AMO Gains Jobs with MSC Contract Award

Volume 45, Number 12 December 2015

AMO gains jobs with MSC contract award Crowley to operate five strategic sealift ships manned by AMO officers The job base of American Maritime Officers will expand under a contract awarded by Military Sealift Command to Crowley Technical Management covering the operation of five ships. Included in the contract are the dry cargo strategic sealift ships USNS 1st LT Harry L. Martin, USNS LCPL Roy M. Wheat, USNS SGT Matej Kocak, USNS PFC Eugene A. Obregon and USNS MAJ Stephen W. Pless. The USNS Martin, USNS Kocak, USNS Obregon and USNS Pless was and are operated, respectively, by non- AMO companies and will provide new jobs for the AMO membership as they are turned over to Crowley. The USNS Wheat — which was previously operated by Maersk Line, Limited under contract with AMO — and the USNS Martin commenced operation under the management of Crowley in October. The USNS Kocak, USNS Obregon and USNS Pless are scheduled to be turned over in the third quarter of 2016. The contract award for the USNS Martin and USNS Wheat includes a one-year firm period and four one-year Photo: Military Sealift Command optional extensions. The contract award for The strategic sealift ship USNS 1st LT Harry L. Martin was turned over to Crowley in October under a Military Sealift the three other ships includes a one-year firm Command contract award covering a total of five ships. AMO represents all licensed officers aboard the USNS Martin. period and three one-year options.

Export-Import Bank reauthorized through FY 2019 The charter of the U.S. Export- for the U.S. merchant fleet operating in Senate’s reauthorization and reform mea- tating the purchase of U.S. manufactured Import Bank was renewed December 4 as international trade. sure that had been approved with that goods for export, among other things. President Obama signed into law five- In late July, the Senate had chamber’s long-term highway bill. He In fiscal year 2013, the Ex-Im Bank year surface transportation authorization approved its own six-year highway bill then spearheaded a discharge petition that helped facilitate more than $37 billion in legislation, known as the ‘highway bill,’ with an amendment included to reautho- quickly gained bipartisan approval from a U.S. export sales, supporting more than which includes a provision to reauthorize rize the Ex-Im Bank — that amendment majority of House members and ultimate- 200,000 American jobs. Last year, the Export-Import Bank through fiscal was approved 64-29 in the Senate. The ly forced a floor vote on the stand-alone records show the bank supported 164,000 year 2019. Senate’s long-term highway bill was not Ex-Im Bank bill, which was approved American private-sector jobs as bank The highway bill was produced by voted upon in the House. 313-118 on October 27. activities helped generate $27.5 billion in a House-Senate conference committee. Separate legislation to reauthorize The successful drive and over- U.S. exports. According to a report pub- The conference report containing the the Ex-Im Bank had been bottled up for whelming support for reauthorizing the lished by the Ex-Im Coalition, the Ex-Im Export-Import (Ex-Im) Bank provisions months in the House due to opposition Ex-Im Bank, the charter of which had Bank earned a profit in 2014, covering its was overwhelmingly approved by both from some influential members. However, expired at the end of June, influenced the expenses and sending $675 million to the chambers of Congress on December 3. in October, a bold effort spearheaded by decision to include renewal of the bank’s U.S. treasury. In the previous fiscal year, A portion of exports financed with Congressman Stephen Fincher (R-TN) charter in the five-year highway bill con- the Ex-Im Bank returned approximately the assistance of the Ex-Im Bank must be forced a vote on stand-alone legislation to ference report. $1 billion to the U.S. treasury. The Ex-Im shipped on U.S.-flagged commercial ves- reauthorize the bank. Rep. Fincher intro- The Export-Import Bank assists Bank is self-sustaining and does not cost sels, providing a strong source of cargo duced legislation nearly identical to the U.S. businesses small and large by facili- U.S. taxpayers a single dollar.

AMO, STAR Center to launch Great AMO jobs secure as Ocean Ranger Lakes Open Water Pilotage Program contract is awarded to Crowley Page 7: AMO and STAR Center will soon launch the Great Lakes Open The State of Alaska has awarded a three-year contract with a one-year Water Pilotage Program, which is designed to provide USCG licensed optional extension for management of the state’s Ocean Ranger unlimited tonnage deck officers with the training and experience to obtain Program to Crowley, the incumbent program manager. AMO members USCG Great Lakes Open Water First Class Pilotage (FCP) Endorsements. will continue to work as ocean rangers under the new contract.

year’s upbeat mood was dampened consid- erably by the wrenching loss October 1 of the El Faro off the Bahamas during the Cat In AMO, a year to celebrate — and 4 Hurricane Joaquin. The ship sank with all hands — 11 AMO engine and deck officers, 17 Seafarers International Union crew to reflect on tragic loss and five Polish nationals in the riding gang. With this emotional mix of optimism By Paul Doell Because of these developments, a On the East Coast, a tanker order and grief reflecting the humanity in all of National President dues increase approved in October 2014 for placed with Aker Philadelphia Shipyard us — and on behalf of the AMO National calendar year 2015 was rescinded in Inc. by Crowley Maritime Corp. began to Executive Board, all AMO representatives This was a February, and there was no need at the pay off for American Maritime Officers and all AMO employees — I offer best satisfying and year’s end to raise dues rates in 2016. with the October 1 delivery and November wishes and good will to every deep-sea, encouraging year Meanwhile, our union went to work 3 christening of the Ohio, the first of four Great Lakes and inland waters AMO fami- economically and aboard TOTE Maritime’s new Marlin Class such vessels intended for Jones Act trade ly in this holiday season. And I ask that professionally for container ship Isla Bella — the first vessel under AMO contract. everyone in the AMO community pause A m e r i c a n of its kind anywhere in the world to be Down South, in Pascagoula, appropriately to remember our union’s El Maritime Officers, fueled by liquefied natural gas — and her Mississippi, VT Halter Marine was build- Faro complement: which regained sister ship, the Perla del Caribe, which will ing two combination container-roll-on/roll- • Captain Michael C. Davidson solid financial be delivered early next year. The Marlin off ships for operation by Crowley in • Chief Engineer Richard J. Pusatere footing and filled a Class vessels operate in Jones Act trade domestic service under AMO contract. • Chief Mate Steven W. Shultz first wave of new between Florida and Puerto Rico. Earlier this year, Pasha Hawaii chris- • Chief Engineer Jeffrey A. Mathias licensed jobs on These revolutionary TOTE ships tened its combination container-RO/RO ship • Second Mate Danielle L. Randolph dry cargo ships and tankers delivered for were built in San Diego by General Marjorie C, which was built by VT Halter • First Assistant Engineer Keith W. Jones Act service. Dynamics NASSCO, which was busy as Marine. The ship joined the Jean Anne in Griffin In the fourth quarter of 2015, our well this year with two contracts for the Jones Act trade between the U.S. mainland • Third Mate Jeremie H. Riehm union was deep in the black, with a large construction of a total of eight product West Coast and Hawaii, with AMO engine • Second Assistant Engineer Howard and growing operating budget surplus tankers that will provide even more new and deck officers aboard both ships. J. Schoenly achieved through a combination of sensible Jones Act jobs for AMO engine and The good news here does not stop • Third Assistant Engineer Michael spending cuts and payroll paring — after deck officers. with new employment for American L. Holland allowing for modest wage increases for One NASSCO contract provides for Maritime Officers. Each new seagoing • Third Assistant Engineer Mitchell AMO support personnel, attrition and five tankers for American Petroleum job filled this year by our union — and T. Kuflik meaningful salary reductions at the senior Tankers, or APT. The first ship in the series each new AMO job on the near and far • Third Assistant Engineer Dylan O. administrative level resulted in sizable sav- — the Lone Star State — was christened on horizons — represents new employer Meklin ings, not including the associated savings October 17. The second NASSCO order contributions to AMO Plans, the benefit May their families find the peace of in pay-based employee benefits. calls for three tankers for SEA-Vista LLC, funds that serve all AMO members and the season through lasting memories of In addition, AMO membership dues a subsidiary of Seacor Holdings Inc. At this their families so well. their loved ones, and through their conspic- and initiation fee receipts were higher than writing, the initial SEA-Vista vessel was While new employment for AMO uous strength, resilience, faith, courage, they were in calendar year 2014. set for christening December 12. members is always worth celebrating, this dignity and grace.

No AMO membership dues increase in 2016 Membership dues and initiation fees in American Maritime Officers will not Under Article V of the AMO National Constitution, the AMO National Executive increase in 2016. Board can authorize annual membership dues and initiation fee increases, but it must do The decision to hold dues and fees at current levels caps a calendar year marked so on or before November 1, with the increases effective the following January 1. by accumulating operating budget surpluses and responsible spending cuts — including Because there will be no dues or initiation fee increases in 2016, no action was required substantial salary reductions at our union’s highest administrative levels. of the board this year. Another significant influence behind the decision was a steady increase in timely A membership dues increase that had been approved in October 2014 for this year dues payments made directly to AMO by deep-sea, Great Lakes and inland waters mem- was withdrawn in February. bers or to our union through authorized deductions from AMO Vacation Plan benefits. Additional dues revenue was generated by new AMO jobs on container ships and Paul Doell tankers delivered this year for service in Jones Act markets. National President

Season’s greetings and best wishes to AMO members, families and friends Here with American Maritime Officers National President Paul Doell at AMO Headquarters are AMO shoreside staff members (front) Theresa Rowe, Maria Burgess, Mary Rodriguez, Susan Scott, Ellen Shames, Wanda Hatcher, Denise Robinson, Judy Sallaberry, Marie Doruth, (back) Luimy Cabreja, Steve Arduser, Todd Wright, Brendan Keller, Thomas Heaton, Roy Emrick, Eli Mitrani and Matt Burke. Not in the picture are Robert Anderson, Pedro Falero, Kem Chanoine and Chris Rodriguez.

American Maritime Officer (USPS 316-920) Official Publication of American Maritime Officers 601 S. Federal Highway Dania Beach, FL 33004 (954) 921-2221 POSTMASTER—Send Address Changes To: American Maritime Officers — ATTENTION: Member Services Periodical Postage Paid at P.O. Box 66 Dania Beach, FL and Additional Mailing Offices ISO 9001:2008 Dania Beach, FL 33004 Published Monthly Certificate #33975 December 2015 American Maritime Officer • 3

to take action against unfair dumping to the fullest extent of the law. He followed up by communicating the concerns of Senators Klobuchar, Franken introduce Minnesota’s iron ore industry about the Korean imports directly to the measure to crack down on steel dumping Department of Commerce in the days leading up to the Department’s final determination that the Korean imports The illegal dumping of steel products by foreign had been illegally dumped. And in July, he submitted testimony to the ITC outlin- ing how unfairly priced Korean steel has countries is harming the steel industry across the hurt Minnesota’s iron ore producers. Franken has also supported the Level the country, resulting in plant closures and job losses Playing Field Act, which strengthens our The following article was released support they need and deserve. Klobuchar honor its commitment to steelworkers and existing trade enforcement laws, includ- November 19 by the office of Senator Amy has met with steelworkers on Minnesota’s their families. ing trade remedies that allow for anti- Klobuchar (D-MN). Iron Range to discuss concerns about the Franken has long fought to ensure dumping and countervailing duties on WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. need to stop industry losses. She worked fair trade practices and protect Minnesota imports that are unfairly subsidized or Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Al closely with state officials to ensure that workers and businesses. Earlier this year, dumped in domestic markets. Franken (D-MN) introduced legislation to immediate funding for job retraining and he successfully pressed key trade agen- Franken has also worked with crack down on illegal steel dumping and educational opportunities was secured. In cies, including the ITC, to act to limit the those already affected by illegal dump- protect U.S. steelworkers. The illegal addition, she recently led a letter along damage being done to the American steel ing. He has met with steelworkers dumping of steel products by foreign with Senator Franken and Representative and iron ore industry by unfairly priced throughout the Iron Range and success- countries is harming the steel industry in Rick Nolan to successfully urge the U.S. South Korean steel. In May, he joined a fully fought to expedite Trade Adjustment Minnesota and across the country, result- Department of Labor to expedite approval number of colleagues in writing to the Assistance (TAA) petitions for laid-off ing in plant closures and job losses. The of the three Trade Adjustment Assistance Secretary of Commerce expressing con- workers with Senator Klobuchar and senators’ bill would crack down on illegal petitions submitted by workers from the cerns about the Department’s preliminary Representative Nolan. TAA provides steel dumping by strengthening trade affected mining operations. She also has determination that Korea was not dump- assistance to those affected by trade with enforcement. pressed the U.S. Department of Labor to ing steel in the U.S. and urging Commerce education and job training. “Our steelworkers can compete with anyone in the world, but when foreign producers dump cheap steel in our country, it undercuts our domestic industry and puts American steelworker jobs at risk,” Klobuchar said. “While we have recently Foreign steel dumping cuts cargo float taken steps to help fight foreign dumping, more and more mining operations are for U.S.-flagged vessels on Great Lakes being forced to idle and it is clear more must be done. By strengthening trade U.S.-flagged Great Lakes Association (LCA) reported. 71.9 million tons at the end of October, enforcement, this important legislation freighters carried 9.7 million tons of The dumping of foreign steel in the an increase of 0.9 percent compared will help provide a level playing field for cargo in October, a decrease of 13.7 per- U.S. market is having a severe impact on with the same point in 2014, but a the American workers who help keep our cent compared to the same period in American industry and the U.S.-flag fleet decrease of 1.3 percent compared with country strong as steel.” 2014 and a slight decrease from the operating on the Lakes. the long-term average for January to “Minnesota iron and steel produc- long-term average for the month. “We’re down six ships from October. Iron ore cargoes had declined ers and workers are the best and most Iron ore cargoes decreased 21.8 November 1 and nine from a year ago, and 6.3 percent, coal shipments were up productive in the world,” said Franken. percent compared with October 2014. these early layups are a direct result of steel approximately 6.5 percent and lime- “But the playing field has been tilted by Coal cargoes decreased 7 percent and dumping,” said LCA Vice President Glen stone loadings had increased approxi- foreign competitors illegally dumping limestone cargoes dipped a little more Nekvasil on December 1. mately 10 percent compared with the steel into the market. Recently, we have than 1 percent, the Lake Carriers’ For the year, U.S.-flag cargoes totaled same point in 2014, the LCA reported. seen far too many facilities idle and close. Although we’ve taken measures to stop dumping, this legislation will further crack down on illegal practices. We need to do everything we can to fight for our workers and producers.” Steel dumping causes early layups on the Lakes The Trade Enforcement The M/V St. Clair entered early Improvement Act would include the fol- layup in November in Toledo, lowing measures to strengthen America’s Ohio as a result of foreign steel trade enforcement capabilities: dumping. American Maritime •Allowing duties to be imposed Officers members working aboard retroactively in cases where an industry is the vessel November 12 included judged to be facing critical circumstances Chief Engineer James LaParl, •Allowing duties to be imposed First Assistant Engineer Karl even further in advance before critical Schroeder, Third A.E. Ray Bitney harm is done to a domestic industry facing and Second A.E. Joe Lentowich. the threat of material injury With them is AMO Special •Requiring the publication of a list Assistant to the National of duty evaders to help raise public aware- President (Great Lakes) John ness and assist law enforcement Clemons. Not in the picture is Klobuchar is a leader in efforts to Third A.E. Tom Bayer. fight foreign dumping and ensure a level playing field for U.S. steel producers and workers. In August, Klobuchar wrote a letter to the president urging him to take stronger actions to protect the steel industry in Minnesota and across the country from harm caused by foreign dumping. She joined other Minnesota lawmakers in a meeting with administration officials at the White House in March to discuss what steps can be taken to stop mining and steel industry job losses. Following con- sistent pressure from Klobuchar last year, the International Trade Commission AMO members working aboard the Walter J. McCarthy as voted to impose penalties on Mexican, The Walter J. McCarthy entered early layup November 23 the vessel entered early layup in Toledo on November 23 Turkish, and Korean companies dumping due to steel dumping. AMO members working aboard the included Captain Carlos Fossati Sr., Third Mate Maureen steel in the U.S. vessel included Chief Engineer William Nelson and Blanchard and Second Mate Richard Gray. Visiting with Klobuchar has also been fighting to Second A.E. Gregory Jardine. With them is AMO Senior them is Guy Gramzow (left), captain on the American ensure American workers who have been National Assistant Vice President Brian Krus. Mariner, which was still in service at that time. affected by the recent layoffs have the 4 • American Maritime Officer December 2015

AMO fund supports families of El Faro officers I thank everyone who has con- approved expedited claims processing Internal Revenue Service Code, which Dave Weathers and AMO Dispatcher tributed to the AMO El Faro Disaster and benefit payment for the dependent could make contributions to the fund tax Robert Anderson serve without com- Relief Fund, and I ask those who beneficiaries. Distributions from the deductible, depending on individual cir- pensation as trustees of the AMO El have not yet contributed to the fund fund are also in addition to refunds cumstances. Payments to dependent ben- Faro Disaster Relief Fund, along with to consider making a donation in sup- issued by AMO to El Faro families for eficiaries may also be tax-free to the AMO Controller Thomas Heaton and port of the El Faro families. dues paid for the fourth quarter or later extent allowed by law under recent Marie Doruth, my special assistant at The AMO El Faro Disaster by AMO members lost in the sinking of precedent. AMO headquarters in Dania Beach. Relief Fund — approved by the the El Faro. American Maritime Officers pro- Checks and money orders American Maritime Officers The AMO El Faro Disaster Relief vided an initial contribution to the fund payable to the AMO El Faro National Executive Board — is Fund is a separate entity from the AMO in memory of Captain Michael C. Disaster Relief Fund can be sent to: intended to mitigate financial loss Membership Assistance Program, Davidson, Chief Engineer Richard J. to the families and to help depen- which helps AMO families who suf- Pusatere, Chief Mate Steven W. Shultz, AMO El Faro Disaster Relief Fund dents meet unforeseen expenses as fered property damage during hurri- Chief Engineer Jeffrey A. Mathias, P.O. Box 38 they cope with grief and prolonged canes, tornadoes, earthquakes or other Second Mate Danielle L. Randolph, First Dania Beach FL 33004 recovery. natural disasters. Assistant Engineer Keith W. Griffin, Distributions from the fund to Any individual, organization or Third Mate Jeremie H. Riehm, Second Online contributions can be the El Faro families are in addition to business can contribute to the AMO El Assistant Engineer Howard J. Schoenly, made through PayPal via a link on benefits due from the AMO Medical, Faro Disaster Relief Fund, which is Third Assistant Engineer Michael L. the AMO Web site home page at Vacation, Pension, 401(k) and administered by Paradise Bank in Fort Holland, Third Assistant Engineer www.amo-union.org. Money Purchase Benefit Plans. The Lauderdale. Mitchell T. Kuflik and Third Assistant joint union-employer trustees of The fund has applied for tax- Engineer Dylan O. Meklin. Paul Doell these AMO benefit funds have exempt status under 501(c)(3) of the AMO Inland Waters Vice President National President

NTSB completes documentation of El Faro wreck site; ship’s voyage data recorder not located The following article was released are hopeful that we’ll be able to deter- Sonar equipment towed from USNS On Nov. 11, the navigation bridge November 16 by the National mine the probable cause of this tragedy Apache detected what was believed to be was found but neither the mast nor the Transportation Safety Board. and the factors that may have contributed El Faro on Oct. 31. The finding was con- VDR was found in the vicinity of the WASHINGTON — The video doc- to it.” firmed on Nov. 1 when investigators navigation bridge structure. umentation of the cargo ship El Faro and The 790-foot ship went missing on were able to view video of the vessel After five more days of searching the associated debris field has been com- Oct. 1 during Hurricane Joaquin and was obtained from CURV-21, a remotely with CURV-21, it was determined that pleted but the vessel’s voyage data located on Oct. 31 in about 15,000 feet of operated vehicle capable of deep-sea the VDR could not be located. The search recorder was not located. water in the vicinity of its last known search activity. and video documentation efforts of El “Over the years we’ve completed position near Crooked Island, Bahamas. Video revealed that the navigation Faro were completed on Nov. 15. No fur- many investigations without the aid of In early October, the NTSB con- bridge structure and the deck below it ther search missions are planned. recorders and other investigative tools,” tracted with the U.S. Navy to locate the had separated from the ship. The miss- Additional information and said NTSB Chairman Christopher A. missing ship, document the wreckage ing structure included the mast and its resources are available on the NTSB’s Hart. “While it is disappointing that the and debris field, and if possible, recover base where the voyage data recorder webpage for the El Faro accident investi- voyage data recorder was not located, we the voyage data recorder. was mounted. gation: http://go.usa.gov/3Smre.

Now I address those lost by AMO not by formal name and rank but as:

‘We will not forget your sacrifice’ Sister Danielle American Maritime Officers on October 21 held a memorial service for the Brother Michael D crew of El Faro at the Lighthouse Community Church in Dania Beach, Fla. Brother Steven Following are the remarks of American Maritime Officers Plans Executive Director Brother Jeremie Steve Nickerson. Brother Richard Brother Jeffrey Today we attend a Memorial Service. We gather today as the Officers and Brother Keith families of the AMO as well as the staff of AMOP that serves them. Also many Brother Howard Friends of AMO. Brother Michael H We are part of the Trade Labor Union Movement. A movement that created a Brother Mitchell Fraternal Organization called a Union. We are the American Maritime Officers Union, a And Brother Dylan Fraternal Organization. As a Fraternal Organization we are all Brothers and Sisters. You are not a statistic but a member of our family. We will not forget your When my Brother or Sister experiences joy, I am joyful. sacrifice. When my Brother or Sister experiences Pain and Disappointment, I share the Pain and Disappointment. We that are left behind We share ALL that is experienced by our Brothers and Sisters, even if we don’t ARE THE MEMORIAL acknowledge it. Now we share the tragedy of losing 10 Brothers and 1 Sister, as well as the tragedy We will not allow our efforts, our work ethic, to ever be a disgrace to your sacrifice of our sister union and their 17 Brothers and Sisters. Also the 5 not known by us. made, the sacrifice by you, Our Brothers and our Sister. We Seek a healing. We seek for something to fill the void created by tragedy. Let it not be in vain Let it not be of ego The ineffable remains ineffable But a matter of the Heart But we will go on Leading first with the Silently and simply lift up your heart to the surviving families as they are also Heart in Memoriam Brothers and Sisters by Fraternal Order. Never again begin your morning work, never collect your paycheck without We look forward with confidence to the perfect realization of the eternal splendor first remembering this loss. Without first silently lifting all AMO Brothers and of the limitless light. Sisters returning to the sea and her perils, praying for their safety and the day they In thought and word and deed we rest our lives from day to day upon the sure return to their family. foundation of eternal being. As the staff we are not the union but placed here to service the AMO Officers and The kingdom of Spirit is embodied in our flesh. their families. We unite this day as the Officers, the Officers’ families, and the Staff of the Service them with love, compassion, recognizing their dignity as Officers in the AMO and the AMO Plans along with our friends in Remembrance of our Brothers United States Merchant Marine. For Love does conquer all. and Sister. December 2015 American Maritime Officer • 5

‘Our thoughts and prayers are with all of them’ ‘With Deepest Heartfelt Sympathies To All This Tragedy The following letter was sent to AMO National President Paul Doell by President Has Touched’ and COO of Ocean Shipholdings, Inc. Jim McGregor. Captain Max Stovall sent the following message: I just want to express to you and all of the AMO team how sorry we are about the loss of the crew of El Faro. We can only imagine the grief the families must go through, and our thoughts and prayers are with all of them. Please let me know if there is any way we can help.

Memorial service for El Faro crew onboard USNS Henson The USNS Henson held a Memorial Service for the SS El Faro on 04 NOV 2015 to mark one month since the sinking of the vessel and loss of her crew on 01 OCT 2015. Henson was on a transit and took the opportunity to remember her Union Brothers and Sisters during a ceremony held on the bridge. The Master read the names of the crew and contractors. 33 carnations were then tossed into the ocean while playing the song “Never Let Me Go” by Florence + the Machine. The ceremony ended with the reading of the Seaman’s Prayer.

Kristin Mangold Master USNS HENSON

‘A sign of respect and love from our crew’ This is just to let the families of our brothers and sisters know that we have not for- gotten about their loss. Some of us on the USNS Bowditch, whether AMO, SIU, or NAVO members, have sailed with and personally knew a major part of the crew of the El Faro. We humbly wish that there was something more we could do to ease the pain and confusion that the wives, daughters, sisters, and brothers may be experiencing. This is a devastating loss to all of us. We will be making donations via PayPal, etc. in hopes to contribute just a little compared to the true cost of this tragedy. Please take our signature page as a sign of respect and love from our crew.

Clarance A. Cobb Sr. Radio Electronics Officer, USNS Bowditch

‘Sincere condolences to the families and friends of the fallen mariners’ The following letter was sent to AMO National President Paul Doell by Marine Firemen’s Union President/Secretary-Treasurer Anthony Poplawski. On October 5, 2015, in San Francisco, California, the membership of the Marine Firemen’s Union stood one minute in silence for the officers and crew of the SS El Faro. This was followed by similar observances on October 13, 2015, in the ports of Los Angeles and Honolulu, and on October 22, 2015, in the port of Seattle. The Marine Firemen’s Union extends sincere condolences to the families and friends of the fallen mariners, and to their brothers and sisters in the Seafarers International Union — Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters, and American Maritime Officers.

‘The crew of the El Faro and their families will remain in our thoughts and prayers’ The following letter was sent to AMO National President Paul Doell by President and COO of Patriot Contract Services, LLC Frank Angelacci. ‘My prayers are with all the families of the crew’ On behalf of Patriot Contract Services I wanted to pass on my sincere condolences for the loss of your union brothers and our fellow seafarers aboard the El Faro. The following message was sent to AMO National President Paul Doell by retired This event touched all of us who have been to sea, and it is truly heart wrenching to AMO member William Chalke. see a tragedy like this occur. The crew of the El Faro and their families will remain in In deepest sympathy, thinking of you all at this difficult time. And my prayers are our thoughts and prayers. with all the families of the crew of the El Faro. 6 • American Maritime Officer December 2015

USNS Impeccable, Cape Wrath receive Mariners’ Plaques in AOTOS ceremony honoring crew of El Faro The officers and crew members of “Within the firm, each of us has two ships manned in all licensed positions shared the anguish and the grief thrust so by American Maritime Officers were unmercifully upon the families and friends among those recognized during the 2015 of those who were lost. Our hearts are torn Admiral of the Ocean Sea (AOTOS) bearing witness to their suffering,” he said. awards dinner on November 13 in a cere- “This year, with the leave of the mony that honored the 33 crew members of United Seamen’s Service and by the leave El Faro, who lost their lives when the ship of those of you here with me this evening, sank in Hurricane Joaquin on October 1. I’d ask that we put aside any honor meant The officers and crew of the USNS expressly for myself, and that we honor Impeccable, operated for Military Sealift instead the valiant men and women that Command by Crowley Liner Services comprised the officers and the crew of the (Technical Management), were recognized El Faro. This evening, they deserve the by the United Seamen’s Service with a AOTOS award far more than I do,” Mariners’ Plaque for rescuing 11 fishermen Chiarello said. clinging to a sinking vessel in the South Chiarello was then joined on stage China Sea in July 2015. Third Mate Garrick by AMO National President Paul Doell Skubon accepted the Mariners’ Plaque on and Seafarers International Union behalf of the officers and crew of the USNS President Michael Sacco. Doell read the Impeccable. names of the 11 AMO members onboard The officers and crew of the Cape El Faro and Sacco read the names of the Wrath, operated by Crowley Liner Services 17 SIU members onboard the ship. in the Maritime Administration’s Ready Chiarello read the names of the five mem- Reserve Force, were recognized with a bers of the riding crew. Mariners’ Plaque for their service in late Following the reading of the names, 2014 during the U.S. mission to combat the the more than 700 people in attendance spread of Ebola in West Africa. Captain stood and sang “God Bless America.” Fred Walley accepted the AOTOS Chiarello said the AOTOS Award will Mariners’ Plaque on behalf of the officers American Maritime Officers National President Paul Doell greets Garrick Skubon be placed in the office of TOTE Maritime and crew of the Cape Wrath. (left) and Fred Walley (right), each of whom accepted AOTOS Mariners’ Plaques Puerto Rico inscribed with the names of the Receiving AOTOS awards for 2015 on behalf of the officers and crews of the USNS Impeccable and Cape Wrath, 33 crew members of El Faro. were TOTE President and CEO Anthony respectively, during the Admiral of the Ocean Sea Awards ceremony November For the 2015 AOTOS Awards, U.S. Chiarello, Matson President and CEO 13 in New York City. Both vessels are manned in all licensed positions by AMO. Senator Cory Booker served as general Matthew Cox and Pacific Maritime chairman. Sacco was dinner chairman. Association President and CEO James ally unable to accept such a singular honor. impact that the loss of the El Faro and her Joseph Cox and President and Chairman of McKenna. Each of us here at this maritime industry officers and her crew had on TOTE American Maritime Officers Service F. Chiarello accepted the AOTOS award gathering will appreciate the gravity and the Maritime,” Chiarello said. Anthony Naccarato served as national com- on behalf of the crew members of El Faro mittee co-chairmen. and their families. TOTE President Proceeds from the AOTOS event “I can’t accept this award as Anthony and CEO Anthony benefit USS community services abroad for Chiarello, but I can accept this award in Chiarello (left) the U.S. merchant marine, seafarers of all memory of the 33 that were lost and the accepts the nations, and U.S. government and military family and loved ones that were left Admiral of the overseas. behind,” Chiarello told the gathering of Ocean Sea Award USS continues to provide community leading figures of the U.S. maritime indus- from United services for the U.S. merchant marine, the try. “I’m honored and humbled to accept Seamen’s Service American Armed Forces, and seafarers of this award on behalf of those that were lost in memory of the the world. USS, a non-profit agency estab- on the El Faro on October 1.” 33 crew members lished in 1942, operates centers in six for- At the close of the evening, USS pre- onboard El Faro eign ports in Europe, Asia, and Africa and in sented a special remembrance in honor of when the ship the Indian Ocean, and also provides seago- the 28 American crew members of the El sank October 1 in ing libraries to American vessels through its Faro and five Polish nationals who perished Hurricane Joaquin. affiliate, the American Merchant Marine at sea on October 1. Presenting the Library Association. The remembrance was led by award is Lt. Gen. Edward Morgan is president and Chiarello, who dedicated the AOTOS Kenneth Wykle Roger Korner is executive director of USS. award he received to the 33 heroes. (U.S. Army Barbara Spector Yeninas is USS AOTOS “This is a year wherein I am person- retired). coordinator.

Senator Murray honored for long-standing support of U.S. maritime industry by Daniel K. Inouye Institute The following is excerpted from an Hirano Inouye, widow of Sen. Inouye, to article released by the Daniel K. Inouye Sen. Murray, whose state is home to major Institute and the American Maritime ports, a vibrant American maritime indus- Partnership, a coalition of which American try, and a significant international ship- Maritime Officers Service is a member and ping industry. which American Maritime Officers supports. “We’d like to thank Sen. Murray for WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Daniel her vocal support and demonstrated commit- K. Inouye Institute honored U.S. Senator ment to the American maritime industry,” Patty Murray on Tuesday, November 17 for said Jennifer Sabas, Director of the Daniel K. her long-time support of the American mar- Inouye Institute. “Sen. Murray mirrors the itime industry. Dozens of maritime and legacy of Sen. Inouye for her commitment to Senate leaders gathered on Capitol Hill to the success, safety, innovation and progress honor Sen. Murray as the first recipient of the of this industry.” Daniel K. Inouye Maritime Guardian award “Senator Inouye was and always will — an award given to a recipient who embod- be a shining example of what it means to be ies strong leadership and commitment to the a strong leader for the U.S. maritime indus- U.S. maritime industry. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) in November became the first recipient of the Daniel ◆ The award was presented by Irene K. Inouye Maritime Guardian Award for her support of the U.S. maritime industry. See Inouye Award Page 12 December 2015 American Maritime Officer • 7

(b)(1), service on the Great Lakes will be credited on a day-for-day basis up to 100 percent of the total required service AMO and STAR Center to launch Great toward a near coastal or oceans STCW Lakes Open Water Pilotage Program endorsement. Enrollment American Maritime Officers and wheel or in the pilothouse as part of routine that may provide the best efficiency to STAR Center will soon launch the Great duties over the route sought, AND/OR obtain credit are included in the supplemen- Phase One: Those seeking to com- Lakes Open Water Pilotage Program, ›As an observer, properly certified by tal information section. plete the round trips/sea service required to which is designed to provide U.S. Coast the master and/or pilot of the vessel, AND Participants are expected to submit a sit for their Great Lakes pilotage should Guard licensed unlimited tonnage deck offi- •At least 25 percent of the round trips completed USCG 719B application in contact: cers with the necessary training and experi- must be during the hours of darkness, AND accordance with the USCG First Class ence to obtain USCG Great Lakes Open •One of the required round trips must Pilotage Checklist, and be approved to sit Brian Krus Water First Class Pilotage (FCP) be within six months of date of application for all five Great Lakes regions (or portion AMO Senior National Assistant Vice Endorsements for the five Great Lakes thereof) PRIOR to being accepted into President Pilotage Regions. Sea Service Notes: Phase Two of the program. E-mail: [email protected] Officers who successfully complete •A total of 12 documented round trips Mobile: (216) 571-9666 this program will be eligible for jobs avail- are required for open water pilotage. Phase Two — Pilotage Exam Preparation Office: (800) 221-9395 Ext. 6007 able with AMO-contracted companies oper- •Once 12 round trips are properly (approximately six weeks) ating vessels on the Great Lakes, and will documented, an individual can make appli- Phase Two: Those who are eligible have the requisite knowledge and USCG cation to sit for USCG pilotage exams for In this phase, those who have com- and hold a USCG letter to sit for pilotage endorsements to be employed as a FCP in all five Great Lakes regions. pleted the necessary round trips and exams should contact: the five Great Lakes Pilotage Regions. •A single trip that includes transit on obtained USCG approval to sit for the exam Officers enrolled in the program will two lakes can be documented as two will be instructed on the requirements to Jerry Pannell gain knowledge of and proficiency in the round trips. successfully prepare for and complete the STAR Center Director of Member Training pilotage endorsement requirements for the •Trips can be documented using the ‘Local Knowledge’ and ‘Chart Sketch’ sec- and Officer Development ‘Local Knowledge’ and ‘Chart Sketch’ por- Great Lakes Trip Verification Book (avail- tions of the USCG pilotage exam for each E-mail: [email protected] tions of the USCG pilotage exams. Upon able from STAR Center or AMO). of the five Great Lakes regions. Office: (800) 445-4522 Ext. 7507 attaining knowledge and proficiency in the Phase one will be administered by Students will attend STAR Center for required areas, officers will be prepared to AMO directly, including coordinating bil- the amount of time necessary to successful- STAR Center should also be contact- sit for the USCG pilotage exams for each of lets with the individual participant and ly complete all five USCG exams. Each of ed if additional information on the program the five Great Lakes regions. Great Lakes contracted companies. Billets the five Great Lakes regions is expected to is needed. should be assigned so that maximum credit take approximately one to two weeks of Phase Two study preparation is Program entry standards is obtained towards documented round trip preparation. scheduled to begin at STAR Center on Program participants must meet these requirements. Recommendations on vessels STCW Credit: Per 46 CFR 10.232 January 19, 2016. requirements: •46 CFR 11.703 — masters or mates with officer endorsements of more than 1,600 gross registered tons meet the service requirement of this section (round trips still Membership committee reviews union’s financial files apply). •Agree to sail on the Great Lakes for an AMO-contracted company in accordance with the terms and conditions of the program’s agreement of reimbursement.

Program Overview The program is divided into two phases. American Maritime Officers members serving on the Finance Phase One — Sea Service Requirements Committee in November were Joseph McHattie, Michael Thomas In this phase, the officer completes and Maly Rudick. The committee his or her USCG sea service requirements reviewed financial documents over per 46 CFR 11.705 for an original FCP a two-day period, November 3 and endorsement, including: 4, at AMO Headquarters in Dania •Completion of a minimum of 12- Beach, Fla. A volunteer member- round trips properly documented: ship committee is periodically con- › As quartermaster, wheelsman, able vened to review the union’s finan- seaman, apprentice pilot or equivalent cial files. capacity standing regular watches at the

Temporary increase in Maritime Security Program funding authorized as defense act is signed into law President Obama on November 25 The provision was introduced by on the Armed Services Committee and visions included in the act, S.1356 autho- signed into law the National Defense Congressman Duncan Hunter (R-CA), vice Seapower and Projection Forces rizes the expenditure of $5 million by the Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016, a bill chairman of the Armed Services Subcommittee. Maritime Administration “for the National that authorizes an increase in funding for the Committee’s Seapower and Projection Regarding the MSP, S.1356 states: Security Multi-Mission Vessel Design,” Maritime Security Program and its fleet of 60 Forces Subcommittee and chairman of the “It is the sense of Congress that dedicated which in the future could be used to pro- U.S.-flagged ships during fiscal year 2016. Transportation and Infrastructure and enhanced support is necessary to stabi- duce new multi-purpose training ships for Although the National Defense Committee’s Subcommittee on Coast Guard lize and preserve the Maritime Security the state maritime academies and the U.S. Authorization Act (S.1356) authorizes a and Maritime Transportation. The inclusion Fleet program, a program that provides the Merchant Marine Academy — ships that funding increase for the MSP, Congress of the MSP provision was made possible by Department of Defense with on-demand could also be used in defense sealift and would still need to appropriate the money in the crucial support of Chairman of the access to world class, economical commer- humanitarian crisis missions domestically separate legislation. Armed Services Committee Rep. Mac cial sealift capacity, assures a United and abroad. S.1356 includes other provisions Thornberry (R-TX), Ranking Member on the States-flag presence in international com- S.1356 was approved 370-58 by the important to the U.S. maritime industry and Armed Services Committee Rep. Adam merce, supports a pool of qualified United House of Representatives on November 5 merchant marine and their roles in national Smith (D-WA), Chairman of the Seapower States merchant mariners needed to crew and 91-3 by the Senate on November 10. security and defense. and Projection Forces Subcommittee Rep. United States-flag vessels during times of A previous version of the National A provision in the legislation autho- Randy Forbes (R-VA), Ranking Member on war or national emergency, and serves as a Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year rizes an increase in the annual allotment for the Seapower and Projection Forces critical component of our national security 2016 was vetoed by the President in October each ship enrolled in the MSP from $3.1 mil- Subcommittee Rep. Joe Courtney (D-CT), infrastructure.” due to concerns that did not involve the mar- lion to $3.5 million during fiscal year 2016. and Rep. Rick Larsen (D-WA), who serves Separately, among the maritime pro- itime provisions in the bill. 8 • American Maritime Officer December 2015

AMO Safety and Education Plan — Simulation, Training, Assessment & Research Center (954) 920-3222 / (800) 942-3220 — 2 West Dixie Highway, Dania Beach, FL 33004

STCW 2010 Gap Closing Courses — Required by all existing STCW credentialed officers by 1 January 2017

Leadership & Management (required by ALL management level Deck 4, 11, 18, 25 1, 8, 15, 22 4, 11, 18, 25 6, 13, 20, 27 4, 11, 18, 25 5 days 14 Dec 7, 14, 28 March 2, 9, 16, 23 May and Engine officers by 1 Jan 2017) Jan Feb April June July

Engine Room Resource Management — Classroom (Engineers) 5 days (Required by ALL Engine officers by 1 Jan 2017) 14 December 11, 25 January 8, 22 Feb 7, 28 March 11, 25 April 9, 23 May 13, 27 June 11, 25 July

Management of Electrical, Electronic Controllers (Engineers) (Required 5 days by ALL management level Engine officers by 1 Jan 2017) 4, 18 January 1, 15, 29 Feb 14 March 4, 18 April 2, 16 May 6, 20 June 4, 18 July Leadership & Teamwork (Engineers) (Only required by those Engineers 1 day Leadership & Teamworking assessments, in the few cases required, should be completed and signed off onboard. who completed old ERM class)

Basic Training & Advanced Fire Fighting Revalidation (Required by first 2 days 1, 2, 4, 5 Feb 25, 26 April 7, 8 July credential renewal AFTER 1 Jan 2017)

EFA (Scheduled with Basic Training Revalidation BUT NOT REQUIRED 1 day 3 Feb 27 April 6 July FOR STCW 2010)

General Courses

IGF Code Training 5 days 11 January 27 June

Advanced Fire Fighting 5 days 18 January 15 February 28 March 16 May 20 June

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 5 days 14 December 25 January 8, 22 February 25 April 23 May (Wed — 1 day), Fire Fighting & Fire Prevention (Thurs/Fri — 2 days) — not required. if Combined Basic & Adv. Fire Fighting completed within 12 months

Basic Safety Training — Refresher 3 days 16 December 27 January 24 February 25 May

Chemical Safety — Advanced 5 days 8 February

ECDIS 5 days 4 January 8 February 7 March 18 April 9 May

Environmental Awareness (includes Oily Water Separator) 3 days 20 January 6 July

Fast Rescue Boat 4 days 5 January 8 February 29 March 18 April 2 May 27 June 25 July

GMDSS — Requires after-hour homework 10 days 15 February 16 May

LNG Tankerman PIC 8 days 30 March

LNG Simulator Training — Enrollment priority in the LNG simulator course is given to qualified member candidates for employment and/or observation 5 days 11 April opportunities with AMO contracted LNG companies. In all cases successful completion of the LNG PNC classroom course is prerequisite.

Proficiency in Survival Craft (Lifeboat) 4 days 11 January 21 March 31 May

Safety Officer Course 2 days 17 March 16 June

Tankerman PIC DL — Classroom 5 days 14 March 11 July

Tankerman PIC DL — Simulator 10 days 25 January 22 February 2 May 13 June 25 July

Tankerman PIC DL — Accelerated Program 10 days Please call

Train the Trainer 5 days 14 December 11 January 29 February 4, 25 April 18 July

Train the Trainer — Simulator Instructors 5 days Please call

Vessel/Company Security Officer — Includes Anti-Piracy 3 days 14 March 13 June

Deck Courses Meets STCW 2010 Advanced Bridge Resource Management — 5 days Leadership & Management gap closing requirements 14 December 18, 25 January 8 February 7 March 18, 25 April 9, 23 May 13 June (No equivalency) Must have Advanced Shiphandling for Masters — 5 days sailed as Chief Mate Unlimited 29 February 60 days seatime equiv. for 3rd Advanced Shiphandling for 3rd Mates — 10 days 4 January Mates 29 February 9 May

Advanced & Emergency Shiphandling — First Class Pilots, Great Lakes 5 days 1 February

Bridge Resource Management Seminar 3 days Please call

Dynamic Positioning — Basic 5 days 1 February 2 May 25 July

Dynamic Positioning — Advanced 5 days 7 March 6 June

Integrated Bridge System (IBS) / Prodded Propulsion Training 5 days Please call

STCW Deck Officer Refresher — Great Lakes 3 days Please call Third Mate (Unlimited or TOAR (Towing Officer Assessment Record) — 5 days 18 January 2, 23 May 18 July Great Lakes) or 1600T Master License required AND OICNW required

Tug Training — ASD Assist (Azimuthing Stern Drive) 5 days 18 April 20 June

Engineering Courses

Basic Electricity 10 days 1 February 6 June

Diesel Crossover 4 weeks 8 February 11 July

Gas Turbine Endorsement 10 days Please call

High Voltage Safety Course (Classroom) 3 days 22 February 27 June

Hydraulics/ Pneumatics 5 days 28 March 27 June

Ocean Ranger Program 6 days Please call Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) 5 days 15 February 20 June

Refrigeration (Operational Level) 5 days 7 March

Refrigeration (Management Level) 5 days 14 December 14 March

Steam Endorsement 4 weeks 11 January 6 June

Electronics (Management) — NEW 1 week Please call

Instrumentation (Management) — NEW 10 days Please call

Open to eligible Chief Mates and Masters on a space available Welding & Metallurgy Skills & Practices — 2 weeks 1 February 25 April basis. Interested participants should apply and will be confirmed 2 weeks prior to start date. December 2015 American Maritime Officer • 9 Deck Upgrade — STCW 2010 — Management Level (NVIC 10-14)— If sea service or training towards management level (Chief Mate/Master) upgrade started ON OR AFTER 24 March 2014 you must adhere to this new program of training. Completion of both required and optional courses listed below will include all Task Assessments required by NVIC 10-14 , providing ECDIS, GMDSS and ARPA have been previously completed.

Upgrade: Shiphandling at the Management Level 10 days 4 January 4 April 18 July Upgrade: Advanced Meteorology — Requires after-hours homework 5 days 18 January 18 April Advanced Stability 5 days 25 January 25 April Search & Rescue 2 1/2 days 1 February 2 May Management of Medical Care 1/2 day 3 February 4 May Leadership & Management 5 days 8 February 9 May Advanced Cargo — Optional for task sign-off 5 days 15 February 16 May Marine Propulsion Plants — Optional for task sign-off 5 days 22 February 23 May

Advanced Celestial — Optional for task sign-off 5 days 14 December 29 February 30 May

Advanced Navigation — Optional for task sign-off 5 days 7 March 6 June

Deck Upgrade at the Management Level (Policy Letter 04-02) — This upgrade program is for those who started sea service or training towards management level (Chief Mate/Master) upgrade BEFORE 24 March 2014. Failure to complete by 31 December 2016 will most likely result in significant delays and additional training or assessment requirements. 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) under previous. This program will complete ALL 53 Control Sheet assessments of the training requirements for STCW under policy letter 04-02. Course completion certificates and control sheets expire 12/31/16. Anyone using the previous regulations to upgrade in this manner must complete all requirements ,including USCG testing, by 12/31/16. Deck Management Level gap closing training must also be completed by 12/31/16 in order for the new credential to valid after this date. SPECIFIC GUIDANCE CAN BE FOUND ON THE STAR CENTER WEBSITE AT https://www.star-center.com

Celestial Navigation — Requires after-hour homework 5 days 14 December 29 February 30 May

Upgrade: Advanced Meteorology — Requires after-hour homework 5 days 18 January 18 April

Cargo Operations 9 days 2 May

Marine Propulsion Plants 5 days 23 May

Upgrade: Stability 5 days 25 January 25 April

Watchkeeping 1: BRM 3 days 22 March 15 June

Watchkeeping 2: COLREGS 5 days 28 March 20 June

Upgrade: Shiphandling at the Management Level 10 days 4 January 4 April 18 July

Search and Rescue 2 days 2 May 13 June

Shipboard Management 5 days 15 February 16 May

Upgrade: Advanced Navigation (includes Simulator) 5 days 7 March 6 June

ECDIS 5 days 14 December 14 March 13 June

MSC Training Program Basic CBR Defense 1 day 8 December 26 February 6 May 24 June Damage Control 1 day 25 February 5 May 23 June Heat Stress Afloat / Hearing Conservation Afloat 1 day 20 April

Helicopter Fire Fighting 1 day 26 January 24 May

Marine Environmental Programs (with CBRD) 1/2 day 26 February 6 May 24 June

Marine Sanitation Devices 1/2 day Please call

Medical PIC Refresher — Note: MSC approved 3 days Please call Must have completed full CBRD & DC once in MSC Readiness Refresher — 2 days 25 January 23 May career.

MSC Watchstander — BASIC — Once in career, SST grads grandfathered 2 days 11 February 21 April 9 June

MSC Watchstander — ADVANCED — Required for all SRF members 1 day 4 December 15 January 19 February 4, 18 March 15, 29 April 13 May 17 June 15, 29 July

MSC Ship Reaction Force — Required every three years for SRF members 3 days 22 February 2 May 20 June

— Open to Small Arms — Initial & Sustainment (Refresher) Training 15, 29 members & applicants eligible for employment through AMO (w/in 1 year) or 4 days 14 December 11, 25 January 14, 28 March 11, 25 April 9, 23 May 13, 27 June 11, 25 July February MSC on MARAD contracted vessels.

Water Sanitation Afloat 1/2 day Please call Medical Courses

Heat Stress Afloat / Hearing Conservation Afloat 1 day 20 April

Elementary First Aid — Prerequisite for MCP within preceding 12 months 1 day 5 January 23 February 5 April 10 May 27 June 26 July

Prerequisite for MPIC within preceding 12 Medical Care Provider — 3 days 6 January 24 February 6 April 11 May 28 June 27 July months. Please fax EFA certificate when registering

Medical PIC — Please fax MCP certificate when registering 5 days 11 January 29 February 11 April 16 May

Urinalysis Collector Training 1 day 14 December 22 February 7 March 9 May 25 July

Breath Alcohol Test (BAT) — Alco Sensors 3 and 4 only 1 day 15 December 8 March

Saliva Screening Test — QEDs only 1/2 day 16 December 9 March

Medical PIC Refresher — Note: MSC approved 3 days Please call

Engine Upgrade — STCW 2010 — Management Level (NVIC 15-14) — If sea service or Radar Courses training towards management level (1A/E — Chief Eng.) upgrade started ON OR AFTER 24 March 2014, you must 29, 30, 31 1 day 21, 22 January 2, 3 June 7, 8 July adhere to this new program of training. Completion of both required and optional courses listed below will include Radar Recertification March all Task Assessments required by NVIC 15-14. By completing the series, no expiration limitation will be placed on your STCW credential. See STAR Center’s website for full details: www.star-center.com/stcw2010- ARPA 4 days Please call engine.upgrade.html.

Radar Recertification & ARPA 5 days Please call Leadership & Managerial Skills (G500 as 5 days 4 July amended) Original Radar Observer Unlimited 5 days Please call ERM (E050 as amended) 5 days Please call Engine STCW training routes are aimed Upgrade: Electrical, Electronics & Control Engine STCW / Original Engineer Training Routes — at Great Lakes members wishing to transition to deep sea. Original engineer training is available to members, Engineering (Management Level) (E133 as 10 days 11 July applicants and sponsored students seeking an original license. amended) STCW Upgrade Task Assessment — Advanced Fire Fighting 5 days 11 January 16 May General Engineering & Procedure (E135 as 5 days 25 July amended) Basic Safety Training 5 days 25 January 23 May 4 days 4 January 10 May STCW Upgrade Task Assessment — Motor 3 days Please call EFA/MCP (E120 as amended) Proficiency in Survival Craft (Lifeboat) 4 days 19 January 31 May STCW Upgrade Task Assessment — Steam 5 days Please call (E121 as amended) Basic Electricity (original engineers only) 10 days 1 February 6 June STCW Upgrade Task Assessment — Gas 5 days Please call Turbine (E122 as amended) Original 3 A/E Preparation and Exams A/R 15 February 20 June

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 December 2015

TOLEDO, OH 43604 The Melvin H. Pelfrey Building One Maritime Plaza, Third Floor (800) 221-9395 FAX: (419) 255-2350 John E. Clemons, Special Assistant to the National President (Great Lakes) ([email protected]) / Mobile: (419) 205-3509 Brian D. Krus, Senior National Assistant Vice President AMO NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS ([email protected]) / Mobile: (216) 571-9666 Michelle Moffitt, Dispatcher DANIA BEACH, FL 33004-4109 ([email protected]) / Mobile: (419) 481-3470 601 S. Federal Highway (954) 921-2221 / (800) 362-0513 GALVESTON, TX 77551 Paul Doell, National President 2724 61st Street, Suite B, PMB 192 ([email protected]) David M. Weathers, National Vice President, Inland Waters Extension 1001 / Mobile: (954) 881-5651 / FAX: (954) 926-5112 ([email protected]) Charles A. Murdock, National Secretary-Treasurer (800) 362-0513 ext. 2001 ([email protected]) Mobile: (409) 996-7362 Extension 1004 / Mobile: (954) 531-9977 / FAX: (954) 367-1025 FAX: (409) 737-4454 Joseph Z. Gremelsbacker, National Vice President, Deep Sea ([email protected]) SAN FRANCISCO / OAKLAND, CA 94607 Extension 1009 / Mobile: (954) 673-0680 / FAX: (954) 367-1029 1121 7th Street, Second Floor Marie Doruth, Special Assistant to the National President Oakland, CA 94607 ([email protected]) Daniel E. Shea, National Assistant Vice President Extension 1017 / Mobile: (954) 290-8109 / FAX: (954) 926-5112 ([email protected]) Dispatch: (800) 345-3410 / FAX: (954) 926-5126 (510) 444-5301 / (800) 362-0513 ext. 5001 Brendan Keller, Dispatcher ([email protected]) Mobile: (415) 269-5795 Extension 1061 / Mobile: (954) 817-4000 FAX: (954) 367-1064 Robert Anderson, Dispatcher ([email protected]) Extension 1060 / Mobile: (954) 599-9771 NEW ORLEANS / COVINGTON, LA 70434 Member Services: Extension 1050 P.O. Box 5424 FAX: (954) 367-1066 Covington, LA 70434 ([email protected]) Daniel J. Robichaux, National Assistant Vice President ([email protected]) OFFICES (954) 367-1036 WASHINGTON, D.C. 20024 Mobile: (985) 201-5462 490 L’Enfant Plaza East SW, Suite 7204 FAX: (954) 367-1062 (202) 479-1166 / (800) 362-0513 ext. 7001 STAR CENTER Paul Doell, National President ([email protected]) Extension 7004 STUDENT SERVICES/LODGING AND COURSE INFORMATION Mobile: (954) 881-5651 2 West Dixie Highway J. Michael Murphy, National Vice President, Government Relations Dania Beach, FL 33004-4312 ([email protected] / [email protected]) (954) 920-3222 ext. 201 / (800) 942-3220 ext. 201 Extension 7013 Course Attendance Confirmation: (800) 942-3220 ext. 200 Mobile: (202) 560-6889 24 Hours: (954) 920-3222 ext.7999 / FAX: (954) 920-3140 T. Christian Spain, National Assistant Vice President, Government Relations ([email protected]) SERVICES Extension 7010 Mobile: (202) 658-9635 FINANCIAL ADVISERS: THE ATLANTIC GROUP AT MORGAN STANLEY FAX: (202) 479-1188 (800) 975-7061 / www.morganstanleyfa.com/theatlanticgroup

PHILADELPHIA, PA 19113 MEDICAL CLINIC AMO PLANS 2 International Plaza, Suite 336 2 West Dixie Highway 2 West Dixie Highway Robert J. Kiefer, National Executive Vice President Dania Beach, FL 33004-4312 Dania Beach, FL 33004-4312 ([email protected]) (954) 927-5213 (800) 348-6515 (800) 362-0513 ext. 4001 FAX: (954) 929-1415 FAX: (954) 922-7539 Mobile: (215) 859-1059 FAX: (610) 521-1301 LEGAL Chris Holmes, Contract Analyst (cholmes@amo‐union.org) AMO Coast Guard Legal Aid Joel Glanstein, General Counsel (800) 362‐0513 ext. 4002 / Mobile: (856) 693‐0694 Program David Glanstein Michael Reny 437 Madison Ave. 35th Floor UPDATE CREDENTIALS, DOCUMENTS, TRAINING RECORDS Mobile: (419) 346-1485 New York, NY 10022 Secure File Upload: https://securetransfer.amo-union.org/ (419) 243-1105 (212) 370-5100 E-mail: [email protected] (888) 853-4662 (954) 662-9407 Questions: (800) 362-0513 ext. 1050 [email protected] FAX: (212) 697-6299

U.S. Coast Guard implements new CG-719 forms Form CG-719K signed by physician after December 31, 2015 must be new version The following article was released by the U.S. Coast Guard’s National from inventory and to begin using the new forms as soon as possible. Maritime Center. Please note: Form CG-719K, Application for Merchant Mariner In order to avoid penalizing mariners who have already completed their forms, Medical Certificate, “signed by a physician after December 31, 2015, must be the the NMC will continue to accept the old forms for a period of time. new form version.” With the exception of forms K and K/E, the Coast Guard will no longer accept As of October 1, 2015, the United States Coast Guard has implemented the use outdated CG-719 forms after April 1, 2016. of the new CG-719 series of forms (B, C, K, K/E, P, and S) that will replace the For the K and K/E, forms signed by a physician after December 31, 2015, forms displaying a June 30, 2012, expiration date. must be the new form version. In accordance with 46CFR10.304(d), the K or The Coast Guard will not stock the CG-719 series of forms in paper format. K/E must be submitted within 12 months of the date signed by a licensed med- These forms may be obtained electronically in a PDF fillable format on the National ical professional; therefore, the Coast Guard will no longer accept outdated K Maritime Center (NMC) website (www.uscg.mil/nmc). or K/E forms after December 31, 2016. Additional updates to the NMC website will occur as quickly as possible to Mariners and other providers should contact the NMC Contact Center using reflect the new forms. our chat function, by e-mailing [email protected], or by calling 1-888-IASKN- The Coast Guard encourages providers and applicants to purge the old forms MC (427-5662) with any questions regarding these forms. December 2015 American Maritime Officer • 11 Obituaries Herschel Logsdon, who sailed inland waters with AMO, died October 30, 2015, at Christopher Blake Sr., who sailed inland waters with AMO, died May 6, 2015, at age 89. age 71. He is survived by Mercedis Blake. Edward Hardin, who sailed inland waters with AMO, died October 29, 2015, at age Horace Anderson, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died March 30, 2015, 87. He is survived by Ethel Hardin. at age 84. William Parker, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died October 23, 2015, at age 66. Jonathan Newhouse, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died March 29, 2015, at age 61. Daniel Hayes, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died October 12, 2015, at Edward Clifton, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died March 17, 2015, at age 89. age 49. Douglas Curtis, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died March 9, 2015, at age 87. Thomas Pigott, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died October 11, 2015, at age 70. John Chaker, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died March 4, 2015, at age 86. He Dorothy Speed, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died October 8, 2015, at survived by Miljenka Chaker. age 94. Thomas Bradley, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died March 2, 2015, at Robert Portenier, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died October 2, 2015, age 60. He is survived by Paula Bradley. at age 99. Rex Lowman, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died February 28, 2015, at age 74. Michael Holland, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died October 1, 2015, at age 25. He is survived by Claudia Lowman. Dylan Meklin, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died October 1, 2015, at age 23. Leonard Kittleson, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died February 25, Mitchell Kuflik, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died October 1, 2015, at age 26. 2015, at age 87. Danielle Randolph, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died October 1, 2015, at age 34. Robert Smith, who sailed inland waters with AMO, died February 23, 2015, at age Steven Shultz, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died October 1, 2015, at age 54. He 63. He is survived by Sandra Smith. is survived by Claudia Shultz. Elliot Lycette, who sailed inlands waters with AMO, died February 9, 2015, at age Richard Pusatere, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died October 1, 2015, at age 34. 71. He is survived by Judy Lycette. He is survived by Emily Pusatere. James Young, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died February 7, 2015, at age 69. Jeffrey Mathias, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died October 1, 2015, at age 42. Wayne Morgan, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died February 7, 2015, He is survived by Jennifer Mathias. at age 66. He is survived by Frances Morgan. Howard Schoenly, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died October 1, 2015, at age 50. Reginald Ferran, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died February 3, 2015, at age 62. He is survived by Karen Schoenly. Derrell Sage, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died February 1, 2015, at age 81. He Keith Griffin, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died October 1, 2015, at age 33. He is survived by Frances Sage. is survived by Katie Griffin. Martin Killeen, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died January 31, 2015, at age 85. Michael Davidson, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died October 1, 2015, at age 53. Rolando Ismael, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died January 30, 2015, at age 74. He is survived by Theresa Davidson. Frank Cicero, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died January 29, 2015, at Jeremie Riehm, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died October 1, 2015, at age 46. He age 75. He is survived by Gloria Cicero. is survived by Tina Riehm. George Nutbrown Jr., who sailed deep sea with AMO, died January 26, 2015, at age Maik Darley, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died September 29, 2015, at age 61. 56. He is survived by Rebekah Nutbrown. He is survived by Alison Darley. John Raulerson, who sailed inland water with AMO, died January 24, 2015, at age Robert Royds Jr., who sailed deep sea with AMO, died September 29, 2015, at age 64. He is survived by Mary Hamlett-Raulerson. 77. He is survived by Jeannie Royds. Adam Satterfield, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died January 23, 2015, at age 25. Jessie Griffin, who sailed inland waters with AMO, died September 18, 2015, at William O’Steen, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died January 23, 2015, age 91. at age 71. Robert Werthman, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died September 5, 2015, at age George Davis, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died January 18, 2015, at 92. He is survived by Raedine Werthman. age 90. Louis Champa Sr., who sailed deep sea with AMO, died August 29, 2015, at age 73. Herbert Wilson, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died January 15, 2015, He is survived by Valma Champa. at age 86. He is survived by Shirley Wilson. Curtis Gautier, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died August 27, 2015, at age 76. He David Schutte, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died January 14, 2015, at age 70. is survived by Catherine Gautier. Stanley Rozowski, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died January 23, 2015, Edward Burns, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died August 13, 2015, at at age 91. He is survived by Beverly Pierce. age 68. Barry Prosak, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died January 11, 2015, at Kenneth Goetz, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died August 8, 2015, at age 61. age 68. He is survived by Nancy Goetz. John Brown, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died January 5, 2015, at age 75. He is Lloyd Ciszewski, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died July 31, 2015, at survived by Mary Brown. age 62. He is survived by Katherine Ciszewski. Steven Walters, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died December 29, 2014, at age 57. Eugene Akens, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died July 31, 2015, at age 81. He is Allan McCoy, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died December 28, 2014, at age 64. survived by Barbara Akens. He is survived by Marie McCoy. James Smith, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died July 28, 2015, at age 97. He is Sydney Griffin, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died December 28, 2014, at age 76. survived by Fern Smith. He is survived by Marie McCoy. George Grupillion, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died July 25, 2015, at age 68. David Jensen, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died December 22, 2014, He is survived by Catherine Grupillion. at age 61. He is survived by Colleen Jensen. Paul McGaharn, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died July 16, 2015, at age 77. Arthur Davis, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died December 18, 2014, James Logan, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died July 11, 2015, at age 81. He is at age 78. survived by Stella Logan. George Ingalls, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died December 14, 2014, Thomas Cook, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died July 4, 2015, at age 53. He is at age 82. He is survived by Yvonne Ingalls. survived by Donna Cook. Gerald Hassett, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died December 12, 2014, Robert Brantley, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died June 28, 2015, at age 59. He at age 83. is survived by Dorceline Alexander. Milton Israel II, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died December 10, 2014, Vernon Clanton, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died June 27, 2015, at age 74. at age 45. He is survived by Risa Israel. Joseph Wilson Jr., who sailed deep sea with AMO, died June 21, 2015, at age 62. William Bossick, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died December 9, 2014, at age 85. He is survived by Ivaneide Wilson. Hugh Davison, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died December 5, 2014, at age 80. Bruce Arnold, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died June 20, 2015, at age 72. He is He is survived by Minette Davison. survived by Gloria Arnold. Dennis Doherty, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died December 3, 2014, at age 75. Julian Morris, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died June 9, 2015, at age 71. He is survived by Margaret Doherty. Richard Parrish, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died June 4, 2015, at age 60. He Kenneth Gumtow, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died December 3, is survived by Janir Parrish. 2014, at age 88. He is survived by Lucille Gumtow. Michael Panagakos, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died June 3, 2015, at age 59. William McCoy, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died December 1, 2014, Thomas Conway, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died May 19, 2015, at age 62. at age 86. James Jolly, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died May 19, 2015, at age 64. Robert Hoyt, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died November 28, 2014, at age 75. William Wilson, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died May 14, 2015, at age 58. He William Cantua, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died November 23, 2014, at age 89. is survived by Michelle Wilson. Marijan Ciklic, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died November 22, 2014, at age 26. Jimmie Alexander, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died May 12, 2015, Jesse Chasteen Jr., who sailed deep sea with AMO, died November 20, 2014, at age at age 78. He is survived by Henrietta Alexander. 59. He is survived by Linda Chasteen. Calvin Statham Sr., who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died May 1, 2015, Robert Brownell, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died November 18, 2014, at age at age 61. 72. He is survived by Caldonia Brownell. Albert Rittiman, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died April 25, 2015, at Malvin Chandler, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died November 16, 2014, at age 93. He is survived by Dorothy Rittiman. age 90. David Miller Jr., who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died May 25, 2015, at Jackson Forest Jr., who sailed deep sea with AMO, died November 11 2014, at age age 87. 86. He is survived by Hilda Forest. Robert Hart, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died May 18, 2015, at age 79. He is Hugh Bannister, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died November 10, survived by Ann Hart. 2014, at age 90. He is survived by Sally Bannister. James Fernandez, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died May 14, 2015, at age 67. Frank Stelzer, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died November 1, 2014, William Blakeman III, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died May 9, 2015, at age at age 80. He is survived by Patricia Stelzer. 57. He is survived by Marisa Blakeman. Kenneth Donahue, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died October 24, 2014, at age 61. 12 • American Maritime Officer December 2015

AMO Medical Plan announces partnership with Blue Cross/Blue Shield and American Benefit Corp. The following letter dated November benefits as a result of this transition. The sure to destroy the previous UMR ID cards. 2016 Summary of Benefits Coverage 20, 2015 has been sent to active participants deeper discounts provided through the If you have not received the new BC/BS (SBC) in the American Maritime Officers Medical BC/BS network will result in lower out of medical ID cards by January 1, 2016 or Enclosed with this letter is your Plan. This letter was mailed with the 2016 pocket costs for our members and a finan- require additional ID cards, please contact 2016 Summary of Benefits and Summary of Benefits and Coverage for AMO cial savings for the Plan. The personalized the Plan office. Please note that the new Coverage (SBC), which is provided to Medical Plan Type A (active) participants, service will continue to be provided to our BC/BS medical ID cards will only reflect you as is required by the federal Patient which is also available on the AMO Plans participants directly through the AMO the primary member’s name. Protection and Affordable Care Act (the website (www.amoplans.com). Similar let- Medical Plan office. “Act”, also known as “Health Care ters with information specific to other AMO What about my prescription drug Reform”). Benefit changes for 2016 Medical Plan participants, such as retirees, Is my doctor in-network? coverage? include the removal of limitations on have been sent by mail. The easiest way to find out is to log There is currently no change to the mental health and substance use disor- The Board of Trustees (the into http://provider.bcbs.com and choose Plan’s prescription drug benefit. You can der benefits pursuant to the Mental “Trustees”) of the American Maritime the Bluecard PPO/EPO from the network continue to use your current Envision Health Parity and Equity Addition Act Officers Medical Plan (the “Plan”) is drop down menu to search for your Prescription Drug cards; however, for of 2008. These changes were effective pleased to announce our joint partnership provider, or simply contact the Plan office added convenience, your new BC/BS ID October 1, 2015 and were communicat- with Blue Cross/Blue Shield (“BC/BS”) for assistance. Always contact the provider cards will also include the Envision Rx ed to participants in a written notice and American Benefit Corporation prior to any services to make sure they are Options information that is needed to fill a dated August 1, 2015. (“ABC”) as the new Third Party accepting new patients and are still a partic- prescription. As always, the Plan will continue Administrator for the Plan, effective ipating provider with BC/BS. to provide you with excellent customer January 1, 2016. The transition from What about my Direct Member service. UMR/United Healthcare to BC/BS and What’s next? Reimbursement Claims? If you have any questions or concerns ABC will provide the greatest flexibility of In the coming month, you will All claims that require direct member related to the Plan’s benefits, please contact an independent TPA and the strength of the receive new BC/BS medical ID cards. reimbursement (Dental, Optical, the Plan office at (800) 348-6515, ext. 12 or largest nationwide network through BC/BS. Please make sure to present your new Scholarship and Disability) will continue to by e-mail ([email protected]). The Trustees took participants’ con- BC/BS medical ID card to your provider be sent to the AMO Medical Plan office for cerns, the rising cost of health care, and the prior to any medical services rendered on or processing. This also includes any medical Sincerely, deeper discounted rates provided by BC/BS after January 1, 2016 and ask them to services paid up front such as services ren- into consideration when electing to make update your medical insurance information. dered outside the U.S. that may be subject AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICERS this transition. There is no change in your Once you receive your new ID cards, make to reimbursement by the Plan. MEDICAL PLAN

AMO 401(k) Plan calendar year 2014 Summary Annual Report This is a summary of the annual report for American Maritime Officers 401k Plan, request. The items listed below are included in that report: EIN 11-2978754, Plan No. 002, for period January 01, 2014 through December 31, 2014. • an accountant’s report; The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. • financial information; Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of • information on payments to service providers; 1974 (ERISA). • assets held for investment; • fiduciary information, including non-exempt transactions between the plan and Basic Financial Statement parties-in-interest (that is, persons who have certain relationships with the plan); Benefits under the plan are provided by a trust fund. Plan expenses were $24,796,841. • information regarding any common or collective trusts, pooled separate accounts, These expenses included $813,412 in administrative expenses, $23,865,688 in benefits paid master trusts or 103-12 investment entities in which the plan participates. to participants and beneficiaries, and $117,741 in other expenses. A total of 3,631 persons To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of Board of Trustees American Maritime Officers 401k Plan at 2 West Dixie Highway, of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. Dania Beach, FL 33004-4312, or by telephone at (954) 920-4247. The charge to cover copy- The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $331,138,894 as ing costs will be $0.15 per page. of December 31, 2014, compared to $317,822,071 as of January 01, 2014. During the plan You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $13,316,823. This increase includes charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a unrealized appreciation and depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had total and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying income of $38,113,664, including employer contributions of $2,387,007, employee contri- costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report butions of $16,734,698, earnings from investments of $17,577,797, and other income of because these portions are furnished without charge. $1,414,162. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan (Board of Trustees American Maritime Officers 401k Plan, 2 West Dixie Your Rights To Additional Information Highway, Dania Beach, FL 33004-4312) and at the U.S. Department of Labor in You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 selected for this award.” Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20210. Inouye Award Prior to his death, Sen. Daniel K. Inouye had a distinguished tenure of more Continued from Page 6 than 49 years of serving Hawaii in the U.S. try. His work has been immensely important Senate, the longest serving member to date. to my home state of Washington,” said As president pro tempore of the Senate from Senator Murray. “I’m honored to receive this 2010-2012 — third in line of presidential award in the name of a true American mar- succession — Sen. Inouye was the highest- itime advocate. As Senator Inouye did during ranking public official of Asian descent in his tenure, I will continue to work with mem- United States history. For his heroic actions bers of Congress to support legislation that as a member of the famed 442nd Regimental sustains the strength of this vital industry Combat Team — resulting in the loss of his while honoring the maritime initiatives right arm — the World War II veteran ulti- Senator Inouye worked tirelessly to uphold.” mately earned the nation’s highest award for “Dan was widely respected for his military valor, the Medal of Honor. moral courage and his commitment to work- Following the ceremony, Tom Regular monthly membership meetings for AMO will be held during the ing in a bipartisan fashion,” said Irene Allegretti, Chairman of the American week following the first Sunday of every month at 1 p.m. local time. Hirano Inouye, wife of Sen. Inouye and Maritime Partnership, the voice of the Meetings will be held on Monday at AMO National Headquarters (on Advisory Committee Member. “It is with domestic maritime industry, issued a state- Tuesday when Monday is a contract holiday). The next meetings will full confidence I can say Sen. Murray exem- ment calling Sen. Murray “a tireless support- take place on the following dates: plifies that same commitment to the er of our industry and a worthy recipient of Merchant Marine and therefore it is with this award named in honor of one of AMO National Headquarters: January 4, February 8 pride of my husband’s memory that she was America’s greatest heroes.”