom to take the lower portion. deck of the ship as combat rubber raid- flight deck of the USNS Dahl during They took the key areas of the moved to Texas ing craft simultaneously crash through the exercise off shore of Okinawa. ship very quickly, allowing us to take the waves toward the hostile vessel. control of the ship’s navigation,” he A&M University This was the scene as 30 Marines layout of different classes of merchant ships added. “They did a very good job of with Force Reconnaissance Platoon and history of previous visit, board, search securing other key areas for (casualty took part in a visit, board, search and seizure missions, according to a sergeant evacuation) and the movement of other The U.S. Merchant Marine seizure exercise aboard the USNS Dahl with Special Operations Training Group, III personnel, so we could hand the ship Academy and the U.S. Department of off the coast of Okinawa Dec. 1 to 6. Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters over to the Navy.” Transportation in December announced The platoon, attached to the 31st Group, III MEF. The training is designed to pre- the transfer of the T/V Kings Pointer from Marine Expeditionary Unit, conducted The Marines then took a tour of the pare the Marines for the spring certifica- the USMMA to Texas A&M University, the training to prepare Marines in the USNS Dahl to familiarize themselves with tion exercise, which ensures the 31st the Maritime Administration reported. event they are tasked with seizing a the interior of a cargo ship. MEU is capable to conduct operations The vessel must be moved to merchant cargo ship from pirates or “It’s important for the Force such as noncombatant evacuation oper- accommodate reconstruction of the acade- weapons smugglers. Reconnaissance Marines aboard the MEU ations, tactical recovery of personnel, my’s Mallory Pier, its main ship docking The Marines secured key loca- to understand how to seize merchant ships amphibious raids, and assaults and the- facility. Additionally, Academy leader- tions aboard the ship after fast-roping rather than warships because odds are ater security operations, according to ship determined that the T/V Kings from a U.S. Air Force UH-60 Sea Hawk pirates won’t attempt to seize a naval war- Pavlus. Pointer is no longer cost-effective for to the deck. ship,” said Gunnery Sgt. Brian M. Pavlus, a “Given that it is a high-piracy training needs. The vessel will be put to The exercise began with classes chief instructor with the SOTG. “Training area, it is great practice for us should we greater benefit at Texas A&M, while about maritime law, regarding search on the Dahl allows us to make the training ever have to do the real thing,” said Kings Point will acquire a new vessel. and seizure of cargo vessels, structural more realistic.” Thompson. The T/V Kings Pointer has been a staple of the Academy for nineteen years, traveling over 100,000 miles along the Coast and providing over 75,000 sea days Pointer has hosted secretaries of trans- itary personnel and thousands of merchant inland and offshore waters of the East of midshipman training. The T/V Kings portation, senators and congressmen, mil- marine veterans.