Volume 47, Number 11 November 2017

Crowley to acquire three SeaRiver tankers New work for AMO in Jones Act crude oil and petroleum product trades

Crowley Alaska Tankers, LLC, announced on November 1 that it has signed an agreement, subject to regulato- ry approval, to purchase three tankers from SeaRiver Maritime Inc., and charter them back to SeaRiver under varying multi-year terms. Included in the acquisition are the tankers Liberty Bay and Eagle Bay, each of which have a capacity of 800,000 barrels and transport crude from Alaska to West Coast refineries; and the tanker SR American Progress, which has a capacity of 342,000 barrels and transports refined petroleum between U.S. Gulf and East Coast ports. American Maritime Officers repre- sents all licensed officers aboard the tankers Liberty Bay, Eagle Bay and SR American Progress. “We are proud of the SeaRiver acqui- sition and will operate these tankers with our relentless pursuit of quality and safety,” said Tom Crowley, chairman and CEO of Crowley Maritime Corp. “We were selected as the company who could deliver, and we Photo: Philly Shipyard, Inc. are committed to doing just that — by oper- The Jones Act crude oil tanker Liberty Bay, with a capacity of 800,000 barrels, was delivered by Philly Shipyard in 2014. ating these assets in the safest, most reliable manner possible.” integrity and high performance — and “We have an excellent safety record, since 1953, six years before statehood, pro- The 820-foot Aframax tanker Liberty will work diligently with us to uphold which we intend to uphold,” said Rob viding upstream energy support services, Bay was delivered in 2014 as the first-in- them as we serve SeaRiver’s needs.” Grune, Crowley senior vice president and tanker assist and escort services with tug- class vessel to transport Alaska North Slope Key to ensuring the success of this general manager, petroleum services. “Last boats, and petroleum transportation, distrib- crude oil to U.S. west coast refineries. The transaction and ongoing operations will be year, for example, we transported 410 mil- ution and sales throughout the state. In addi- second tanker, Eagle Bay, was delivered in obtaining the necessary regulatory lion barrels of product and made 4,868 tion to the company’s own ATBs calling in 2015. Both ships were built by Philly approvals to serve the Alaska and West product transfers with zero spills to environ- Alaska, the company currently manages Shipyard (then Aker Philadelphia Shipyard) Coast markets. Crowley will work together ment — a credit to our professional, safety- and crews tankers carrying petroleum for SeaRiver Maritime, Inc. with regulators to ensure a seamless transi- minded crews and management systems.” between Alaska and the U.S. West Coast. Crowley operates and manages the tion and continued safe operations. Crowley has been operating in Alaska Crowley owns and/or operates a largest U.S.-flag petroleum and chemical diverse, sophisticated fleet of double-hull tank vessel fleet in the country. By the end tank vessels, including 17 ATBs and 19 of 2017, the company will be operating 37 tankers, all built since 2002. One addition- Jones Act qualified large petroleum trans- al tanker will join Crowley’s managed portation vessels in the United States with a fleet in 2017. combined capacity of more than 10 million SeaRiver Maritime, Inc., headquar- barrels. Among this tank vessel fleet are a tered in Spring, Texas, is a privately held tanker and an articulated-tug-barge (ATB) subsidiary wholly owned by ExxonMobil already on charter to SeaRiver. that provides a wide range of technical and “We anticipate a smooth transition commercial marine services to ExxonMobil with SeaRiver crews, and look forward to affiliates throughout the world. personally welcoming them to the Crowley Alaska Tankers is a new Crowley team,” said Rudy Leming, subsidiary of Crowley Petroleum Holdings Crowley vice president of labor relations. LLC, part of the Crowley Maritime “We know they share our values — safety, Photo: Philly Shipyard, Inc. Corporation family of companies.

AMO members from C.S. Dependable MAP available to assist AMO members, honored at 2017 AOTOS ceremony retirees affected by natural disaster Page 5: American Maritime Officers members from the Cable Ship Page 2: The AMO Membership Assistance Program (MAP) is a volun- Dependable were among the mariners honored by the United Seamen’s tary disaster relief fund established to aid AMO members, applicants Service during the annual Admiral of the Ocean Sea dinner and awards and retirees who suffer damage to their property as the result of severe ceremony in New York City on October 13. storms and natural disasters.

Page 7: AMO at Women on the Water Conference ■ Copyright © 2017 American Maritime Officers [email protected] 2 • American Maritime Officer November 2017

U.S. Coast Guard: Replacement of Merchant Mariner Credentials lost due to Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, Maria The following article was released by the U.S. Coast Guard. •Current phone number and/or e-mail address that we can use to contact the mariner In accordance with federal regulations, duplicate Merchant Mariner Credentials in the event of questions (MMCs) may be issued free of charge to mariners whose credentials were lost or destroyed •Description of the circumstances surrounding the loss/destruction of the credential as a result of a hurricane. Mariners should follow the steps below to obtain an expedited Unless otherwise requested, any duplicate MMCs issued per the request process above replacement credential: will include a corresponding Medical Certificate, if previously issued. We will make every Provide a statement of loss to the National Maritime Center (NMC) via fax at 1-304- effort to have duplicate credentials mailed out the next business day. Alternatively, mariners 433-3412, via e-mail to [email protected], or by calling 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888- may submit form CG-719B, Application for Merchant Mariner Credential 427-5662). The statement should contain the following: (www.dco.uscg.mil/Portals/9/NMC/pdfs/forms/CG_719B.pdf), to one of the Regional Exam •Mariner’s full name Centers (REC) with the information above. If your credential is unserviceable due to damage •Mariner’s date of birth or your lost credential is subsequently found, that credential should be mailed to the NMC. •Mariner’s reference number (MRN) (if you don’t know the reference number, If you have questions or feedback regarding duplicate credentials, please contact the include the social security number) NMC via our Online Chat or Ticketing System (http://tinyurl.com/yb9b8t6l), by e-mail to •The mailing address that the replacement credential should be sent to [email protected], or by calling 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662).

TECH Program graduates Membership Assistance achieve engineering licenses Program available to aid AMO members affected by natural disaster The American Maritime Officers Membership Assistance Program (MAP) is a voluntary disaster relief fund established to aid AMO members, applicants for membership in AMO, and AMO retirees who suffer damage to their property as the result of severe storms and natural disasters, such as Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria. Benefits from the AMO Membership Assistance Program are paid in varying amounts determined exclusively by need. The third class of The Engineering Candidate Hawsepipe Program to complete The application for relief benefits under the Membership Assistance Program training and earn their unlimited U.S. Coast Guard engineering licenses recently is available online: www.amo-union.org/PDFs/mapapplication.pdf. graduated. Among the five graduates were Marijan Strk and William Sharp, here The MAP is a permanent, independent, tax-exempt and voluntary disaster in October with STAR Center Director of Member Training Jerry Pannell. relief fund established by the AMO National Executive Board. AMO made an initial contribution to the fund at its inception, and the fund is now sustained by individual voluntary tax-deductible contributions. AMO members can make tax-deductible voluntary contributions to the AMO Membership Assistance Program via authorized vacation deductions (online form: American Maritime Officers www.amoplans.com/Forms/Vacation/mapdeduction.pdf), or by sending checks or money orders to: audited financial statements, AMO Membership Assistance Program 601 S. Federal Highway Dania Beach, FL 33004-4109 LM-2 available online The audited financial statements of ments report AMO’s revenue earned and American Maritime Officers for the fiscal expenses incurred during the fiscal year, years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 are regardless of when revenue is received or available for AMO membership review in when expenses are paid. the secure section of the AMO website: The LM-2 reports the amount of AMO member earns Great Lakes http://www.amo-union.org. cash collected and cash disbursed for the The audited financial statements fiscal year. pilotage through cooperative include a side-by-side comparison of the The secure section of the AMO union’s operating income and expenses website is accessible to active AMO mem- program between union, GLMA for each of the last two fiscal years. bers and applicants. AMO members will AMO’s fiscal year begins on April 1 and need to click on the “AMO Member Log In September, Andrew Gaynor, ends on March 31. In” tab on the AMO home page and log an unlimited tonnage third Also available for AMO member- into the secure section of the AMO web- mate, successfully completed ship review in the secure section of the site with their user ID and password for the battery of U.S. Coast Guard AMO website is the American Maritime the AMO Dispatching website. exams to earn an endorsement Officers LM-2 report for the fiscal year Once logged in, AMO members can as a first class pilot on the ended March 31, 2017. AMO files the click on the link at the top of the page, Great Lakes. He completed his LM-2 financial disclosure report each year “View AMO Financial Reports,” to access pilotage observation time on the with the U.S. Department of Labor the documents. Great Lakes Maritime (DOL), and the public document is also Links are available on the log-in Academy’s training ship through available through the DOL. page for AMO members who need to reg- a program established by AMO The financial statements differ from ister for an online account with AMO and the academy. the LM-2 financial disclosure report in the Dispatching, and for retrieving a lost or way data is reported. The financial state- forgotten password.

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 November 2017 American Maritime Officer • 3

and food to medical supplies and fuel and rebuilding equipment — and organized labor is committed to the reconstruction Jones Act has aided, not impeded, relief effort. AFL-CIO unions represent 100,000 Puerto Rican residents, and union members have been involved in every phase of the and recovery efforts in Puerto Rico recovery and rebuilding effort. We have The following letter dated October 12 other maritime nations, has enacted laws to enforce safety standards, minimum social contributed not only money, but also man- was sent to members of the U.S. Senate and maintain a domestic maritime industry to standards or trade union rights, fail to pay power. Over three hundred skilled union U.S. House of Representatives by AFL-CIO ensure that we would not be dependent on crews, and avoid compliance with environ- volunteers — including doctors, nurses, Government Affairs Department Director foreign nations in times of war or natural mental standards. electricians, and heavy equipment operators William Samuel. disasters. The Jones Act, passed in 1920, The Jones Act has in no way impeded — have traveled from the mainland to Since Hurricane Maria swept across accomplishes this goal by requiring that Puerto Rico’s recovery. Fully loaded Jones Puerto Rico to provide assistance. Puerto Rico, wiping out most of the island’s vessels carrying passengers and merchan- Act ships began arriving as soon as the main While the distribution of lifesaving infrastructure and causing immense human dise between U.S. ports must be U.S.- port in Puerto Rico re-opened. News supplies is slowly improving, much of the suffering, many have cited the Jones Act as owned, U.S.-crewed and U.S.-built. footage of containers piling up at the Port of transportation infrastructure on the island an impediment to getting needed supplies to Repealing the Jones Act would mean that San Juan offered visual proof that life-sav- remains damaged by the storm. Repealing the island. For some, criticism of the Act is neither U.S. ships nor crews would be avail- ing supplies were arriving hourly on Jones the Jones Act would not result in additional based on misinformation; for others it is able in national emergencies. Act ships, as well as on foreign ships not supplies getting to the Island, but it would based on the misguided view that the U.S. Since the Jones Act ensures that our covered by the Jones Act. These supplies jeopardize the survival of the U.S. maritime government should not play a role in ensur- labor laws protect maritime employees, were not getting to interior sections of sector and along with it thousands of jobs ing that U.S. crews and ships are always repealing the Act would pave the way for Puerto Rico because of transportation bot- that would be outsourced to foreign carriers. available for military and humanitarian mis- foreign companies to replace domestic tlenecks and a shortage of truck drivers, not What is needed now is for the U.S. sions. On behalf of the AFL-CIO, I am writ- crews with lower paid workers lacking because of a lack of ships. military and FEMA to deploy all of their ing to set the record straight. basic labor protections. According to the Puerto Rico is a growing humanitari- available resources to address the escalating Since 1789, the federal government International Transport Workers’ an crisis. The Island needs massive amounts humanitarian crisis. Our fellow citizens on has regulated coastal trade and, like many Federation, foreign-flag ships often do not of disaster relief — everything from water Puerto Rico deserve no less.

Training Ship Empire State VI returns to SUNY Maritime College, concluding hurricane response activation The following is excerpted from half of the pallets came from the SUNY branch of the U.S. Department of my training ships in times of national an article posted by The State drive; the rest came from the state-wide Transportation. In times of national need, need such as these, as well as training University of New York Maritime campaign led by the governor’s office. the federal government can activate the ship America’s future mariners. I am pleased College. AMO-contracted TOTE The supplies were donated to Puerto to assist with response and recovery efforts. to welcome home Capt. Rick Smith and Services, Inc. operated the Empire State Rico through United for Puerto Rico, a non- Empire State was activated to respond to the crew of the Empire State VI and to VI during the activation. profit organization established in the wake Superstorm Sandy in 2012 and Hurricane thank them for their service.” After nearly two months spent in of Hurricane Maria by Puerto Rican First Katrina in 2005. In addition to the crew of profes- Florida and Puerto Rico, SUNY Lady Beatriz Rossello. “Maritime College is honored and sional mariners, including eight Maritime College’s Training Ship The Empire State VI is used by proud to have had the opportunity to assist Maritime alumni, when the ship returns, Empire State VI returned to campus Maritime College throughout the year as a in these recovery efforts,” said Rear Adm. SUNY Chancellor Kristina Johnson will Tuesday, October 24. platform to educate and train future mar- Michael Alfultis, president of SUNY be on board. She and several others Empire State VI was activated to itime industry professionals. The ship is Maritime. “The past two months demon- from SUNY and Maritime College will assist with the Hurricane Harvey owned by the Maritime Administration, a strate the value of the state maritime acade- board the ship near Staten Island for the response effort in Texas on September trip up the East River. 1. Before the ship arrived in Texas, “This is a proud moment for Hurricane Irma hit Florida and the mis- Maritime College, SUNY, and all of sion was altered to assist in the Florida New York State as we welcome home recovery efforts instead. After approxi- the crew of the Empire State VI,” said mately two weeks in Florida, Empire Chancellor Johnson. “Every individual State was sent to San Juan, Puerto Rico. on this ship selflessly put their person- At both locations, the ship was al lives on hold for the past two months used to provide power, housing, food — in many cases leaving their family and water to emergency relief workers. and friends — to support the relief By housing the responders on the ship, efforts and begin to repair the damage area hotel rooms were made available to caused by multiple hurricanes in the people displaced by the storms. Thanks Gulf Coast and the Caribbean. It will to a state-wide donation campaign, led be my honor to join them for the final by Governor Cuomo and The State leg of their homecoming sail and to University of New York, the Empire personally thank President Alfultis, State VI also brought 46 pallets of bot- Capt. Rick Smith, and the crew of the tled water, food and other items for vic- Empire State VI for a job extraordinar- tims of the hurricane. Approximately Photo courtesy of TOTE Maritime ily well done.”

needed will continue to alleviate delivery delays, provided the terminals in Puerto Jones Act carriers continue to provide a Rico can accommodate additional through- put. Delivery delays are attributed to several circumstances, including: critical ocean bridge for Puerto Rico •Lack of storage facilities for cargoes In a briefing released at the end of to Puerto Rico to meet the dire needs for ture on the island being delivered on the island and prioritiza- October, the American Maritime water, food, medical supplies, generators •Prioritization of distribution of tion by the U.S. government of emergency Partnership (AMP) reported there will be a and other essential goods and consumables. FEMA cargoes and other critical relief cargoes over commercial cargoes total of 25 Jones Act vessels delivering As of October 27, Jones Act vessels cargoes, such as generators, water, medi- •An existing backlog of cargo at the cargo to Puerto Rico in efficient and cost- had delivered more than 20,000 container cine, communications support equipment dock that has not yet been picked up for dis- effective regular service by November 6, loads of cargo to Puerto Rico since Maria and food tribution; further deliveries of cargo to the including nine vessels that entered the regu- made landfall, and at the end of October, •Foreign ships also delivering goods same shippers with backlogged cargo lar Puerto Rico trade since Hurricane Maria approximately 6,000 containers remained at to Puerto Rico from international points of would only further clog distribution sys- hit the commonwealth. Additional Jones or near port facilities awaiting distribution. origin, in addition to U.S. domestic cargo tems on Puerto Rico Act vessels are providing periodic service This is attributed to: Delay in delivery of cargoes from the Repealing the Jones Act, even tem- as needed as the recovery efforts continue. •Containers being used for on-island U.S. mainland to Puerto Rico is the excep- porarily, in Puerto Rico will disrupt a vital In the immediate aftermath of the storage due to the lack of warehousing, tion, not the norm, and any delays are tem- ocean cargo bridge to the island at the worst storm, 32 Jones Act vessels were delivering damaged stores, refrigeration units with- porary, as the introduction of additional possible time — in the middle of an exten- emergency, relief and commercial cargoes out power and other damaged infrastruc- Jones Act capacity in regular service as sive recovery effort. 4 • American Maritime Officer November 2017

Despite surging steel imports, urging from Congress and U.S. industry, administration delays action on trade investigation U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur take a softer stance on trade issues, includ- associations directly urged President in 2016. Unfortunately, since the Ross said in September the Trump admin- ing steel, to garner support for tax reform. Trump to take action. “We encourage your Commerce Department began the investi- istration will delay action on an investiga- Ross responded: “Well what we don’t administration to take immediate action gation, import volumes have increased even tion into damaging surges in steel imports want to do is things that will unnecessarily under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion more as foreign producers seek to export while congressional work on tax cuts and irritate the Senate.” Act of 1962 to prevent excess steel capacity steel product to the U.S. before the admin- tax reform continues. Ross added: “We need the votes and surging steel imports from undermin- istration imposes any Section 232 remedies. The administration’s dedication to there and as proven with health care, it is a ing the viability of the U.S. steel industry. “Rebar imports, for example, spiked avoiding moves that might “unnecessarily very fragile margin. So, it’s a question of As you know, excess capacity in many for- 84 percent in June compared to May, while irritate” the Senate while a package of tax timing more than it is direction.” eign countries is the main cause of the sus- cold-rolled steel sheet saw a 32 percent cuts and changes to U.S. tax code are being In a letter to Ross dated September tained surge in imports. The U.S. govern- increase over the same period. Oil country considered has held, despite the urging of 15, Senators Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and ment has been trying to address overcapac- tubular goods imports were up 19 percent U.S. steel manufacturers and key congres- Rob Portman (R-OH) expressed their “con- ity through multilateral organizations like in June over May and have increased by an sional leaders for the administration to take cern about the delay in the Section 232 the G-20 and the Organization for astounding 248 percent over the first six action to curb the swelling tide of foreign investigation into steel imports and the cor- Economic Cooperation and Development months of the year. In addition, grain-ori- steel pushing into U.S. markets and idling responding surge of steel imports entering (OECD). So far, those efforts have failed to ented electrical steel imports from Japan, U.S. mills. the U.S. market. We urge you to complete produce an effective solution, and the U.S. Korea, and China have increased 155- In a letter to President Trump dated your investigation and publish your final industry continues to suffer the conse- 195% in the first five months of this year. October 26, 68 members of the report with conclusions and recommenda- quences of foreign government inaction. These import levels are unsustainable for Congressional Steel Caucus, which is led tions as quickly as possible to prevent fur- Under your bold leadership, Mr. President, U.S. companies and their workers. by Co-Chairmen Mike Bost (R-IL) and ther damage to the U.S. steel sector.” with your vision for ‘America First,’ this Unfortunately, the steel sector expects Rick Crawford (R-AR), encouraged the On September 14, Inside U.S. Trade can and must change.” them to continue to increase unless a con- administration to release its report and reported “Ross has told a Democratic sena- In their letter to Ross, Senators clusion of the Section 232 investigation is recommendations stemming from its tor that his agency’s remedy report on an Brown and Portman explained: “Steel reached immediately.” investigation into excessive and increas- investigation into the national security imports continue to flood into the U.S. as a Under the 1962 law, the Commerce ing steel imports under Section 232 of the impacts of steel imports will not be issued result of unchecked steel overcapacity in Department has until mid January — 270 Trade Expansion Act of 1962 as expedi- until tax reform legislation is passed.” China and other countries. In the first six days from the initiation of the investigation tiously as possible. In a letter dated August 23, the lead- months of this year, steel imports increased — to submit a report with recommenda- “As you highlighted when you initi- ers of 31 U.S. steel companies and industry 25 percent compared to the first six months tions to the President. ated this investigation, and as the Steel Caucus well knows, the domestic industry has suffered greatly at the hands of global steel overcapacity and unfair trade,” the representatives wrote. “Yet, our conven- U.S. steel manufacturers seek action to curb tional trade laws, while offering some relief, have failed to keep up with these illicit, and indeed destructive, practices. surge in steel imports, damage to industry There are currently more than 700 million The following letter dated August eign countries is the main cause of the sus- must meaningfully adjust imports to metric tons of global steel overcapacity, 23 and signed by 31 leaders of U.S. steel tained surge in imports. The U.S. govern- restore healthy levels of capacity utiliza- which amounts to more than eight times the companies and trade associations was ment has been trying to address overcapac- tion and profitability to the domestic output of all American steel producers. sent to President Trump. ity through multilateral organizations like industry over a sustained period. Furthermore, this year, steel imports have As the men and women leading the G-20 and the Organization for The sustained surge of steel been up 21 percent over the same period in 25 of America’s steel and steel-related Economic Cooperation and Development imports into the United States has 2016, and in September alone, the U.S. companies, with over 75,000 collective (OECD). So far, those efforts have failed to hollowed out much of the domestic imported over 3 million tons of steel. This employees, we write today to encourage produce an effective solution, and the U.S. steel industry and threatens our abili- continued crisis has caused layoffs and mill you to take broad and decisive action to industry continues to suffer the conse- ty to meet national security needs. Mr. idling throughout the country, including in ensure the ability of the domestic steel quences of foreign government inaction. President, since taking office, you many of the communities we represent. industry to supply our nation’s defense Under your bold leadership, Mr. President, have tackled great challenges that Action must be taken to stop this unfair and critical infrastructure needs. with your vision for “America First,” this have plagued America for many trade so that American steelworkers can We encourage your administration can and must change. years. Your leadership in finding a continue to make American steel that sup- to take immediate action under Section The need for action is urgent. Since solution to the crisis facing the steel ports our military, critical infrastructure, 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 the 232 investigation was announced in industry is badly needed now. Only and the livelihoods of innumerable to prevent excess steel capacity and April, imports have continued to surge. In you can authorize actions that can American families.” surging steel imports from undermining June, steel imports hit their highest monthly solve this crisis and we are asking for In a CNBC report published the viability of the U.S. steel industry. As total in more than two years by capturing your immediate assistance. September 22, Commerce Secretary Ross you know, excess capacity in many for- 30% of the U.S. market. Immediate action Thank you for your consideration. was asked if the President is willing to

AMO aboard Bradshaw McKee/St. Marys Conquest in Jones Act trade

The St. Marys Conquest loading cement powder in AMO members working aboard the Bradshaw McKee in Charlevoix, Mich. in July — the Conquest is pushed by the July included Chief Engineer Jonathan Smith. With him is Junior Mate Jerry Stropich lines up tug Bradshaw McKee. The vessel’s cargo was bound for American Maritime Officers Senior National Assistant Vice the cement loading chute with the Green Bay, Wis. President Brian Krus. vessel’s cargo hold. November 2017 American Maritime Officer • 5

AMO members from C.S. Dependable, U.S. maritime industry leaders honored at 2017 AOTOS ceremony American Maritime Officers mem- Awards to Andre Grikitis, president and bers from the Cable Ship Dependable CEO of Intermarine LLC; Captain were among the mariners honored by the Thomas Merrell, president of General United Seamen’s Service during the annu- Dynamics American Overseas Marine al Admiral of the Ocean Sea dinner and (AMSEA); and James Miller, chairman, awards ceremony in New York City on board of directors, Philly Shipyard ASA. October 13. During his term as president and On September 17, 2016, while in CEO, and also while serving in the role of transit between work sites off the operating chairman, Grikitis has led the Maharashtra Coast near Mumbai, India, expansion and development of the C.S. Dependable rescued 14 fishermen Intermarine and its services. These include whose boat sank with 16 persons aboard a U.S.-flag fleet consisting of seven multi- in the early hours before sunrise. They had purpose vessels engaged in worldwide no PFDs or VHF radio. They had man- trade. In his remarks, Grikitis said: “What aged to cling to floating debris, some just we should all be doing is uniting the treading water. industry. Unity: through the communica- Captain Scot Porter accepted the tion of clear goals, in seeking support of Admiral of the Ocean Sea Mariners’ these goals and the ability to provide bet- Plaque on behalf of the Dependable’s offi- ter information. On an aspirational level, cers and crew at the ceremony. we must influence the maritime communi- Reporting on the rescue operation ty and the general public via education.” in 2016, Captain Yann Durieux noted: Merrell has been with AMSEA “All hands were spread out on weather Captain Scot Porter accepted the AOTOS Mariners’ Plaque on behalf of the offi- since 1984 and became president of the decks, bow, gangways, stern and bridge cers and crew of the C.S. Dependable from U.S. Navy Rear Adm. John company in 2008. In his remarks at the as lookouts. Deck gang and security Schommer (left) and Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby (right). AOTOS ceremony, Merrell said: “In the team were at the gangways to recuperate wake of the devastating storms, Harvey, men from the water. Reports came to the relative positions. This was made diffi- many slept or rested, utterly exhausted. Irma and Maria, Jones Act waivers have bridge by radio. We would focus a team cult as we had about 2.5 knots of surface We brought them shirts, blankets and been issued to assist in providing needed to maintain lookout as we made way to current (swell and wind generated). We flip-flops (all we had for feet) from the supplies (oil, gas, etc.). So, here we go the victims. Chief mate was on deck and used the CCTV system to monitor gang- slop chest, Durieux wrote. again. These waivers sound the drumbeat cable highway managing ladders and way pilot ladders, but this was difficult Those rescued by the Dependable for the ‘repeal the Jones Act’ crowd. gangways. Security team members were due to rain.” were transferred to the Indian Coast “It is astonishing that there is no in harnesses on gangway. Personnel The Indian Naval Vessel F43 and Guard vessel. mention, and therefore no acceptance, of from all departments were at rails to Indian Coast Guard Vessel 201 arrived We stayed on station near CG 201 the strategic importance of having U.S.- send out life rings to persons in water. onsite and began searching for remaining until we had confirmation that all 14 were flag ships, with U.S. sailors to provide the The ROV supervisor was at the bow with survivors with us, he wrote. The MDR & aboard safely. At this point it was dark and logistical support to our military over- radio calling in sightings. Chief engineer security team medic attended to the res- we were heading closer to shallow water seas,” Merrell said. “With the Jones Act had a fourth generator put on and assist- cued persons on the cable highway. contours. The Coast Guard released us and fully functioning, the U.S. economy is ed in search. I was trying to move the Steward and crew had staged mattresses we departed, Durieux wrote. expected to grow significantly. By 2020, ship to the men keeping them away from on the highway so we could keep them During the ceremony attended by marine freight is anticipated to grow thrusters. This required constant and all together and better assist them. Crew, approximately 700 representatives of mar- domestically by 43 percent and interna- good communication with personnel on ROV and security team helped them. itime industry and labor, the United ◆ deck keeping me apprised of the victims’ They were given food and water and Seamen’s Service presented AOTOS See AOTOS Page 6

American Maritime Officers National President Paul Doell and National Executive Receiving AOTOS Awards for 2017 were James Miller, Andre Grikitis and Captain Vice President Daniel Shea greet Captain Scot Porter at the AOTOS ceremony. Thomas Merrell.

American Maritime Officers Service President/Chairman Anthony Naccarato, American Maritime Officers National President Paul Doell, Seafarers International Union President Michael Sacco and Commander of U.S. Transportation Command Gen. Darren McDew gather with midshipmen from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at the AOTOS ceremony in New York. 6 • American Maritime Officer November 2017

SIUNA President Sacco emphasizes value of vigilance, working labor-industry partnerships Addressing the Seafarers it’s practically a constant effort for us to edu- cient ways to continue sending relief International Union of North cate politicians about who we are and why supplies and donations and whatever America’s 2017 Quinquennial our industry is so important to the country,” else might help.” Convention in late September in Piney Sacco said. “Things on the union-specific The response of shipping com- Point, Md., SIUNA President Michael side of the equation aren’t as clear or as panies in conjunction with seagoing Sacco told delegates of SIUNA-affiliat- promising. What I believe we’re seeing unions — such as the SIU and AMO ed unions — including American when it comes to overall membership num- — was a perfect example of how Maritime Officers — that, despite what bers is the long-term, cumulative effect of seamless and beneficial a working may currently be considered a time of anti-worker laws both at the federal and state labor-industry partnership can be for prosperity for the U.S. maritime indus- levels, including the erosion of labor laws.” the nation, he continued. try, vigilance, productive working rela- During his presentation, Sacco dis- “I’m not saying we’re the only tionships between unions and employ- cussed the impacts of recent natural disas- ones who get it right, but there are some ers, and continuously educating the pub- ters, including the three hurricanes that other unions that could stand to take a lic and elected leaders remain extremely struck Texas, Florida, Puerto Rico and the look at how we work with our employ- important steps to securing success in U.S. Virgin Islands. U.S. merchant mariners “Let’s all remember that we’ve been ers to make sure a rising tide lifts all the American maritime sector. were called upon to assist in relief and through these situations before, and we’ve boats, and to help ensure the economic “In the United States, the mar- recovery efforts following the hurricanes — always bounced back,” Sacco said. tide is rising in the first place,” Sacco itime industry is very heavily regulated a testament to the important work seafarers “We’re active every day with gathering said. “On that front, we really are lead- at the federal level. With that in mind, do for the nation. information and planning the most effi- ing the way.”

Maritime Administrator Buzby highlights need for support of U.S. maritime’s three legislative pillars Working to strengthen the three leg- able for American merchant vessels so that ing the military with access to global it takes to maintain our ability to project islative pillars of the U.S. maritime industry the ships and mariners are available to serve intermodal transportation networks are our forces internationally, and then sustain — the Jones Act, the Maritime Security in times of crisis. crucial to our Armed Forces in interna- them for extended engagement. It’s what Program and cargo preference — will be an “At a time when we’re struggling to tional conflicts, he said. sets us apart, or our nation apart, amongst agency priority, said Maritime keep enough qualified mariners employed “To preserve a strong Navy, and a major powers.” Administrator Mark Buzby during his pre- to serve our nation’s military sealift require- strong military, we need a strong merchant However, the dwindling number of sentation at the Seafarers International ments, we’re pleased that U.S.-flag ships marine. It takes both pieces of it for that to merchant mariners has become a point of Union of North America Quinquennial and mariners can answer the call during occur, and it’s essential to our national concern for MARAD and MSC as govern- Convention in September. these catastrophic weather events. These security,” Buzby said. “I’ve seen first- ◆ Rear Adm. Buzby, U.S. Navy retired, missions are the real deal,” Buzby said. hand how critical it is that we do whatever See MARAD Page 7 a former commander of Military Sealift “This is part of the reason why we have Command, said strengthening the U.S.-flag these ships and part of the reason why we fleet’s role in times of peace will bolster keep them in such a readiness state, and U.S. national security and defense capabili- they’re actually saving American lives as ties in times of conflict. we speak and reducing suffering.” The Jones Act, MSP and cargo pref- Through a career of exposure to and erence “are needed to be able to keep our experience with the U.S. maritime indus- ships under the flag and to keep our try’s role in defense sealift and military mariners working. They are all critical ele- readiness, Buzby noted his ability to pro- ments that I am going to be defending with vide a first-hand account of the importance my full energy,” he said. of the U.S. merchant marine to decision The ability of U.S.-flag carriers to makers in Congress who might not fully deliver fuel, relief and recovery cargoes in understand the commercial maritime sec- the wakes of the recent hurricanes serves as tor’s vital roles. a perfect example of the importance of sus- The commercial shipping industry’s taining a job base for U.S. mariners and ability to deliver military equipment and ensuring sufficient peacetime cargo is avail- cargo around the globe while also provid-

American Maritime Officers National President Paul Doell and Seafarers International Union of North America President Michael Sacco greet Maritime AMO aboard the Pacific Tracker Administrator Mark Buzby at the SIUNA Quinquennial Convention in Piney Point, Md. in September.

cent of the entire U.S. oceangoing com- AOTOS mercial fleet production, for a variety of U.S. based shipping companies.” Continued from Page 5 For AOTOS 2017, U.S. Senator tionally a staggering 67 percent. There is Cory Booker was honorary chairman. room in that growth for the U.S. flag, pro- Seafarers International Union President viding jobs for our sailors, jobs for our Michael Sacco served as dinner chairman. shipyards and a reliable energy supply for American Maritime Officers Service the U.S. and our trading partners.” President/Chairman F. Anthony At Philly Shipyard, Miller previous- Naccarato, as well as Joseph Cox, were ly served as president and CEO from June National Committee co-chairmen. 2008 to April 2011. In his remarks, Miller Proceeds from the AOTOS event American Maritime Officers members working aboard the Pacific addressed the shipyard’s role in the renew- benefit USS community services abroad Collector in July, here in Hawaii, included Chief Mate Doug Voss, Chief al and growth in the domestic fleet under for the U.S. merchant marine, seafarers of Engineer Mark Grendahl, Second Mate Stuart Valentine, Third Mate the Jones Act: “Philly Shipyard has turned all nations, and U.S. government and mil- Steve Votta, Third Assistant Engineer Ryan Smith, Captain Ray Baldado, out 27 magnificent, modern cargo ships itary overseas. Edward Morgan is presi- First A.E. Jeff Yarmola and Third A.E. Charlene Swick. The ship is oper- for the Jones Act trades in recent years dent and Roger Korner is executive direc- ated by TOTE Services, Inc. using union labor without any issues for tor of USS. Barbara Spector Yeninas is companies representing more than 50 per- USS AOTOS coordinator. November 2017 American Maritime Officer • 7

Transportation Secretary Chao voices support for U.S. maritime sector, American merchant mariners During a presentation at the Seafarers flagged vessels to obtain Jones Act waivers International Union of North America would be closely monitored and weighed Quinquennial Convention, Secretary of against the available capacity of U.S.-flag Transportation Elaine Chao described the carriers and U.S. merchant mariners to per- U.S. maritime industry as “vital to form the work. America’s well-being, security, and pros- She pointed to the hurricane response perity,” and voiced her commitment to activations of the training ships Empire fighting to maintain the Jones Act and to State VI and Kennedy and commended the apply funding to domestic maritime trans- work performed by the ships and crews, cit- portation infrastructure improvements. ing the roles of American Maritime Officers “This sector provides so much and the SIU in crewing the vessels. employment that supports hundreds of “The department’s goal, even dur- thousands of families,” Chao said. “The ing this emergency, will be to maximize maritime industry supports a strong, inde- employment of American seafarers and pendent way of life that’s been a vital part of American-flagged vessels in the recov- America since its beginning.” ery effort,” she said. “So we will be vig- By improving infrastructure that will ilant about requests for waivers to the foster waterborne shipping and commerce, Jones Act that are unnecessary to deal and by eliminating red tape that will make with the emergency.” government-impelled cargo more readily American Maritime Officers Service President/Chairman Anthony Naccarato and Chao also credited the SIU and accessible, the U.S.-flag industry will be his wife, Mary, greet Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao at the Seafarers Michael Sacco for working to advance strengthened and employment opportunities International Union of North America Quinquennial Convention in September. training for U.S. merchant mariners at the for American mariners will be maximized, Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and she said. “It’s a matter of jobs, and that matters waterways and intermodal transportation Education in Piney Point, which was cele- She detailed how the Department of very much to this President and this admin- connectors are top goals. brating its 50th anniversary during the Transportation plans to leverage federal istration,” Chao said. Chao noted the attacks on the Jones SIUNA convention. In 2003, then-Secretary seed money to, in part, improve key ele- “We want to maximize access to U.S. Act that emerged in the aftermath of the of Labor Chao inducted the late Paul Hall ments of transportation infrastructure. government-impelled preference cargoes. recent hurricanes and recognized the strong into the Labor Hall of Fame. She pointed out the U.S. maritime We want to maintain support of the Jones and capable response of the U.S. maritime “We all know that Paul Hall fought industry aligns with President Trump’s Act,” she said, adding sustaining training industry and seagoing labor in delivering for a better life for seafarers, a strengthened focus on bolstering the position of and employment for American mariners the needed relief cargoes to devastated merchant marine, stronger protection for American workers in the nation’s economy. and fostering the development of ports, areas. She said requests to allow foreign- workers and better opportunities for young people and minorities,” Chao said. “I have tremendous respect for the men and women in this industry, and for the leadership that makes sure that this sector International maritime labor community ready remains vibrant and strong.” to support Jones Act with one loud voice MARAD The international community of With approximately 20 million Continued from Page 6 maritime unions stands ready to fight members worldwide, the ITF is able to and protect cabotage laws, including wield tremendous influence — a fact ment-impelled cargo has diminished in the Jones Act, stated International that can be used to defend the Jones Act. recent years and mariners seeking work Transport Workers’ Federation “That 20 million is important to have transitioned into shoreside jobs. General Secretary Steve Cotton during recognize, because when we talk to gov- Buzby said one of his major initia- his presentation at the Seafarers ernments and when we talk to interna- tives would be to work with stakeholders, International Union of North tional organizations, and when we talk such as maritime labor unions and shipping America Quinquennial Convention. to employers, that loud voice of 20 mil- companies, to increase the number of At the convention, Cotton com- lion transport workers is crucial,” mariners, and advocate a stronger U.S. mer- mented upon the 50th anniversary of Cotton said. chant marine in the halls of Congress. the Paul Hall Center for Maritime The recent appointments of “We need people to crew these ships Training and Education, and com- Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao and the fact is we don’t presently have mended the SIUNA and its affiliated our maritime work fighting to stop deregu- and Maritime Administrator Mark enough mariners to sustain our extended unions, including American Maritime lation — ensuring that all workers, regard- Buzby are welcome signs of a changing military mission overseas,” he said. Officers, which is also affiliated with less of their nationality, have sustainable tide, Cotton noted. However, he warned “The ships, the equipment, the the ITF, on the successful effort to jobs and dignity in their lives,” he said. there will always be forces seeking to materiel, are important, but they are noth- defend the Jones Act. He said the ITF “You’ve been working to defend your rights weaken cabotage laws. ing, nothing, without the skilled, motivated will support this effort as the fight to politically, industrially and persuasively. “We must always remember the people fully empowered to bring the full maintain cabotage continues. Common sense and dedication to protect next day is a challenge, and we must be potentially to every situation,” Buzby said. “This union is the heart of all of what is a truly maritime nation.” ready for that challenge,” he said. “Together we will serve and defend this nation with honor.”

AMO at Women on the Water 2017 at Great Lakes Maritime Academy Among those attending and participating in the 2017 Women on the Water Conference October 26 to 28 were (standing: left to right) American Maritime Officers West Coast Representative Willie Barrere, National Maritime Center Commanding Officer Captain Kirsten Martin, Maureen Johnson and Kathy Elinski with American Steamship Company, Third Mate and First Class Pilot Raina Barnes, AMO Senior National Assistant Vice President Brian Krus and (front) AMO National Vice President, Great Lakes, John Clemons. The ninth annual Women on the Water Conference was hosted by the Great Lakes Maritime Academy in partnership with the Maritime Administration. Cadets from all six state maritime academies and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, as well as Georgian Maritime College, were encouraged to participate. The conference provides cadets with opportunities to network and learn from professional mariners and representatives of maritime industry and labor. 8 • American Maritime Officer November 2017

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

Combined Basic & Advanced Low Flash Point Fuel Operations (IGF 5 days 11 December 26 February 16 April Code/LNG Fuel) Course

Confined Space Entry 3 days 8 January 11 April 20 June

Advanced Fire Fighting 5 days 27 November 12 February 30 April

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), 5 days 13 November 5 February 19 March 21 May Elementary First Aid (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 15 November 7 February 21 March 23 May

Chemical Safety — Advanced 5 days 12 February

ECDIS 5 days 11 December 22 January 16 April

Environmental Awareness (includes Oily Water Separator) 3 days 27 November 12 March

Fast Rescue Boat 4 days 5 December 16 January 5 March 30 April 25 June

GMDSS — Requires after-hour homework 10 days 5 February

LNG Tankerman PIC 8 days 19 March

LNG Simulator Training — Enrollment priority in the LNG simulator course is given to qualified member candidates for employment and/or observation opportunities with AMO contracted LNG companies. In all 5 days 2 April cases successful completion of the LNG PNC classroom course is prerequisite.

Proficiency in Survival Craft (Lifeboat) 4 days 12 December 2 April

Proficiency in Survival Craft (Lifeboat) — Assessments Only 1 day Please Call

Safety Officer Course 2 days 1 March 14 June

Tankerman PIC DL — Classroom 5 days 13 November 8 January 30 April 11 June

Tankerman PIC DL — Simulator 10 days 27 November 22 January 5 March 14 May

Tankerman PIC DL — Accelerated Program 10 days Please Call

Train the Trainer 5 days 27 November 8 January 5 March 30 April 25 June

Train the Trainer — Simulator Instructors (Requires after hours work) 5 days 19 March

Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties — VPDSD 2 days 1 February

Vessel/Company Security Officer — Includes Anti-Piracy 3 days 26 February

Crowd Management 1 day Please Call

Crisis Management & Human Behavior 1 day Please Call

Basic Training & Advanced Fire Fighting Revalidation (Required by first 2 days 16 November 11 December 11, 29 January 22 February 26 March 9 April 7 May 4, 18, June credential renewal AFTER 1 Jan 2017)

EFA (Scheduled with Basic Training Revalidation BUT NOT REQUIRED 1 day 13 December 10, 31 January 21 February 28 March 11 April 9 May 6, 20 June FOR STCW 2010)

Leadership & Management (required by ALL management level Deck 5 days 15 January 5 February 21 May 4 June and Engine officers by 1 Jan 2017)

Maritime Security Awareness 1/2 day Please Call

Medical Courses

Heat Stress Afloat / Hearing Conservation Afloat 1 day 13 November 2 April

Elementary First Aid — Prerequisite for MCP within preceding 12 months 1 day 14, 28 Nov. 16 January 26 March 3 April 5 June

Prerequisite for MPIC within preceding 12 15, 29 Medical Care Provider — 3 days 17 January 27 March 4 April 6 June months. Please fax EFA certificate when registering November

Medical PIC — Please fax MCP certificate when registering 5 days 4 December 22 January 9 April 11 June

Urinalysis Collector Training 1 day 11 December 29 January 16 April 18 June

Breath Alcohol Test (BAT) — Alco Sensors 3 and 4 only 1 day 12 December 30 January 17 April 19 June

Screening Test Technician — QEDs a.m./Alco Mate 7000 p.m. 1 day 13 December 31 January 18 April 20 June

Medical PIC Refresher — MSC approved 3 days Please Call

Radar Courses 12, 13, 14, 29 11, 12, 25, 26 1 day 14, 16 Nov. 9, 31 January 19 February 9, 10 May 6, 7, 20, 21 June Radar Recertification March April

ARPA 4 days 20 February

Radar Recertification & ARPA 5 days 19 February

Original Radar Observer Unlimited 5 days 12 February Deck Courses Meets STCW 2010 Advanced Bridge Resource Management — 5 days Leadership & Management gap closing requirements 19 February 21 May

(No equivalency) Must have Advanced Shiphandling for Masters — 5 days sailed as Chief Mate Unlimited 27 November 19 March 7 May 60 days seatime equiv. for 3rd Advanced Shiphandling for 3rd Mates — 10 days 4 December 8 January (PM) 12 Feb. (PM) 5 March 2 April 14 May (PM) 4, 18 June Mates

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

Dynamic Positioning — Basic 5 days 29 January 14 May

Dynamic Positioning — Advanced 5 days 4 December 2 April 4 June

Navigational Watchkeeping Standardization & Assessment Program 5 days 27 November 12 March 30 April 21 May 11 June

Third Mate (Unlimited or TOAR (Towing Officer Assessment Record) — 5 days 2 April 14 May Great Lakes) or 1600T Master License required AND OICNW required

Tug Training — ASD Assist (Azimuthing Stern Drive) 5 days December 11 25 June

Visual Communications (Flashing Light) — Test only 1 day Please Call November 2017 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 8, 22 January 16 April

Upgrade: Advanced Meteorology — Requires after-hours homework 5 days 15, 22 January 5 February 30 April

Advanced Stability 5 days 8 January 5 March 7 May

Search & Rescue 2 days 12 February

Management of Medical Care 1/2 day 14 February 16 May

Leadership & Management 5 days 15 January 5 February 21 May 4 June

Advanced Cargo — Optional for task sign-off 5 days 13 November 19 February 4 June

Marine Propulsion Plants — Optional for task sign-off 5 days 11 December 5 March 11 June

Advanced Celestial — Optional for task sign-off 5 days 4 December 12 March 25 June

Advanced Navigation — Optional for task sign-off 5 days 27 November 26 February 18 June Engineering Courses

Basic Electricity 10 days 29 January 30 April

Diesel Crossover 4 weeks Please Call

Gas Turbine Endorsement 10 days 5 March 14 May

High Voltage Safety Course (Classroom) 3 days 13 November 20 February

Hydraulics/ Pneumatics 5 days 11 December 22 January

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) 5 days 12 February 14 May

Refrigeration (Operational Level) 5 days 7 May

Refrigeration (Management Level) 5 days 4 December 14 May

Steam Endorsement 4 weeks 15 January 16 April 11 June

Ocean Ranger Program 6 days 9 April

Open to eligible Chief Mates and Masters on a space available Welding & Metallurgy Skills & Practices — 2 weeks 4 December 26 February 4 June basis. Interested participants should apply online and will be confirmed 2 weeks prior to start date.

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

Leadership & Managerial Skills (G500 as amended) — 5 days 15 January 5 February 21 May 4 June REQUIRED

ERM (E050 as amended) — REQUIRED (unless previously taken 5 days 8 January 18 June for gap closing or original license)

Upgrade: Electrical, Electronics & Control Engineering (Management Level) (E133 as amended) (UPGRADE with tasks) 5 days 22 January 11 June Required unless previously taken for gap closing or original license

STCW Upgrade Task Assessment — General Engineering & Procedure (E135 as amended) — OPTIONAL: Tasks can be 5 days 29 January 25 June signed off onboard

STCW Upgrade Task Assessment — MEECE — OPTIONAL: 5 days Please call Tasks can be signed off onboard

STCW Upgrade Task Assessment — Motor (E120 as amended) — 3 days 5 February OPTIONAL: Tasks can be signed off onboard

STCW Upgrade Task Assessment — Steam (E121 as amended) — 5 days 12 February OPTIONAL: Tasks can be signed off onboard

STCW Upgrade Task Assessment — Gas Turbine (E122 as 5 days 13 November 19 February amended) — OPTIONAL: Tasks can be signed off onboard MSC Training Program Basic CBR Defense 1 day 11 December 25 January 16, 22 March

Damage Control 1 day 30 November 12 December 24 January 15, 21 March

Heat Stress Afloat / Hearing Conservation Afloat 1 day 13 November 2 April

Helicopter Fire Fighting 1 day 1 December 23 January 20 March 6 April

Marine Environmental Programs (with CBRD) 1/2 day 11 December 25 January 16, 22 March

Marine Sanitation Devices 1/2 day 14 November 4 April

Must have completed full CBRD & DC once in MSC Readiness Refresher — 2 days 30 November 22 January 19 March 5 April career.

MSC Watchstander — BASIC — Once in career, SST grads grandfathered 2 days 4 December 5 February 16 April

MSC Watchstander — ADVANCED — Required for all SRF members 1 day 17 November 1, 5, 15 Dec. 15 January 2, 6 February 2, 16 March 13, 17, 27 April 4, 25 May 15, 29 June

MSC Ship Reaction Force — Required every three years for SRF members 3 days 6 December 7 February 18 April

Small Arms — Initial & Sustainment (Refresher) Training — Open to members & applicants eligible for employment through AMO (w/in 1 year) or 4 days 13, 27 Nov. 11 December 16, 29 January 12, 26 February 12, 26 March 9, 23, 30 April 21 May 11, 25 June MSC on MARAD contracted vessels.

Water Sanitation Afloat 1/2 day 14 November 4 April

Self-Study, CDs and Online Courses

Afloat Environmental Protection Coordinator CD

Anti-Terrorism Level 1 Online

Crew Endurance Management CD

DOT Hazardous Materials Transportation Training CD

EPA Universal Refrigerant Certification Examination Self Study

Prudent Mariner’s Guide to Right Whale Protection CD

Qualified Assessor Online

Vessel General Permit — EPA CD

NOTICE: AMO members planning to attend STAR Center in Dania Beach, Florida — either to prepare for license upgrading or to undergo specialty training—are asked to call the school to confirm course schedule and space availability in advance.

NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY AS TO STUDENTS: The Simulation, Training, Assessment and Research Center (STAR), established under the auspices of the American Maritime Officers Safety and Education Plan, 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 November 2017

TOLEDO, OH 43604 The Melvin H. Pelfrey Building One Maritime Plaza, Third Floor FAX: (419) 255-2350 John E. Clemons, National Vice President, Great Lakes [email protected] (800) 221-9395 ext. 6003 / Mobile: (419) 205-3509 Brian D. Krus, Senior National Assistant Vice President AMO NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS [email protected] (800) 221-9395 ext. 6007 / Mobile: (216) 571-9666 DANIA BEACH, FL 33004-4109 Michelle Moffitt, Dispatcher ([email protected]) 601 S. Federal Highway (800) 221-9395 ext. 6005 / Mobile: (419) 481-3470 (954) 921-2221 / (800) 362-0513 Paul Doell, National President GALVESTON, TX 77551 [email protected] 2724 61st Street, Suite B, PMB 192 Extension 1001 David M. Weathers, National Vice President, Inland Waters Mobile: (954) 881-5651 [email protected] FAX: (954) 926-5112 (800) 362-0513 ext. 2001 / Mobile: (409) 996-7362 Charles A. Murdock, National Secretary-Treasurer FAX: (409) 737-4454 [email protected] Extension 1004 / Mobile: (954) 531-9977 / FAX: (954) 367-1025 SAN FRANCISCO / OAKLAND, CA 94607 Joseph Z. Gremelsbacker, National Vice President, Deep Sea 1121 7th Street, Second Floor [email protected] Oakland, CA 94607 Extension 1009 / Mobile: (954) 673-0680 / FAX: (954) 367-1029 FAX: (954) 367-1064 Todd Christensen, East Coast Representative Daniel E. Shea, National Executive Vice President ([email protected]) [email protected] / Mobile: (561) 806-3768 Mobile: (415) 269-5795 / (800) 362-0513 ext. 5001 Marie Doruth, Executive Assistant to the National President William Barrere, West Coast Representative ([email protected]) [email protected] Mobile: (415) 654-2671 Extension 1017 / Mobile: (954) 290-8109 FAX: (954) 926-5112 NEW ORLEANS / COVINGTON, LA 70434 Dispatch: (800) 345-3410 / FAX: (954) 926-5126 P.O. Box 5424 Brendan Keller, Dispatcher ([email protected]) Covington, LA 70434 Extension 1061 / Mobile: (954) 817-4000 Daniel J. Robichaux, National Assistant Vice President Robert Anderson, Dispatcher ([email protected]) [email protected] Extension 1060 / Mobile: (954) 599-9771 (954) 367-1036 / Mobile: (985) 201-5462 / FAX: (954) 367-1062 Member Services: Extension 1050 / FAX: (954) 367-1066 STAR CENTER [email protected] STUDENT SERVICES/LODGING AND COURSE INFORMATION OFFICES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania Beach, FL 33004-4312 WASHINGTON, D.C. 20024 (954) 920-3222 ext. 201 / (800) 942-3220 ext. 201 490 L’Enfant Plaza East SW, Suite 7204 Course Attendance Confirmation: (800) 942-3220 ext. 200 (202) 479-1166 / (800) 362-0513 ext. 7001 24 Hours: (954) 920-3222 ext.7999 / FAX: (954) 920-3140 Paul Doell, National President [email protected] SERVICES Extension 7004 Mobile: (954) 881-5651 FINANCIAL ADVISERS: THE ATLANTIC GROUP AT MORGAN STANLEY J. Michael Murphy, National Vice President, Government Relations (800) 975-7061 / www.morganstanleyfa.com/theatlanticgroup [email protected] / [email protected] Extension 7013 / Mobile: (202) 560-6889 MEDICAL CLINIC AMO PLANS T. Christian Spain, National Assistant Vice President, Government Relations 2 West Dixie Highway 2 West Dixie Highway [email protected] Dania Beach, FL 33004-4312 Dania Beach, FL 33004-4312 Extension 7010 / Mobile: (202) 658-8887 / FAX: (202) 479-1188 (954) 927-5213 (800) 348-6515 FAX: (954) 929-1415 FAX: (954) 922-7539 PHILADELPHIA, PA 19113 1 International Plaza, Suite 550 LEGAL Chris Holmes, Contract Analyst (cholmes@amo‐union.org) (800) 362‐0513 ext. 4002 / Mobile: (856) 693‐0694 AMO Coast Guard Legal Aid General Counsel Program Glanstein LLP UPDATE CREDENTIALS, DOCUMENTS, TRAINING RECORDS Michael Reny 711 Third Ave., 17th Floor Secure File Upload: https://securetransfer.amo-union.org/ Mobile: (419) 346-1485 New York, NY 10017 E-mail: [email protected] (419) 243-1105/ (888) 853-4662 (212) 370-5100 / (954) 662-9407 Questions: (800) 362-0513 ext. 1050 [email protected] FAX: (212) 697-6299

Bob ‘Spuds’ McKenna: 1954-2017 Retired Chief Engineer Bob ‘Spuds’ McKenna passed away recently at the age of 63. Bob was a 28-year member of AMO, joining the union on tankers back in 1977 following graduation from Maine Maritime Academy. Bob sailed his last 15 years in AMO as Chief Engineer of the Maritime Prepositioning Squadron Three ships: 1st LT Baldomero Lopez and the PFC Dewayne T. Williams, retiring back in 2005. Bob was a kind man and was the unofficial ‘mayor of Regular monthly membership meetings for American Saipan’ during those years, endearing himself to numerous people afloat and ashore and Maritime Officers will be held during the week following the encouraging many SIU crewmembers to upgrade and obtain their licenses and join AMO. first Sunday of every month at 1 p.m. local time. Meetings will Bob was a great people person and good Chief and mentored many AMO members on both be held on Monday at AMO National Headquarters (on life and sailing issues. He will be sorely missed. Bob is survived by his loving wife, Regina; Tuesday when Monday is a holiday). The next meetings will his stepdaughter, Karen; and brothers Mike, Vincent and Dan. See you on the other side of the bar, Brother Bob! take place on the following dates:

Joe Gelhaus Chief Engineer AMO National Headquarters: December 4, January 8 USNS Montford Point (T-ESD-1) November 2017 American Maritime Officer • 11

American Maritime Officers Agency Fee Policy 1. Any AMO represented non-mem- these policies and procedures to provide jurisdiction, or if the Board defers to the challengers do not purchase a copy of the ber employee, whether publicly or pri- notice to AMO represented employees of appeal procedures, the non-member chal- transcript, a copy shall be available for vately employed who is subject to a union their right to object and the procedures for lenger’s appeal shall be filed exclusively purposes of inspection by challengers at security clause conditioning continued objecting. The AMO shall also send a with the AMO Secretary-Treasurer post- the Union party’s headquarters during employment on the payment of dues or copy of these policies and procedures to marked no later than thirty (30) days after normal business hours. fees, has the right to become an objector each person who objected the previous the later of the following two dates: the f. The arbitrator shall have control to expenditures not related to collective year to inform the person of his or her date the AMO Secretary-Treasurer has over all procedural matters affecting the bargaining, contract administration, right to renew the objection for the cur- forwarded a letter to the challenger arbitration in order to fulfill the dual grievance adjustment or other chargeable rent year. acknowledging receipt of the challenge or needs of an informed and an expeditious expenditures. A current AMO member 5. The AMO shall retain an inde- the date the National Labor Relations arbitration. The arbitrator shall set forth in has the right to choose to become an pendent auditor who shall submit an Board affirmatively declines to assert its the decision the legal and arithmetic bases objector, but must assume non-member annual report for the purpose of verifying reviewing jurisdiction. for the decision giving full consideration status prior to filing an objection through the percentage of expenditures that fall 9. Except where State law provides to the legal requirements limiting the these procedures. An objector’s fees shall within the categories specified in para- an exclusive statutory review procedure amount objectors may be charged. be calculated in accordance with this graph 3 above. or when a challenger proceeds before the g. Each party to the arbitration shall Policy. 6. The fees paid by objectors shall National Labor Relations Board, as set have the right to file a post-hearing state- 2. To become an objector, an AMO be handled as follows: forth in paragraph 8, all such challenges ment within fifteen (15) days after both represented non-member employee shall a. Objectors who pay fees by hand received by the Union within the time parties have completed submission of notify the AMO Secretary-Treasurer, 601 shall pay an amount less the percentage of limits specified above shall be determined their cases at the hearing. Such statements S. Federal Highway, Dania Beach, dues and initiation fees ascribed by the by expeditious referral to an impartial may not introduce new evidence nor dis- Florida, in writing of his individual objec- audit (described in #5 above) to non- arbitrator appointed by the American cuss evidence not introduced in the arbi- tion by mail postmarked during the month chargeable activities. AMO shall place Arbitration Association (“AAA”) under tration. The arbitrator shall issue a deci- of January each year. Such employees said fee in an interest bearing account. its rules for impartial determination of sion within forty-five (45) days after the desiring to object, but who were unable to b. Objectors who are paying fees by Union fees as modified and approved by final date for submission of post-hearing make timely objection because they were check-off shall continue to have a fee the courts and these procedures. The statements or within such other reason- not subject to an AMO union security equal to full AMO dues and initiation fee AMO will notify the AAA that challenges able period as is consistent with the AAA clause as of January, either because they checked off by the employer and trans- of its fees, which have been received from rules and the requirements of law. are a new employee or have recently cho- mitted to the AMO. The AMO shall place one or more individual employees, are to h. The decision of the arbitrator sen to assume non-member status, must its share of the fee in an interest bearing be determined by an impartial administra- shall be final and binding with respect to make an objection within thirty (30) days escrow account and shall return the tor and will include the names and all findings of fact supported by substan- after becoming subject to union security admittedly nonchargeable share to the addresses of the individuals who have tial evidence on the record considered as obligations and receiving notice of these objector. filed their appeals challenging the a whole and on other findings legally per- procedures. The objection shall be signed c. Following completion of the Union’s fees and who should be notified mitted to be binding on all parties. and shall contain the objector’s current audit (described in #5 above) for a given of the proceedings. Thereupon, in accor- i. Upon receipt of the arbitrator’s home address and AMO Union number, if year, the AMO shall rebate to each given dance with its rules, the AAA will appoint award, any adjustment in favor of the known. Objections may only be made by objector an amount equal to such fees the arbitrator to the case, notifying the challenger will be made from the escrow individual employees: no petition objec- held by the AMO in escrow which were Union and the other participants. account. tions will be honored. A person who wish- ascribed by the audit to nonchargeable a. All appeals shall be consolidated 10. The provisions of this procedure es to continue an objection in a subse- activities. and heard as soon as the AAA can sched- shall be considered legally separable. quent twelve (12) month period shall pro- d. If an objector does not challenge ule the arbitration. All procedures chal- Should any provision or portion thereof vide notice of objection each January in the validity of the audit pursuant to #8 lenging the AMO’s fee determinations be held contrary to law by a court, admin- the same manner. below within the allotted time the fees shall take place in New York City, and the istrative agency, or an arbitrator, the 3. The following categories of held in escrow shall become the property parties shall be the appellants and the remaining provisions or portions thereof expenditure are chargeable to the extent of AMO. If a challenge is filed, the fees AMO. shall continue to be legally effective and permitted by law: held in escrow shall continue to be so b. Each party to the arbitration shall binding. If, after consultation with the a. All expenses concerning the held until the challenge is resolved in bear their own costs including, but not officers on the AMO Executive negotiation of agreements, practices and accord with the procedures referred to limited to, attorney’s fees and expenses, Committee, the President of the AMO working conditions. below, at which time the fees shall be dis- witness fees and expenses and travel determines that modifications in this pro- b. All expenses concerning the tributed in accord with said resolution. costs. The challengers shall have the cedure are necessary to maintain its com- administration of agreements, practices e. Objectors filing objections in option of paying a pro-rated portion of the pliance with applicable law, such modifi- and working conditions, including griev- January of 2018, in addition to paying arbitrator’s fees and expenses. The bal- cations may be made in accordance with ance handling, all activities related to fees in the manner set forth for the above, ance of the arbitrator’s fees and expenses the Constitution of the AMO. arbitration, and discussion with employ- shall receive rebates from the AMO for and all AMO fees and expenses shall be 11. An objector shall have neither a ees in the bargaining unit or employer the year 2017, based upon the audits (see paid by AMO. voice nor vote in the internal affairs of the representatives regarding working condi- #5 above) for the fiscal year ending in c. Challengers may, at their AMO which includes, inter alia, the rati- tions, benefits and contract rights. 2017, as they may be modified by the pro- expense, be represented by counsel or fication of a collective bargaining agree- c. Convention expenses and other cedures set forth below. other representative of their choice. ment, whether or not it covers his or her normal Union internal governance and 7. The reports(s) of the independent Challengers need not appear at the hear- employment. management expenses. auditor(s) for the AMO shall be complet- ing and shall be permitted to file written 12. The benefits of nonmembers in d. Social activities open to non- ed as soon as possible following the end statements with the arbitrator instead of an Agency Shop Agreement are such ben- members and Union business meeting of the fiscal year. The report(s) shall appearing. Such statements shall be filed efits as being eligible to receive the expenses. include verification of the major cate- not later than the beginning of the hearing American Maritime Officer, representa- e. Publication expenses to the gories of Union expenses attributable to before the arbitrator. Post-hearing state- tion in grievances, grievance adjustment extent coverage is related to chargeable chargeable and non-chargeable activities. ments may be filed in accordance with the and arbitration, and no other contract ser- activities. The AMO shall provide to all objecting provisions of paragraph 9(g) below. vice benefits received by members of the f. Expense of litigation before the non-member bargaining unit employees d. Fourteen (14) days prior to the AMO. Such nonmembers shall not be courts and administrative agencies related who are represented a copy of the audi- start of the arbitration, challengers shall allowed attendance at union meetings, the to bargaining unit contract administration. tor(s) report(s). be provided with copies of all exhibits or right to hold or run for any Union office g. Expenses of lobbying for legisla- 8. In the absence of an exclusive a list of all such exhibits intended to be (elective or appointed), or any voting tive, executive branch and administrative statutory review procedure, each objector introduced at the arbitration by the Union rights within the Union unless and until agency representation on matters closely may challenge the legal and arithmetical party and a list of all witnesses the Union they have become members of this Union related to the ratification or implementa- bases of the calculations contained in the party intends to call, except for exhibits in accordance with the provisions of the tion of bargaining unit contracts and independent auditor report(s) by filing an and witnesses the Union party may intro- AMO Constitution. working conditions. appeal with the AMO Secretary- duce for rebuttal. Where a list of exhibits 13. For purposes of job referral, h. All expenses for the education Treasurer, 601 S. Federal Highway, has been provided, the challenger shall individuals choosing to become Agency and training of members, officers and Dania Beach, Florida, 33004, together have a right to receive copies of such Fee payers shall have the same status staff intended to prepare the participants with notice to the President of AMO at exhibits by making a written request for under the applicable Shipping Rules as an to better perform chargeable activities. 601 S. Federal Highway, Dania Beach, them to the AMO Secretary-Treasurer. applicant until such time as the Agency i. Other costs of group cohesion and Florida 33004. non-member challengers Additionally, copies of all exhibits shall Fee payer pays the total fair share equiva- economic action, e.g., demonstration, in bargaining units covered by the be available to inspection and copying at lent of the initiation fee specified herein. general strike activity, informational National Labor Relations Act shall also the hearing. Use of the male gender in these pro- picketing, etc. have the right to seek a determination of e. A court reporter shall make a cedures shall be deemed to include the j. An appropriate portion of over- any issues relating to these procedures by transcript of all proceedings before the female gender. head and administrative expenses. invoking the jurisdiction of the National arbitrator. This transcript shall be the only 4. Each December in the American Labor Relations Board. If such a chal- official record of the proceedings and ADOPTED by the AMO Executive Board Maritime Officer, the AMO shall publish lenger chooses not to invoke the Board’s may be purchased by the challengers. If November 11, 1998 12 • American Maritime Officer November 2017

infrastructure in the shipping corridor between Jacksonville and San Juan ... Congressional leaders stress critical need Consistent application of the Jones Act enables (a domestic maritime company) to make these 35-year investments that for Jones Act, push back on false claims ensure consistent on-time deliveries to the people of Puerto Rico and that ensure The following is excerpted from an the Unprecedented 2017 Hurricane wake of Hurricane Maria and highlighted cargo shipments back to the mainland to article released November 3 by the Season,” during which Congressman John the significance of American maritime in support the island’s manufacturing sector, American Maritime Partnership, a coali- Rutherford (R-FL) and Ranking Member supporting the long-term restoration of the and it’s this continuity and certainty that tion of which American Maritime Officers Peter DeFazio (D-OR) highlighted the island’s economy. position the U.S. maritime industry in Service is a member and which American importance of American maritime for “The Jones Act has not added diffi- Jacksonville to be so capable to respond Maritime Officers supports. Puerto Rico’s recovery and the capacity culties to the recovery in Puerto Rico and to the needs of Puerto Rico as the Coast WASHINGTON — The House and capability of Jones Act vessels to meet the Virgin Islands. The goods getting to Guard reopened the port after Maria.” Subcommittee on Transportation and Puerto Rico’s present and future needs. the port were not the problem. It was the Echoing Congressman Rutherford’s Infrastructure held a hearing Wednesday, In his testimony, Congressman distribution from the port into the country strong remarks, Ranking Member November 1, on “Emergency Response Rutherford recognized the critical role of where the need was at — that was the dif- DeFazio also stressed the importance of and Recovery: Central Takeaways from American maritime first responders in the ficulty,” said Congressman Rutherford. the Jones Act for ensuring reliable deliv- “The U.S. maritime industry are first ery to the island and the challenge of mov- responders in times of emergency like ing relief containers out of the port due to Hurricane Irma and Maria and infrastructure problems. Jacksonville is ground zero for getting “Finally, I hope once and for all to AMO aboard ATB Corpus Christi shipments of goods to Puerto Rico quickly put the idea to rest the idea that somehow reliably and economically ... Jones Act the Jones Act is inhibiting the recovery of carriers to date have delivered tens of Puerto Rico. We’ve had more than 20,000 thousands of containers to the island via containers delivered,” said Ranking the Port of San Juan. They have worked Member DeFazio. “The problem has been closely with federal emergency respon- the logistics of getting those out of the ders, customers, and nonprofit organiza- port. The remote parts of the island want tions to meet the ever changing and to hear more about the infrastructure prob- increasing needs of the island. They have lems that are inhibiting the distribution proven themselves committed to meeting and what we can do about that in the short Puerto Rico’s immediate needs while also and the long term.” supporting the long term restoration of the These comments come after a island’s economy.” prior hearing of the Subcommittee on Congressman Rutherford added: Coast Guard and Maritime “Part of the rebuilding effort is also mak- Transportation on Tuesday, October 3, ing sure that the hundreds of maritime 2017, in which congressional members American Maritime Officers members working aboard the U.S. Shipping employees in San Juan and in and leaders from the U.S. Coast Guard Corp. articulated tug/barge Corpus Christi in August, here in New Jacksonville are able to keep their jobs. also discussed the importance of the Orleans, La., included Captain Bob Corbett, Third Mate Alonzo Martin, The Jones Act provides stability to these law to Puerto Rico’s recovery. Chief Mate Alan Ancona, Second Mate James Eckerson and Third American workers and certainty to indus- For nearly a century, the Jones Act Assistant Engineer Alexander Mercurio. try, which in turn has reinvested more has had bipartisan support from the than a billion dollars into vessels and U.S. Congress.