Volume 39, Number 9 September 2009

M/V Ocean Charger joins New jobs for AMO: AMO members Capt. Jeff Fischer, master of the Ocean Charger, and Chief Mate Jeff Raider (left) hoist the U.S. flag U.S.-flag fleet with PGM on the ship Aug. 5 in Houston, Texas.

The Ocean Charger — one American Maritime Officers members aboard of three U.S.-flagged the Ocean Charger for its first voyage under heavy-lift ships operated by U.S. registry included Second Mate John Pacific-Gulf Marine for Intermarine Dunaway, Capt. Jeff Fischer, First Assistant Inc. and manned in all licensed posi- Engineer Will Marino, Third Mate Alex Olaes, tions by AMO — was re-flagged Aug. 5. Second A.E. Dan McNulty and Chief Mate Jeff Raider Following its re-flagging, the ship departed (not in the picture: Chief Engineer Rich Rosati). With them for South Carolina to load power plant here are AMO National Executive Vice President Bob Kiefer, equipment destined for Bahrain. PGM oper- AMO National Executive Board Member Dave Weathers and ates nine ships under contract with AMO. AMO Plans Executive Director Steve Nickerson. Sealift LLC to purchase, re-flag containership for MSC charter New jobs for AMO in re-supply service to Diego Garcia New jobs will be opened to American Maritime itive bidding process for MSC contracts are commendable Officers members when Sealift LLC completes the purchase and extremely positive for AMO,” said AMO National of a containership for operation under a Military Sealift President Tom Bethel. “We look forward to working with New AMO jobs Command charter awarded to the company in late August. them under the charter, providing the professionalism and Sealift was awarded the MSC charter for a container- performance typical of AMO officers and expected of the aboard ATB ship to carry ammunition and general cargo in a re-supply ship and crew in this mission for the fleet at Diego Garcia.” capacity between Singapore and Diego Garcia. The charter Sealift LLC Partner John Raggio is optimistic about can extend for up to five years if all options are exercised, the new addition to the company’s fleet and Sealift is look- Corpus Christi with a firm one-year period, three one-year options and one ing forward to successfully serving the mission of the MSC 11-month option. contract. The ATB Corpus Christi — the fourth and final Sealift LLC is purchasing the 703-TEU Rio Bogota The purchase of the Rio Bogota will be completed at articulated tug/barge in a series of newbuilds — from its Danish owners to operate under this charter. The the beginning of September and the ship is scheduled to be was recently delivered to U.S. Shipping and has ship, built in 1994, will be renamed and re-flagged into U.S. re-flagged into U.S. registry at the beginning of November. entered service in the Jones Act trades. AMO registry. Including the new vessel, Sealift LLC manages 12 represents all licensed officers in the USS fleet. “Sealift’s ongoing investment in U.S.-flag shipping ships manned in all licensed positions by American and the company’s continued success in the highly-compet- Maritime Officers.

AMO Essentials U.S. Coast Guard CBP proposal Great Lakes News revising medical would strengthen STAR Center course ◆ schedule: Pages 8-9 evaluation forms Jones Act

STAR Center registration Page 4: The Coast Guard has Page 3: Responding to a ◆ application: Page 11 announced the mariner medical request for comments from evaluation forms will be U.S. Customs and Border replaced this year. Mariners Protection, AMO has recom- ◆ AMO directory: Page 10 may continue using the current mended a Jones Act “fleet in four-page medical form until transition” manned by U.S. Page 5: Ore trades showed hints ◆ AMO membership meeting December 31, 2009, after which mariners for U.S. Gulf offshore of recovery, but the recession schedule: Page 10 the new form will be mandatory. energy support services. maintained its grip on the Lakes.

Copyright © 2009 American Maritime Officers ■ 2 West Dixie Highway ■ Dania Beach, FL 33004 ■ (800) 362-0513 ■ [email protected] 2 • American Maritime Officer September 2009 AMO retirement security: in time, a much better way

By Tom Bethel “Underfunding means that the plan does cation of its position on this specific ben- In this context, I have developed a National President not currently have enough assets to pay all efit. If it becomes apparent at some point plan that would begin by acknowledging a accrued benefits, the majority of which that the benefit cannot be restored under tough truth: no defined benefit pension In August will be paid in the future, under the given IRS restrictions — even with adequate plan, including the AMO Pension Plan, 2006, President actuarial assumptions about asset rate of funding — the AMO Pension Plan will can expect to regain what it lost in invest- Bush signed the return, retirement age, mortality and other notify all participants in advance so that ment markets in the last two years — and, P e n s i o n factors that affect the amount and timing each individual can decide between remain- as the trend of the last 30 years indicates, Protection Act of benefits.” ing at work at sea or retiring. the increasingly expensive defined benefit into law. Despite As a “critical” plan operating in the pension plan could be in its last throes. its appealing “red zone” under the Pension Protection A practical, permanent solution Under this plan, all of the AMO name, the measure Act, the American Maritime Officers I have served as a trustee of the Pension Plan’s existing liabilities would actually made it Pension Plan will meet all of its current AMO Plans for 20 years, and I have never be satisfied over an extended period, and no more difficult for obligations. All deep-sea, Great Lakes and seen conditions as dire as those that com- new liabilities would be accepted. traditional retire- inland waters retirees and survivors now bined to cripple the AMO Pension Plan in In time, the defined benefit AMO ment plans to on the pension roll will continue to the last two years. There is no fault among Pension Plan would be replaced by a meet their com- receive their monthly benefits with no the Plan’s trustees, administration, actuar- defined contribution plan that would cost mitments to participants. Among other interruption, and these benefits will not be ies or investment managers — the steep less, be subject to less government regula- things, the law effectively doubled the cost reduced. losses here were unavoidable and reflective tion, restriction and intervention, require of defined benefit pension plans, under But federal law will prohibit lump- of a nationwide retirement crisis brought little or no guesswork (educated or not), which participants earn monthly benefits sum benefit distribution by the AMO on by excessive federal regulation, the operate without the pitfalls that mar based on wages and length of service. Pension Plan to qualified participants market meltdown and the deep-dive down- defined benefit retirement plans, give par- At about the same time two years while the Plan is in the “red zone.” The turn in the economy. ticipants direct control over how and where later, investment markets went into sus- Internal Revenue Service, which developed As national president of American the money is invested, and enhance the tained freefall. By December 2008, the many of the regulations resulting from the Maritime Officers, and as alternating chair- competitive standings of AMO employers. median funding status among defined ben- pension law, frowns upon lump-sum man and secretary of the AMO Pension This new plan would be in addition efit pension plans in the private and pub- retirement benefits in general because the Plan Board of Trustees, I cannot simply let to the AMO 401(k) Plan and the AMO lic sectors nationwide had fallen to 72 per- IRS believes the pay-outs undermine a the funding and rehabilitation strategy run Pension Plan Money Purchase Benefit, cent, compared to 94 percent in 2007. The defined benefit plan’s ability to provide its course, hope for the Plan’s recovery in both of which are defined contribution data thus far suggest that the average fund- monthly benefits (annuities). my lifetime and trust that the AMO plans. ing level will plunge even further in 2009. With this one exception, the AMO Pension Plan will never again be swept by I cannot discuss the details or the The collapse of the stock and bond Pension Plan will operate as it always has unpredictable, uncontrollable conditions transition or funding mechanics here, but markets in 2008 wiped out approximately through December 2009. comparable to those that brought the Plan AMO Plans Executive Director Steve 10 years’ worth of gain by defined benefit For example, individuals who quali- to its present point. Nickerson, AMO Vice President at Large pension plans, but the plans’ liabilities fy for “20 and out” monthly pension ben- Our union needs a realistic and Mike Murphy and I are already hitting ves- were left standing — assets held by defined efits before the end of this year and who responsible long-term approach to retire- sels to discuss this with AMO members benefit pension plans in 2008 lagged lia- wish to retire can do so, regardless of age. ment security, a sensible alternative to the and applicants for AMO membership, and bilities by a staggering $310 billion. This is important because the IRS objects inherently perilous defined benefit pension there will be extensive written communi- The difficulties experienced by all to 20-year retirement below age 55 in all plan, which can no longer be seen as a reli- cations to AMO families from me and single and multiemployer defined benefit pension plans, regardless of the plans’ able retirement resource. A defined benefit from Steve as developments occur. pension plans have since been aggravated respective standings under the Pension pension plan is much too dependent upon This initiative represents a practical, by a severe and seemingly relentless eco- Protection Act. assumptions (interest rates and mortality permanent solution to a worsening prob- nomic recession and by persistent market On January 1, 2010, the American rates, for example) that can no longer be lem, and I am confident that AMO mem- instability. Maritime Officers Pension Plan will be made accurately, and is much too vulnera- bers everywhere will see it that way. It frozen — participants will earn pension ble to business failure, job loss and other will not be easy at first, but innovation The impact on AMO credits beyond January 1, but only for economic hazards. and security never are. Like all other traditional retirement vesting and benefit eligibility purposes. plans, the defined benefit American Wages earned after January 1, 2010, will Maritime Officers Pension Plan suffered in not be considered in the calculation of this climate. The AMO Pension Plan — monthly pension benefits. The joint funded at 92 percent in 2007 — lost $100 union-employer trustees of the AMO million on Wall Street while coping with Pension Plan believe this will help stabi- the unrealistic, unreasonable and uncom- lize funding significantly, and they expect promising requirements of the Pension that this will be a temporary measure. Protection Act. Meanwhile, the trustees will meet As a consequence, the AMO during the week of October 5, 2009, to Pension Plan on October 1 will reach the consider a proposed “rehabilitation plan” “critical” point and operate in the “red as required under the Pension Protection zone” as defined and categorized in the Act. The rehab strategy would address Pension Protection Act. By the law’s stan- underfunding in the American Maritime dard, the AMO Pension Plan will be fund- Officers Pension Plan, and it would require ed at 65 percent or less as of October 1. To difficult negotiation between our union put it another way, the Plan will be under- and all deep-sea, Great Lakes and inland funded by at least 35 percent. waters vessel operating employers. The The word “underfunded” has an omi- “rehabilitation plan” would have to be nous ring to it, but United States written into a minimum of 70 percent of Comptroller General David M. Walker put our union’s deep-sea, Great Lakes and it in clear and reasoned perspective in tes- inland waters collective bargaining agree- timony before the Senate Finance ments before it could go into effect. Committee in June 2005. The required “rehabilitation plan” “An underfunded plan does not nec- would, among other things, take up the essarily indicate that the sponsor is unable issue of retirement from sea after 20 years, to pay current benefits,” Walker explained regardless of age — assuming, of course, in a footnote to his prepared statement. that the IRS provides the requested clarifi-

American Maritime Officer (USPS 316-920) Official Publication of American Maritime Officers 2 West Dixie Highway Dania Beach, FL 33004 (954) 921-2221 POSTMASTER—Send Address Changes To: Periodical Postage Paid at American Maritime Officers — ATTENTION: Member Services Dania Beach, FL P.O. Box 66 and Additional Mailing Offices Dania Beach, FL 33004 Published Monthly ISO 9001:2008 September 2009 American Maritime Officer • 3 AMO advocates U.S. manning for Jones Act ‘fleet in transition’ in U.S. Gulf offshore energy services American Maritime Officers Aug. American Maritime Officers “would need for a waiver that would render the cur- for hundreds of thousands of jobs nation- 10 recommended a Jones Act “fleet in tran- be able to meet this new demand for rent Customs and Border Protection effort wide at sea and ashore, billions in private sition” manned by U.S. merchant marine engine and deck officers seamlessly and pointless and wasteful.” capital investment in vessels and infra- officers for offshore energy support ser- efficiently,” Bethel noted. “AMO has a Bethel emphasized AMO’s historical- structure, and millions of dollars in feder- vices in the Gulf of Mexico. large and ever-growing membership and ly strong support of the Jones Act as a test- al, state and local tax revenues each year. AMO National President Tom extensive and direct experience in Jones ed and proven element of national policy. “More importantly, the Jones Act Bethel floated the recommendation in com- Act markets along the U.S. coasts, on the “AMO has been visible and vocal in enhances U.S. national security by sus- ments filed with Customs and Border Great Lakes and on inland waterways.” defense of the Jones Act,” he wrote. “The taining ships and skilled, dependable mar- Protection in the Department of Homeland Moreover, the AMO Safety and Jones Act has endured as federal law for 89 itime manpower for strategic sealift and Security in response to a July 17 CBP Education Plan’s Simulation, Training, years because it serves legitimate and last- other military support services during proposal to modify or revoke several Assessment and Research (STAR) Center ing U.S. economic and national security defense emergencies. Jones Act vessels Customs rulings said to have had adverse in Dania Beach, Fla. “would replenish this interests. have been chartered by the U.S. Navy’s effects on the Jones Act over more than 20 skilled licensed labor pool routinely with “In our view, the Jones Act is clear Military Sealift Command for overseas years. full-mission simulator training designed enough in purpose and specific enough in service, and more than 80 percent of the Enacted as Section 27 of the specifically for offshore services in the language to defy broad interpretation, and U.S. citizen civilian seafarers who Merchant Marine Act of 1920, the Jones Gulf of Mexico.” Bethel said STAR we commend Customs and Border manned government-owned or chartered Act holds all domestic waterborne cargoes Center is “acknowledged widely as the Protection for revisiting specific rulings U.S.-flagged sealift ships to the Persian for merchant vessels owned, built, regis- world’s most comprehensive and advanced for the long-term benefit of U.S.-flagged Gulf in support of Operation Iraqi tered and crewed in the United States. training, certification and license upgrad- merchant vessel operating companies and Freedom began their seagoing careers in Jones Act jurisdiction was applied to the ing resource for merchant marine officers.” the American merchant mariners these the Jones Act fleet. Gulf offshore trades under the Outer Bethel added: “A Gulf offshore fleet companies employ in domestic trades,” “These truths are acknowledged in Continental Shelf Lands Act of 1953. in transition from foreign flag to U.S. flag Bethel continued. “We welcome the the pending Customs and Border In his comments, Bethel said adop- — with a fleet-wide complement of agency’s effort to tighten Jones Act applic- Protection proposal, which would effec- tion of the latest CBP proposal as expect- skilled, qualified and reliable U.S. mer- ability and enforcement in offshore energy tively close loopholes that have denied ed later this year would result in a Jones chant marine officers working under com- markets in the Gulf of Mexico,” U.S.-flagged merchant vessel operators Act fleet that could accommodate demand petitive but rewarding contracts — would Bethel concluded: and American merchant mariners access to in the Gulf energy sector. permit uninterrupted service without com- “The Jones Act is an increasingly offshore routes in the Gulf of Mexico for But Bethel warned that this fleet promising the Jones Act, and without the important national asset. The law accounts much too long.” development could take time because of the stronghold foreign-flagged and manned vessels have on the service and support trades. “The ideal outcome here would be Customs and Border Protection proposal for existing Jones Act vessels to move into Gulf markets upon adoption of the would strengthen Jones Act enforcement CBP proposal in December 2009, and for U.S. businesses to invest private capital In a proposed ruling, the U.S. necessary and appropriate for the “naviga- stating it “will help ensure that our in Jones Act vessels suitable for specific Customs and Border Protection (CBP) tion, operation or maintenance of the ves- coastwise laws are properly applied offshore services in the Gulf of Mexico,” recently announced modifications of sel itself” as opposed to articles necessary with respect to the transportation of Bethel wrote. long-standing rulings involving trans- to perform a specific task. Allowing a certain merchandise between U.S. “But the reality could be completely portation of merchandise and vessel foreign-flagged vessel to transport articles points. different,” he added. “Foreign-flagged mer- equipment between coastwise points. “to accomplish an activity for which [the] “A close reading of the 1976 chant vessels manned by foreign nationals The proposed ruling would revoke pre- vessel would be engaged would be con- decision makes clear that CBP never have a 30-year competitive head start in vious decisions allowing foreign ves- trary to the legislative intent” of the Jones intended the definition of vessel equip- the lucrative Gulf markets — an artificial sels to service specific coastwise Act, the CBP stated. ment to depend solely on the mission advantage resulting in significant part trades. Accordingly, the CBP would revoke of the vessel or to change dramatically from the rulings Customs and Border The CBP announced it would or modify all prior rulings inconsistent from one vessel to the next,” the Protection now intends to modify or “modify its position regarding which with these new interpretations, including Maritime Cabotage Task Force stated. revoke.” merchandise may be transported those not specifically mentioned by the “Permitting non-coastwise qualified Bethel cautioned that “there may not between coastwise points without vio- CBP in its proposed rulemaking. The vessels to carry equipment, supplies, be enough Jones Act tonnage to meet lating … the Jones Act,” providing a changes would primarily affect drilling, or other articles that are not needed to immediate demand in the Gulf,” and that more stringent interpretation of the well stimulation, cable-laying, and pipe- navigate, operate, or maintain the ves- potential investors in Jones Act vessels statute. laying, maintenance and construction. sel undermines the coastwise laws may not be able to obtain financing in dif- The ruling would also change the In comments submitted Aug.14, the because it permits transportation that ficult commercial credit markets. CBP’s definition of “vessel equip- Maritime Cabotage Task Force (MCTF) should be reserved for U.S. coastwise “Under these circumstances, critics ment,” restricting equipment to articles voiced its support for the proposed ruling, qualified vessels.” of the Customs and Border Protection pro- posal could pressure the agency to waive the Jones Act in the Gulf of Mexico, pos- sibly for an indefinite time — and CBP may have no choice but to comply,” AMO aboard Jones Act trailership Westward Venture Bethel said. “These critics would argue that the existing Jones Act fleet is inadequate in number and design for offshore services in the Gulf — even though adoption of the CBP proposal would hasten the fleet’s expansion,” Bethel explained. “They would argue as well that there are too few qualified U.S. merchant marine officers to man the vessels — an argument that is as failed as it is familiar.” Bethel said the anticipated controver- sy could be addressed in two ways: ■ Temporary U.S. registry for “for- eign-flagged and manned vessels now pro- viding offshore services” in the Gulf of Mexico ■ Temporary foreign-flagged Gulf service “with the requirements that these American Maritime Officers members working aboard the Westward Venture in July included Chief Mate Malcolm vessels be manned by U.S. merchant MacNeill, Capt. Fred Leach, Third Assistant Engineer Mark Vobornik, Chief Engineer Brian Debord, First A.E. marine officers, and that they withdraw Richard Pusatere and Second A.E. Theopolis Jordan. The Westward Venture is operated by Interocean American from Gulf trade as suitable Jones Act ves- Shipping for Totem Ocean Trailer Express and is manned in all licensed positions by AMO. sels become available” 4 • American Maritime Officer September 2009 Reports reveal ongoing threat to Jones Act in WTO

The European Union, through its U.S. trading partners in the WTO include (USDA), the U.S. has contributed more ating in commercial trades, the European Commission, in July issued an the Maritime Security Program, U.S. cargo than 40 cents of every food-aid dollar pro- Congressional Information Bureau reported. annual report that claims key U.S. mar- preference statutes and other laws that vided internationally for the past 20 years. The MSP guarantees the Department of itime statutes and programs represent pos- reserve certain American cargoes for U.S.- Jones Act shippers have been instrumental Defense immediate access to the ships for sible unfair trading practices, raising the flagged merchant ships. in delivering this food aid. strategic sealift service during national threat of a renewed attack upon U.S. mar- These U.S. policy provisions provide The European Commission report security emergencies. itime policy and cabotage laws in the World waterborne tonnage and intermodal systems further claimed the U.S. Outer Continental The METI also targeted the Alaska Trade Organization (WTO). The govern- to the Department of Defense in times of Shelf Lands Act restricts foreign invest- Power Administration Asset Sale and ment of Japan presented similar complaints war or national emergency, as well as a ment. The Act places fishing, dredging, Termination Act, which requires the use of in its annual report released in May. skilled and qualified pool of American mer- salvage and supply transportation within U.S. vessels with American crews for the The European Commission report, chant mariners who are available to serve in three miles of the U.S. Coast within the export of Alaskan crude oil, the “United States Barriers to Trade and sealift and contingency operations. As such, jurisdiction of the Jones Act. Foreign com- Congressional Information Bureau reported. Investment,” specifically targeted the Jones the U.S. laws and provisions targeted as panies wishing to compete must form a Japan is among the nations known to Act as a possible violation of WTO trade “trade measures” by WTO member nations U.S. subsidiary, operate ships meeting want a negotiated repeal or roll-back of the rules. actually constitute important components U.S. standards, employ American citizens Jones Act and other key elements of U.S. The Jones Act reserves cargoes of U.S. defense strategies. and pay taxes in the U.S. The U.S. maritime policy, and has been aligned with shipped directly between points in U.S. The European Commission publish- Customs and Border Protection recently the European Union and other nations in domestic markets for vessels built in the es a report each year that “highlights some announced plans to revoke or modify 20 criticizing the 1920 Jones Act, as well as in U.S., crewed by American citizens, and of the impediments that the European rulings on offshore operations with a view seeking access to U.S. domestic waterborne owned and operated by U.S. companies. Union encounters when doing business toward strengthening the Jones Act jurisdic- cargo, passenger, towing, dredging and sal- The law is a cornerstone of U.S. maritime with the U.S.” The 90-page document tion in this arena. vage trades. policy and is widely acknowledged as cru- addresses a range of U.S. trade policies. The Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade The U.S. government has consistent- cial to U.S. economic and national security 2009 report also criticized U.S. food-aid and Industry (METI) released its annual ly refused to yield to WTO trading partners interests, while providing a diverse job base programs — the government-impelled car- report in May, also targeting the Jones Act and has kept U.S. maritime policy off of for American merchant mariners, who are goes that are subject to U.S. cargo prefer- and other U.S. maritime policies and pro- the trade table at the WTO, an acknowledg- available to work in sealift missions during ence — claiming restrictions on transporta- grams. ment of the vital roles served by the U.S. times of war or crisis. tion increase costs to provide humanitarian The Japanese 2009 report criticized merchant fleet in maintaining America’s Other key elements of U.S. maritime aid to poor countries. However, according the Maritime Security Program, which sup- ability to protect its vital defense, econom- policy that have regularly been targeted by to the U.S. Department of Agriculture ports 60 U.S.-flagged merchant ships oper- ic and security interests.

Maritime Cabotage Task Force honors retiring Chairman Grill

The Maritime Cabotage Task force through three administrations and Transportation Institute and a founding policy. I know I speak for every seg- Force (MCTF) thanked and recognized eight Congresses, consistently promoting member of the MCTF. “A well-organized ment of the Jones Act industry when I its retiring Chairman Philip Grill for his and defending the Jones Act and U.S.-flag campaign of disinformation had some legis- thank Phil for his untiring efforts to 14 years of service in the labor/manage- merchant marine. lators favoring repealing the Jones Act and keep our domestic fleet U.S.-owned, - ment coalition that promotes the Jones “The Jones Act and other U.S. mar- other U.S. maritime cabotage laws. Under built and –crewed.” Act and other U.S. maritime cabotage itime cabotage laws were facing their most Phil’s leadership, the U.S.-flag domestic Grill is also retiring as vice presi- laws in Washington, D.C. serious challenge ever when Phil agreed to industry banded together like never before dent, government relations for Matson Grill has chaired the MCTF since be Chairman of MCTF upon its launch,” and the Jones Act has remained the unshake- Navigation Company, a position he held its inception in 1995 and led the task said James Henry, president of the able foundation of U.S. domestic maritime for 27 years.

U.S. considering open cross-border trucking policy with Mexico American transportation sovereignty, safety could be sacrificed to satisfy NAFTA

The federal government may instate signaled that the issue will not be resolved the Motor Carrier Safety Advisory trucking program had been terminated, provisions to allow trucking companies in the near term, Inside U.S. Trade reported. Committee to supply recommendations on Mexico retaliated by imposing tariffs on based in Mexico unrestricted access to Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood and the program, which advised that Mexican $2.4 billion worth of U.S. products. The American roadways despite the elimination President Barack Obama have repeatedly truck drivers be vetted with the Department tariffs have been in place for several months, of a cross-border trucking “pilot” program in declined to give timelines or details on a res- of Homeland Security and Department of provoking strong responses from the target- legislation approved by Congress. olution. Justice for security risks, among other ed industries. In March, Congress approved an Although this issue exclusively requirements. Despite these concerns, it seems like- omnibus spending bill containing language affects ground transportation, it has strong The pilot program was strongly ly that a new pilot program will eventually eliminating a pilot program granting some parallels with U.S. cabotage laws, including opposed by transportation labor, environ- be established. In a letter to House Foreign Mexican companies complete access to the Jones Act. Cabotage laws reserve the mental interests, public interest groups and Affairs Subcommittee Chairman Brad American roadways. The 18-month pro- U.S. domestic waterborne transportation of members of Congress. At issue are U.S. Sherman (D-CA), Kirk indicated that the gram was established by the Bush adminis- cargo and passengers for vessels built in the sovereignty over domestic transportation imposed tariffs must be resolved through an tration to satisfy requirements in the North U.S., crewed with U.S. citizens, and owned systems, dire concerns over the safety of agreement on trucking. “Although we will American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and operated by companies for which a American citizens on U.S. roadways and an continue to consider all of our options, I requiring an open U.S. market for Mexican majority of stakeholders are U.S. citizens. inadequate and understaffed safety inspection believe that working with Mexico and trucks. LaHood has met with 28 members of system at the border to verify the compli- Congress to implement a new trucking pro- The Department of Transportation is Congress on the issue and “every one of ance of foreign trucks with U.S. safety stan- gram that ensures the continued safety of working with the White House and mem- them talked…about safety issues that they dards. our roads will provide the quickest and bers of Congress to formulate a plan, but were concerned about with Mexican trucks,” The day after the DOT issued a surest way to end Mexico’s trade retaliation U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk has he said. The Obama administration tasked Federal Register notice stating the pilot against U.S. exports,” Kirk wrote. Regulatory Updates

USCG announces changes to merchant mariner medical evaluation forms Only mariners seeking an entry-level credential (ordinary seaman, wiper or steward’s department) should use the CG-719 K/E. All officers should use the CG-719 K form. The U.S. Coast Guard announced it will release new versions of the forms CG-719 K (Merchant Mariner Credential Medical Evaluation Report) and CG-719 K/E (Merchant USCG credential application form remains valid during revision period Mariner Evaluation of Fitness for Entry Level Ratings). The new forms will be available on the National Maritime Center (NMC) Web site by Sept. 1, 2009. Mariners may volun- The U.S. Coast Guard issued a notice stating that the “Credential Application Form” tarily use the new form starting Oct. 1, 2009. Mariners may continue using the current four- 719B Rev (3/04) is undergoing revisions in order to “assist mariners in providing complete page form until December 31, 2009, after which the new form will be mandatory. applications, simplify the application process and to align the form with the new merchant The new form is considerably longer and more complex than the current form. The mariner credential regulations.” The current version of the form will remain valid until a new NMC plans to conduct an informational campaign to reduce confusion over changes. version is introduced and phased in over a period of time. These and other Coast Guard bul- American Maritime Officers will post additional information as it becomes available. letins are available on the National Maritime Center Web site at www.uscg.mil/nmc. September 2009 American Maritime Officer • 5 Great Lakes

Shipping Docking in Duluth: AMO on the Great Lakes For decades, American remains in Maritime Officers has represented the officers aboard Great Lakes grip of vessels as they deliver the goods that keep the American economy recession; moving. In July, American Maritime Officer met up with the ore trades crews of the Edwin H. Gott and John J. Boland as they loaded and show hints delivered cargo in Minnesota. of recovery Above: The Edwin H. Gott, here in Duluth, Minn., loads iron ore. Each year on the Great Lakes, millions of tons of iron ore, limestone, coal and other goods travel on U.S.-flagged vessels to meet demand from industry. U.S.-flagged vessels on the Great Lakes hauled 7.5 million net tons of dry-bulk Below: First A.E. Mike Harrison, First A.E. Jamie Burke, Steward Mike Faught, Chief Engineer Aaron Pitrago and Second cargo in July, a decrease of 37 percent com- A.E. Eric Wiese with AMO National Representative Stan Barnes aboard the Edwin H. Gott, operated by Key Lakes. pared with the five-year average for the month, the Lake Carriers’ Association (LCA) reported. Despite the overall decline, iron ore and limestone shipment totals were the high- est recorded this year. A slight increase in steel mill production rates signaled an uptick in iron ore shipping. Additionally, 53 U.S.-flagged lakers were in service at the end of July – more than at any other time this year, the LCA reported. The LCA noted the continued econom- ic hardship imposed by inadequate dredging of ports and channels on the Great Lakes. The largest shipment this month – 68,363 tons of iron ore – was still nearly 4,000 tons below the volume the largest vessels are capable of transporting when high water lev- els offset the system-wide lack of dredging. U.S.-flag Great Lakes carriage for the year totals 28.4 million tons, a decrease of more than 45 percent compared with the five- year average.

ArcelorMittal Steward Bob Stark prepares lunch. Cleveland brings blast Above: Chief Mate Garvie Crane and First furnace online Assistant Engineer Rick Waem aboard the John J. Boland, which is owned and operated by American ArcelorMittal Cleveland in August Steamship Company. restarted a blast furnace and other opera- tions at its steel complex in downtown Cleveland, Ohio. At left: The John J. Boland passes under the The decision to reopen is based on Duluth Aerial Bridge. improving market demand, said ArcelorMittal spokeswoman Mary Beth Holdford. Orders for materials needed for steel production are increasing and markets for automotive-grade steel are picking up, reported Cleveland’s Plain Dealer. The steel mill, capable of producing 3.6 million tons of raw steel annually, tem- porarily closed in May due to declines in global demand. The return to production signals a return to work for hundreds of Cleveland steel workers and a probable increase in cargoes for Great Lakes ships. The Plain Dealer commented in an editorial that an increase in steel production gives reason to hope the economy is on the rebound. “Since steel is a basic commodity for makers of automobiles and many durable goods – as well as for construction – an increase in demand often heralds a recovery. End-users start ordering steel when they have run through their inventories and either First Mate John Sarns aboard the John J. Boland as it unloads limestone. First Mate John Chidester have or anticipate orders to fill.” 6 • American Maritime Officer September 2009 Rear Adm. Buzby to lead Military Sealift Command

In October, Rear Adm. Mark Buzby U.S. Merchant cruisers and destroyers during his early Joint Task Force Guantanamo. He now will assume command of Military Sealift Marine Academy career. He served as commanding officer serves as deputy chief of staff for Global Command. Buzby currently serves as in 1979 with a aboard the USS Carney, which under his Force Management and Joint Operations, deputy chief of staff for global force man- Bachelor of command earned several important Navy U.S. Fleet Forces Command. agement and joint operations, N3/N5, U.S. Science in awards, including the USS Arizona Rear Adm. Buzby holds several Fleet Forces Command, Norfolk, Va. Nautical Science Memorial Award for most combat-ready medals, honors and awards, including a Military Sealift Command delivers and a U.S. Coast ship in the US. Navy during a two-year Bronze Star. In addition to his King’s Point supplies and conducts specialized missions Guard Third period. degree, he also holds a master’s degree in throughout the world. American Maritime Mate’s License. After receiving his flag, Buzby served international relations from Salve Regina Officers members serve on MSC-contracted He made in the Navy staff as deputy for surface University and a master’s degree in strategic vessels in the U.S. and abroad. several deploy- ships, deputy for surface warfare, deputy for studies and international affairs from the Rear Adm. Buzby graduated from the ments aboard expeditionary warfare and as commander, U.S. Naval War College. USNS Gianella crew trains to support troops ashore

Two Military Sealift Command Squadron Two. The ship is operated for in all licensed positions by American The USNS Gianella, the Wheeler ships — the USNS Lawrence H. Gianella MSC by Ocean Ships Inc. and is manned Maritime Officers. and its support vessel, the M/V Fast and the M/V Vice Adm. K.R. Wheeler — Tempo — a 165-foot tug and tow boat Aug. 17 and 18 conducted a training exer- designed for operational support of the cise off the coast of Yeosu, South Korea, Wheeler — arrived Aug. 17 at a point in which the ships' crews rehearsed a vital approximately five miles off the coast of element of the U.S. military's ability to Yeosu, MSC reported. deliver fuel to ground forces ashore from a During the exercise, the ships were tanker anchored up to eight miles from connected with towlines and positioned land. bow-to-stern in close proximity. A work- For this exercise, the Wheeler and boat from the Wheeler secured a line to a USNS Gianella completed the complex floating pipe section deployed from the operation of running a fuel transfer hose ship's stern. The boat dragged the float between the two ships and maintaining the hose to the USNS Gianella, where the ships' connected at-sea position for an crew used the ship's side crane to hoist the extended period of time, MSC reported. hose aboard, MSC reported. The Wheeler, the only ship of its The hose was secured and the two kind, is key to this operational capability. ships remained connected for one hour to The ship works as an at-sea pumping sta- test the ability of the Wheeler and the tion to transfer fuel to shore from com- USNS Gianella to maintain position dur- mercial and military tankers, MSC report- U.S. Navy photo by Edward Baxter ing a fuel transfer operation. The hose was ed. MSC offshore petroleum distribution system ship M/V Vice Adm. K.R. Wheeler then disconnected and the Fast Tempo and The T-5 tanker USNS Gianella is and MSC tanker USNS Lawrence H. Gianella (background) practice running a Wheeler released the towlines from the part of MSC's Maritime Prepositioning float hose between them during an exercise off the coast of Yeosu, South Korea. USNS Gianella, completing the exercise. USNS Invincible aids, repairs disabled cargo dhow

The following article by Meghan sel was also in visible contact, the cruis- Under the direction of Chief Mate board Invincible, Chief Engineer Mark Patrick was originally published in er quickly departed at full speed for anoth- David Bobbe and Boatswain Andrew Befort determined the mechanical piece Sealift, a publication of Military Sealift er urgent mission. King, First Assistant Engineer Daniel could be repaired and returned with it to Al Command. The USNS Invincible is oper- "‘No English; speak Hindi?' and Beard boarded Invincible's rescue boat Farouki the next day. Befort supervised ated by Maersk Line Limited and manned ‘Help,' kept repeating over the static," with a list of questions, a travel dictionary the repair that evening and Beard installed in all licensed positions by American said Howell. and two armed U.S. Navy security per- the repaired starter on the dhow's engine Maritime Officers. Without the benefit of a Hindi- sonnel from Maritime Prepositioning the next day. Unfortunately, the engine Military Sealift Command missile speaking crew member, Invincible crew Ship Squadron Three operating out of still would not start. range instrumentation ship USNS members quickly brainstormed a way to Bahrain. Disappointed, but still determined Invincible rendered assistance to 11 crew overcome the communication barrier. Through translation and hand sig- to succeed, Beard decided that there was members aboard a 112-foot disabled Indian They turned to the Internet for help and nals, the communication exchange was not enough electrical output from the Al cargo dhow stranded in the North Arabian conducted a Google search that produced a successful. Beard learned that Al Farouki's Farouki batteries. He removed all of the Sea Jan. 21 to 24. language translation tool. crew members were physically well and dhow's batteries to the rescue boat for The Indian-flagged dhow, named Al "We printed out questions in Hindi that the dhow had five days of provisions transport back to Invincible, where they Farouki, was traveling from Mumbai to and English that could be answered with a and water remaining. were charged overnight to full capacity. the United Arab Emirates Jan. 20, when it ‘yes,' ‘no' or a number, such as ‘how Beard removed the defective starter The next day Beard successfully started the experienced engine failure due to a faulty many days water aboard?' and ‘is the crew from Al Farouki and brought it back to engine, replaced the alternator with a spare starter. Late that evening, Invincible mas- in good health?'" said Howell. Invincible for further inspection. Back on on board and re-activated the bilge pump. ter Capt. Kent Howell and his crew were "The Indian crew was joyous," said conducting routine operations in the U.S. Howell. "They wanted to keep First Central Command area of responsibility Engineer Beard." when they were directed by Sealift The celebration was mirrored on the Logistics Command Central to divert Invincible. from their course immediately and proceed "All hands involved experienced to relieve the captain and crew of the deep gratification for the opportunity to cruiser USS Monterey, the first ship to successfully assist a fellow mariner in respond to the distressed vessel. need," said the captain. "Everyone was in During the transit to the scene, good spirits when they saw the puff of Howell learned more about the situation black smoke blowing out of the Al via radio contact with the Monterey crew, Farouki exhaust pipe. We could all which needed to leave the area due to empathize with the dhow's crew during another short-fuse tasking. the three days we aided them. They had no "We were informed that the dhow propulsion; they were far from shore, low seemed to be seaworthy and that there was on water and unable to easily communi- not an English speaker aboard," said cate for assistance." Howell. "Monterey was using a Hindi- Howell, proud of the Invincible speaking translator who told us that the crew members for their dedication to duty, Indian crew members were frightened." praised them for their teamwork and inno- Monterey's outline was clear in the Military Sealift Command photo by Tom O’Hara vative problem-solving in a crisis. morning light, and the seas were calm as A fast rescue boat from the USNS Invincible departs the stranded Al Farouki "Good communication made for a Invincible arrived on scene. When after transporting AMO members to the Indian cargo dhow to determine what smooth, safe and effective performance," Invincible confirmed that the smaller ves- caused the vessel to stop running. he said. September 2009 American Maritime Officer • 7 New AMO jobs aboard ATB Corpus Christi

The articulated tug/barge Corpus Christi was recent- ly delivered to U.S. Shipping and has entered service in the Jones Act trades. The vessel is the fourth and final ATB in a series built for U.S. Shipping. With the 150-foot tug Corpus Christi and the 521-foot barge Petrochem Supplier, the ATB Corpus Christi measures 604 feet in length when the units are articulated and has a capacity of 156,000 barrels. The other ATBs in the series — Freeport, Galveston and Brownsville — are also in service in the ATB Corpus Christi Jones Act trades. Second Mate Al Azcona American Maritime Officers represents all licensed officers in the U.S. Shipping fleet.

Above: The ATB Corpus Christi (barge: Petrochem Supplier) was recently deliv- ered to U.S. Shipping and has entered service in the Jones Act trades. American Maritime Officers represents all licensed officers in the U.S. Shipping fleet. Second Assistant At left: Chief Mate Tim Paternoster and Chief Engineer Rick Coughlin Engineer Mike Fahey First AMO officer hired for Shell oil fleet AMO officers have now been hired for seagoing positions in tinues to broaden the scope of opportunities for AMO officers in a broad range of capacities in the Shell fleet, including liquefied the international fleet. Although there is currently a slow-down due natural gas carriers, Q-class LNG carriers, and now for the compa- to the global economic situation, we will continue our drive to ny’s oil and product fleet. secure new work for the membership in areas not typically acces- American Maritime Officers member Roger Bryce was hired sible to American mariners.” as first assistant engineer in the Shell oil fleet and has been AMO has established memoranda of understanding with assigned to the product carrier Acavus, built in 2005. One addi- Shell Ship Management Limited covering manning for the American Maritime Officers member tional AMO member was recently hired by Shell for the Nakilat company’s managed fleets of LNG carriers and its oil fleet. Roger Bryce is the first AMO officer hired LNG fleet and several AMO junior officers had been assigned jobs Additionally, the union has established a junior officer program, for seagoing work in the international in the Shell-managed LNG fleet at press time. which provides for the integration of AMO members into Shell Shell oil fleet. Bryce’s first assignment in “The global recession is applying substantial downward crews at lower ratings with the opportunity for advancement. the company’s oil fleet is as first assistant pressure on international shipping throughout many trades,” said Shell’s competitive hiring process leads to permanent positions engineer aboard the 2005-built product AMO Director of New Business Development Tom Laird. with the company for AMO members, with AMO representa- carrier Acavus. “Despite the circumstances the industry is facing, the union con- tion and all contributions to the AMO Plans.

AMO aboard the APL Pearl

The APL Pearl is one of two recently re-flagged containerships operated by APL Maritime Limited and manned in all licensed posi- tions by American Maritime Officers. The APL Pearl and its sister ship APL Cyprine operate in an international liner service, “the Suez Express,” on a 56-day run from the U.S. East Coast.

Capt. Timothy APL Pearl Chief Engineer APL Pearl Chief Mate Second Mate Bruce First Assistant Second Assistant English, master of the Drew Hopkins and APL Port Eric Hall at Howland Smith aboard the APL Engineer Philip Brow Engineer John Hewitt APL Pearl, Engineer Roy Graham Hook Terminal Pearl aboard the APL Pearl aboard the APL Pearl 8 • American Maritime Officer September 2009 American Maritime Officers Simulation, Training, Assessment & Research Center 2 West Dixie Highway • Dania Beach, FL 33004 • (954) 920-3222

GENERAL COURSES ISO 9001:2000 Lead 5 days Please Call Auditor Training ABS NS5 Fleet 3 days 14 October 5 November 22 March Management Software Advanced Fire Fighting 5 days 12 October 9 November 7 December 4 January 1 February 1 March 5 April Basic Safety Training—All 4 modules MUST be completed 5 days 21 September 14 December 25 January 8 February 15 March within 12 months Personal Survival 8 March - For Great Techniques (Monday- 1 1/2 days Basic Safety Training Lakes Engineers Tuesday) Personal Safety & Social 9 March - For Great Responsibility (Tuesday 1/2 day Basic Safety Training Lakes Engineers p.m.) Elementary First Aid 1 day Basic Safety Training (Wednesday) Fire Fighting & Fire Prevention (Thursday- Friday)—Not required if 2 days Basic Safety Training “Combined Basic & Advanced Fire Fighting” completed within 12 months Basic Safety Training - 3 days 23 September 16 December 27 January 10 February 17 March Refresher Crowd Management 1 day Please Call Crisis Management & 1 day Please Call Human Behavior

Effective Supervision 2 1/2 days 11 January

Fast Rescue Boat 4 days 28 September 5 October 26 October - NEW 2 November 19 January 1 March 12 April GMDSS 10 days 2 November 4 January

Tankerman PIC LNG 8 days 6 January 1 March

LNG Simulator Training—Enrollment priority in the LNG simulator course is given to qualified member candidates for employment and/or observation oppor- 5 days 30 November 18 January 22 February 22 March tunities with AMO contracted LNG companies. Completion of the Tankerman LNG PIC classroom course is a prerequisite. Ocean Ranger Program 6 days Please Call Proficiency in Survival Craft (Lifeboat) 4 days 19 October 11 January 22 February Tankerman PIC DL - 5 days 26 October 8 February 15 March Classroom Tankerman PIC DL - 10 days 7 December 25 January 26 April Simulator Train The Trainer—Requires after hours homework 5 days 5, 19 October 30 November 25 January 22 February 8 March 12 April Vessel/Company/Port 2 days 9 November 21 January 18 February 5 April Facility Security Officer DECK COURSES Advanced Bridge 5 days 9 November 22 February Resource Management Advanced Shiphandling for Masters—(No equivalency) Must have sailed 5 days 5 October 15 February 5 April as Chief Mate Unlimited Advanced Shiphandling for Third Mates—(60 days seatime equivalency for 10 days 21 September 7 December 1 February (P.M. class) 12 April Third Mates) Advanced (or emergency) Shiphandling for First 5 days 4 January Class Pilots, Great Lakes Bridge Resource 17 November - date 3 days Management Seminar change

Integrated Bridge System/Podded Propulsion 5 days 12 October 30 November

Locking & Docking—First 5 days 11 January Class Pilots, Great Lakes STCW Deck Officer 3 days Please Call Refresher Towing Officer Record Assessment—Third mate (Unlimited or Great Lakes) 5 days 30 November 22 February 5 April or 1600-ton master license Tug Training 5 days 15 March Visual Communications 1 day Please call (Flashing Light)—test only ENGINEERING COURSES Advanced Slow Speed Diesel 10 days 19 October 8 March Basic Electricity 10 days 26 October 8 February

Diesel Crossover 4 weeks 8 February

Electrical, Electronic, Control Engineering 4 weeks 21 September 1 March

Engine Room Resource Management 5 days 28 September 14 December 1 March (P.M. class) 19 April

Environmental Awareness (includes Oily Water Separator) 3 days 9 November 19 January 15 March

Gas Turbine Endorsement 10 days 9 November 4 January 26 April

High Voltage Safety 3 days 19 October 29 March Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)—An understanding of electricity is 5 days 9 November 22 February 12 April required. Priority will be afforded to 2 AEs and 3 AEs. Steam Crossover 4 weeks 4 January

Welding & Metallurgy—course is open to eligible chief mates and masters on a space-available basis. Applications will only be confirmed two weeks prior to 2 weeks 7 December 15 March start of course. MSC TRAINING PROGRAM—includes self-study courses Afloat Environmental Protection Coordinator, Anti-Terrorism Level 1 and Crew Endurance Management (see that section). CBRD Orientation 1 day 1 October 3 December 28 January 4 March Damage Control 2 days 22 October 26 February 29 April Heat Stress Afloat / Hearing Conservation 1 day 28 September 25 January Afloat Helicopter Fire Fighting 1 day 25 September 17 December 19 March Marine Sanitation Devices 1/2 day 22 January 18 March Medical PIC Refresher— 3 days 22 February 7 April Note: Not MSC approved.

Small Arms - Initial & Refresher Training—Note: Open to members/applicants eligible for employment 15, 29 March 3 days 28 September 19 October 30 November 14 December 11, 25 January through AMO within one year on MSC or MARAD 12, 26 April vessels

Water Sanitation Afloat 1/2 day 22 January 18 March September 2009 American Maritime Officer • 9 MARAD TRAINING PROGRAM—(11 day package composed of the 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 Training (Initial & Refresher)— Note: Open to members/applicants eligible for 3 days 2 November 22 February employment through AMO within one year on MSC or MARAD vessels Elementary First Aid 1 day 5 November 25 February Drug Collector Training 1 day 6 November 26 February

Breath Alcohol Test Collector 1 day 7 November 27 February

Advanced Fire Fighting 5 days 9 November 1 March

MEDICAL COURSES Heat Stress Afloat / Hearing Conservation 1 day 28 September 25 January Afloat Elementary First Aid—Note: Prerequisite for Medical Care Provider within preceding 12 1 day 29 September 20 October 1 December 5, 19, 26 January 16 February 2, 23 March 20 April months Medical Care Provider—Note: Prerequisite for Medical Person In Charge within preceding 12 3 days 30 September 21 October 2 December 6, 20, 27 January 17 February 3, 24 March 21 April months. Please fax EFA certificate when regis- tering Medical Person In Charge—Note: Please FAX Medical Care Provider certificate when 5 days 26 October 7 December 11 January 1 February 8 March 26 April registering Medical PIC Refresher—Note: Not MSC 3 days 9 November 22 February 7 April approved. Urinalysis Collector Training 1 day 14 December 8 February 15, 29 March

Breath Alcohol Test 1 day 9 February 16, 30 March

Saliva Screening Test — QEDs only 1/2 day 15 December 10 February 17 March 31 March 6, 26 (OICNW) Radar Recertification 1 day 9, 30 November 4 December 6 January 1 February 26 April October ARPA 4 days 27 October (OICNW) 10 November 2 February 27 April Western Rivers Recertification 1 day Please Call

Radar Recertification & ARPA 5 days 26 October (OICNW) 1 February 26 April

ECDIS 5 days 28 September 7 December 1, 15 March

Original Radar Observer Unlimited 5 days 2 November 11 January 29 March 19 April

SELF-STUDY CD & ONLINE PROGRAMS—Available for use when attending other approved classroom courses

Afloat Environmental Protection Coordinator (CD) Anti-Terrorism Level 1 (Online) DoT - Hazardous Materials Transportation Training (CD)

Crew Endurance Management (CD) Prudent Mariner’s Guide to Right Whale Protection (CD) EPA Universal Refrigerant Certification Examination

OFFICER IN CHARGE OF A NAVIGATIONAL WATCH—Successful completion of this program will satisfy the training requirements for STCW certification as third mate and second mate on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC)

Terrestrial Navigation 10 days 15 March 26 April

Ship Construction & Stability 5 days 1 February

Electronic Navigation 5 days 8 March

Meteorology 5 days 15 February

Watchkeeping 10 days 29 March 10 May

Cargo Handling & Stowage 5 days 22 February

Basic Shiphandling at the Operational Level 5 days 21 September 12 April 24 May

Emergency Procedures and SAR 4 days 28 September 8 February

Celestial Navigation 10 days 5 October 18 January

Magnetic & Gyro Compass 3 days 19 October 1 March

OICNW— Additional required courses with priority to students enrolled in the OICNW program — GALLEY COURSES Original License (Great Lakes) Courses (Deck & As Required 11 January Basic Safety Training 5 days 15 March, 19 April Engine) RFPNW Assessments 1 day 25 October 4 March GMDSS 10 days 15 March, 12 April Marlin Spike 1 day 26 October 5 March GALLEY COURSES 40-Hour Able Seaman 5 days 2 November 19 April EFA/MCP 4 days 22 March 12 April Food Safety, Sanitation & Nutrition (ServSafe) 5 days 25 January Proficiency in Survival Craft (Lifeboat) 4 days 16 November 29 March, 26 April Culinary Fundamentals 10 days 1 February Original Radar 5 days 11 January 29 March, 19 April Advanced Steward Course 5 days 15 February

DECK LICENSE UPGRADE: SECOND OFFICER TO CHIEF MATE / MASTER—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.

Cargo Operations 9 days 7 December 19 January 8 March 26 April

Celestial Navigation—Note: A thorough review and understanding of the topics covered in Parts 4 & 5 of Pub. Number 9, The 5 days 26 October 4 January 22 February 12 April American Practical Navigator (Bowditch), is a prerequisite.

Marine Propulsion Plants 5 days 21 September 2 November 4 January 1 February 22 March

Shipboard Management 5 days 2, 30 November 1 February 22 March

Upgrade: Advanced Meteorology 5 days 19 October 14 December 11 January 1 March 19 April

Upgrade: Advanced Navigation - ECDIS—Advanced Navigation and a USCG-approved ECDIS to be completed within 12 months of 5 days 21 September 16 November 14 December 15 February 5 April each other

Upgrade: Advanced Navigation (Includes Simulator) 5 days 9 November 7 December 8 February 29 March

Upgrade: Shiphandling at the Management Level 10 days 19 October 9 November 18 January 8 March 26 April

Upgrade: Stability—Note: It is recommended that chapters 1-13 in the book Stability and Trim for the Ship’s Officer be reviewed prior to 5 days 30 November 8 February 29 March attending this course Watchkeeping 1 (Bridge Resource Management)—Note: Watchkeeping Weeks 1 and 2 MUST be completed within 12 months 3 days 7 October 9 December 6 January 24 February 14 April of each other.

Watchkeeping 2 (COLREGS)—Note: Watchkeeping Weeks 1 and 2 5 days 12 October 14 December 11 January 1 March 19 April MUST be completed within 12 months of each other.

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 September 2009

GALVESTON, TX 77551 2724 61st Street, Suite B PMB 192 David M. Weathers, National Executive Board Member At Large ([email protected]) (800) 362-0513 ext. 2001 Mobile: (409) 996-7362 HEADQUARTERS NORWOOD, NJ 07648 DANIA BEACH, FL 33004 463 Livingston Street, Suite 102 2 West Dixie Highway PMB 60 (954) 921-2221 / (800) 362-0513 Donald R. Nilsson, National Executive Board Member, Deep Sea Thomas J. Bethel, National President ([email protected]) ([email protected]) José E. Leonard, National Secretary-Treasurer ([email protected]) (800) 362-0513 ext. 3004 Jack Branthover, Special Assistant to the National President Mobile: (201) 913-2209 ([email protected]) FAX: (954) 926-5112 WASHINGTON, D.C. Joseph Z. Gremelsbacker, National Vice President, Deep Sea ([email protected]) WASHINGTON, D.C. 20024 John K. Hafner, National Executive Board Member At Large 490 L’Enfant Plaza East SW, Suite 7204 ([email protected]) (202) 479-1166 / (800) 362-0513 ext. 7001 Charles A. Murdock, National Executive Board Member, Inland Waters J. Michael Murphy, National Vice President At Large ([email protected]) ([email protected]) FAX: (954) 920-3257 Paul Doell, Legislative Director ([email protected]) Dispatch: (800) 345-3410 Phree Baker, Assistant Legislative Director ([email protected]) FAX: (954) 926-5126 FAX: (202) 479-1188 Brendan Keller, Dispatcher ([email protected]) Robert Anderson, Dispatcher ([email protected]) STAR CENTER Member Services: Extension 1050 ([email protected]) STUDENT SERVICES/LODGING AND COURSE INFORMATION PORTS 2 West Dixie Highway TOLEDO, OH 43604 Dania Beach, FL 33004 The Melvin H. Pelfrey Building (954) 920-3222 ext. 201 / (800) 942-3220 ext. 201 One Maritime Plaza Course Attendance Confirmation: (800) 942-3220 ext. 200 (419) 255-3940 FAX: (954) 920-3140 (800) 221-9395 24 Hours: (954) 920-3222 ext.7999 FAX: (419) 255-2350 Donald N. Cree, National Vice President, Great Lakes TRAINING RECORDS SYSTEM: ([email protected]) Lisa Marra Brian D. Krus, National Assistant Vice President, Great Lakes (954) 920-3222 ext. 7118 ([email protected]) FAX: (954) 925-5681 Stan Barnes, National Representative ([email protected]) [email protected] Bruce DeWerth, Dispatcher ([email protected]) MEMBERSHIP SERVICES PHILADELPHIA, PA 19113 2 International Plaza, Suite 422 MARITIME MEDICAL CENTER AMO PLANS Robert J. Kiefer, National Executive Vice President ([email protected]) 2 West Dixie Highway 2 West Dixie Highway (800) 362-0513 ext. 4001 / 4002 Dania Beach, FL 33004 Dania Beach, FL 33004 Mobile: (215) 859-1059 (954) 927-5213 (800) 348-6515 FAX: (610) 521-1301 FAX: (954) 929-1415 FAX: (954) 922-7539

SAN FRANCISCO / OAKLAND, CA 94607 LEGAL 1121 7th Street, Second Floor Oakland, CA 94607 Joel Glanstein, General Counsel Michael Reny (510) 444-5301 305 Madison Ave. Suite 2240 AMO Coast Guard Legal (800) 362-0513 ext. 5001 New York, NY 10165 Aid Program Daniel E. Shea, National Executive Board Member At Large (212) 370-5100 (419) 243-1105 / (888) 853-4662 ([email protected]) FAX: (212) 697-6299 Mobile: (419) 346-1485 FAX: (510) 444-5165 [email protected]

AMO Vacation Plan: summary annual report for fiscal year ‘08

This is a summary of the annual report of the American Maritime Officers Vacation To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write Board of Trustees Plan, EIN 11-1929852, Plan No. 501, for the period October 1, 2007 through September American Maritime Officers Vacation Plan, 2 West Dixie Highway, Dania Beach, FL 33004, 30, 2008. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security (954) 920-4247. The charge to cover copying costs is $.15 per page or for any part thereof. Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). See Vacation Plan ◆ Page 11

Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $1,958,005 as of September 30, 2008, compared to $2,139,922 as of October 1, 2007. During the plan year the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $181,917. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation and depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan's assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $72,277,706, including employer contributions of $71,862,891 and earnings from investments of $319,415. Plan expenses were $72,459,623. These expenses included $1,402,177 in adminis- trative expenses and $71,057,446 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Regular monthly membership meetings for AMO will be held during the week following the first Sunday of every month at 1 p.m. local time. Meetings will be Your Rights To Additional Information held on Monday at Headquarters in Dania (on Tuesday when Monday is a You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on contract holiday) and on Wednesday in Toledo. The next meetings will take request. The items listed below are included in that report: place on the following dates: 1. an accountant's report; 2. financial information and information on payments to service providers; DANIA BEACH: October 5, November 2 3. assets held for investment; and TOLEDO: October 7, November 4 4. transactions in excess of 5% of the plan assets. September 2009 American Maritime Officer • 11 AMO Pension Plan: summary annual report for fiscal year ‘08

This is a summary of the annual report for the American Maritime Officers of, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: Pension Plan, EIN 13-1936709, Plan No. 001, for the period October 1, 2007 through 1. an accountant's report; September 30, 2008. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits 2. financial information and information on payments to service providers; Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, as required under the Employee 3. assets held for investment; Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). 4. transactions in excess of 5% of the plan assets; 5. insurance information, including sales commissions paid by insurance carriers; Basic Financial Statement 6. information regarding any common or collective trusts, pooled separate Benefits under the plan are provided through insurance and through a trust fund. accounts, master trusts or 103-12 investment entities in which the plan participates; and Plan expenses were $62,981,964. These expenses included $7,052,000 in administra- 7. actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan. tive expenses and $55,929,964 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 6,032 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call Board year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. of Trustees American Maritime Officers Pension Plan, 2 West Dixie Highway, Dania The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was Beach, FL 33004, (954) 920-4847. The charge to cover copying costs is $.15 per page $474,285,696 as of September 30, 2008, compared to $579,173,303 as of October 1, or for any part thereof. 2007. During the plan year the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator a statement of the $104,887,607. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation and depreciation in the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan's assets at the expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes assets acquired during the year. The plan had total income of $(41,905,643), including will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above employer contributions of $33,999,426, realized (loss) of $(10,150,938) from the sale does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these of assets, earnings from investments of $(65,780,559) and other income of $26,428. portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main Minimum Funding Standards office of the plan (Board of Trustees American Maritime Officers Pension Plan, 2 West An actuary's statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to Dixie Highway, Dania Beach, FL 33004) and at the U.S. Department of Labor in keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon pay- ment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Your Rights To Additional Information Disclosure Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part there- Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20210.

The AMO Medical Plan FY 2008 summary annual report will be published in the October edition. The report is available online at www.amoplans.com

charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished Vacation Plan without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main Continued from Page 10 office of the plan (Board of Trustees American Maritime Officers Vacation Plan, 2 West You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator a statement of the assets Dixie Highway, Dania Beach, FL 33004) and at the U.S. Department of Labor in and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20210. 12 • American Maritime Officer September 2009 MSC ships, AMO officers deliver during JLOTS 2009 USNS Seay, Cornhusker State, Cape May provide platform for key logistics exercise

AMO officers working aboard three execute our missions.” ships this summer participated in exercises of The heavy-lift ship S/S Cape May and what Military Sealift Command called “one crane ship S/S Cornhusker State, both from of the U.S. military’s most unusual and the Maritime Administration’s Ready important capabilities.” Reserve Force (RRF), were activated for The annual exercises, called joint- JLOTS. Both ships delivered equipment and logistics-over-the-shore (JLOTS), test the cargo for the exercise in Guantanamo Bay. military’s ability to offload cargo using a Photo: U.S. Navy Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Brian Goyak MSC ships, as well RRF ships under floating platform and small barges. These the operational control of MSC while in full- The Ready Reserve Force crane ship S/S Cornhusker State arrives at U.S. capabilities are critical for delivering equip- operating status, serve a prominent role in Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, June 5 for the Joint-Logistics-Over-the- ment and goods to areas where port facilities each JLOTS evolution for the U.S. Shore 2009 exercise. don’t exist or have been heavily damaged by Transportation Command. The USNS Seay events such as a natural disaster. is operated by American Overseas Marine Writing in Sealift, Laura Seal of MSC Corporation, the Cape May by Ocean Public Affairs noted the large medium-speed Duchess Inc. and the Cornhusker State by roll-on/roll-off ship USNS Seay was activat- Interocean American Shipping Corporation. ed from reduced operating status in Baltimore All three ships are manned in all licensed to perform exercises two miles off the coast positions by American Maritime Officers. of North Carolina. For this year's exercise at Camp "I have a very experienced crew," Capt. Lejeune, the USNS Seay carried more than Richard Malloy, master of the USNS Seay, 60,000 square feet of Army cargo, including told Sealift. "We've been out here working containerized supplies, Humvees and other nonstop with the Navy and Army to ensure vehicles from Norfolk Naval Station to an that we are able to conduct the whole evolu- anchorage two miles off of the coast of Camp tion safely." Lejeune. The Cape May delivered most of the “This is truly a joint exercise,” said equipment needed to construct the floating Vice Adm. Mel Williams Jr., commander of and fixed platforms used in the exercise. U.S. 2nd Fleet. “I have observed sailors The Cornhusker State delivered cargo working alongside Army personnel to accom- Photo: U.S. Navy Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Daniel Taylor for the JLOTS evolution at Guantanamo plish the mission. It is beneficial when the Sailors and soldiers disembark an Army landing craft mechanized (LCM) onto a Bay, including materials needed to construct a services operate together on a day-to-day floating causeway June 15 in Camp Lejeune, N.C. The USNS Seay is on the temporary fixed pier and some Army rolling basis. It better enables us as a joint force to horizon at an anchorage about two miles from shore. stock offloaded as part of the exercise. Rep. Dent honors U.S. merchant marine veterans

A key Congressman Aug. 27 “These mariners suffered hardship and month in benefits as compensation for their The ceremony included remarks by acknowledged the “important contributions heavy casualties, from our own coastline to service — which was not recognized offi- Kevin Tokarski, an associate administrator and sacrifice” of U.S. merchant mariners the remote corners of the world,” Rep. Dent cially until 1988. of the Department of Transportation’s during World War II. continued. “We owe them our eternal H.R. 23, introduced by Rep. Bob Maritime Administration. Tokarski spoke Rep. Charlie Dent (R-PA) presented thanks, as we do all who served in that great Filner (D-CA), was approved by voice vote of the U.S. merchant fleet’s critical role in certificates and medals to 25 World War II and terrible conflict.” in the House of Representatives in May defense strategy and in relief efforts follow- merchant marine veterans during a ceremo- Rep. Dent was a co-sponsor of H.R. 2009. A companion bill is pending in the ing natural disasters in the United States ny at Northampton Community College in 23, a bill to provide the last of the World Senate under the sponsorship of Nebraska and worldwide. the Lehigh Valley village of Bethlehem. He War II merchant mariners with $1,000 a Democrat Ben Nelson. American Maritime Officers also provided each of the veterans with a Legislative Director Paul Doell also United States flag that had flown over the addressed the gathering. He outlined the Capitol in Washington. “real and relentless risk” and the casualties “It is high time that our nation prop- endured by U.S. merchant mariners during erly honors these veterans whose efforts the war and cited the continuing need for played an indispensable role in assuring our U.S.-flagged merchant ships and civilian nation’s victory in the Second World War,” merchant mariners to serve the “legitimate said Rep. Dent, who serves on the crucial and lasting economic, defense and diplo- House Transportation and Infrastructure and matic interests” of the United States. Homeland Security Committees. Doell said many of today’s civilian “America’s merchant mariners were American merchant mariners “were inspired called to service in numerous ways, helping to the sea by the men we honor today — supply the armies of the Free World at great the men of singular class, character and peril — often with little or no armed pro- Pennsylvania Republican Congressman Charlie Dent (second from left) Aug. 27 courage we know as our merchant marine tection,” Rep. Dent added. “Merchant ships honored U.S. merchant marine veterans of World War II during a ceremony held veterans of World War II.” faced danger from submarines, mines, near Bethlehem, Pa. Speakers at the event included American Maritime Officers Clarence Newcommer, who was armed raiders, destroyers, aircraft and the Legislative Director Paul Doell (third from left) and Kevin Tokarski associate among the honorees, thanked Rep. Dent for elements. administrator for national security for the Maritime Administration. hosting the “emotional” event. HMT exemption would boost U.S. marine highways

Rep. Brian Higgins (D-NY) on July ports. This creates a disincentive for goods Ways and Means Committee Chairman efficient and environmentally-sound way to 31 resubmitted legislation that would elim- to be shipped domestically by sea. Richard Neal (D-MA) following a subcom- supplement and complement the rail and inate a significant obstacle to the expansion The tax therefore stands in the way of mittee hearing on the legislation. The truck traffic that is already pushed to capac- of the marine highway program. an expansion of a marine highway pro- coalition urged the committee to eliminate ity in most major transportation corridors,” H.R. 3486 would if enacted exempt gram, which would reduce some shipping the “discriminatory double taxation” on the coalition stated. from the Harbor Maintenance Tax (HMT) costs, ease congestion, grow the economy cargo moving between U.S. ports. The legislation is identical to the cargoes carried by water between U.S. ports and reduce pollution. Transportation The coalition noted the proposed leg- “Short Sea Shipping Act of 2009” (H.R. and between U.S. and Canadian ports on the Secretary Ray LaHood has promised to islation would mark an approximate loss of 528) submitted by Rep. John McHugh (R- St. Lawrence Seaway system. “expand the use of this valuable national only $1 to $2 million annually, a small NY) in January. McHugh has been nomi- The HMT is a federal tax collected network, so we can reduce the congestion price to pay to capitalize on such an impor- nated to be secretary of the Army and col- from shippers based on the value of trans- outside [port] gates and transport even more tant national resource. “There should be no leagues will now manage his legislation, ported goods. It is currently levied on both freight and passengers in a greener, more budgetary objection to the enactment” of the Journal of Commerce reported. Sen. international cargoes entering the U.S. and efficient manner.” the proposed legislation, the coalition Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ) in March submit- on domestic cargoes carried directly between A coalition of maritime labor, includ- wrote. ted companion legislation (S. 551) in the points in the U.S. The tax is not assessed ing American Maritime Officers, shipping “The development of a marine high- Senate. Both bills are supported by a num- on cargoes moved by truck or rail between companies and port organizations wrote to way system…can serve as a cost-effective, ber of co-sponsors from both parties.