Volume 43, Number 3 March 2013

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The Navy christened the USNS Montford Point, a transfer point for a Marine Corps amphibious land- the first mobile landing platform in a series of three ing force between large ships and ship-to-shore land- being built by General Dynamics NASSCO, at the ing craft. The ship also provides the ability to transfer At- shipyard in San Diego, Calif., March 2, adding new vehicles and equipment at sea while interfacing with Below: tending the jobs for the membership of American Maritime surface connectors to deliver the vehicles and equip- christening cere- Officers. ment ashore. mony for the Ocean Ships, Inc. is the operating company for During the christening ceremony, Gen. James USNS were the mobile landing platforms (MLPs) and AMO repre- Amos, commandant of the Marine Corps, delivered Montford Point the ship’s Captain Kurt sents all licensed officers. The USNS Montford Point is the principal address and Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, Kleinschmidt and Chief scheduled for delivery in the second quarter of 2013. commander of MSC, discussed the ship, its crew and Engineer William Maus, First “AMO is proud to be onboard as the USNS its potential in service to the military. Also attending Assistant Engineer Joseph Montford Point nears completion and is prepared for the ceremony and addressing the more than 1,000 peo- Gelhaus (first relieving chief engi- service,” said AMO National President Tom Bethel. ple gathered for the christening were Congresswoman neer) and Chief Mate Mike Sands “The MLPs are central to the Navy’s sea-basing con- Susan Davis (D-CA) and Congressmen Juan Vargas (first relieving master). With them here cept and our union looks forward to providing charac- (D-CA) and Scott Peters (D-CA). are Ocean Ships, Inc. Vice President of teristic exceptional service to Military Sealift “I salute the ship’s first master, Captain Kurt Operations Bob Sheen, Ocean Command aboard these new ships.” Kleinschmidt, his chief engineer, Bill Maus, and the Shipholdings CEO Joe Vaughan, Jr., The USNS Montford Point will join MSC’s rest of the U.S. merchant marine crew,” Buzby said. AMO National Secretary -Treasurer José Maritime Prepositioning Force as a seagoing pier in “Their determination will stand this ship and its mis- Leonard, Ocean Ships, Inc. President Jim the event that accessibility to onshore bases is denied. McGregor and AMO National Assistant As a cornerstone of sea basing, the MLP will serve as See Montford Point ◆ Page 12 Vice President Daniel Shea.

Resilient American shipyards, Broad-based, powerful support AMO and the LNG horizon for funding of Food for Peace

Page 2: To borrow a bit from Mark Twain, reports of the American ship- Pages 3, 6: A bipartisan group of 21 senators, and the Navy League of building industry’s death in commercial markets are greatly exaggerated. the United States — as well as 70 maritime unions, U.S.-flag carriers, Several new vessels produced by and being built at U.S. shipyards repre- farming and agricultural organizations and companies, humanitarian sent additional employment for American Maritime Officers members organizations and trade associations — have urged the Obama and new employer contributions to the AMO benefit funds. This, in turn, Administration to sustain funding of Food for Peace (PL 480) in the FY means greater long-term job and benefit security for all AMO families. 2014 budget request, citing the program’s roles in national security.

Page 12: Christening of the USNS Montford Point

Copyright © 2013 American Maritime Officers ■ [email protected] 2 • American Maritime Officer March 2013 Resilient U.S. shipyards, AMO and the LNG horizon

By Tom Bethel security for all AMO families. plant in Louisiana and one in Ontario, predict over the next few years. If so, U.S. National President In a broader sense, a resilient U.S. where it would supply LNG to vessels shipbuilders will meet the need, and AMO shipbuilding industry — 85 construction operating on the Great Lakes-St. — the only U.S. merchant marine officers’ To borrow a and repair yards and 86 shipyard suppliers Lawrence Seaway. “We are investing now union with real LNG experience and a bit from Mark in 29 states, according to the Shipbuilders in the infrastructure that will allow us to standard-setting LNG training program — Twain, reports of Council of America — helps blunt criti- bring this innovative and cost-competitive will be ready to man the licensed positions the American ship- cism of the Jones Act, which holds domes- fuel to our customers,” one Shell execu- on these vessels. building industry’s tic waterborne commerce for merchant tive said. With our own careful planning, and death in commer- vessels owned, built, flagged and crewed Other such projects are in develop- with sustained strong support of the AMO cial markets are in the U.S. ment, and my administration is monitoring Voluntary Political Action Fund, we could greatly exagger- Much of this criticism comes from each of them closely. This burgeoning see this market developing for us as early ated. Hawaii and Puerto Rico, where business industry could require a fleet of coastal as this year. Two years interests and local political figures often LNG tankers to keep fueling sites sup- As always, I welcome your com- ago, General call for amendment to or outright repeal of plied, and the hope here is that demand ments and questions. Please feel free to Dynamics’ NASS- this increasingly important law. The empty will rise to the strong point many analysts call me on my cell at (202) 251-0349. CO shipyard in argument made most often is that the Jones San Diego completed the five-ship “State- Act’s “build American” requirement dis- class” product tanker project for coastal courages private capital investment in mer- trade with the Evergreen State. chant vessel construction for service with- More recently, the Aker Philadelphia in Jones Act jurisdiction. yard in its namesake city delivered the But the fact that U.S. shipyards are product tankers Pennsylvania and Florida, set to partner with the U.S. shipping and BAE Systems in Mobile turned out the industry to hasten the advent of LNG as product tanker American Phoenix. a common, clean and less expensive ves- Meanwhile, the VT Halter Marine sel fuel brings additional positive dimen- yard in Pascagoula continued construc- sion to this story — and this joint leader- tion of the Marjorie C, the second com- ship could result in even more new work bination roll-on/roll-off-containership for AMO. for service between the U.S. mainland “Demand for LNG-powered and Hawaii. engines is on the rise in the maritime In a groundbreaking development sector, and the craze is starting to gain late last year, Totem Ocean Trailer Express momentum in other industries that are — TOTE Inc. — launched plans to convert looking to secure new sources of afford- its roll-on/roll-off ships North Star and able fuel,” the worldwide shipping news- Midnight Sun at NASSCO to use liquefied paper Trade Winds said in a March 6 fea- natural gas as their primary fuel. ture. “Campaigns led by the U.S. and TOTE took this visionary project a other nations to slow global warming significant step further when the compa- have made LNG power more attractive ny announced it had signed with NASS- too, observers say. In the shipping sector, CO for the construction of at least two operators are subject to increasingly LNG-powered container ships for ser- strict emissions standards that call for vice between the U.S. mainland and the use of low sulphur fuel oil.” Puerto Rico. These will be the largest This trend toward LNG as a sensible LNG-fueled ships of any design any- alternative to traditional fuel would require where in the world. the construction of gas liquefaction plants As national president of American and bunkering sites for LNG-fueled mer- Maritime Officers, I am pleased to note chant vessels, as well as for gas-powered once more for the record that this new ton- trucks and railroad locomotives. nage represents additional employment for Shell, which employs AMO mem- American Maritime Officer (USPS 316-920) our union and new employer contributions bers in senior vessel positions in its inter- Official Publication of American Maritime Officers to the AMO benefit funds. This, in turn, national LNG fleet, announced early this 601 S. Federal Highway means greater long-term job and benefit month that it will build one liquefaction Dania Beach, FL 33004 (954) 921-2221 Periodical Postage Paid at Dania Beach, FL, and Additional Mailing Offices AMO members attend meetings of Published Monthly union’s National Executive Board, AMO Plans Board of Trustees 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 Michael Murphy, National Vice President, Government Relations

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

Representative: Stan Barnes

Editor: Matt Burke Assistant Editor: Linda Brockman American Maritime Officers members attending and observing meetings Contributing Editor: Paul Doell of the AMO National Executive Board and meetings of the AMO Plans trustees in February in Naples, Fla., included Andrew Diamond and Brad POSTMASTER—Send Address Changes To: Dillman. AMO officials with them here are AMO National Secretary- Treasurer José Leonard, AMO National President Tom Bethel and AMO American Maritime Officers National Executive Vice President Bob Kiefer. Seafarers International ATTN: Member Services Union President Michael Sacco (third from right) attended and addressed P.O. Box 66 a meeting of AMO National Executive Board in February. Dania Beach, FL 33004 March 2013 American Maritime Officer • 3 Maritime, labor, farming, Senators seek sustained humanitarian relief, food funding of Food for Peace supply sectors support in administration’s fiscal Food for Peace and Food year 2014 budget request for Progress, oppose shifting of U.S. resources

In a letter to President Obama dated U.S. flag and stamped as ‘From the Feb. 21, 2013, a broad range of unions, American People’ serve as ambassadors companies and organizations spanning of our nation’s goodwill, which can help several sectors of the U.S. economy to address the root causes of instability. expressed overwhelming support for sus- We doubt that less reliable foreign-pro- tained funding of the Food for Peace (PL cured food products — whose quality and 480) and Food for Progress programs, and safety are unknown but paid for by strong opposition to proposals of shifting American taxpayers — would have the resources for these programs to the pro- same impact. curement of commodities overseas. “Proposals to slash funding for the American Maritime Officers and program, or shift to purchases of food aid American Maritime Officers Service were from foreign (sometimes called ‘local and among 70 signing the letter, which included regional’) suppliers instead of American The Sealift, Inc. ship Noble Star, here in Port Everglades, Fla., transports U.S. maritime labor, U.S.-flag carriers, U.S. food farmers would be detrimental to our econ- food-aid in the PL-480 trades. American Maritime Officers represents all producers and exporters, U.S. farming and omy and bad national security policy.” licensed officers aboard the Noble Star. agricultural organizations, U.S. humanitari- Signing the letter to the President an relief organizations, and trade associa- were ACDI/VOCA, Adventist In a letter addressed to President for the needs of the poor, hungry and disen- tions representing these sectors. Development & Relief Agency Obama dated Feb. 20, 2013, a bipartisan franchised around the world. Separately, 26 organizations and International, Alliance for Global Food group of 21 senators requested that the “Food for Peace provides economic associations from the farming, food produc- Security, America Cargo Transport Corp., administration maintain funding for the benefits at home, stimulating our farm and tion and agricultural sectors sent a letter American Feed Industry Association, Food for Peace (PL 480) program in the transportation industries. American agri- dated Feb. 21, 2013, to the Senate American Maritime Congress, American fiscal year 2014 budget proposal. Under culture is one of the few U.S. business sec- Appropriations Committee’s Subcommittee Maritime Officers, American Maritime U.S. cargo preference laws, Food for tors to produce a trade surplus, exporting on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food Officers Service, American Peanut Peace is a significant source of cargoes $108 billion in farm goods in 2010. During and Drug Administration, and Related Council, American Soybean Association, for U.S.-flagged ships, including many this time of economic distress, we should Agencies Chairman Mark Pryor (D-AR) APL Limited, BKA Logistics LLC, manned by members of American maintain support for the areas of our econ- and Ranking Member Roy Blunt (R-MO). California Wheat Commission, Central Maritime Officers. omy that are growing. In addition to pro- The letter expressed similar strong support Gulf Lines, Inc., Congressional Hunger “We write to request that you main- viding American commodities directly to for sustained funding of Food for Peace and Center, Counterpart International, Feed tain funding for the U.S. Department of those without access to food, Food for Food for Progress, and opposition to shift- the Children, Food for the Hungry, Global Agriculture (USDA) Food for Peace Peace supports a variety of developmental ing program resources to purchase food aid Food & Nutrition, Hapag-Lloyd USA, Program, also known as Public Law 480, programs implemented by U.S. faith-based from foreign suppliers. LLC; International Organization of in your Fiscal Year 2014 budget request to organizations, designed to help end the “The unified and staunch support Masters, Mates & Pilots; International Congress. As you know, Title II of Public cycle of poverty. of Food for Peace and Food for Progress Partnership for Human Development, Law 480 provides for the donation of U.S. “Again, we ask that you maintain demonstrates the significance of these International Relief & Development, agricultural commodities by the U.S. gov- funding in your Fiscal Year 2014 budget keystone food-aid programs throughout International Services Corporation, Joint ernment to meet humanitarian food needs request to Congress for USDA’s Food for the U.S. economy,” said AMO National Aid Management USA, Lake Charles in foreign countries. We are supportive of Peace Program. This program is important President Tom Bethel. “These programs Harbor and Terminal District, Land O’ USDA’s work in this area. to American farmers and shippers and devel- are critical to national security, as the Lakes, Liberty Maritime Corporation, “Food for Peace has been our oping nations around the world. We look U.S. merchant mariners who transport Maersk Line Ltd., Marine Engineers’ nation’s flagship international food assis- forward to working with you on this issue.” U.S. food-aid onboard U.S.-flagged ships Beneficial Association, Maritime Institute tance program since its establishment in Signing the letter were Senators Mark are available to serve in military sealift for Research and Industrial Development, 1954. When President Eisenhower signed Pryor (D-AR), Roy Blunt (R-MO), Debbie missions in times of war and crisis. Every National Association of Wheat Growers, into law legislation authorizing the pro- Stabenow (D-MI), Thad Cochran (R-MS), aspect of these programs generates and National Barley Growers Association, gram, he explained that the purpose was Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Mary Landrieu (D- sustains jobs here in America while com- National Corn Growers Association, to ‘lay the basis for a permanent expan- LA), Tom Harkin (D-IA), David Vitter (R- bating hunger in the world’s poorest National Cotton Council, National sion of our exports of agricultural prod- LA), Barbara Mikulski (D-MD), John countries.” Council of Farmer Cooperatives, ucts with lasting benefits to ourselves and Boozman (R-AR), Al Franken (D-MN), Pat As noted in the letter to the National Farmers Union, National peoples of other lands.’ This program has Roberts (R-KS), Tim Johnson (D-SD), Roger President: “Growing, manufacturing, bag- Oilseed Processors Association, National been instrumental in linking rural Wicker (R-MS), Jerry Moran (R-KS), John ging, shipping, and transporting nutritious Potato Council, National Renderers America and the U.S. agriculture and Hoeven (R-ND), Brian Schatz (D-HI), U.S. food creates jobs and economic Association, National Sorghum transportation industries to communities Charles Schumer (D-NY), Ron Wyden (D- activity here at home, provides support for Producers, North American Millers’ in the developing world while building OR), Mike Johanns (R-NE) and Frank our U.S. merchant marine, essential to our Association, OIC International, Pacific greater awareness and support at home Lautenberg (D-NJ). national defense sealift capability, and Cargoes Incorporated, PCI, Planet Aid sustains a robust domestic constituency Inc., Sailors’ Union of the Pacific, for these programs not easily replicated in Salesian Missions, Seafarers International alternative foreign aid programs. Union, Sealift Inc., Southern United AMO in the Overseas, Food for Peace has a strong States Trade Association, TechnoServe track record of reducing child malnutrition Inc., Transportation Institute, United PL-480 trades and increasing incomes and food supplies Maritime Group, LLC, United Methodist for very poor and vulnerable populations. Committee on Relief, US Dry Bean Food for Progress expands business and Council, U.S. Grains Council, U.S. Meat Members of American Maritime income opportunities along the agriculture Export Federation, U.S. Overseas Officers working aboard the value chain and improves the quality and Cooperative Development Council, US Liberty Glory in February, here quantity of food supplies. Both of those Rice Producers Association, U.S. Wheat in Corpus Christi, Texas, includ- programs are proven models for address- Associates, USA Dry Pea and Lentil ed Chief Mate Ruben Abasolo ing global food insecurity.” Council, USA Maritime, USA Rice and Chief Engineer Marek As noted in the letter to Senators Federation, Washington State Potato Vronsky. AMO represents all Pryor and Blunt: “In addition to fighting Commission, Waterman Steamship licensed officers aboard the global hunger and facilitating developmen- Corporation, Western U.S. Agricultural Liberty Maritime Corporation tal programs, the program is one of our Trade Association, Winrock International, ship, which transports U.S. most effective, lowest-cost national security World Vision International, and World food-aid in the PL-480 trades. tools. Bags of U.S.-grown food bearing the Vision US. 4 • American Maritime Officer March 2013 113th Congress Committee assignments: Committee assignments: House of Representatives Senate Several committees in the U.S. House of Representatives have jurisdiction over Several committees in the U.S. Senate have jurisdiction over legislative issues legislative issues that directly or indirectly affect the U.S. merchant marine and that directly or indirectly affect the U.S. merchant marine and American merchant American merchant mariners. Among these committees are the Ways and Means mariners. Among these committees are the Finance Committee, which has jurisdiction Committee, which has jurisdiction over issues of trade and taxation, the Agriculture over issues of trade and taxation, the Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee, Committee, which has jurisdiction over legislation involving food-aid programs relat- which has jurisdiction over legislation involving cargo preference laws and programs, ed to U.S. cargo preference laws, and the Appropriations Committee, which has juris- and the Appropriations Committee, which has jurisdiction over funding for programs diction over funding for programs and projects authorized by law. The Transportation and projects authorized by law. The Commerce, Science and Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and the Armed Services Committee have jurisdiction Committee and the Armed Services Committee have jurisdiction over legislative over legislative issues that directly affect the U.S. merchant marine and its roles in issues that directly affect the U.S. merchant marine and its roles in national security, national security, defense sealift and commerce. defense sealift and commerce. The following are the assignments in the 113th Congress The following are the assignments in the 113th Congress for these two committees. for these two committees. An online tool to identify the Congressional representative for your district, as well as An online tool to identify the senators for your state, as well as more information more information on committee assignments, are available at www.house.gov. on committee assignments, are available at www.senate.gov.

Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee This committee has broad jurisdiction over national This committee has broad jurisdiction over national transportation issues, policies and projects. Among the transportation issues and policies. Among the specific areas specific areas under the jurisdiction of this committee and under this committee’s jurisdiction are the merchant marine its subcommittees are the U.S. merchant marine (with the and navigation, inland waterways (with the exception of exception of national security aspects), economic aspects construction), marine and ocean navigation (safety, trans- of the Jones Act, improvement of U.S. harbors, inland portation and navigational aspects of deepwater ports), waterways, inspection of merchant marine vessels, rules transportation, and the commerce and transportation and regulations to prevent collisions at sea, pollution aspects of Outer Continental Shelf lands. issues for U.S. navigable waters, transportation infrastruc- Democratic members of this committee (in the ture and transportation labor. majority) are: Chairman John D. “Jay” Rockefeller IV, Republican members of this committee (in the W. Va.; Barbara Boxer, Calif.; Bill Nelson, Fla; Maria majority) are: Chairman Bill Shuster, Pa.; Vice Cantwell, Wash.; Frank Lautenberg, N.J.; Mark Pryor, Chairman John Duncan Jr., Tenn.; Don Young, Alaska; Rep. Bill Shuster Ark.; Claire McCaskill, Mo.; Amy Klobuchar, Minn.; Mark Sen. John “Jay” Thomas Petri, Wis.; Howard Coble, N.C.; John Mica, Fla.; (R-PA) Warner, Va.; Mark Begich, Alaska; Richard Blumenthal, Rockefeller (D-WV) Frank LoBiondo, N.J.; Gary Miller, Calif.; Sam Graves, Conn.; Brian Schatz, Hawaii; and William Cowan, Mass. Mo.; Shelley Moore Capito, W. Va.; Candice Miller, Mich.; Duncan Hunter, Republican members of this committee are: Ranking Member John Calif.; Andy Harris, Md.; Rick Crawford, Ark.; Lou Barletta, Pa.; Blake Thune, S.D.; Roger Wicker, Miss.; Roy Blunt, Mo; Marco Rubio, Fla; Kelly Farenthold, Texas; Larry Bucshon, Ind.; Bob Gibbs, Ohio; Pat Meehan, Pa.; Ayotte, N.H.; Dean Heller, Nev.; Dan Coats, Ind.; Tim Scott, S.C.; Ted Cruz, Richard Hanna, N.Y.; Daniel Webster, Fla.; Steve Southerland, Fla.; Jeff Texas; Deb Fischer, Neb.; and Ron Johnson, Wis. Denham, Calif.; Reid Ribble, Wis.; Thomas Massie, Ky.; Steve Daines, Mont.; Tom Rice, S.C.; Markwayne Mullin, Okla.; Roger Williams, Texas; Trey Radel, Armed Services Committee Fla.; Mark Meadows, N.C.; Scott Perry, Pa.; and Rodney Davis, Ill. This committee has jurisdiction over military and nation- Democratic members of this committee are: Ranking Member Nick al defense aspects of the U.S. merchant marine, including the Rahall II, W. Va.; Peter DeFazio, Ore.; Eleanor Holmes Norton, D.C.; Jerrold defense-related applications of the Jones Act, the Maritime Nadler, N.Y.; Corrine Brown, Fla.; Eddie Bernice Johnson, Texas; Grace Security Program, and budgets for military sealift. Napolitano, Calif.; Daniel Lipinski, Ill.; Timothy Walz, Minn.; Steve Cohen, Democratic members of this committee (in the Tenn.; Albio Sires, N.J.; Donna Edwards, Md.; John Garamendi, Calif.; André majority) and members caucusing with the Democratic Carson, Ind.; Janice Hahn, Calif.; Richard Nolan, Minn.; Ann Kirkpatrick, Ariz.; members are: Chairman Carl Levin, Mich.; Jack Reed, Dina Titus, Nev.; Sean Patrick Maloney, N.Y.; Elizabeth Esty, Conn.; Lois R.I.; Bill Nelson, Fla.; Claire McCaskill, Mo.; Mark Udall, Frankel, Fla.; Cheri Bustos, Ill. Colo.; Kay R. Hagan, N.C.; Joe Manchin III, W. Va.; Jeanne Shaheen, N.H.; Kirsten E. Gillibrand, N.Y.; Richard The Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Blumenthal, Conn.; Joe Donnelly, Ind.; Mazie Hirono, addresses regulatory and other issues directly affecting the U.S. merchant Hawaii; Tim Kaine, Va.; and Angus King, an independent marine. Rep. Duncan Hunter is the chairman of the subcommittee. Rep. John senator from Maine. Sen. Carl Levin Garamendi is the ranking Democrat. Republican members of this committee are: (D-MI) Ranking Member James Inhofe, Okla.; John McCain, Armed Services Committee Ariz.; Jeff Sessions, Ala.; Saxby Chambliss, Ga.; Roger Wicker, Miss.; Kelly This committee has jurisdiction over military and nation- Ayotte, N.H.; Deb Fischer, Neb.; Lindsey Graham, S.C.; David Vitter, La.; Roy al defense aspects of the U.S. merchant marine, including the Blunt, Mo.; Mike Lee, Utah; and Ted Cruz, Texas. Maritime Security Program, defense-related applications of the Jones Act and budgets for military sealift. Republican members of this committee (in the majority) are: Chairman Howard “Buck” McKeon, Need for dredging highlighted Calif.; Vice Chairman Mac Thornberry, Texas; Walter Jones, N.C.; Randy Forbes, Va.; Jeff Miller, Fla.; Joe during T&I Committee hearing Wilson, S.C.; Frank LoBiondo, N.J.; Rob Bishop, Utah; Mike Turner, Ohio; John Kline, Minn.; Mike Rogers, Ala.; Congressional approval of the “Transportation is important,” Trent Franks, Ariz.; Bill Shuster, Pa.; Mike Conaway, Realize America’s Maritime Promise Rep. Shuster said. “It’s about people and Texas; Doug Lamborn, Colo.; Rob Wittman, Va.; Duncan (RAMP Act) was cited as an important how they live their lives. It’s also about Hunter, Calif.; John Fleming, La.; Mike Coffman, Colo.; Rep. Howard aspect of maintaining and improving business. An efficient national trans- Scott Rigell, Va.; Chris Gibson, N.Y.; Vicky Hartzler, “Buck” McKeon the efficiency of the domestic trans- portation network lowers production Miss.; Joe Heck, Nev.; Jon Runyan, N.J.; Austin Scott, Ga.; (R-CA) portation system during the first hearing costs and enhances productivity and Steven Palazzo, Miss.; Martha Roby, Ala.; Mo Brooks, of the 113th Congress convened by the profits. And it is about America. Our Ala.; Rich Nugent, Fla.; Kristi Noem, S.D.; Paul Cook, Calif.; Jim Bridenstine, Committee on Transportation and national transportation system binds us Okla.; Brad Wenstrup, Ohio; and Jackie Walorski, Ind. Infrastructure in the House of together. Working together in the 113th Democratic members of this committee are: Ranking Member Adam Representatives. Congress, the committee will focus on Smith, Wash.; Loretta Sanchez, Calif.; Mike McIntyre, N.C.; Bob Brady, Pa.; In a statement regarding the Feb. 11 strengthening America’s national trans- Rob Andrews, N.J.; Susan Davis, Calif.; James Langevin, R.I.; Rick Larsen, hearing, “The Federal Role in America’s portation network to make us more effi- Wash.; Jim Cooper, Tenn.; Madeleine Bordallo, Guam; Joe Courtney, Conn.; Infrastructure,” T&I Committee cient, more competitive and more pros- David Loebsack, Iowa; Niki Tsongas, Mass.; John Garamendi, Calif.; Hank Chairman Rep. Bill Shuster (R-PA) noted perous. This is an important responsibil- Johnson, Ga.; Colleen Hanabusa, Hawaii; Jackie Speier, Calif.; Ron Barber, Ariz.; the quality of the nation’s transportation ity of government — especially the fed- André Carson, Ind.; Carol Shea-Porter, N.H.; Dan Maffei, N.Y.; Derek Kilmer, infrastructure affects the lives of Wash.; Joaquín Castro, Texas; Tammy Duckworth, Ill.; Scott Peters, Calif.; Americans in many ways on a daily basis. See Dredging ◆ Page 5 William Enyart, Ill.; Pete Gallego, Texas; and Marc Veasey, Texas. March 2013 American Maritime Officer • 5

Guard icebreaker to the Great Lakes fulfills a Great Lakes Maritime Task Force focused longtime goal, but the task force still believes a second heavy icebreaker to supplement the Mackinaw is needed to ensure the free flow on major issues affecting industry in of cargo during periods of ice cover. The task force awaits reintroduction of legislation to promote more short sea ship- 2013 on America’s “fourth sea coast” ping on the Great Lakes via enactment of a narrow exemption from the Harbor The Great Lakes Maritime Task Force aquatic nuisance species have been present on oceangoing vessels by the Coast Guard Maintenance Tax for non-bulk cargoes trans- (GLMTF) in its 2012 annual report identified for more than 170 years; they have moved or and EPA should protect the Lakes from ported between Great Lakes ports. major issues the task force will remain been moved to wherever they are going to be future introductions.” It added: “The EPA’s The GLMTF also urges Congress to focused on addressing in 2013, with the in the Lakes by one of the 64 vectors of regulations allow individual states to add adequately fund the six state maritime acad- dredging crisis remaining the top priority. spread tracked by NOAA and the U.S. their own requirements and this has already emies, including the Great Lakes Maritime “We knew the dredging crisis would Geological Survey.” created a patchwork of differing mandates. If Academy in Traverse City, Mich. test our endurance,” said GLMTF President The task force also pointed out: states must co-regulate ballast water, they The GLMTF is the largest coalition to Don Cree, Great Lakes special assistant to “Another more basic reason lakers need not should align their requirements with the ever speak for the Great Lakes shipping the national president of American Maritime treat their ballast is they confine their opera- Coast Guard’s federal regulations.” community and draws its membership from Officers. “The bad news is only 17 of the 63 tions to these waters. Most lakers are Lakes- The task force remains committed to both labor and management — representing federally maintained ports on the Lakes were locked; they are too big to enter the Seaway, construction of a second Poe-sized lock at U.S.-flag vessel operators, shipboard unions, dredged in 2012 and the budget for FY13 and the few lakers that are Seaway-sized are Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., and applauds efforts including American Maritime Officers, long- maintains only 15 harbors. The good news is not certified to go overseas.” to correct a flawed analysis of the project’s shore unions, port authorities, cargo shippers, legislation requiring the Harbor Maintenance The task force noted: “The ballast benefit/cost ratio. terminal operators, shipyards, and other Trust Fund to spend what it takes in each water treatment systems that will be required The addition of another U.S. Coast Great Lakes interests. year for dredging on dredging has already been introduced in the House and Senate.” The task force identified several other major issues on which it continues to work. AMO Medical Plan reminder: Coordination of Benefits Among them are federal regulation of ballast water, construction of a second Poe-sized required every year for participants with dependents lock at Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., adequate In order to maintain efficiency in the processing of claims, As an AMO Medical Plan participant, claims may be U.S. Coast Guard icebreaking resources, AMO Medical Plan participants with dependents are required to delayed for you and your dependent(s) if the AMO Medical short sea shipping, and federal funding for complete a Coordination of Benefits form every year. Plan does not have this form on record. You are required to state maritime academies. The 2013 Coordination of Benefits form has been mailed notify the Plan office immediately if any change in dependent Regarding the treatment of ballast to all affected participants. These participants will need to status occurs. water exchanged by Great Lakes vessels, the complete and return the form to the AMO Medical Plan. This Please be aware, if a dependent spouse is employed task force emphasized: “the fact that no sys- form will be used to update the information in the records of each full time (30 hours or more), and his or her employer does tem that can handle lakers’ flowrate for bal- affected participant, as well as the records of his or her depen- not provide group medical coverage, documentation from last (as much as 80,000 gallons per minute) dent(s). Please make sure to include all requested information the employer on company letterhead will be needed as is even on the drawing board is but one rea- when completing the form. proof that no coverage is provided. son federal regulations should not require lakers to treat their ballast. The Lakes are interconnected, so once an exotic has taken AMO Medical Plan reminder: prior authorization required root, it can and will migrate at will. Some for certain types of health care; Non-Compliance Penalty

Dredging As a reminder, all American authorization as required may result in expense, benefits that are otherwise Maritime Officers Medical Plan par- benefits being reduced or denied. Prior payable will be reduced or not cov- Continued from Page 4 ticipants are required to obtain prior authorization does not guarantee bene- ered at all, as shown in the Schedule eral government.” authorization before receiving cer- fit payment. Benefits are subject to of Benefits under Non-Compliance During the hearing, passage of the tain types of health care. The health AMO Medical Plan provisions. Penalty (Failure to Obtain Prior RAMP Act, as well as a new Water care services and treatment types Authorization). The penalty may be Resources Development Act, were cited that require prior authorization are Non-Compliance Penalty taken from any charges relating to as key components of improving the effi- detailed in the Schedule of Benefits As detailed in the Schedule of the treatment. The penalty is taken ciency of the U.S. waterborne transporta- contained in the AMO Medical Plan Benefits, a Non-Compliance Penalty of before subtracting any deductible and tion system. Summary Plan Description, which $250 will apply for failure to obtain prior coinsurance. The penalty is not Introduced in the House by Rep. has been distributed in print to Plan authorization for certain types of health applied to the out-of-pocket limit. Charles Boustany (R-LA), the RAMP Act participants and is available online care. For participants who fail to obtain The first penalty per covered person would ensure funds collected via the Harbor for reference on the AMO Plans prior authorization, specific treatment per lifetime will be waived. Maintenance Tax and deposited in the website under the “Medical” Plan tab will be reviewed when a claim is If the treatment is not a covered Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund are used for at www.amoplans.com. received. expense, no benefits will be payable dredging and maintaining the nation’s water- Please note: failure to obtain If it is determined to be a covered under the Plan. ways. Companion legislation, The Harbor Maintenance Act of 2013, was introduced in the Senate by Carl Levin (D-MI). Both bills have drawn strong bipartisan support. In a recent statement, the Great AMO aboard ATB Legend in Jones Act trades Lakes Maritime Task Force noted the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund spends only one of every two tax dollars it col- American Maritime Officers mem- lects for dredging on dredging. The fund’s bers working aboard the Jones Act surplus is approaching $7 billion while ATB Legend in December, here in dredging projects in critical harbors and Garyville, La., included Second channels remain unfunded, particularly on Mate David Cunningham, Chief the Great Lakes — limiting the ability of Mate Steve Felton and Chief Mate vessels to operate and forcing U.S.- James Cunningham. With them is flagged ships to reduce their cargoes on AMO National Secretary-Treasurer each trip, which impedes the efficiency of José Leonard. All ATBs in the the waterborne transportation system vital Crowley Maritime fleet are operated to the regional and national economies. under contract with the SIU. AMO Former Governor of Pennsylvania has established a pass-through Edward Rendell, was a witness at the agreement with the SIU covering hearing and pointed out that, despite a the three 750 Class ATBs. large surplus in the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund, the busiest U.S. harbors are under-maintained. “We need to make certain that our ports spent for their intended purpose – not to and chairman of the Subcommittee on Water “The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers remain economically competitive by pass- mask the federal deficit. I urge you to Resources and Environment, thanked Rep. estimates that full channel dimensions at the ing a water resources development bill and approve the RAMP Act.” Shuster for his commitment to a Water nation’s busiest 59 ports are available less by ensuring that the revenues collected by During the hearing, Rep. Bob Gibbs Resources Development Act, and Rendell than 35 percent of the time,” Rendell said. the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund are (R-OH), a member of the T&I Committee for his commitment to the RAMP Act. 6 • American Maritime Officer March 2013 Navy League: canceling Food for Peace would have ‘devastating impacts to our national security’

The following letter dated Feb. 28, counting the farm and milling of the com- We support keeping funding at no less component of that; life-sustaining food in 2013, was sent by National Executive modities, is an important source of jobs for than the $1.466 billion provided last year. bags marked as gifts “From the American Director of the Navy League of the United American shippers, processors, port work- This foreign aid program is a significant People” and bearing the U.S. flag are an States Dale Lumme to Acting Director of ers, and merchant mariners, providing source of American jobs and preserves a important symbol of our nation’s concern the Office of Management and Budget employment for over 33,000 Americans, needed national security asset. The Navy and generosity to recipients, ensuring the Jeffrey Zients. $1.9 billion in economic output, and $523 League believes strongly in American good- sight of an American flag on a mast contin- On behalf of the 48,000 members million in household earnings. will abroad, and this program is a necessary ues to be a promise of a better tomorrow. and 250 worldwide councils of the Navy League of the United States, we urge you to maintain the structure of and funding levels for the Food for Peace and Food for Commander of MSC tours, commends USNS Wheat Progress programs in the FY 2014 budget. These food aid cargo programs are neces- sary to maintain the commercial U.S. mer- chant marine and play an important role in American diplomacy. Food for Peace funding has already been cut by 35 percent since FY08, and recent reports suggest that the administra- tion’s budget will include a proposal to dis- mantle the Food for Peace Program in order to send cash abroad instead of American food aid. This would be disastrous for the American maritime community. This pro- gram has had long-standing, bipartisan sup- port; every administration has supported the program since its inception in 1954. Canceling this vital program will sig- Photo courtesy of Captain Michael Hasson nificantly undermine the U.S.-flag merchant Commander of Military Sealift Command Rear Adm. Mark Buzby in February visited the USNS LCPL Roy M. Wheat. marine and have devastating impacts to our He toured the ship and met with the officers and crew, thanking them for their philanthropy (regarding their recent national security. The United States mer- donations to the Wounded Warrior Regiment, the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund and the Sulzbacher Center). With chant marine has been a necessary part of him aboard the USNS Wheat are OIC Captain Michael Hasson, GVA Darius Edwa rds, Bos’n Robert Arneel, AB our national defense since the founding of Glenn Davis, Chief Cook Abraham Lagasca, Chief Engineer Clifford Jayne, Second Assistant Engineer David our nation. The U.S. government relies on Ellsworth, First A.E. Tommie Davis and GUDE James May. Not in the picture are Third A.E. Eric Hyson, SK Sheree the U.S.-flag, U.S.-crewed ships in a public- Brown and S/A George Jenkins. The USNS Wheat is operated for MSC by Maersk Line, Limited and is manned in private partnership with the Department of all licensed positions by American Maritime Officers. Defense to ensure the safe transportation of critical cargo anywhere in the world at any time — especially during times of war or national emergency. As American forces draw down worldwide, Department of Defense cargoes Spike in gas prices not a result of transportation costs are being greatly reduced, forcing U.S. flag carriers to become increasingly dependent As the price of a gallon of gasoline ble for the spike in gas prices. cited as a reason for high gas prices.” on other components of cargo preference, continued to climb at the pump over the “The spike in the price of gasoline has In the letter to Reps. Hunter and such as food aid, to remain economically past month, a small but ill-informed received national attention as the average Garamendi, the AMP Board of Directors viable and available in emergencies. We rely bevy of trade groups and media person- price of gasoline had increased every day for noted: “Crude oil and gasoline are trans- on the availability of U.S. merchant marine alities attempted to ladle erroneous more than a month,” the AMP Board of ported into and within the U.S. on rail- vessels, infrastructure and manpower to blame on the Jones Act. Directors stated. “A small number of misin- roads, pipelines, foreign flag vessels, ensure the safe delivery of military equip- Responding to the public outburst formed individuals have blamed the increase and American vessels. The price of ship- ment and supplies to our soldiers; the same of ignorance regarding the non-existent on American shipping companies. However, ping within the United States is a mini- capabilities replicated by the Department of relationship between American water- we want you to know that the change in the mal factor in the overall supply chain. Defense would cost billions more. Once the borne transportation and the increase in cost of gasoline is not the result of trans- Accusations that American shipping is U.S.-flag merchant marine capability is gas prices, American Maritime portation costs.” somehow the cause of the recent spike in diminished due to the impacts of this pro- Partnership (AMP) authored an analysis In his ‘Washington Secrets’ column gasoline prices are pure fiction. Gasoline gram cancellation, the United States could of factors actually related to the cost of published by The Washington Examiner, prices have increased in every part of the be forced to depend on politically unreliable gasoline. Paul Bedard wrote: CNBC ‘Mad Money’ country, even in those regions where foreign ships and crews to deliver important The AMP Board of Directors host Jim “Cramer and others have recent- domestic vessels play no part in the military and relief cargoes during times of included its analysis in a letter to House ly suggested that gas prices have spiked transportation. war and national emergency. We must retain of Representatives Subcommittee on because of a law called the Jones Act that “Although the Washington Post this strategic capability. Coast Guard and Maritime requires products shipped between U.S. recently dubbed the increase ‘a myste- Beyond the impacts to national secu- Transportation Chairman Duncan ports be carried on U.S. vessels, which rious climb,’ in fact the price of gaso- rity by undermining the merchant marine, Hunter (R-CA) and Ranking Member sometimes cost more to operate. The line is always heavily tied to the glob- hollowing out these programs will also John Garamendi (D-CA), emphasizing industry claimed that the Jones Act has adversely affect American jobs. The trans- that transportation costs are not responsi- been the law for decades and never been See AMP ◆ Page 7 portation of Food for Peace cargo alone, not U.S. must not include maritime services in trade negotiations

U.S. Maritime Coalition Chairman Douglas Bell, chairman of the trade policy U.S.-flag carriers, American ship- Government’s support for American cabo- James Henry urged the office of the U.S. staff committee at the USTR, requested yards, and U.S. seafarers have consistently tage laws and the American maritime indus- Trade Representative not to include mar- comments from the public regarding the conveyed a simple message, opposing “the try,” he wrote. “There is no justification for itime services in any international trade committee’s intention. inclusion of maritime matters in trade agree- any aspect of the domestic maritime trans- negotiations, noting “the inclusion of mar- Responding to Bell’s request, Henry ments because it is detrimental to U.S. portation services to be the subject of discus- itime matters in trade agreements … is detri- wrote a letter dated Feb. 26 citing the nation- national defense and economic interests. sion or covered by the ISA negotiations – to mental to U.S. national defense and eco- al defense and economic roles of the U.S.- Recognizing these negative impacts to the do so could mean the end of U.S. ownership nomic interests.” flag merchant fleet — roles that have histor- United States, the USTR and every adminis- and crewing of vessels sailing our waters. The U.S. Trade Representative ically excluded maritime services from inter- tration worked to ensure maritime matters Moreover, the GATT permanently grandfa- (USTR) notified Congress of the administra- national trade negotiations. Henry pointed were not included in the GATT, the GATS, thered the U.S. build requirement of our cab- tion’s intention to enter into negotiations for out the U.S.-flag maritime sector “provides or any regional or bilateral trade agree- otage laws governing cargo, passengers, an International Services Agreement (ISA) significant economic, homeland and national ments,” Henry wrote. with an initial group of 20 trading partners. security benefits to the United States.” “We deeply appreciate the U.S. See Maritime Services ◆ Page 7 March 2013 American Maritime Officer • 7 AMO aboard Maersk Peary in Operation Deep Freeze

Photos courtesy of Captain Everett Hatton The tanker Maersk Peary — operated by Maersk Line, Limited, and manned in all licensed positions by American Maritime Officers — arrived Feb. 8 at McMurdo Base, Antarctica, with a full load of fuels.

AMO members serving in Operation Deep Freeze 2013 aboard the Maersk Peary included Second Mate Troy McGuinnes, Third Mate Stephen Cushing, First Assistant Engineer Josh Lordan, Second A.E. Jim Cook, Chief Mate Thua Pham, Chief Engineer Cedric Harkins, Third A.E. Ashlee Stannard, Third A.E. Adam Beck and Captain Everett “Mike” Hatton, master.

Reps. Richmond, Grimm form Congressional Maritime Caucus

Congressmen Cedric Richmond (D- employs hundreds of hard-working men related topics. proud to have Congressman Michael LA) and Michael Grimm (R-NY) in and women. I am honored to co-chair the “I am confident that this caucus will Grimm as a co-chair and I look forward to February announced the establishment of Congressional Maritime Caucus with Rep. be a voice for the entire maritime industry, working with him to ensure that U.S. mar- the Congressional Maritime Caucus. The Richmond, and look forward to working one that stresses how critical this industry is itime policy meets the challenges of the 21st caucus will work to raise awareness among with him in support of issues that matter to sustaining our economic recovery. I’m century,” Rep. Richmond concluded. members of Congress on a broad range of most to our nation’s maritime industry.” maritime-related topics. The maritime industry has played the “The maritime industry is the unsung vital role of connecting people, goods and hero of our nation’s economy. From Alaska information worldwide. Every day, the mar- Reminder: STCW security to Puerto Rico, Louisiana to New York, itime industry facilitates trade and com- every day this industry facilitates trade and merce, which, in turn, create jobs. It deliv- endorsement to be required for delivers energy resources that support mil- ers energy resources, supports offshore lions of jobs, and pays billions in state and energy exploration, dredges our waterways, Merchant Mariner Credential federal taxes every year. I also look forward secures our borders and supports our mili- to highlighting the role other industries play tary. Onshore, the industry is supported by As a reminder to all individuals must actually appear on your in supporting maritime commerce, be it in all manner of professionals in fields such as sailing on a Merchant Mariner STCW/MMC, and you must apply to the fields of law, engineering, shipbuilding law, insurance, logistics, ship building and Credential in trades for which STCW the U.S. Coast Guard to obtain the or insurance,” said Rep. Richmond. repair, security, environmental science, applies, the 2010 amendments to the required endorsement unless VSO has “The maritime industry is at the heart engineering, management and workforce STCW code now require a specific already been placed on your of New York City’s economic vitality — training. security endorsement for the Merchant STCW/MMC. from our thriving shipping industry to the The Congressional Maritime Caucus Mariner Credential (MMC) prior to Jan. Most officers will require the new Staten Island Ferry,” said Rep. Grimm. “As will function as a devoted ally of all com- 1, 2014. VPDSD endorsement. STAR Center the representative of Staten Island and ponents of the maritime industry and will U.S. Coast Guard policy letter 12- has provided specific directions, a sam- Brooklyn, I am proud to have the New York work to raise awareness among members of 06 outlines the Coast Guard’s guidance ple service letter and a sample USCG Container Terminal in my district that Congress on a broad range of maritime- on obtaining the required security application to obtain the endorsement endorsement. Crew members who have on the STAR Center website at specific security duties, and all other www.star-center.com/stcw2010guid- Maritime Services maintain and support in international com- crew, must have a specific security ance.html. Under the 12-06 policy letter merce a U.S.-flag fleet necessary for endorsement placed on their MMC information, there are links directly to national defense, homeland security, and prior to the implementation date. The the USCG policy letter, directions, sam- Continued from Page 6 economic security purposes (e.g., the three STCW ‘95 endorsements are: ple letter and sample USCG application. dredging, towing, and fishing. That grandfa- Maritime Security Program and cargo pref- •VSO –VI/5 – Vessel Security It is recommended you apply to ther was fought and ‘paid for’ during those erence laws). Officer the USCG to obtain the endorsement as negotiations. There is no reason to open “Our laws and regulations are clear •VPDSD – VI/6 – Vessel soon as possible and have the endorse- domestic maritime services or the grandfa- and transparent,” Henry wrote. “Our inter- Personnel with Designated Security ment placed on your MMC well in ther for discussion in the ISA context, or in national trades are liberalized, as evidenced Duties advance of the implementation date of any other trade context for that matter. by the fact that roughly 97 percent of inter- •SA – VI/6 – Security Awareness Jan. 1, 2014. Without the security “International shipping, auxiliary national trade with the U.S. occurs on for- These endorsements are hierar- endorsement, your MMC will services, and access to and use of port facil- eign-flag vessels. We do not believe it is chal, meaning VSO covers and includes become invalid as of the implementa- ities also must not be included in the ISA or desirable, appropriate, or necessary to VPDSD and SA, and VPDSD covers tion date and you will be unable to any other trade agreement. To do so would include maritime matters in the ISA or any and includes SA. These endorsements sail on it. imperil the ability of the United States to other trade agreement context.”

AMP cost of crude oil,” AMP noted. global supply/demand, inflation, and weath- American Maritime Officers “Many experts say the recent spike in er, just to name a few. Service is a member of American Continued from Page 6 crude oil prices is tied to more demand in an “Crude oil, combined with federal, Maritime Partnership and American improving economy throughout the world, state and local taxes, accounts for 82 per- Maritime Officers participates. al price of crude oil. Almost 70 percent particularly in China. Other factors include cent of the ultimate price of gas for con- The letter is available on the AMP of the cost of gasoline is linked to the the value of the dollar, geopolitical issues, sumers,” AMP wrote. website at www.mctf.com. 8 • American Maritime Officer March 2013 American Maritime Officers Simulation, Training, Assessment & Research Center 2 West Dixie Highway • Dania Beach, FL 33004 • (954) 920-3222

General Courses

ABS NS5 Fleet Management Software 3 days 25 March 5 June 16 Oct

Advanced Fire Fighting 5 days 15 April 13 May 10 June 15 July 19 August 16 September 14 Oct

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 18 March 22 April 3 June 8 July 9 September 28 Oct Fire Prevention (Thurs/Fri — 2 days) — not required. if Combined Basic & Adv. Fire Fighting completed within 12 months

Basic Safety Training — Refresher 3 days 20 March 24 April 5 June 10 July 11 September 30 Oct

Chemical Safety — Advanced 5 days 22 April

Crowd Management 1 day Please call

Crisis Management & Human Behavior 1 day Please call 16, 23 Sept ECDIS 5 days 8, 15 April 20 May 24 June 15 July 5 August

Effective Supervision 2 days Please call

Environmental Awareness (includes Oily Water Separator) 3 days 8 April 10 June 15 July 30 September

Fast Rescue Boat 4 days 15 April 6 May 24 June 15 July 3 September

GMDSS 10 days 15 April 30 September

LNG Tankerman PIC 8 days 5 June

LNG Simulator Training — Enrollment priority in the LNG simulator course is given to qualified member candidates for employment and/or observation opportunities with 5 days 17 June AMO contracted LNG companies. In all cases successful completion of the LNG PNC classroom course is prerequisite.

Proficiency in Survival Craft (Lifeboat) 4 days 25 March 28 May 16 September 21 October

Safety Officer Course 2 days 2 May 25 July 12 September

Tankerman PIC DL — Classroom 5 days 18 March

Tankerman PIC DL — Simulator 10 days 1 April 13 May 8 July 19 August 28 October

Train the Trainer 5 days 22 April 17 June 26 August 7 October

Train the Trainer — Simulator Instructors 5 days Please call

Vessel/Company Security Officer — Includes Anti-Piracy 3 days 29 April 22 July 9 September

Deck Courses

Advanced Bridge Resource Management 5 days 15 July (P.M.) 28 Oct (P.M.)

Advanced Shiphandling for Masters — (No equivalency) Must have sailed as 30 September 5 days 8 April 24 June 26 August Chief Mate Unlimited (P.M)

Advanced Shiphandling for 3rd Mates — 60 days seatime equiv. for 3rd Mates 10 days 13 May (P.M.) 12 August 16 September

Advanced Emergency Shiphandling — First Class Pilots, Great Lakes 5 days Please call

Bridge Resource Management Seminar 3 days Please call

Dynamic Positioning — Basic 5 days 1 April 3 June 16 September

Dynamic Positioning — Advanced 5 days 6 May 15 July

Integrated Bridge System (IBS) / Prodded Propulsion Training 5 days 25 March 7 Oct (P.M.)

STCW Deck Officer Refresher — Great Lakes 3 days Please call

TOAR (Towing Officer Assessment Record) — Third Mate (Unlimited or Great 5 days 25 March 29 April 17 June 26 August 30 September Lakes) or 1600T Master License required AND OICNW required

Tug Training — ASD Assist (Azimuthing Stern Drive) 5 days 20 May (P.M.) 9 September

Visual Communications (Flashing Light) — Test only! 1 day Scheduled as required Engineering Courses

Advanced Slow Speed Diesel 10 days 1 April 8 July 30 September

Basic Electricity 10 days 1 April 24 June 5 August 7 October

Diesel Crossover 4 weeks 3 June

Engine Room Resource Management 5 days 15 April 23 September

Gas Turbine Endorsement 10 days 18 March 13 May 17 June 19 August 14 October

High Voltage Safety Course (Classroom) 3 days 15 July 28 October

Ocean Ranger Program 6 days 15 April

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) 5 days 15 April 8 July 19 August 21 October

Refrigeration (Operational Level) 5 days 15 April 19 August

Refrigeration (Management Level) 5 days 22 April 26 August

Steam Endorsement 4 weeks 1 July

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 6 May 19 August 28 October confirmed 2 weeks prior to start date.

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.

Celestial Navigation 5 days 1 April 20 May 8 July 19 August 14 October

Upgrade: Advanced Meteorology 5 days 15 April 20 May 8 July 2 September 21 October

Cargo Operations 9 days 18 March 29 April 17 June 5 August 23 September

Marine Propulsion Plants 5 days 22 April 10 June 29 July 16 September

Upgrade: Stability 5 days 8 April 3 June 22 July 9 September 28 October

Watchkeeping 1: BRM 3 days 3 April 15 May 17 July 4 September 16 October

Watchkeeping 2: COLREGS — Watchkeeping 1 & 2 must be completed within 12 5 days 8 April 20 May 22 July 9 September 21 October months of each other

Upgrade: Shiphandling at the Management Level 10 days 15 April 3 June 29 July 16 September

Shipboard Management 5 days 18 March 29 April 17 June 12 August 7 October

Upgrade: Advanced Navigation (includes Simulator) 5 days 6 May 24 June 19 August 30 September

ECDIS — Advanced Navigation and the USCG approved ECDIS to be completed within 5 days 18 March 13 May 1 July 26 August 7 October 12 months of each other. Suggested dates follow. See also deck courses above.

Self-Study License Exam Preparation A/R March 2013 American Maritime Officer • 9

MSC Training Program

CMEO for Junior Engineers 5 days 1 April 22 July 7 October

Basic CBR Defense 1 day 11 April 28 June 19 July 30 August 18 October

Damage Control 1 day 12 April 27 June 18 July 29 August 17 October

Heat Stress Afloat / Hearing Conservation Afloat 1 day 29 April 28 May 19 August 3 September 21 October

Helicopter Fire Fighting 1 day 19 March 23 April 4 June 9 July 10 September 29 October

Marine Environmental Programs (with CBRD) 1/2 day 11 April 28 June 19 July 30 August 18 October

Marine Sanitation Devices 1/2 day 13 June 18 July 3 October

Medical PIC Refresher — Note: Not MSC approved 3 days 30 April 4 September 16 October

MSC Readiness Refresher — Must have completed full CBRD & DC once in career. 5 days 18 March 22 April 3 June 8 July 9 September 28 October

MSC Watchstander — BASIC — Once in career, SST grads grandfathered 2 days 16 May 1 August 26 September

MSC Watchstander — ADVANCED — Required for all SRF members 1 day 28 March 20 May 5 August 30 September

MSC Ship Reaction Force — Required every three years for SRF members 3 days 21 May 6 August 1 October

SAMM — Shipboard Automated Maintenance Management 3 days 29 May Small Arms — Initial & Sustainment (Refresher) Training — Open to members & applicants eligible for employment through AMO (w/in 1 year) or MSC on 3 days 25 March 8, 22 April 13, 28 May 10, 24 June 15, 29 July 12, 26 August 9, 23 Sept. 14,28 October MARAD contracted vessels. Remedial shoot will be afforded on Day 4 for at least 1 weapon if passing score not attained. STCW Endorsement required. Water Sanitation Afloat 1/2 day 13 June 18 July 3 October Medical Courses

Heat Stress Afloat / Hearing Conservation Afloat 1 day 22 April 28 May 19 August 3 September 21 October

Elementary First Aid — Prerequisite for MCP within preceding 12 months 1 day 7 May 18 June 23 July 20 August 24 September 22 October

Medical Care Provider — Prerequisite for MPIC within preceding 12 months. 3 days 8 May 19 June 24 July 21 August 25 September 23 October Please fax EFA certificate when registering

Medical PIC — Please fax MCP certificate when registering 5 days 13 May 24 June 29 July 26 August 30 September

Urinalysis Collector Training 1 day 18 March 20 May 1 July 5 August 7 October

Breath Alcohol Test (BAT) — Alco Sensors 3 and 4 only! 1 day 19 March 21 May 2 July 6 August 8 October

Saliva Screening Test — QEDs only! 1/2 day 20 March 22 May 3 July 7 August 9 October

Medical PIC Refresher — Note: Not MSC approved 3 days 30 April 4 September 16 October

Radar Courses

Radar Recertification 1 day 28 March 22 April 6 May 4 June 12 August 3 September 15 October

Radar Recertification at Toledo Maritime Academy — Non-Resident 1 day 21 March 27 June 26 September 24 October Training, apply to Student Services, Dania Beach ARPA 4 days 7 May

Radar Recertification & ARPA 5 days 6 May

Original Radar Observer Unlimited 5 days 28 October

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, applicants and sponsored students seeking an original license. Original License Courses

Advanced Fire Fighting 5 days 10 June 14 October

Basic Safety Training 5 days 18 March 3 June 28 October RFPNW Assessments 1 day 12 July EFA/MCP 4 days 18 June

Proficiency in Survival Craft (Lifeboat) 4 days 25 March 28 May 21 October Marlin Spike 1 day 27 June Basic Electricity (original engineers only) 10 days 1 April 24 June 40-hour Able Seaman 5 days Please call Original 3 A/E Preparation and Exams A/R 15 April 8 July

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

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 3 June

Ship Construction & Stability 5 days 17 June

Emergency Procedures & SAR 4 days 1 July

Meteorology 5 days 15 July

Cargo Handling & Storage 5 days 24 June

Magnetic & Gyro Compass 3 days 24 June

Electronic Navigation 5 days 22 July

Terrestrial Navigation 10 days 29 July

Watchkeeping 10 days 12 August

Basic Shiphandling at the Operational Level 5 days 26 August

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 3 days 8 April 12 August MARAD contracted vessels.

Elementary First Aid 1 day 11 April 15 August

Drug Collector Training 1 day 12 April 16 August

Breath Alcohol Test Collector 1 day 13 April 17 August

Advanced Fire Fighting 5 days 15 April 19 August

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 March 2013

TOLEDO, OH 43604 The Melvin H. Pelfrey Building One Maritime Plaza, Third Floor (419) 255-3940 (800) 221-9395 FAX: (419) 255-2350 John E. Clemons, National Vice President, Great Lakes ([email protected]) AMO NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS Brian D. Krus, Senior National Assistant Vice President ([email protected]) DANIA BEACH, FL 33004 Donald Cree, Great Lakes Special Assistant to the National President 601 S. Federal Highway ([email protected]) (954) 921-2221 / (800) 362-0513 Stan Barnes, National Representative ([email protected]) Thomas J. Bethel, National President Bruce DeWerth, Dispatcher ([email protected]) [email protected] / [email protected] / Mobile: (202) 251-0349 José E. Leonard, National Secretary-Treasurer ([email protected]) Jack Branthover, Special Assistant to the National President SAN FRANCISCO / OAKLAND, CA 94607 1121 7th Street, Second Floor ([email protected]) Oakland, CA 94607 FAX: (954) 926-5112 (510) 444-5301 Joseph Z. Gremelsbacke r, National Vice President, Deep Sea (800) 362-0513 ext. 5001 ([email protected]) Daniel E. Shea, National Assistant Vice President Charles A. Murdock, National Vice President, Inland Waters ([email protected]) ([email protected]) FAX: (954) 367-1064 Mobile: (954) 531-9977 / FAX: (954) 367-1025 Dispatch: (800) 345-3410 STAR CENTER FAX: (954) 926-5126 Brendan Keller, Dispatcher ([email protected]) STUDENT SERVICES/LODGING AND COURSE INFORMATION Robert Anderson, Dispatcher ([email protected]) 2 West Dixie Highway Member Services: Extension 1050 ([email protected]) Dania Beach, FL 33004 (954) 920-3 222 ext. 201 / (800) 942-3220 ext. 201 WASHINGTON, D.C. Course Attendance Confirmation: (800) 942-3220 ext. 200 FAX: (954) 920-3140 WASHINGTON, D.C. 20024 24 Hours: (954) 920-3222 ext.7999 490 L’Enfant Plaza East SW, Suite 7204 (202) 479-1166 / (800) 362-0513 ext. 7001 TRAINING RECORDS SYSTEM Thomas J. Bethel, National President Lisa Marra [email protected] / [email protected] (954) 920-3222 ext. 7118 Mobile: (202) 251-0349 FAX: (954) 925-5681 J. Michael Murphy, National Vice President, Government Relations [email protected] [email protected] Mobile: (202) 560-6889 MEMBERSHIP SERVICES Paul Doell, Legislative Director [email protected] / Mobile: (954) 882-4297 MEDICAL CLINIC AMO PLANS FAX: (202) 479-1188 2 West Dixie Highway 2 West Dixie Highway Dania Beach, FL 33004 Dania Beach, FL 33004 PORTS (954) 927-5213 (800) 348-6515 FA X: (954) 929-1415 FAX: (954) 922-7539 PHILADELPHIA, PA 19113 2 International Plaza, Suite 422 LEGAL Robert J. Kiefer, National Executive Vice President ([email protected]) (800) 362-0513 ext. 4001 / 4002 AMO Coast Guard Legal Aid Program Mobile: (215) 859-1059 Michael Reny FAX: (610) 521-1301 Mobile: (419) 346-1485 (419) 243-1105 / (888) 853-4662 GALVESTON, TX 77551 [email protected] 2724 61st Street, Suite B PMB 192 Joel Glanstein, General Counsel David M. Weathers, National Assistant Vice President 437 Madison Ave. ([email protected]) 35th Floor (800) 362-0513 ext. 2001 New York, NY 10022 Mobile: (409 ) 996-7362 (212) 370-5100 FAX: (409) 737-4454 FAX: (212) 697-6299

Captain Gerald B. Davis: 1943-2013 Ronald Edward Gosselin: 1937-2013

Gerald Bruce Davis passed away at home on January 28, 2013 in Kalama, Wash. Ronald Edward Gosselin, 75, died Monday, February 26, 2013, at his home in Cape He was born in Oakland, Calif. on April 13, 1943 to the late Bruce Lampert Davis and Coral, Fla. Freda Warwick Davis. His wife of 26 years, Marisa (Stevens), and son, Nathan, survive He was born in Rogers City, Mich., July 7, 1937, to Albert and Anolia Gosselin. He him. Other surviving family members include sisters: Janice (Kent) Cabral of Concord, married Constance Myers July 20, 1963. They resided first in Rogers City, Mich., where Calif.; Barbara Davis of El Cerrito, Calif. and Gayle Davis of Albany, Calif. and their he worked as a merchant seaman.They moved to Cape Coral in November 1979. five children, along with brothers and sisters in-laws, cousins, nieces, nephews and great He is survived by his wife, Constance; his sons, James, Michael and Scott; his nieces and nephews in the Stevens’ and Davis’ families. daughter, Ann; and his grandchildren, James, Justin, Cassie, Michaela, Christian, Zachary, Gerry was raised in Albany, Calif. and graduated from Albany High, Class of 1961. Brandon, Samantha and Summer; and great-grandson, Tomas. He worked in the Teamsters Union, driving a delivery truck for his family-owned Swedish Bakery in Berkeley, Calif.. In 1966 he joined the Sailor’s Union of the Pacific (SUP) in San Francisco and began his career as a U.S. merchant seaman. In 1974, Gerry advanced to third mate and joined AMO, until he retired as a master, deep sea in 2002. During his Monthly Membership Meetings long seagoing career, Gerry spent several years on ships in combat zones serving in Vietnam, for which he received veteran’s status. He advanced to captain in 1992, while sailing in the Alaskan oil trade on the super tanker S/S Brooks Range. He was certified for Regular monthly membership meetings for AMO will be held during Columbia Bar and Prince William Sound pilotages but did not sail in those positions. He the week following the first Sunday of every month at 1 p.m. local retired from the S/S Green Mountain State in 2001. time. Meetings will be held on Monday at AMO National The men and women who sailed with him remember him as an expert seaman and Headquarters (on Tuesday when Monday is a contract holiday). The a fair and highly skilled officer and ship captain. In retirement, he greatly enjoyed enter- next meetings will take place on the following dates: taining and spending time with his family, friends and dogs at their Kalama River home. His friends, family, and shipmates always enjoyed his generosity, hospitality, and easygo- ing charm and will miss him deeply. AMO NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS: April 8, May 6 For information on an April 2013 memorial service please email [email protected]. March 2013 American Maritime Officer • 11 Notice to AMO members regarding Agreement of Reimbursement for STAR Center DP training program

The dynamic positioning training tract awards involving a total of four DP- able for review by active AMO members ing for non-AMO covered employment.” program available cost-free to mem- equipped vessels. Had this investment not and applicants in the secure section of the Regarding concerns about not being able to bers of American Maritime Officers at been made, these jobs might not be with AMO website (www.amo-union.org). The meet the AOR’s obligations due to some STAR Center continues to provide out- AMO today. purpose, intent and spirit of the agreement unforeseen circumstance, like illness or a standing job opportunities for the Due to the competitive environment are outlined below. change in home environment, paragraph 4 union’s membership. for DP trained and qualified individuals, The agreement is required by law in the agreement states: “... my availability In the first quarter of 2012, the and the poaching of qualified individuals under the rules of the AMO Safety and for assignment … will be taken into con- trustees of the AMO Safety and Education by non-AMO companies, the AMO Safety Education Plan (S&E Plan), a federally sideration when my reimbursement obliga- Plan invested more than $1 million in and Education Plan has implemented a DP regulated trust fund. Its purpose is to pro- tions are determined.” This would cover developing and implementing a complete Agreement of Reimbursement that tect the S&E Plan and the members’ train- such circumstances and allows the Board and comprehensive DP training program requires members to fulfill a specific ing benefits, which are derived from this of Trustees to waive these obligations as at STAR Center. Since that time, the value amount of sea time in AMO-contracted fund. By law, the Plan is forbidden to the situation warrants. STAR Center and of this investment has been reflected in the employment in order to protect AMO jobs pay for any training that does not AMO Plans enter into this agreement in selection of two AMO-contracted compa- and the investment of the AMO Safety and directly support AMO-contracted com- good faith, with no hidden agenda, to pro- nies for Military Sealift Command con- Education Plan. The document is avail- panies. The DP Agreement of tect AMO’s manpower pool and preserve Reimbursement is intended to prevent the AMO S&E Plan Trust and its invest- anyone from obtaining DP training funded ments on behalf of all AMO members. AMO aboard heavy-lift Maersk Texas by the S&E Plan for use or employment As new jobs are made available to outside of AMO. This is a very real threat the AMO membership as a result of the given the current shortage of DP qualified, S&E Plan’s investment in the DP training STCW endorsed operators. program, individuals who are to be Some individuals have raised con- employed in these new billets will be cerns regarding the spirit of the Agreement drawn from the pool of AMO members of Reimbursement (AOR) and specific who have completed DP training at STAR obligations should a member retire during Center. the term of the agreement, or if a member In addition to this STAR Center bul- is hurt or otherwise unable to return to sea letin, American Maritime Officers advises due to a change in their conditions at home. AMO members that training sources are The agreement specifically covers these reviewed during the job dispatching process. instances. Paragraph 4 has been updated AMO members who, from this point for- and the new provision — which applies to ward, choose to acquire DP training at an American Maritime Officers members working aboard the Maersk Texas all signed DP AORs — reads: “... if I retire institution other than STAR Center will not in January, here in Houston, Texas, included Second Assistant Engineer during the period of obligation, no action be dispatched to new jobs requiring DP John Thompson, First A.E. Jonathan Chuckran, Third A.E. Pat Hehir and will be taken by the Plans to enforce reim- training and certification until after AMO Chief Engineer Charlie Phelan. bursement providing I do not sail for a non- members who completed their DP training AMO contracted company or use this train- at STAR Center have been dispatched. 12 • American Maritime Officer March 2013

Montford Point newest ship of the Military Sealift Command and the Maritime Prepositioning Continued from Page 1 Force, it is fitting that we also recognize those who the ship honors,” Gen. Amos sion in good stead as they sail anywhere on said. “Much has already been said about the globe that the mission sends them. the Montford Point Camp and the men who “When it comes to sacrifice, none trained there to become Marines until seg- know it better than the brave Marines who regation in the military ended. These passed through Camp Montford Point,” Marines, 35 of whom are seated here in Buzby said. “They were the role models for front, changed our Nation and our Corps.” a long line of Leathernecks who believed in The ship will leverage float- nation and patriotism before self. They on/float-off technology, allowing the were the first of their ‘class.’ USNS Montford Point to partially sub- “It is fitting then that this ship, USNS merge, facilitating easy movement of Montford Point, is the first of its class,” he cargo and craft. Additionally, the ship’s said. “And it is also fitting that it will be size allows for 25,000 square feet of vehi- crewed by merchant mariners sailing under cle and equipment stowage space and the Military Sealift Command house flag. 380,000 gallons of JP-5 fuel storage, the “Like the Montford Point Marines Navy reported. during World War II, our merchant With this set of capabilities, the ship mariners have never hesitated to complete is able to easily transfer personnel and the mission, even when that mission put vehicles from other vessels, such as the them in harm’s way,” Buzby said. large medium-speed roll-on/roll-off ships U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Dominique Pineiro “This ship, with its unique capabili- (LMSRs) onto landing craft air cushioned The Mobile Landing Platform USNS Montford Point (T-MLP 1) is moored pier ties, will become the centerpiece of sea- (LCAC) vehicles and transport them side in San Diego during the ship’s christening ceremony. The USNS Montford basing, allowing the U.S. Navy to raise for- ashore. The platform with its open recon- Point is the first ship of its class and will serve as a floating base for amphibious ward operations to a new level,” he said. figurable mission deck will serve as an operations and a transfer point between large ships and small landing craft. “Wherever the call, whatever the need, important flexible and transformational USNS Montford Point will be part of the asset to the Navy as it can be reconfigured Navy’s global force for good.” to support a wide variety of future opera- The USNS Montford Point is named tions, the Navy reported. for the approximately 20,000 African- “NASSCO delivers high-quality, American Marine Corps recruits who mission-ready ships to the fleet and MLP 1 trained at Montford Point Camp in North is no exception,” said President of General Carolina from 1942 to 1949. Their excep- Dynamics NASSCO Fred Harris. tional service prompted President Truman “NASSCO’s performance on the MLP pro- to sign an executive order in 1948 disal- gram is a direct reflection of our design- lowing segregation in the Marine Corps. build strategy. When MLP 1 construction “I chose to name the department’s began, 100 percent of the design was com- new MLP Montford Point as a way to give plete, nearly all the production planning some long-overdue recognition to these was complete, and all the material to sup- proud Americans who gave so much in the port production was in the pipeline. The defense of our nation. The courage shown result of this rigorous approach to ship- by these Marines helped forge the Corps building is a high-quality, affordable vessel into the most formidable expeditionary that was 91 percent complete at undocking Ship Sponsor Alexis “Jackie” Bolden Montford Point Marine Association force in the world,” said Secretary of the and now more than 97 percent complete at prepares to christen the USNS National President James Averhart, Jr. Navy Ray Mabus. christening. MLP 1 is on track to be deliv- Montford Point at General Dynamics greets USNS Montford Point Captain “As we gather today to christen the ered under budget and on schedule.” NASSCO in San Diego, Calif. Kurt Kleinschmidt.

GD NASSCO USMC Commandant Gen. James Rear Adm. Mark Rear Adm. David Rep. Susan Rep. Juan Rep. Scott President Fred Amos hails the Montford Point Marines. Buzby Lewis Davis (D-CA) Vargas (D-CA) Peters (D-CA) Harris

The Authority to Sail documents rich history of maritime licensing

From the first license issued in 1791 ings and drawings that make them works of been decorated by three services: the U.S. by George Washington and Thomas art — while informing and entertaining the Navy, U.S. Coast Guard and the merchant Jefferson, to the documents used today, reader with tales about each new kind of marine. He is a 30-year member of maritime licensing has a rich past that vessel (from steamer to gas yacht to passen- American Maritime Officers in good stand- includes historic documents and impressive ger liner) and the requirements behind earn- ing. vignettes. To illustrate and celebrate the art ing each license. In 1991, he served in Operation of the maritime license and its history, Maritime licensing began in 1791 Desert Storm as a captain of the USNS Commodore Robert Stanley Bates has pub- with Captain Hopley Yeaton, who Bates Harkness in the Persian Gulf. In 2004, lished The Authority to Sail. calls the John Paul Jones of the Coast Guard Bates, sailing as commodore, led an expedi- “I discovered there was a big hole in — back then it was called the Revenue tion off the coast of Cyprus to the suspected American maritime history that was not Marine. Yeaton was the first seagoing offi- site of the lost city of Atlantis, and acted as being told,” said Bates, whose fascination cer whose commission, signed in by a consultant on the subject for a History with licenses started in the mid-1970s when President George Washington and then- Channel program. he was senior inspector of personnel for the Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson, could For 30 years, Bates has been U.S. Coast Guard in New York. “Telling be seen as the first license to a U.S. mer- researching and writing about licensing in this story is so important, and no one has chant marine captain. maritime journals, establishing himself as even scratched the surface. I knew I had to Interesting tales in the book include: an industry expert. In the 1990s, one of his find a way to pass it on. Finding out more the story behind the steamboat pilot’s cer- appeared for 120 years on five different former Coast Guard Academy students, about the earlier licenses became a work of tificate issued to Samuel Langhorne licenses issued by the U.S. Coast Guard and who had been working with Dr. Robert blood, sweat and tears, and lots of digging Clemens, aka Mark Twain, in 1859; how other inspection bureaus. Browning, the Coast Guard’s historian, sent around. It’s been quite a journey.” the tradition of christening a ship with a bot- Originally from Quincy, Mass., Bates Bates black-and-white copies of licenses The result is a coffee table book that tle of champagne fared through the temper- now lives in St. Augustine, Fla. and is an dating back to the 1850s. seeks to preserve the bygone beauty of ance movement in the early 1900s; and the adjunct instructor at STAR Center in Dania More information about the book is licensing —showcasing the ornate engrav- engraving of the tugboat Inca which Beach, FL. In his 50-year career, he has available at www.theauthoritytosail.com.