Seafarers Log: Vol. 80 No. 7 (2018-07-01)

JULY 2018 VOLUME 80, NO. 7FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 o NO. 2

More Maritime Day Coverage
Page 11

Pro-Maritime Bill Introduced
Page 3

Editorial Backs Jones Act
Page 5

U.S. DOT Hosts Maritime Day Ceremony

Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao (above, left) delivers the keynote address during the May 22 National Maritime Day ceremony at U.S. Department of Transportation head-
quarters in Washington, D.C. The SIU had another strong turnout as a crowd of more than 200 people attended the event, including high-level leaders from the U.S. government,
military and maritime transportation industry. World War II (WWII)-era Merchant Mariner William Tiernan (center, in photo at right, above), a former member of both the National
Maritime Union and the Seafarers International Union, receives an award in recognition of his service to the country. Making the presentation are Gen. Darren McDew, commander,
U.S. Transportation Command (left) and retired Navy Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, U.S. Maritime Administrator. Apprentices from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training
and Education (photo below) pose with a host of dignitaries following the ceremony’s end. Included (from left to right) were WWII Merchant Mariner Robert Weagant, SIU Political and
Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman, WWII Merchant Mariner Charles Mills, WWII Merchant Mariner William Tiernan, SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez, Buzby, SIU VP Contracts
George Tricker, WWII Merchant Mariner Eugene Barner and SIU Port Agent Pat Vandegrift. Pages 12-14.

45318_Seafarers_LOG_X.indd 1 6/18/2018 6:22:14 AM



2 Seafarers LOG July 2018

The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the
Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters,
AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301)
899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth
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Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo;
Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant
Editor, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske;
Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator,
Mark Clements.

Copyright © 2018 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights
Reserved.

Volume 80 Number 7 July 2018

The SIU online: www.seafarers.org

The Seafarers International
Union engaged an environ-
mentally friendly printer
for the production of this
newspaper.

President’s Report

FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 o NO. 2

Reversed to White
Reversed to White

If it seems like a month never goes by without an attack on
American-flag shipping, that’s probably not far from the truth. Most
recently, the SIU in late May teamed up with industry allies to forcefully
defeat an attempt to kill cargo preference requirements in the Food for
Peace program.

The attack on cargo preference would have eliminated at least a
half-dozen U.S.-flag ships – and the jobs that go with them – right

off the bat, and wouldn’t have actually benefited
anyone. It was just the latest misguided attempt to
undermine a successful program that helps feed the
needy around the world while maintaining good
American jobs not only in maritime but also in
other industries.

While there’s never anything desirable about
people trying to sink American-flag shipping,
the powerful bipartisan pushback on this latest
attempt sent an important message. Namely, that
our country cannot and will not stand for any more
reductions to our U.S. Merchant Marine. America’s
national, economic and homeland security depend

on a viable American-flag fleet and reliable, well-trained U.S. crews.
It’s no secret that our industry is at a tipping point, but it’s an ongoing
task to drive that point home with some members of Congress (and
some in the media).

The bottom line is that America is best-served by a strong U.S.-flag
maritime industry with U.S. mariners. And that means we must maintain
the Jones Act and the Maritime Security Program. Our country would
also benefit from ramping up our cargo preference laws, rather than
simply staying with the status quo or (foolishly) weakening them.

As always, the SIU is in the middle of the ring for this never-ending
fight, and we’ll keep landing accurate punches. You can help us by
continuing to support SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund.
It’s a critically important tool for us in our efforts to protect your jobs.

Ready Then, Ready Now
Be sure to check out all the National Maritime Day coverage in

this edition. May 22 was especially eventful in the nation’s capital,
where the SIU participated in an afternoon press conference kicking
off new legislation that would greatly boost U.S. shipbuilding and
American-flag shipping.

As noted in the article about the new bill (Page 3), there have been
some rumblings about whether or not our civilian mariners would sail
into harm’s way today if needed. That’s not a widespread question,
thankfully, but I find it insulting that anyone in a position of authority
would bring it up in the first place. It’s unbelievable, really, when you
look at the centuries-old record of patriotism, dedication and reliability
demonstrated by the U.S. Merchant Marine.

We’ve always answered the call and we always will. Period.

Register and Vote
It may seem hard to believe, but its almost election time again.
In November, the entire U.S. House of Representatives will be up

for election, along with 35 U.S. Senate seats and 39 state and territorial
governorships. Many other state and local elections also will take place.

With that in mind, it’s definitely not too soon to make sure you’re
registered to vote. Just go online to Vote.org and take it from there. The
site is run by a non-profit organization and it’s very user-friendly.

Seafarers know the importance of electing people who support our
industry. This year is critical, as we’re facing the retirements of some
longtime maritime stalwarts. It’s not easy having to constantly educate
new members of Congress about the U.S. Merchant Marine, but it’s
a job made simpler when we help put people in office who back us to
begin with.

Michael Sacco

Defending Cargo Preference Editor’s note: The following
notice has been issued by the
Seafarers Health and Benefits
Plan:

New Health Benefits
The Trustees of the Seafar-

ers Health and Benefits Plan
(SHBP) regularly evaluate the
benefits available from the Plan
in an effort to better serve the
Plan’s participants. They have
recently approved two new ben-
efits for active employees and
their spouses at the Core-Plus
and Core benefit levels, and a
benefit increase that applies to
eligible pensioners as well as to
employees at the Core-Plus and
Core level.

Increase in Hearing Aid Benefit
In the past, the SHBP pro-

vided a $350 benefit towards
the purchase of a hearing aid
every five years. Effective July
1, 2018, this benefit is being in-
creased to $3,000 every three

years. This $3,000 benefit may
be used toward the purchase of
one or two hearing aids; how-
ever, $3,000 is the maximum
benefit amount you may receive
in a three-year period. The
hearing aid benefit is available
to eligible employees at the
Core-Plus and Core benefit
levels, and to eligible pension-
ers. Dependents are not eligible
for hearing aid benefits.
New Infertility Benefit

Until now, SHBP did not
cover services to diagnose the
cause of infertility, or to treat in-
fertility. Effective July 1, 2018,
all eligible employees and their
spouses at the Core-Plus and
Core benefit level are eligible
for benefits to diagnose infer-
tility. The Plan will pay for these
services in the same manner as
the Plan pays for doctor’s visits
and diagnostic tests for any other
health condition. The Plan will
also pay up to $10,000 per eligi-
ble employee or spouse to treat

infertility. Once this $10,000 is
used, the Plan will not provide
any additional benefits for treat-
ment of infertility. Dependent
children, pensioners and spouses
of pensioners are not eligible for
this benefit.

New Sterilization Benefit
The SHBP previously ex-

cluded coverage for tubal
ligation and for vasectomy. Ef-
fective June 1, 2018, the SHBP
will provide benefits for both
of these procedures. Employ-
ees and their spouses at the
Core-Plus and Core benefit
are eligible for these benefits.
Dependent children, pensioners
and spouses of pensioners are
not eligible for benefits for ster-
ilization. The Plan will not pay
for the reversal of a vasectomy
or tubal ligation.

If you have any questions
about these benefits, please
contact the Plan at (800) 252-
4674.

SHBP Trustees Announce New
Benefits for Seafarers, Spouses

A longtime backer of the U.S.
Merchant Marine recently picked
up a prestigious award near the
nation’s capital.

On May 16, U.S. Rep. Rob
Wittman (R-Virginia) was hon-
ored by the International Pro-
peller Club of the United States
during the organization’s annual
Salute to Congress awards cer-
emony, which took place at the
Army Navy Country Club in Ar-
lington, Virginia.

In attendance from the SIU
were Executive Vice President
Augie Tellez, Vice President
Contracts George Tricker, Leg-
islative Director Brian Schoene-
man and Piney Point Port Agent
Pat Vandegrift.

Wittman, who chairs the
House Armed Services Com-
mittee’s Seapower and Pro-
jection Forces Subcommittee,
was honored for his steadfast
support of the American Mer-
chant Marine and the U.S.-flag
fleet. He founded and co-chairs
the Congressional Shipbuilding
Caucus because he understands
the importance of protecting
laws like the Jones Act and the
Maritime Security Program,
which in turn help to keep the
nation’s waterways safe from
potential threats.

In his acceptance speech, he
spoke of the need to strengthen
the Ready Reserve Force with
the addition of new ships.

“We are at one of those cross-
roads where we must recapital-
ize those fleets,” he said, before

expressing strong support for
the “three pillars” that enable
American mariners to fulfill their
important role in our nation’s
economy, security and national
defense: the Jones Act, the Mari-
time Security Program and cargo
preference laws.

“Continued Congressional
support of a healthy commercial
maritime industry is essential
to domestic security,” he con-
tinued. “Despite the usage of
heavy lift aircraft, large ocean-
going vessels remain crucial
to military mobility in the 21st
century. U.S. troops stationed in
the Middle East and Afghanistan
receive much of their supplies
via U.S.-flag vessels because of
their capacity and low cost. In
the long term, we must find ways
to rebuild the U.S. shipbuilding
infrastructure and commercial
shipping industry – because, in
the end, it is much more stra-
tegic than lowering transporta-
tion costs. I am truly humbled
to receive this award and will
continue to work each day to be
deserving of this honor.”

Schoeneman remarked, “Not
only did Chairman Wittman
give a great speech, he did it
without notes. He is one of the
most knowledgeable members of
Congress and we are fortunate to
have him not only as chairman
of the Seapower Subcommittee,
but also as a strong maritime and
SIU supporter.”

“Representative Wittman
has certainly earned the Salute

to Congress honor with his out-
standing support for the U.S.
maritime industry,” said the Pro-
peller Club’s International Presi-
dent Rear Adm. Joel Whitehead.
“We are grateful for his leader-
ship of the Seapower Subcom-
mittee and of the Shipbuilding
Caucus.”

The International Propeller
Club of the United States is a
non-profit, international associa-
tion dedicated to the promotion
of the maritime industry, com-
merce and global trade. Through
more than 75 chapters located in
port cities in the U.S. and abroad,
the Propeller Club promotes the
maritime industry and contrib-
utes to professional development
of its members.

Rep. Wittman Lands ‘Salute to Congress’ Award

U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman
(R-Virginia)

The Department of Defense in early June
announced that TOTE Services has been
awarded a contract for the ongoing opera-
tion of the USNS Wheeler (right) and its
support ship, the USNS Fast Tempo. In-
cluding options, the new award spans 5.5
years. SIU members already sail aboard
the Wheeler, and TOTE has operated it
for several years, for the U.S. Military Sea-
lift Command. The two vessels are part
of what’s named an offshore petroleum
discharge system. They utilize gear that
can transfer fuel from tankers to depots ashore from up to eight miles off the coast. (U.S. Navy photo)

SIU Jobs Secure Aboard Wheeler

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July 2018 Seafarers LOG 3

The SIU is fully backing new, biparti-
san legislation aimed at boosting Ameri-
ca’s maritime industry.

SIU Executive Vice President Augie
Tellez spoke May 22 at a Capitol Hill press
conference announcing the Energizing
American Shipbuilding Act of 2018. Co-
sponsors U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-
California) and U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker
(R-Mississippi) kicked off the conference;
other members of Congress also addressed
the audience, as did industry and labor
spokesmen.

Tellez noted that despite supportive
comments from many sources leading up
to National Maritime Day (observed each
year on May 22), the far more important
political action hasn’t matched the rheto-
ric.

“As foe and friend alike understand
this and expand their maritime prowess,
we languish on the vine, operating with an
international fleet that’s been reduced to a
number that’s nothing short of a disgrace,”
Tellez said.

He also pointed out that the industry
collectively was fighting against a newly
hatched effort to kill America’s cargo
preference laws. (The SIU and many allies
prevailed in that legislative battle later in
the month.)

“It gets even worse,” he continued. “We
now have senior folks – civilian and in uni-
form – questioning whether our people will
go into harm’s way. To those naysayers, I
say look at the record. Read your history
books. From the founding of this republic
to Iraq and Afghanistan, and in every crisis
and conflict in between, we have shown
up. And whether or not we show up for
the next one is not a question of our cour-
age and will, but of yours. Does this coun-
try have the courage and will to maintain
and support a viable merchant fleet that’s
going to get the job done? All we need is
the capacity and the tools, and we will get
the job done. This legislation is a step in
that direction.”

Tellez added that the new legislation
“creates good-paying jobs – thousands of
them, at sea and ashore.”

In announcing H.R. 5893, Garamendi,
the ranking member of the Subcommittee
on the Coast Guard and Maritime Trans-
portation, explained that the legislation
seeks to rebuild America’s domestic ship-
building and maritime industry by requir-
ing a small percentage of exported crude
oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) be

transported on U.S.-built and U.S.-flagged
vessels. The bill would require the con-
struction of more than 50 ships and would
create thousands of maritime jobs, both
aboard ship and ashore.

Other speakers at the press conference
included U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Cal-
ifornia), chairman of the Coast Guard and
Maritime Transportation Subcommittee;
U.S. Rep. Donald Norcross (D-New Jer-
sey); U.S. Rep. Alan Lowenthal (D-Cal-
ifornia); Rob Mullins of the Shipbuilders
Council of America; Steelworkers official
Robert LaVenture; Bob McCracken, an
executive from the American Iron & Steel
Institute; Alan Kaplan, national president
of the Navy League of the United States;
MEBA Secretary-Treasurer Bill Van Loo;
and MM&P Vice President Klaus Luhta.

“Rebuilding America’s shipbuilding

and mariner base is an idea that unites
Democrats, Republicans, metallurgical
trades, the business community, labor,
and our armed forces,” said Garamendi.
“These industries are not only vital to our
economy – they’re vital to our country’s
national security. Congress has neglected
our maritime industry for too long, to
the point that we’re now several dozen
merchant ships and 1,800 mariners short
of what’s needed to guarantee sufficient
sealift support in times of crisis. This bill
seeks to turn the ship around by taking
advantage of America’s energy export
boom to bring back American shipbuild-
ing, shipyard, and mariner jobs rather than
continuing to outsource them to countries
like China. I believe this bill is the start
of a long-term reinvestment in the idea of
America as a maritime, seafaring nation.”

“The domestic maritime industry sup-
ports hundreds of thousands of American
jobs and is critical to our military readi-
ness and national security,” said Wicker.
“This bill would strengthen our shipbuild-
ing industry and would recognize the
importance of having more American-
flagged ships to transport our growing ex-
ports of oil and natural gas. China, India,
and other nations are investing heavily in
their shipbuilding capacity. The United
States must keep up.”

“We can have the best military equip-
ment and trained warfighters in the world,
but without the sealift capacity to get
them to where they need to go, it doesn’t
do much good,” said Hunter. “Today, the
U.S. international fleet has fallen to about
80 ships from a high of more than 1,200
during World War II. Unless we reverse
that trend, our nation will be forced to rely
on foreign countries for force projection,
a situation we cannot allow to happen.
This legislation will strengthen America’s
shipbuilding base by ensuring we have
the necessary industrial infrastructure and
skilled labor pool of welders, fitters and
sailors needed to rapidly mobilize in times
of conflict. This bill will have strong na-
tional security implications and I applaud
its introduction.”

Kaplan stated, “American mariners and
the U.S. shipbuilding industrial base are a
crucial part of our national security, deliv-
ering crucial armaments and supplies the
warfighter needs on U.S.-built ships. This
bill ensures there will be enough Ameri-
can mariners and U.S.-built ships in the
future to support the needs of our men and
women in uniform.”

U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman (R-Virginia),
chairman and ranking member of the
House Armed Services Seapower Com-
mittee, couldn’t attend the media event but
submitted this written statement: “Con-
tinued Congressional support of a healthy
commercial maritime industry and U.S.
Merchant Marine is essential to domestic
security. Despite the usage of heavy-lift
aircraft, large oceangoing vessels remain
crucial to military mobility in the 21st cen-
tury. U.S. troops stationed in the Middle
East and Afghanistan receive much of their
supplies via U.S.-flag vessels because of
their capacity and low cost. Bringing man-
ufacturing and maritime jobs back home
will not only help in the event of a disaster
but will also show our domestic industrial
base that we support them.”

Seafarers Fully Back New Maritime Bill
Tellez: Don’t Question U.S. Merchant Marine’s Willingness to Answer the Call

SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez (at podium) speaks in support of the bill and notes the reliability of U.S. mariners. He’s flanked by (from left) Congressman Duncan Hunter (D-California),
Senator Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi) and Congressmen John Garamendi (D-California), Donald Norcross (D-New Jersey) and Alan Lowenthal (D-California).

“Congress has neglected our maritime industry for too
long…. This bill seeks to turn the ship around by taking
advantage of America’s energy export boom to bring back
American shipbuilding, shipyard and mariner jobs rather
than continuing to outsource them to countries like China.”
– Congressman John Garamendi (D-California)

U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (at podium) lists the many potential benefits of the Energizing
American Shipbuilding Act.

45318_Seafarers_LOG_X.indd 3 6/18/2018 6:22:16 AM



4 Seafarers LOG July 2018

The annual dinner-dance hosted by the
Maritime Port Council of Greater New York/
New Jersey and Vicinity on June 9 celebrated
the past with a compass pointing straight at the
future.

All three awardees – U.S. Rep. Cedric
Richmond (D-Louisiana), American Federa-
tion of Teachers President Randi Weingarten
and TOTE Maritime President Tim Nolan – ac-
knowledged what has been done by the U.S.-
flag maritime industry but proclaimed more is
to come.

The port council is part of the Maritime
Trades Department (MTD), a constitutional
department of the AFL-CIO. SIU President
Michael Sacco also serves as president of the
MTD, which has 23 affiliated unions represent-
ing approximately five million workers.

Richmond not only heads the Congressio-
nal Maritime Caucus, he also chairs the Con-
gressional Black Caucus. First elected in 2010,
Richmond’s second congressional district in-
cludes more maritime workers than any other
in the country. He received the port council’s
Government Man of the Year Award.

He told the crowd of more than 300 that his
mother was a longtime union teacher in New
Orleans public schools and his stepfather had
been a merchant mariner. Those are some of
the reasons he works to make sure “people can
make a living wage.”

Richmond declared, “It takes labor to pro-
tect the Jones Act and cargo preference. This

has been done in no small part by the broth-
ers and sisters in the Maritime Trades, but the
whole AFL-CIO.”

He said the folks of the maritime industry
are people of “courage and patriotism. They
are people who make a difference. They have
an obligation to this country. The entire Con-
gress is starting to understand the importance
of the maritime industry. We are educating
them.”

SIU Political Consultant Terry Turner in-
troduced Richmond, noting he has come far
in leadership in a short time because he listens
and works with all. Turner pointed out that de-
spite their political ideologies, Richmond works
closely with House Republican Whip Steve
Scalise (R-Louisiana) because both of them un-
derstand the bipartisan nature of the U.S.-flag
fleet.

In presenting Weingarten for the Paul Hall
Award of Merit, Sacco recalled how she intro-
duced maritime to a potable water filtration pro-
gram called Operation Agua during last year’s
AFL-CIO Convention.

“Under Randi’s leadership, from West Vir-
ginia to Arizona and in many other places, the
AFT has breathed new life into the labor move-
ment. And they’ve helped educate – no pun in-
tended – the general public about all the great
things unions stand for.:

Weingarten raced to the dinner straight from
the airport after visiting with an ailing AFT offi-
cial. She apologized for not changing by saying,

“We are family. We care and we show up where
we are needed.”

She remembered the fight over the Jones
Act in the days after Hurricane Maria devas-
tated Puerto Rico.

“The moment people don’t want to do any-
thing, they blame somebody,” she said. “Don’t
tell me the Jones Act caused the hurricane! The
people who really showed up for the Puerto
Rican people is the maritime industry! The mar-
itime industry got to the port after the storm!”

Weingarten noted that “the island looked
like Europe after World War II” when she
arrived days after the impact to assess what
needed to be done for her members.

She began a process of working with others
to figure out how they could help all of Puerto
Rico immediately. One problem was people
were scavenging for drinkable water. As part
of a coalition, the Teachers worked with Kohler
to have thousands upon thousands of non-elec-
trified water filtration systems made available
to the island.

A major part of the coalition was the MTD-
affiliated SIU, which arranged for the filters to
be sent free of charge aboard U.S.-flag vessels.

“By this summer, we will have reached
our goal of 100,000 filters to the island. That
is what America is all about! That is what you
have done. I am so grateful for this partner-
ship,” Weingarten stated. “We have to ensure
the U.S.-flag industry stays alive.”

From the industry side, TOTE Maritime’s

newly announced president and CEO, Tim
Nolan, worked directly with Operation Agua
and continues to oversee relief efforts for
Puerto Rico. He had been serving as president
of TOTE Maritime, Puerto Rico.

Nolan, the recipient of the Herb Brand
Memorial Award (which goes to a U.S.-flag
industry leader), reminded all what the Ameri-
can-flag companies already have accomplished
since Maria as well as what still has to be done
for the island to recover.

“The U.S. maritime industry was the first
to arrive. Our collective response to Hurricane
Maria is what makes the U.S. maritime indus-
try so great. The U.S. maritime industry added
50 percent more capacity after the storm,” he
explained.

While noting he never had the honor of
meeting Brand (a former Seafarers LOG editor
who worked and promoted the industry from
the union and business side for more than 50
years), Nolan said, “This is what Herb Brand
and others strove to achieve.”

SIU Executive Vice President and MTD
Executive Board Member Augie Tellez pointed
out that Nolan’s character was tested as TOTE
had introduced two new LNG-powered, U.S.-
built, U.S.-flag vessels when the hurricane
struck.

“He came through and stood tall,” Tellez
stated. “He was an ally in Operation Agua. He
came and answered the call to the people of
Puerto Rico – a job that is still ongoing.”

Port Council Honors Nolan, Richmond, Weingarten

Following the announced awards at the annual Greater
New York/New Jersey Maritime Port Council Dinner-
Dance on June 9, the SIU Executive Board took over the
stage to make a special presentation. That is, all the board
members except one.

Executive Vice President Augie Tellez told the more
than 300 in the audience that the union was celebrating
several milestones, including the 80th anniversary of the
Seafarers International Union of North America.

“For the last 30 years, we have had an unprecedented
period of peace and prosperity,” Tellez stated. “We have
enjoyed a piece of the American Dream. This comes as no
accident. This is the 30th anniversary of our leader – Mike
Sacco (being in office). His vision and his tremendous
drive motivate us to do what we do.”

Secretary-Treasurer Dave Heindel followed Tellez
at the microphone to recognize and thank Sacco’s
wife, Sophie, before using one of President Sacco’s
favorite analogies: “Mike has referred to us (the
Executive Board) as his Super Bowl team. On behalf
of the Board, we would like to present our coach with
his own Super Bowl trophy.”

The unexpected tribute with a standing ovation
caught Sacco completely by surprise. As he accepted
the lookalike trophy, Sacco said it has been “a
wonderful 30 years. Coaches don’t win games;
players win games. These are the players. These are

the guys who get it done.”
Sacco acknowledged the many industry officials

attending the dinner by reminding all that labor and

business have worked and will continue to work together
in order to succeed: “We want a fair shake. We don’t want
more, we don’t want less. We will help you.”

Seafarers Executive Board Salutes Mike Sacco’s Visionary Leadership

Randi Weingarten
President

American Federation of Teachers

Tim Nolan
President

TOTE Maritime

SIU President Michael Sacco (left) congratulates U.S. Rep. Cedric Richmond (D-Loui-
siana) on being the recipient of one of three awards during the annual dinner-dance of
the Maritime Port Council of Greater New York/New Jersey and Vicinity. The event was
held June 9 in New York.

SIU Secretary Treasurer Dave Heindel (third from left) presents SIU President Michael Sacco (fifth from left) with a
replica of the Vince Lombardi Super Bowl Trophy. Joining Sacco for the presentation are members of his administra-
tion, including his executive vice president, regional vice presidents and the national director of an SIU-affiliated union.

45318_Seafarers_LOG_X2.indd 4 6/19/2018 5:02:10 PM



July 2018 Seafarers LOG 5

America’s national, economic and
homeland security demand the sus-
tainment of a strong U.S. Merchant
Marine.

That was the firm conclusion of
a recent op-ed coauthored by Brian
Schoeneman, political and legisla-
tive director of the SIU, and Bryant
Gardner, a partner with the law firm
Winston & Strawn LLP. The piece
ran in The Hill newspaper on May
22 (National Maritime Day) and re-
mains available on the publication’s
website.

Schoeneman and Gardner provide
background on America’s proud his-
tory as a maritime nation. Whether
projecting military power or provid-
ing humanitarian assistance, U.S.
civilian mariners have delivered for
centuries, they note.

That’s still the case today, they
continue. For instance, more than 90
percent of the materiel needed by our
troops in Iraq and Afghanistan was
carried aboard U.S.-flag vessels with
American crews.

“Because the Defense Depart-
ment can rely upon our commercial
fleet, it doesn’t have to hire tens of
thousands of government employees
and build hundreds of ships, saving
taxpayers billions,” Schoeneman and
Gardner point out. “Because Amer-
ica can rely upon its U.S. Merchant
Marine, it will never again face the
crisis it faced at the start of the last
century, when American exports sat
on the docks rotting because foreign
fleets were unable or unwilling to
take them to market.

“As representatives of the shipping
industry and maritime unions we see
the importance of this issue from all
sides,” the continued. “Yet, despite
the importance of the Merchant Ma-
rine to America’s economic, national,
and homeland security, many of the
programs designed to help maintain
it have come under attack. One such
program is our cargo preference law.
Cargo preference requires that when
taxpayer-funded cargoes are shipped
by the U.S. government, at least a
portion of those cargoes move on
U.S.-flag vessels, provided they are
available at fair and reasonable rates.
This allows us to leverage transporta-
tion dollars we are already spending,
accomplishing two goals at once.”

They go on to contrast the high

standards applied to American crews
and vessels as compared to the often-
cutthroat world of runaway-flag or
so-called flag-of-convenience ship-
ping. In that light, “The only way the
U.S. Merchant Marine can remain
viable is through support programs
that help counter these disadvantages
inherent to the requirement that the
U.S. Merchant Marine be an Ameri-
can institution we can count upon in
times good and bad. In peace and war
– the motto of the Merchant Marine,”
the coauthors say.

When the piece was published,
the industry was battling against a
blindside attack (ultimately unsuc-
cessful) on cargo preference. “If
the federal government is paying
the freight, it makes sense to em-
ploy Americans to do the work,”
Gardner and Schoeneman point out.
“Despite this, cargo preference has
been under attack by well-intended
‘reformers’ looking to trim shipping
costs regardless of the other im-
pacts. Nowhere have these attacks
been more fervent than among the
foreign-aid community, who would
carve-out international food aid
shipments from cargo preference
rules, promoting foreign fleets over
our own.

“Critics claim that this cargo isn’t
essential to the U.S. Merchant Ma-
rine,” they add. “Not true. Food aid
is the largest source of government
cargo available. When Congress re-
duced ship-American requirements
for food aid from 75 percent to 50
percent, we lost a quarter of the fleet.
The change had almost no impact on
the overall food aid program, since
using American ships instead of for-
eign ships represents barely one per-
cent of the overall food aid budget….
Instead of cutting cargo preference,
we should be looking to increase it.
The military already aspires to ship
100 percent of its cargoes on U.S.-
flag vessels. Requiring the civilian
agencies to do the same would go a
long way toward reversing the trend.”

They conclude, “On this, National
Maritime Day, we need to stop tak-
ing our U.S. Merchant Marine for
granted, and dedicate to serious
discussion about ways to restore its
capability. Restoring and bolstering
cargo preference with new reforms is
a good place to start.”

‘Time to Save Our
Merchant Marine is Now’

An editorial published in late May by The
Washington Times states unequivocal support
for the Jones Act.

The piece, headlined “The cost of not hav-
ing a Merchant Marine,” provides background
on why America’s freight cabotage law was en-
acted in the first place, in 1920. It powerfully
concludes that the United States would risk ca-
tastrophe by eliminating the law, which requires
that cargo moving between domestic ports be
carried on ships that are crewed, built, owned
and flagged American.

Published and posted May 23, a day after
National Maritime Day, the editorial in part
notes, “Freedom of the seas is critical to Amer-
ica’s economic and political security, enabling
the transportation of goods manufactured in the
United States to other places around the world,
and enabling Americans to obtain things oth-
erwise unobtainable here…. Americans have
taken freedom of the seas for granted when they
think about ships and seas, particularly in the
years following the end of World War II, when
despite the tension between the superpowers
nothing much happened in either the Atlantic
or Pacific that America didn’t want to happen.”

But new threats are emerging, according to
the Times. For instance, they point out, China
recently launched its first domestically con-
structed aircraft carrier.

“Aircraft carriers are not defensive weap-
ons,” the article states. “They’re floating
islands bristling with weapons of mass destruc-
tion, to project power far beyond the shores of
a homeland. Together with Beijing’s plan to
increase the size of its combat navy to more
than 400 ships, and the man-made islands
created in the South China Sea to wage war,
foreshadows a coming crisis that threatens ev-

erybody’s freedom to sail one of the world’s
busiest sea lanes.”

After further describing China’s maritime
strength, the editorial says things for the U.S.
would be comparatively even worse “without
the Merchant Marine Act of 1920 (formal name
of the Jones Act), enacted when a sobered Con-
gress wanted to make sure the United States
could supply troops in conflicts anywhere in
the world. Getting the American Expedition-
ary Force and its supplies across the Atlantic
in World War I had been tortuous and difficult
indeed, and Congress was determined that it
should never be repeated.

“This law assured the survival of the Ameri-
can Merchant Marine,” the article continues.
“Without it … the nation’s movement of crucial
goods would have been outsourced years ago.”

The piece concludes, “The Jones Act as-
sures freedom of the seas and on the cheap. The
merchant fleet supports the military in times
of crisis. The cost to replicate it, according to
some estimates, would be as much as $65 bil-
lion, money America does not have and which
would be better spent building combat ships
to keep pace with the Chinese. The possibility
of conflict with China or other seagoing pow-
ers dictates the absolute necessity of a robust
shipbuilding and repair industry together with a
robust and capable Merchant Marine. The Jones
Act makes that possible even if, as some econo-
mists argue, it adds a few pennies to the cost of
goods that come to America by sea. The cost
of not having a robust Merchant Marine when
the nation needs it would be much higher, all to
prevent catastrophe when the cost of prevention
is highest.”

The full article is available online at wash-
ingtontimes.com.

Washington Times: ‘Jones Act
Assures Freedom of Seas’

Jones Act vessels including the SIU-crewed Overseas Nikiski boost U.S. national, economic
and homeland security.

The AFL-CIO in late May announced
a major, national print and digital ad cam-
paign calling on workers to join together in
the face of what the federation described as
continued corporate assaults on the freedom
to join together in union.

An open letter to working people, penned
by AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka, ran
in USA Today, the Washington Post and re-
gional newspapers in nine states, including
Florida, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Ne-
vada, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and
Massachusetts.

Trumka’s letter offers an urgent call to
action: “If you want a raise, better benefits
and the dignity of having a voice on the job,
we’re saving a seat for you,” he wrote. “Join
us – be a part of the fight to build a brighter
future for you, your family and working
people everywhere.”

An accompanying digital ad campaign
targets workers online and directs them to
FreedomToJoin.org, a new website “that

outlines efforts by wealthy corporate inter-
ests to take away the freedoms of working
people.”

Additionally, the website offers back-
ground on Janus v. AFSCME Council 31,
a Supreme Court case funded by the Koch
brothers to “deprive teachers, firefighters
and other public-sector workers of their
freedom to join together,” the AFL-CIO
noted. (A ruling was expected around press
time.) It also offers resources for forming a
union and information about ongoing orga-
nizing campaigns.

“This comes as a wave of collective ac-
tion has continued to sweep the country,”
the federation said in announcing the ad
campaign. “As striking teachers march
and secure raises even in anti-labor states,
working people from all backgrounds are
embracing the power of solidarity. Unions’
approval rating has broken above 60 per-
cent, while dissatisfaction with corporations
has risen to similarly high levels.

“Young people, who are disproportion-
ately impacted by corporate-driven policy
decisions, have been leading the most re-
cent surge in unionization,” the announce-
ment continued. “Of the 262,000 new union
members last year, more than three-quarters
were under the age of 35.”

This trend has continued steadily into
2018. In April, nearly 15,000 workers or-
ganized unions in a single week, ranging
from nurses and flight attendants to Harvard
graduate workers.

“From the boardroom to the steps of the
Supreme Court, a dark web of corporate in-
terests is trying to stop us with everything
it has,” Trumka concluded. “But no mat-
ter what any CEO or lobbyist does, we’re
standing up for the freedom to join together
in a union.”

In a communication specifically about
the Janus decision, the AFL-CIO said, “The
Supreme Court case Janus v. AFSCME
Council 31 is nothing more than a political

attack that aims to further rig our economy
and democracy against working people. It’s
an attempt to divide us and limit our power
in numbers because unions give workers
a powerful voice in speaking up for them-
selves, their families and their communi-
ties. When teachers, nurses, firefighters
and other public service workers are free
to come together in unions, they win ben-
efits like better working conditions, better
wages, health care, clean and safe environ-
ments and retirement security that benefit
non-union members as well. But the CEOs
and corporate special interests behind this
case simply do not believe that working
people should have the same freedoms and
opportunities as they do: to negotiate a fair
return on our work so that we can provide
for ourselves and our families. They are
funding this case through organizations like
the National Right to Work Foundation be-
cause they view unions as a threat to their
power and greed.”

AFL-CIO Launches Ad Blitz, Urges Organizing

45318_Seafarers_LOG_X.indd 5 6/18/2018 6:22:18 AM



6 Seafarers LOG July 2018

The tragic sinking of the SIU-crewed cargo ship El
Faro happened nearly three years ago, but the incident
made recent headlines following the release of two
new books plus a summary from the National Trans-
portation Safety Board (NTSB).

The board in late May posted a 16-page PDF file
which it described as an “illustrated digest (that) sum-
marizes the critical events and decisions that led to
the Oct. 1, 2015, sinking of El Faro and the loss of
all 33 crewmembers. The digest also synopsizes the
more than 60 recommendations issued throughout the

NTSB’s investigation of the sinking. The infograph-
ics and summary make for an easy-to-read digest,
compared with the thousands of pages that comprise
the NTSB’s final report and associated investigative
documents, while still imparting potentially lifesaving
information to our stakeholders.”

The NTSB announcement concluded, “While the
full accident report, available at www.ntsb.gov, re-
mains the agency’s definitive document on our investi-
gation of the sinking, this digest provides an overview
of this landmark marine accident, and a review of what
government and industry can do to prevent such an ac-

cident from happening again.”
The summary is easy to find on the NTSB website.

Use the search feature and enter the words “El Faro
illustrated digest.”

Meanwhile, the books were released in early May.
One is titled “Into the Raging Sea” and is authored by
Rachel Slade. The other is titled “Run the Storm” and
is written by George Michelsen Foy. Both are available
on Amazon.

The hardcover edition of Slade’s book is 416 pages,
and it appears to be the more critically acclaimed of
the two.

Foy’s book is 272 pages.
Seventeen SIU members were among the El Faro’s

final crew.

NTSB Publishes El Faro Summary

Two new books revisit the tragic sinking.
The NTSB posted a 16-page PDF file summarizing its
findings about the El Faro.

New Books Cover 2015 Tragedy
Involving SIU-Crewed Ship

Lummus Mariners Donate to Philippines-Based Charity
The Seafarers’ time-honored tradition of

providing humanitarian assistance to those in
need continues to be displayed on the world’s
international stage.

The latest episode occurred May 10 in the
Republic of the Philippines when – during an
official visit – SIU crew members and AMO
officers from the USNS 1st Lt Jack Lummus
presented a $1,000 donation to the Pampanga-
based Smile Train Philippines Foundation, Inc.

Smile Train is an international children’s
charity (a hospital) that provides 100-percent-
free cleft repair surgery and comprehensive
cleft care to children in more than 85 devel-
oping countries around the world. The offer
to look in on the facility was sent to Lummus
Master Capt. David Hagner.

The invitation to visit the hospital was “…
based upon my own recent marathon fund-
raising for them (London 2017, Jacksonville
2017),” Hagner said. “So, I asked them to ex-
pand the guest list as an opportunity to bring
some favorable exposure to both the program/
ship/crew and to their great charity.”

According to Hagner, the Lummus at the
time was in the Philippines supporting Exercise
Balikatan 2018, an annual joint forces U.S.-
Philippines military partnership operation.
“We were anchored in Subic Bay conduct-
ing routine maintenance between the partial
discharge and backload of our prepositioned
USMC roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) cargo used in
the exercise when we made the visit to Pam-
panga,” he said.

Joining Hagner during the visit and do-
nation presentation were OS Charles Ca-
tunao, Chief Engineer Michael Fagan and
Electronics Officer Clifford Ward. Catunao,
on behalf of Lummus’ officers and crew,
presented the $1,000 check to Smile Train’s
Director for the Philippines Kimmy Flavi-
ano. Also present were Dr. Edmund Mer-
cado, a plastic surgeon who performs many
of the procedures at the facility, and Marlon
Punzalan, an Ambyth shipping agent. Ac-
cording to Hagner, the Ambyth family of
companies and it principals were generous
sponsors of his 2017 fundraising efforts for

Smile Train in London and Jacksonville.
During the recent visit, members of the

Lummus delegation had lunch with the facil-
ity’s director and members of her staff. They
also saw a number of children who had un-
dergone procedures the day before as well as
others who were back for suture removals and
follow-ups. Delegation members also saw a
few infants who were at the facility for pre-op
assessments.

Proceeds for the donation were taken from
a cash reserve that accrues from the onboard

sale of assorted goods (soft drinks, snacks, etc.)
to mariners in the vessel’s slop chest. “Rather
than solicit from individual crew members,
we made the donation from a small crew fund
we maintain for such purposes,” said Hager.
“We have previously supported (from the same
fund) a charity golf tournament for The Heart
of Texas Young Marines and sponsored a rider
in the Dana Farber Pan-Mass Challenge bike
ride for cancer.”

The Lummus is operated by Crowley Liner
Services.

SIU Ordinary Seaman Charles Catunao (second from left in back row in photo above)
poses with officers from the USNS 1st Lt. Jack Lummus, along with officials, patients and
parents at the Smile Train Philippines Foundation, Inc., hospital during a May 10 visit.
The facility is based in Pampanga, Philippines. In the photo at right, Catunao presents a
$1,000 donation from the crew of the Lummus to Smile Train’s Director for the Philippines
Kimmy Flaviano.

45318_Seafarers_LOG.indd 6 6/15/2018 11:05:31 AM



July 2018 Seafarers LOG 7

SHBP Announces Winners of Annual Scholarships
The higher education goals of nine individu-

als moved one step closer to fruition May 4 when
the Seafarers Heath and Benefits Plan (SHBP)
Scholarship committee conferred upon them
scholarships totaling $132,000.

Convening in San Diego, the committee
bestowed a series of grants to four active Seafar-
ers and five dependents. On the SIU side of the
ledger, JonDa Tanner was the recipient of a
three-year $15,000 award; Joseph LoGuidice
and Karl Mayhew each claimed a two-year,
$6,000 grant; and Jarvis Atkins collected a one-
year, $5,000 scholarship. Dependents Katherine
Conway, Junnel Grace Dingman, Ruth Isabel
Dinongm, Gabriel Garcia, and Guan Polompo
were the recipients of four-year awards totaling
$20,000 each.

JonDa Tanner
Deep Sea Chief Steward JonDa Tanner was

born in Alaska but currently calls Lynwood, Cal-
ifornia, home. A 1996 graduate of Foster High
School in Tukwila, Washington, she completed
three semesters of classes at North Seattle Com-
munity College in Seattle. She later spent five
years working with Norwegian Cruise Lines.

Tanner donned the
SIU colors in 2000 and
graduated from the ap-
prentice program at the
union-affiliated Paul
Hall Center for Mari-
time Training and Edu-
cation in Piney Point,
Maryland. Since com-
pleting the apprentice
program, Tanner has
returned to the school
on several occasions
to upgrade her skills.
Most recently, she completed the Chief Steward
2.0 Orientation/Assessment course.

While working for Norwegian Cruise Lines,
Tanner said she discovered that life on the high
seas was a career that truly fit her personal-
ity. She became a union delegate and became
hooked on organized labor.

“I felt the union saved me and now I could
give something back to them,” she said. “After
five years, I decided to switch to the SIU (from
the SIU-affiliated Seafarers Entertainment and
Allied Trades Union). I want to be an example
for the members of the union to rise above their
circumstances. I want to finish what I started by
getting my college degree with the help of the
union.”

Tanner has applied for admission to North
Seattle Community College, the same institution
she attended following her graduation from high
school. She will pursue a double major on litera-
ture and drama.

Joseph LoGuidice
Deep Sea QMED Joseph LoGuidice joined

the union in 2011 and was a members of Ap-
prentice Class 747 at the Seafarers-affiliated
maritime training center in Piney Point, Mary-
land. The husband of a U.S. Air Force spouse,
he recently sailed aboard the USNS John Glenn,

operated by Ocean
Shipholdings, Inc.

A frequent up-
grader, LoGuidice has
returned to the school
on several occasions
to improve his skills.
Most recently, he com-
pleted his requirements
in the Basic/Advanced
Firefighting and
Tanker Familiarization
LG courses.

A native of Den-
ville, New Jersey, LoGuidice is a 1996 graduate
of McClintock High School in Tempe, Arizona.
While in high school, he was a member of the
wrestling team.

“I finished my apprenticeship in 2012 and
started sailing in the engine department,” he said.
“I’ve been back to Piney Point to upgrade nu-
merous times. I’m applying for this scholarship
to help me pay for the 10 classes I would need to
get my associate’s degree through the College of
Southern Maryland. This degree would give me
the opportunity to stay on land in the future and
support my wife through her Air Force career as
she has done for me the last six years while I’m
out at sea.”

Karl Mayhew
Deep Sea Recertified Bosun Karl Mayhew

donned the SIU colors in 2001. Born in New
York City, he graduated from H.C. Williams
High School in Canton, New York. Mayhew
earned 32 credits at the State University of New
York at Canton.

Since joining the
union, he has upgraded
his skills no fewer than
11 times at the PHC,
including in 2016
when he completed the
bosun recertification
course, the highest
level of training avail-
able to unlicensed
members who sail in
the deck department.

Looking back over
his career as a merchant mariner and member of
the SIU, Mayhew has no regrets. “I believe en-
tering the U.S. Merchant Marine (USMM) was
the best decision I have ever made,” he said. “It
has allowed me to learn the importance of work-
ing in a team environment and has instilled many
positive values (in me).”

He continued, “Essentially, it has made me
see the importance of always doing the right
thing. Further, the USMM has provided a reli-
able means of making a living and providing for
myself and family.”

Now, Mayhew aspires to take his career to
the next level. “I would like to further my career
by gaining a college degree and continuing my
education in an ever-changing merchant marine
environment,” he said. “I am very thankful I
have chosen this career path and intend on being
part of it until my retirement.”

Mayhew plans to pursue a degree in nautical
engineering at the College of Southern Mary-
land.

Jarvis Atkins
Deep Sea OMU Jarvis Atkins was born in

Roanoke, Virginia, and now resides in Ports-
mouth, Virginia.

He currently works
aboard the MV Capt.
David I. Lyon, oper-
ated by Sealift, Inc.
“For the past three
years … I have been
sailing as an oiler or
junior engineer, de-
pending on what ship
the company needs me
on,” he said.

Married and the
father of two children,
Atkins is a 1996 graduate of Stafford High
School in Stafford, Virginia and holds a bach-
elor’s degree in finance from Norfolk State Uni-
versity in Norfolk, Virginia. He is veteran of the
U.S. Marine Corps Reserve.

Atkins signed on with the SIU in 2013 and
was a member of PHC Apprentice Class 764. A
frequent upgrader, Atkins has enhanced his skills
on numerous occasions at the union-affiliated
school, most recently in March of this year when
he completed five U.S. Coast Guard-approved
courses.

He applied for the SHBP Scholarship pro-
gram in order “to be considered for the two-year
scholarship to continue my quest in obtaining my
Third Engineer’s License,” he said in his applica-
tion package. “I am currently sailing as a QMED
for Sealift Inc. and will soon have the required
amount of sea days to sit for my Third Engineer
Exam.”

Atkins also said he needed to successfully
complete five classes to achieve his goal. “My
plan is to take two classes in the fourth quarter of
2018 and the remaining three classes in the first
or second quarter of 2019,” he said.

He has applied for admission to the Mid At-
lantic Maritime Academy in Norfolk, Virginia,
as well as the Chesapeake Marine Training Insti-
tute in Hayes, Virginia.

Katherine Conway
Katherine Conway is the daughter of Inland

AB Nicholas Conway (and mother Susan, a
teacher) who joined the union in 1999.

Conway is a 2018
graduate of Gloucester
County Institute of
Technology in Sewell,
New Jersey, where she
was involved in a num-
ber of athletic as well
as other extracurricular
activities. Included
were membership on
the school’s junior as
well as varsity cross
country, track and
bowling teams. Ad-

ditionally, Conway was active in her school’s
student council, holding the office of public
relations officer from 2017 to 2018. She also
volunteered her time supporting the school-based
youth services program and other community

outreach activities.
Ultimately, Conway hopes to become a

nurse. To achieve this objective, she has applied
for admission to the following schools: Neu-
mann University, Aston, Pennsylvania; Rutgers
University, Camden, New Jersey; Stockton
University, Galloway, New Jersey; and LaSalle
University, Philadelphia.

Junnel Grace Dingzon
Junnel Grace Dingzon is a 2018 graduate of

Baltimore Polytechnic Institute in Baltimore. She
is the daughter of Deep Sea ABG Julian Ding-
zon (and mother Nelia, an office staffer) who has

been sailing with the
SIU since 2010.

Born in the Repub-
lic of the Philippines,
Junnel Grace now
resides in Baltimore.
She has five siblings.
While in high school,
she participated on the
tennis team and held
membership in the
ethics, environmental,
yoga/meditation and
German clubs. She

also volunteered with the Maryland Society for
the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Junnel Grace currently works at a frozen
yogurt shop at the Baltimore Washington Inter-
national Airport where she “hopes to save up
money for college and develop better communi-
cation skills.” Her ambition is to earn her degree
in biochemistry. “I aspire to be a neurologist
someday and give back to the field that I’m so
passionate about,” she said.

To achieve her goal, Junnel Grace has ap-
plied for admission to the following institutions
of higher learning: Johns Hopkins University,
Baltimore; Bucknell University, Lewisburg,
Pennsylvania; Lafayette College, Easton, Penn-
sylvania; and New York University in New York
City.

Ruth Isabel Dinong
Ruth Isabel Dinong is the daughter of Deep

Sea ABM Rolando Dinong (and mother Ofelia,
a dental assistant) who sails aboard the Ocean
Ships, Inc.-operated
USNS Montford Point.

Ruth Isabel was
born in the Republic
of the Philippines and
currently resides in
Daly City, California.
She has one sibling.
A 2018 graduate
of Westmoor High
School in Daly City,
she was active in
her school’s student
government as well
as the California Scholarship Federation and the
Westmoor Service Commission. Ruth Isabel also
spent numerous hours volunteering at the Second
Harvest Food Bank where she helped distribute
meals to low-income households and senior
citizens.

She plans to pursue a career in global stud-
ies and has applied to 10 institutions of higher
learning to achieve her objective. Her top choices
are: Northeastern University in Boston; the Uni-
versity of Washington in Seattle; the University

of California, Los Angeles; and the University of
California, San Diego.

Gabriel Garcia
Gabriel is the son of Deep Sea Recertified

Steward Raymond Garcia (and mother Mazie,
a staff member at the
University of Califor-
nia, San Francisco.) He
has six siblings.

A 2018 graduate of
Novato High School
in Novato, California,
Garcia since an early
age has had a deep-
seated passion for gar-
dening. While in high
school, this passion
led him to be more
involved in his com-

munity. He took a leadership role in his school’s
gardening club and volunteered many hours at
gardens in his area. Along the way, he coordi-
nated and consulted with “master gardeners,” a
group of volunteers who are trained and certified
by the University of California.

Garcia also helped launch a campus beauti-
fication project. Besides restoring his school’s
garden irrigation system, the endeavor sought to
increase student participation in environmental-
related undertakings.

“I want to be a research doctor while simul-
taneously advocating for environmental aware-
ness,” he said in his scholarship application
package. His goal is to obtain his degree in plant
biology.

Garcia has applied for admission to the
following schools: University of California-
Berkley, Berkley, California; University of
California-Davis, Davis, California; Brown
University, Providence, Rhode Island; and Johns
Hopkins University, Baltimore.

Guian Palompo
Guian Palompo is the son of retired inland

DEU Nestor Palompo (and mother Jeannette,
a delicatessen employee) who spent most of his
career working with
Crowley Towing and
Transportation in Jack-
sonville, Florida.

Palompo is a 2018
graduate of Jackson-
ville’s Atlantic Coast
High School where he
was active in a host
of student activities.
He was a member of
the National Honor
Society and served as
vice president of the
Multicultural Club. Additionally, he was heavily
involved in his school’s math, science and his-
tory clubs.

In the community service arena, Palompo
spent numerous after-school hours volunteering.
He served as camp counselor for a local high
school and was a resolute supporter of a Baptist
health volunteer program.

Guian’s goal is to obtain his degree in me-
chanical engineering. To realize his ambition, he
has applied for admission to the University of
Central Florida, Orlando, Florida; University of
North Florida in Jacksonville, Florida; and the
University of Florida, Gainesville.

Members of the calendar year 2018 SHBP Scholarship Committee convened May 4 in
San Diego to deliberate on this year’s scholarship winners. Comprising the committee
(above, from left) were Dr. Gayle Olson, University of New Orleans (retired); Dr. Louis
Fernandez, provost and vice president academic affairs, California State University; Dr.
Marla Kohlman, professor, Department of Sociology, Kenyon College; Dr. Hank Toutain,
dean of students, Kenyon College (retired); and Dr. Trevor Carpenter, College of Southern
Maryland (retired).

45318_Seafarers_LOG_X.indd 7 6/18/2018 6:22:19 AM



8 Seafarers LOG July 2018

At Sea and Ashore with the SIU

WELCOME ASHORE IN NEW ORLEANS – Longtime
inland member Dave Walker (right) recently called it a
career after 40 years as an engineer at Crescent Tow-
ing. He also served as a delegate on negotiating com-
mittees five different times. Presenting him with his first
pension check is Port Agent Chris Westbrook.

WELCOME ASHORE IN NORFOLK – Congratulations to Cap-
tain Mark Faust (center), pictured at the hall with his wife, Mary
(right), and Port Agent Georg Kenny. Upon receiving his first pen-
sion check, Mark expressed gratitude to the union and to the
Seafarers Pension Plan. He spent the past 15 years at the helm
with Express Marine.

LICENSE EARNED – Seafarer Jose Encarnacion (left)
proudly displays his new third assistant engineer li-
cense, recently received from the U.S. Coast Guard.
He’s pictured with Port Agent Amancio Crespo in San
Juan. Encarnacion stated, “Since I got into the maritime
industry in 2005, my life has been fun. Trip after trip, I’ve
learned the true value of work, family and union. I want
to thank our union leaders for a job well done, especially
in helping maintain our cabotage laws.”

MILESTONES IN OAKLAND – In photo at left, QEE
Douglas McLaughlin (right) receives his A-seniority
book from Port Agent Nick Marrone II. The photo
above features Recertified Steward Louis Nicoud
(center) picking up his first pension check and being
congratulated by Asst. VP Nick Celona (right) and
the port agent.

WITH SEAFARERS ON WEST COAST – SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (standing
fourth from right) meets with ROS crews from the USNS Algol and USNS Capella
in San Francisco. Both ships are operated by Ocean Duchess.

STEWARD SELFIE – Chief Cook Jason Beckford is pictured along with
some of the delicious menu items aboard the APL Guam.

TALKIN’ JONES ACT IN PUERTO RICO – Port Agent Amancio Crespo (fourth from left) submitted this
snapshot after an informal gathering to discuss the Jones Act and its vital importance to the territory with
several key supporters. Joined by their respective spouses were (far left) Wilfredo Cameron, office coor-
dinator for the Hon. Michael Abid Quinones; (fifth from left) the Hon. Carlos Johnny Mendez, president of
the Puerto Rico House of Representatives; and (far right) Rep. Quinones.

ABOARD ATB INNOVATION – SIU Asst. VP Kris
Hopkins (right) meets with Recertified Steward
Bruce Mesger (left) and AB/Tankerman Mike Eaton
to discuss contract negotiations. The vessel is oper-
ated by Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning.

45318_Seafarers_LOG_X.indd 8 6/18/2018 6:22:21 AM



July 2018 Seafarers LOG 9

B-BOOK IN HONOLULU – Chief Cook Tiffany Davis
(left) receives her full B-book at the union hall in Ha-
waii. Congratulating her is Port Agent Hazel Galbiso.

At Sea and Ashore with the SIU

NEW PACT APPROVED – Seafarers recently voted in favor of a three-year contract covering the Delta Mariner. The
pact features wage increases along with improved benefits and working conditions. Among those pictured on the Foss
Maritime ship are Bosun Marcus Chambers (fourth from right), SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (center) and Port
Agent Jimmy White (left). Corgey said the bosun “deserves special recognition for his leadership and service as ship’s
delegate.”

A-BOOK IN JERSEY – Congratulations to AB Sal Mothana
(left) on receiving his A-book last month. He’s pictured at the
Jersey City hall with Port Agent Mark von Siegel.

ABOARD OVERSEAS LOS ANGELES – Pictured aboard the Overseas Ship Management vessel in early May in Richmond, California, are (from left) AB Khamisi Kayanda, Port
Agent Nick Marrone II, Recertified Steward Dennis Skretta, Chief Cook Carmelo Dela Cruz, SA Karen Thomasson, GUDE Nestor Montano, AB Joseph Nicodemus, Bosun Teodulfo
Alanano and GUDE Ali Mohamed

WITH SEABULK
BOATMEN – This
snapshot was taken
last month after com-
pletion of Seabulk
Towing contract ne-
gotiations in Port Ar-
thur, Texas. Pictured
from left are Patrol-
man John Niday, AB
William Soileau, Chief
Engineer Chris Butts,
Capt. Chris Kibo-
deaux, SIU Asst. VP
Mike Russo and Mate
Josh Rodriguez.

ABOARD OCEAN GLORY – Pictured from left
aboard the Crowley ship in Seaport, Maine, are
Bosun Augustus Udan, SIU Safety Director Osvaldo
Ramos and Steward/Baker Reyna Abel. “It’s a great
ship with good shipmates who emphasize safety,”
Ramos observed.

WITH USNS PETERSBURG CREW – Pictured from left in photo
at left are Chief Steward Ruben Ong, GUDE Julian Lacuesta,
Port Agent Nick Marrone II and Bosun Roberto Flauta. The
Ready Reserve Force ship is operated by TOTE Services.

SIU AT FLEET WEEK –
The SIU-crewed USNS
Maury recently took part
in Fleet Week in New
York. Pictured aboard
the vessel (operated
by Ocean Shiphold-
ings) are (photo at left)
MDR Brandon Maeda
and (photo at immedi-
ate right, from left) GVA
Crystal Cobbs (left) and
STOS John Hodges.

45318_Seafarers_LOG_X.indd 9 6/18/2018 6:22:23 AM



10 Seafarers LOG July 2018

Spotlight on Mariner Health

Honey Citrus Glazed Chicken
Servings: 8

Ingredients
8 chicken breast halves, without skin, trimmed – fresh
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons Mrs Dash
1 tablespoon kosher salt
¼ cup honey
½ teaspoon granulated garlic
¼ cup orange juice, fresh squeezed
¼ lemon juice, fresh squeezed

Preparation
Butterfly the chicken breast and pat dry, season with the Mrs Dash, kosher salt, and olive oil evenly
on both sides.
Sauté the seasoned chicken 1-2 min on each side, just to brown them. Place into hotel pan.
Mix together the honey, orange juice, lemon juice, and granulated garlic in a container big enough
to hold it.
Glaze the chicken with the sauce evenly.
Bake in a 325-degree F oven for 10 min until the inside is 165 degrees F.
Garnish with lemon and chopped green onion or parsley.

Nutrition Information
Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 198 Calories; 5g Fat (22.5 percent calories from fat); 27g
Protein; 10g Carbohydrate; trace dietary fiber; 68mg Cholesterol; 782mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0
Grain (starch); 4 Lean Meat; 0 Fruit; ½ Fat; ½ Other Carbohydrates.

Provided by the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seaman-
ship

Healthful Recipe
Shingles is a condition caused by the

varicella-zoster virus. This is the same virus
that causes chickenpox.

Once a person has chickenpox, the virus
will stay in their system for life. It usually
stays in an inactive form and will only come
out again if your immune system is weak-
ened.

Shingles causes open, oozing blisters,
and this varicella-zoster virus can spread
through contact with unscabbed shingles
blisters. If you have never had chickenpox,
you can get the varicella-zoster virus from
contact with someone else’s oozing shingle
blister. This, in turn, can lead to chickenpox.

The virus does not spread once the blis-
ters have formed a crusty scab. Once the
scab forms, they are no longer contagious.
The virus can also be contained by covering
the area that is affected.

Early symptoms of shingles can start
with pain along the nerve root. Your skin
might feel like it is tingling or like it is burn-
ing before the blisters appear. Some itching
and sensitivity to touch can also occur.

The real sign that someone has shingles
is when the blisters start to appear. They re-
mind people of chickenpox. They are raised
blisters that are fluid-filled. They will even-
tually open and ooze. Finally, they will crust
over.

Most people that experience shingles do

have pain. This is usually for a short period
of time and then they fully recover.

Most people only have one episode of
shingles in their lifetime. However, there
are some that have a recurrent outbreak if
their immune system is compromised again.

Some people have long-lasting nerve
pain from the shingles outbreak. This usu-
ally happens with older adults. The virus af-
fects the nerve that it followed on the skin
and can cause a continuous burning or stab-
bing type of pain.

This is why it is very important when you
first suspect that you have shingles, to get
to your doctor’s office or other emergency
care/treatment areas as soon as possible, to
get antiviral medications. Once you are on
these meds, the virus or vesicle eruptions
will not be as bad or as long-lasting. The
post-neuralgic pain will not be a severe,
either. Some doctors use ointments on the
blisters to help in their healing. Keep the
areas clean and dry. Cover them as needed
and follow the doctor’s advice. Wash your
hands constantly and keep your fingers
away from your face.

Talk with your doctor about getting the
shingles vaccine shot so that you have a bet-
ter chance of never getting shingles. Keep
active. Get your vaccines as your doctor
recommends and you will have a longer,
healthier life!

All About Shingles Virus

With Starlight Marine Crews
SIU Port Agent Joe Vincenzo recently met with Seafarers aboard Star-

light Marine Services tugboats in the Pacific Northwest. These photos
were taken in early May.

Pictured aboard the Hank Kaplan in Seattle are (from left) Junior
Capt. Katie Ann Love, Capt. Matt Jeffcott, AB/Deckhand Tim Alex-
ander, Capt. Jeff Johnson and Engineer Jon McCutcheon.

Gathering for a photo aboard the Rich Padden are (from left) Engi-
neer Joe Corey, Port Agent Joe Vincenzo, AB/Deckhand Wesley
Shoemaker and Capt. Mitch Hetterlee.

Aboard the Michelle Sloan in Tacoma, Washington, are (from left)
Engineer Brian Alexander, Port Agent Joe Vincenzo and AB Max-
well Fleischfresser.

45318_Seafarers_LOG_X.indd 10 6/18/2018 6:22:28 AM



July 2018 Seafarers LOG 11

While the annual National Maritime
Day observance in the nation’s capital
often garners the biggest headlines, the
SIU traditionally also participates in
several other noteworthy ceremonies
across the country on May 22.

SIU members, officials and staff
upheld that custom this year, taking part
in National Maritime Day gatherings in
Virginia, Texas and California.

SIU Vice President Government
Services Kermett Mangram, Port Agent
Georg Kenny, Safety Director Anthony
Houston, Government Services Divi-
sion Representative Sam Spain and
Administrative Assistant Sheila Burton
were among a crowd of approximately
400 individuals celebrating the gather-
ing that was hosted by the Norfolk
Propeller Club and the Port of Norfolk,
Virginia.

The USNS Medgar Evers, crewed
by members of the SIU Government
Services Division, served as a reception
area for part of the event. Additionally,
longtime Chief Steward Army Joe
Leake was one of several mariners
honored for his years of dedication to
the industry.

“National Maritime Day has
evolved to become so much more as we
recognize the importance of the mari-
time industry to our nation’s economic
strength,” said Rear Adm. Dee L. Mew-
bourne, commander, Military Sealift

Command. “Let us keep all our nation’s
mariners in our thoughts and prayers as
they contribute courageously to the se-
curity and prosperity of our nation.”
“I’m proud to celebrate National Mari-
time Day, a day where we honor Amer-
ican mariners who have served the U.S.
admirably in time of war and crisis,
including many who have made the ul-
timate sacrifice,” said Rear Adm. (Ret.)
Mark Buzby, Maritime Administrator.
“By delivering supplies and equip-
ment to our military forces overseas,
and commercial partners here at home
and to other nations, our mariners have
helped establish and sustain our way of
life.” (Buzby spoke earlier the same day
at the ceremony in Washington, D.C.)
In Port Arthur, Texas, SIU Safety Di-
rector Kevin Sykes shared some SIU
history.

“My union was formed in 1938,”
he said in his prepared remarks. “Our
members have sailed in every conflict
since then, proudly serving as Ameri-
ca’s fourth arm of defense. From World
War II to Korea to Vietnam, and from
the first Persian Gulf War to Operations
Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom,
among other missions, SIU members
have delivered the goods wherever and
whenever needed.”

He added, “I would be remiss in not
briefly stating the case for why we need
a strong U.S. Merchant Marine mov-
ing forward. Our domestic maritime

industry alone supports nearly 500,000
American jobs and pumps billions of
dollars into the economy every year.
Our internationally trading deep-sea
ships help ensure that we won’t be held
as economic hostages by other nations,
and our civilian-crewed military sup-
port ships guarantee that our brave men
and women in uniform won’t have to
cross their fingers and hope that foreign
crews on foreign-flag ships decide to
deliver the vital materiel they need in
times of conflict. We can honor the past
by working hard to ensure the ongoing
vibrancy of this vital industry.”

The Rev. Sinclair Oubre, who also
is a longtime Seafarer, spoke at the Port
Arthur ceremony. He reminded attend-
ees that the maritime industry is vital
to the nation, and still offers excellent
career opportunities for those willing to
put in the work.

In Oakland, California, Port Agent
Nick Marrone II was one of a number
of speakers representing (respectively)
labor, management and government.
He underscored the importance of the
U.S. Merchant Marine not just in the
past but also today and in the future.

Later that week, SIU Assistant
Vice President Government Services
Chet Wheeler joined a memorial event
aboard the World War II victory ship
Jeremiah O’Brien, based in San Fran-
cisco. The service honored all mariners
who have perished at sea.

Representatives from the SIU and other maritime unions, the Coast Guard, the Maritime Administration, American-flag vessel operators and the office of U.S. Rep. John Garamendi
turn out in Oakland, California.

Fr. Sinclair Oubre (at podium) speaks during the 32nd annual National Maritime Day observance in Port Arthur, Texas.
Safety Director Kevin Sykes reminds the Texas crowd that
SIU members have always answered the nation’s call.

Port Agent Nick Marrone II speaks
at the event in Oakland, California.

Pictured from left in photo
at left are Port Agent Georg
Kenny, retired Chief Stew-
ard Army Joe Leake and
SIU VP Government Ser-
vices Kermett Mangram.
Tugboats (photo above)
were part of the National
Maritime Day ceremony in
Virginia.

The Seafarers-crewed USNS Medgar Evers hosted a reception and
supported a nearby wreath-laying ceremony with tugboats conduct-
ing a water salute on the Elizabeth River.

Participants head to the Seamen’s Memorial Sundial in Port Arthur,
Texas.

SIU Observes Maritime Day Across U.S.

45318_Seafarers_LOG_X.indd 11 6/18/2018 6:22:30 AM



12 Seafarers LOG July 2018 July 2018 Seafarers LOG 13

While National Maritime Day was observed on May 22 with
ceremonies across the country, only one featured an inspired speech
from a current U.S. Cabinet Secretary.

At the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) headquarters
in Washington, D.C, Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao head-
lined the day’s ceremony with her keynote address, speaking to an
assembled crowd of over 200 maritime industry leaders. Chao was
in good company, with the ceremony’s other speeches given by (in
order) Rear Adm. Mark “Buzz” Buzby (Ret.), administrator of the
Maritime Administration (MARAD); Gen. Darren McDew, com-
mander of the U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM);
and Kevin McAleenan, commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border
Protection (CBP).

Representing the SIU at the event were Executive Vice President
Augie Tellez, Vice President Contracts George Tricker, Legislative
Director Brian Schoeneman, Piney Point Port Agent Pat Vandegrift
and 17 apprentices from the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for
Maritime Training and Education. Apprentice Carlos Gutierrez
served as the ceremony’s wreath tender, while fellow trainee Joshua
Bonita rang eight bells, the traditional “end of watch” signal.

Buzby opened the ceremony with words of thanks and a re-
minder of the importance of maritime: “We’re here today to take a

few minutes out of our very, very busy lives to recognize the many
dedicated seafaring men and women of the U.S. Merchant Marine,
who have fueled the economy of the United States and helped de-
fend her for more than 240 years. Longer, in fact, then we have had
armed forces.”

He continued, “We owe a collective great debt of gratitude to
our mariners. By delivering supplies and equipment to our military
forces overseas, and commercial cargoes here at home and to other
nations, they have helped establish the American way of life.... By
serving our nation in peace and war, and by providing humanitarian
assistance around the globe, they have carried on the unwritten dip-
lomatic mission of the United States: to keep our country strong, and
to make the world a better place.”

Chao began by thanking those in attendance, then made special
mention of the SIU leadership, saying, “I’m especially pleased to
have a great leader within the maritime industry, and that’s Mr.
Augie Tellez, the executive vice president of the Seafarers Interna-
tional Union. President Mike Sacco and Executive Vice President
Augie Tellez leads one of the strongest unions in the country, and
they are one of our country’s strongest advocates of the maritime
industry and for mariners, as well. So, Augie, we want to thank you
for everything that you do to protect our mariners.”

She continued, “The theme for this Maritime Day is, ‘Voices –
Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow’. And what an appropriate focus
during this time of change and opportunity. The maritime commu-
nity has always had a strong and constant voice, as steady as the roar
of the sea. Its values are timeless, the product of centuries of hard-
earned experience: Stand by your shipmates, do your duty, train
hard and stay the course. Those voices continue to guide us with the
wisdom that only experience can bring.

“As you know, Maritime Day commemorates the American
innovation that changed the seagoing world: the first successful
crossing of the Atlantic by a steam-powered ship, the Savannah,”
she noted. “It was revolutionary, and led to even more innovation
and change. Iron and then steel replaced wood, propellers replaced
sails, diesel replaced steam ... and now we have new LNG-powered
containerships that are now putting to sea as part of our innovative
U.S.-flag fleet.”

Chao outlined additional improvements made within the shipping
industry over the years, before saying, “However, one thing remains
constant: the absolutely critical role that the U.S.-flag Merchant Ma-
rine vessels play in our economic and national security. As our flag
says, ‘In Peace and War’.”

The secretary then spoke about the Maritime Security Program,
which she called “a vital part of that readiness. MARAD is currently
conducting a study called MSP 4.0, to determine what direction
the program needs to move in the future. I tell people the Maritime
Security Program is a great example of the public-private partner-
ships that are often talked about in this administration’s infrastruc-
ture proposal. In this case, the Navy needs to move civilian and
non-military goods around the world to vital locations. The military
sealift program links it with commercial operators, who have de-
veloped knowledge and networks of ports, pilots, stevedores, port
infrastructure.... For the Navy to try to replicate this experience and
these connections, it would cost so much more than the prices that
the Maritime Security Program delivers.

“The Transportation Institute estimates that the MSP has saved
the U.S. Navy $60 billion in transportation costs,” Chao continued.

“So, to our MSP carriers who are represented here today, thank
you for your patriotism and willingness to dedicate your ships and
mariners to the cause. And of course, we thank the mariners as well.
We thank you for performing this vital service so efficiently and ef-
fectively for the Navy, for our country and for the taxpayers, as well.
We also appreciate the hard work done by our operating companies,
and the mariners who efficiently and professionally maintain our
U.S. Government Surge Sealift ships in the Ready Reserve Force.”

After multiple awards were presented to World War II veteran
mariner William Tiernan, who sailed with both the NMU and the
SIU, McAleenan spoke on how the goals of CBP align with the
intentions of the U.S.-flag shipping industry. He said, “What I’ve
learned is that every person who’s taken the title of mariner has in
common a commitment to country and a willingness to serve in a
time of need. These are traits that I deeply respect, and I recognize
daily in the men and women of U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
So, while our functions may be distinct, our underlying purposes
and even our goals are directly complementary. In fact, I believe
the goals of the U.S. Merchant Marine and CBP actually align very
well: facilitation of trade and the protection of the country.

“So, when Admiral Buzby extended the invitation for me to
speak about CBP’s efforts to promote national security and eco-
nomic prosperity, in partnership with the U.S. maritime community,

I was very grateful for the opportunity, but also struck by the fact
that you also recognize the commonality between our communities
and the value of our relationship,” he added.

He then spoke of his relationship with Buzby, saying, “I got to
know Buzz during our shared responses to the trio of hurricanes we
faced – Harvey, Irma and Maria – last fall. I immediately recognized
his professional competence but was also struck by the integrity with
which he represented MARAD and, by extension, the U.S. maritime
community. Fact-based operational reality is what you need in a
crisis, and it was a privilege to partner with him. During a storm and
its aftermath, there can be a tendency to respond to media narratives
and political drivers. But Buzz and his team helped to inform us re-
garding the ready professionals of the U.S. Merchant Marine and the
U.S. fleet, and how we can respond to those storms.”

He continued, describing CBP’s efforts during and after the dev-
astating hurricanes in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, and
then spoke on the response from the merchant fleet: “I can tell you,
it was an enormous relief ... when we could rely on our partners in
the U.S. fleet to begin the heavy relief effort, to get those adequate
supplies to the islands. I imagine General McDew can attest, it’s a
relief when you can get from the aircraft part of logistics to the big

Sec. Chao Says SIU is ‘One of the Strongest Unions in the Country’
DOT Honors Seafarers with Maritime Day Ceremony

On National Maritime Day, we recognize the critical role the United States Merchant
Marine plays in bolstering national security and facilitating economic growth. We honor our
merchant mariners for their contributions to connecting the States, supporting our military,
and cementing ties among our allies.


Long known as the “Fourth Arm of Defense,” the United States Merchant Marine has

served with valor and distinction in every American conflict. The important work of the Mer-
chant Marine was never more evident than during World War II, when merchant mariners
sailed dangerous seas and fought enemies as they connected our Armed Forces fighting abroad
to vital supplies produced by hardworking Americans at home. In the course of their valiant
efforts, they endured the loss of more than 730 large vessels, and more than 6,000 merchant
mariners died at sea or as prisoners of war.


Today, American mariners facilitate the shipment of hundreds of billions of dollars of

goods along maritime trade routes for American businesses and consumers. Merchant mari-
ners are ambassadors of good will, projecting a peaceful United States presence along the sea
lanes of the world and into regions of core strategic importance to our Nation. Often risking
their lives by sailing into war zones, our merchant mariners continue to support our troops
overseas by providing them with needed cargo and logistical support. They also advance
humanitarian missions worldwide, including last year’s effort to ship tens of thousands of
containers of lifesaving supplies to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands after they had
been devastated by hurricanes.


The Congress, by a joint resolution approved May 20, 1933, has designated May 22 of

each year as “National Maritime Day” to commemorate the first transoceanic voyage by a
steamship in 1819 by the S.S. Savannah. By this resolution, the Congress has authorized and
requested the President to issue annually a proclamation calling for its appropriate observance.


NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America,

do hereby proclaim May 22, 2018, as National Maritime Day. I call upon the people of the
United States to mark this observance and to display the flag of the United States at their
homes and in their communities. I also request that all ships sailing under the American flag
dress ship on that day.


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-first day of May, in

the year of our Lord two thousand eighteen, and of the Independence of the United States of
America the two hundred and forty-second.

President Trump
Issues Proclamation

For National Maritime Day

The Honorable Elaine Chao
U.S. Transportation Secretary

Rear Adm. Mark Buzby (USN, Ret)
U.S. Maritime Administrator

Gen. Darren McDew
Commander, USTRANSCOM

Kevin McAleenan, Commissioner
U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Among those present in the crowd was SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez (first row, center)

Continued on page 14

Members of the HOV-4 Quartet performed the National Anthem as part of the Mari-
time Day Ceremony’s opening festivities.

Wreath Tender duties were handled by Paul Hall Center Apprentice Carlos Gutierrez

Paul Hall Center Apprentice Joshua Bonita sounds the traditional
eight bells during the ceremony.



surface transportation. We tremendously
appreciate the impact that your commu-
nity had on those efforts. Companies like
Crowley, TOTE, Foss Maritime – just to
name a few – were instrumental in getting
those critical supplies to the American
people. And more specifically, there were
many anecdotes of merchant mariners
assisting CBP personnel situated in the
way of that storm along the Texas and
Louisiana coast, in Florida, and especially
in Puerto Rico. On behalf of my agents, I
thank you for all that you did.”

Later he referenced how CBP is work-
ing to help make mariners’ lives easier
through their national Jones Act Division
of Enforcement, or JADE, saying, “Nearly
two years ago, CBP’s Office of Field
Operations created JADE to assist CBP
and industry partners and protect the U.S.
maritime industry. Located in our New Or-
leans field office and led by Port Director
Mike Hebert – who’s been part of the Gulf
Coast maritime community since his birth
– and staffed by subject matter experts,
JADE works with industry stakeholders
on the enforcement of the Jones Act, as
well as other coastwise trade laws. JADE
provides uniformity throughout CBP on
matters related to the Jones Act, providing
advice to our external partners in order to
facilitate legitimate trade.”

After a video on the hurricane response
in 2017 was screened for the audience,
General McDew took to the stage. He
began by talking about military sealift’s
role in our nation’s ability to project
power, saying, “There are, some would
argue, only three great powers in the
world. There’s only one superpower in
the world. And it’s not because we have
the greatest soldiers, sailors, airmen,
marines and coast guardsmen – although
we do. It’s not because we have the best
fighter jets, and we arguably do, and it’s
not because we have the most wonder-
ful carriers in the world, and we do. It’s
because we have the ability to have an
effect on our adversaries near and abroad

at the time of our choosing. We can bring
an overwhelming force anywhere on the
planet, and there are adversaries out there
who only wish they had that capability.
That capability resides with the men and
women in this audience and the people
you represent that are around the world.
And as a combatant commander, I recog-
nize our superpower status as a nation, our
ability to have the respect of everyone in
the world, resides with you.

“I appreciate every single day the ships
that sail for USTRANSCOM,” he con-

tinued. “They transit dangerous waters,
they deliver critical cargo.... Our adversar-
ies really don’t want them there, but our
mariners go there anyway. Our warfighters
don’t have to worry about having enough
ammo for the fight, or fuel for their patrol,
or food in chow halls – that’s a big deal,
by the way – and it’s because of you.”

McDew then urged that the U.S. “rein-
vest in our strategic sealift fleet, and our
ability to surge and sustain our warfight.”
Specifically, he underscored the impor-
tance of recapitalizing the sealift fleet,

replacing older vessels with newer, more
modern ships.

“I am every day grateful and thankful
for the shipyards, the shipping companies,
the unions, the longshoremen, the ste-
vedores, the engineers, the mariners, the
pilots, the shipbuilder, all the people who
make this unheralded, untold story happen
every single day,” he concluded.

The ceremony concluded with a sing-
along of “Heave Ho,” official song of the
U.S. Maritime Service, enthusiastically led
by Admiral Buzby.

SIU VP Contracts George Tricker (right) and Piney Point Port Agent Pat Vandegrift (second from right) talk to apprentices from the union-
affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland who attended the Maritime Day observance.

Continued from Page 13

200-Plus Industry Leaders Attend Maritime Day Ceremony in D.C.

14 Seafarers LOG July 2018

Attendees pack the ceremony at U.S. Department of Transportation headquarters.

45318_Seafarers_LOG.indd 14 6/15/2018 11:05:47 AM



July 2018 Seafarers LOG 15

May 11, 2018 - June 11, 2018

Total Registered Total Shipped Registered on Beach
All Groups All Groups Trip All Groups

Port A B C A B C Reliefs A B C

Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea

Deck Department
Algonac 28 10 1 8 7 0 1 27 7 4
Anchorage 2 2 2 2 2 0 1 4 3 2
Baltimore 7 2 1 1 4 0 3 10 3 1
Fort Lauderdale 16 9 2 16 8 3 9 24 18 6
Guam 2 3 0 1 0 0 0 5 4 0
Harvey 12 2 2 7 1 6 4 19 3 4
Honolulu 8 1 2 8 3 1 6 19 7 2
Houston 60 15 16 38 7 10 26 101 21 27
Jacksonville 32 10 14 27 13 8 19 50 19 19
Jersey City 36 8 4 23 9 4 17 73 17 7
Joliet 3 3 1 0 4 0 1 3 5 1
Mobile 10 6 5 9 2 2 4 13 8 10
Norfolk 23 11 5 24 15 6 12 27 21 12
Oakland 11 4 5 21 4 2 8 25 9 10
Philadelphia 7 5 1 4 2 0 1 7 5 2
Piney Point 3 3 0 1 1 1 2 3 2 0
Puerto Rico 11 5 1 3 2 0 3 16 7 1
Tacoma 27 4 6 16 6 2 17 66 12 13
St. Louis 1 1 3 0 0 1 0 5 2 1
Wilmington 32 8 5 21 6 6 9 51 15 13
TOTALS 331 112 76 230 96 52 143 548 188 135

Engine Department
Algonac 4 4 3 1 4 3 2 5 6 0
Anchorage 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0
Baltimore 8 8 1 4 4 0 1 4 5 2
Fort Lauderdale 9 13 3 5 10 1 8 13 11 3
Guam 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 1 1
Harvey 3 2 1 2 3 0 1 4 3 1
Honolulu 8 2 0 3 2 0 2 13 5 1
Houston 22 7 6 8 8 4 7 32 12 9
Jacksonville 26 24 2 20 16 2 16 38 25 4
Jersey City 13 7 0 3 9 0 3 29 7 0
Joliet 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 2 0 0
Mobile 6 2 1 5 3 1 4 6 4 2
Norfolk 9 12 2 12 9 3 3 17 14 6
Oakland 7 2 2 10 2 1 2 11 6 5
Philadelphia 1 4 0 4 1 0 1 5 3 0
Piney Point 2 1 0 1 4 0 0 1 1 0
Puerto Rico 5 4 1 4 4 1 3 9 3 3
Tacoma 14 3 4 8 3 2 5 29 8 6
St. Louis 1 2 0 1 0 0 0 1 2 0
Wilmington 5 7 3 9 6 2 2 18 17 15
TOTALS 146 105 29 101 90 20 60 240 133 58

Steward Department
Algonac 5 4 0 1 0 0 0 7 5 0
Anchorage 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Baltimore 3 2 0 1 0 0 0 5 3 0
Fort Lauderdale 8 5 2 8 1 0 4 13 6 4
Guam 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0
Harvey 4 1 0 4 1 0 1 8 1 0
Honolulu 9 0 0 6 0 1 5 15 1 1
Houston 16 3 1 13 4 0 5 35 5 4
Jacksonville 24 9 2 17 5 1 8 31 11 2
Jersey City 11 3 1 7 3 0 4 18 2 1
Joliet 1 1 1 1 0 1 0 2 1 0
Mobile 6 3 0 4 1 0 2 8 5 0
Norfolk 14 10 0 13 8 0 4 19 11 0
Oakland 20 3 0 8 5 1 6 29 3 2
Philadelphia 2 0 2 3 0 2 1 2 0 0
Piney Point 6 6 0 5 3 0 3 7 4 0
Puerto Rico 3 5 0 0 3 0 1 5 10 1
Tacoma 17 2 0 12 1 0 5 24 6 1
St. Louis 2 0 0 1 0 1 0 4 0 1
Wilmington 16 4 1 12 8 0 10 31 12 2
TOTALS 168 62 10 117 43 7 59 264 87 19

Entry Department
Algonac 2 6 6 1 3 4 4 3 11 11
Anchorage 0 1 2 1 2 0 2 0 3 4
Baltimore 0 1 3 0 1 2 0 0 2 2
Fort Lauderdale 0 4 8 0 6 4 3 1 4 10
Guam 0 2 2 0 1 0 0 0 1 2
Harvey 0 4 2 0 1 1 1 1 4 5
Honolulu 0 8 9 1 3 3 0 2 13 8
Houston 5 6 19 4 6 10 2 11 13 35
Jacksonville 1 19 39 0 11 26 7 4 30 78
Jersey City 3 12 11 0 9 11 2 3 25 25
Joliet 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 1
Mobile 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 2 1 4
Norfolk 2 14 18 1 10 23 4 3 23 46
Oakland 0 6 11 2 4 8 0 2 15 18
Philadelphia 2 0 2 0 1 1 0 2 1 2
Piney Point 2 0 4 1 0 1 2 1 1 2
Puerto Rico 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1
Tacoma 5 9 8 2 3 6 3 10 21 17
St. Louis 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0
Wilmington 2 18 14 2 6 9 8 3 29 51
TOTALS 24 115 160 15 69 111 38 48 199 322

GRAND TOTAL: 669 394 275 463 298 190 300 1,100 607 534


Piney Point.........................................Monday: July 2, August 6
Algonac...............................................Friday: July 6, August 10
Baltimore..........................................Thursday: July 5, August 9
Guam............................................Thursday: July 19, August 23

Honolulu...........................................Friday: July 13, August 17

Houston...............................................Monday: July 9, August 13

Jacksonville......................................Thursday: July 5, August 9

Joliet..............................................Thursday: July 12, August 16

Mobile........................................Wednesday: July 11, August 15

New Orleans......................................Tuesday: July10, August 14

Jersey City.........................................Tuesday: July 3, August 7

Norfolk.............................................Thursday: July 5, August 9

Oakland........................................Thursday: July 12, August 16

Philadelphia...............*Thursday: July 5, Wednesday: August 8

Port Everglades............................Thursday: July 12, August 16

San Juan..........................................Thursday: July 5, August 9

St. Louis............................................Friday: July 13, August 17

Tacoma........................................... .Friday: July 20, August 24

Wilmington.........................................Monday: July 16, August 20

* Philadelphia change due to Independence Day holiday
Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m

July & August 2018
Membership Meetings

Editor’s note: The U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime
Center (NMC) issued the following announcement June 1. PDF
versions of the forms described in the announcement may be
found on the NMC website and they’re also linked in a June 1
post in the News section of www.seafarers.org

On March 31, 2018, the Office of Management and Budget
(OMB) approved the new CG-719 series of forms which will
replace all previous versions.

These new forms may be obtained electronically in a PDF
fillable format at the Coast Guard’s National Maritime Cen-
ter (NMC) website https://www.uscg.mil/nmc. The Coast
Guard will not stock the CG-719 series of forms in paper
format.

A transition period has been established which will provide
mariners the flexibility to apply for a credential using both the
old or new forms as they adapt to the new formats. The table
below lists the form numbers impacted by OMB’s recent ap-
proval and their implementation policy are listed velow. After
December 31, 2018, the NMC will no longer accept previous
form versions.


Form - Implementation Policy
CG-719B - Applications dated after September 1, 2018, must
be submitted on the new form.

CG-719K - Physicals signed by physician after September 1,
2018, must be on the new form.

CG-719KE - Physicals signed by physician after September
1, 2018, must be on the new form.

CG-719P - Drug tests collected and submitted after Septem-
ber 1, 2018, should use the new optional form.

CG-719S - Sea Service commenced after September 1, 2018,
should use the new optional form

CG-719C - (If applicable) Disclosure Statement for Narcot-
ics, DWI/DUI, and/or other Convictions should use the new
optional form for any application packages submitted after
September 1, 2018.

If you have any questions or concerns, visit the NMC web-
site or contact the NMC Customer Service Center by e-mailing
IASKNMC@uscg.mil, by using the NMC online chat system,
or by calling 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662).

NATIONAL MARITIME CENTER

New CG-719 Series of Forms
Implementation

Notice

45318_Seafarers_LOG.indd 15 6/15/2018 11:05:47 AM



16 Seafarers LOG July 2018

Michael Sacco, President
Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President

David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer
George Tricker, Vice President Contracts

Tom Orzechowski,
Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters
Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast

Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast
Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast

Kermett Mangram,
Vice President Government Services

HEADQUARTERS
5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746

(301) 899-0675

ALGONAC
520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001

(810) 794-4988

ANCHORAGE
721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503

(907) 561-4988

BALTIMORE
2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224

(410) 327-4900

GUAM
P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932
Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B

422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910
(671) 477-1350

HONOLULU
606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819

(808) 845-5222

HOUSTON
625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003

(713) 659-5152

JACKSONVILLE
5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256

(904) 281-2622

JERSEY CITY
104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306

(201) 434-6000

JOLIET
10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432

(815) 723-8002

MOBILE
1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605

(251) 478-0916

NEW ORLEANS
3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058

(504) 328-7545

NORFOLK
115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510

(757) 622-1892

OAKLAND
1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607

(510) 444-2360

PHILADELPHIA
2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148

(215) 336-3818

PINEY POINT
P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674

(301) 994-0010

PORT EVERGLADES
1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316

(954) 522-7984

SANTURCE
1057 Fernandez Juncos Stop 16 1/2

Santurce, PR 00907-4601
(787) 721-4033

ST. LOUIS/ALTON
4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116

(314) 752-6500

TACOMA
3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409

(253) 272-7774

WILMINGTON
510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744

(310) 549-4000

Seafarers International
Union Directory Inquiring Seafarer

If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the
Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may
be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org

This month’s question was answered by the newest class of recertified stewards from the SIU-affiliated Paul
Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education.

Cesar Dela Cruz
Recertified Steward

I was blessed to join in 1980. My
first job was with American Hawaii
Cruises, taking care of all those VIPs.
Today, the best part is just being a
good SIU crew member and helping
set a good example for the young kids
who are just starting in the program.
I’m thankful for the foundation I got
from the SIU.

Tyrell Thabit
Recertified Steward

I started in the Navy in 1981, look-
ing for adventure at 19 years old. I
spent 10.5 years there and then heard
about an even better career in the
merchant marine. I eventually came
to Piney Point to upgrade, and took
all the courses. I’ve been on over 50
ships. It’s been wonderful, and I’m
still here because I haven’t gotten
enough. I’ve been in the business 36
years and I’m proud of that.

Robinson Eromosele
Recertified Steward

I joined the SIU in search of a
greener pasture and I am glad I made
that decision, because I have been ex-
tremely blessed since then. This great
union has allowed me to travel the
world over while making a meaningful
living as well. I have been so blessed
that I am able to see all five of my
children through the university. God
bless the SIU.

Breon Lucas
Recertified Steward

I was working as a security guard
when a new company bought out the
station, and then I was going from
job to job to job. A cousin turned me
on to the merchant marine. My first
job was May 8, 1995 as an OS on the
Anders, but I didn’t like the deck. The
bosun pointed me to the galley and I
never looked back. I’ve made a better
life for myself. I enjoy cooking and I
enjoy working with different people.

Question: Why did you join the SIU and why have you remained with the union?

Michael Ingram
Recertified Steward

I started with NCL as a member of
SEATU (an SIU-affiliated union) and
a waiter before joining the SIU. I’ve
stuck with it because I enjoy cooking
and working with different people,
being exposed to different cultures. I
enjoy sailing.

Stephen Martin
Recertified Steward

I grew up in the restaurant business. I
saw an ad for American Hawaii Cruises
in 1999 and went there as a waiter, on
the Indy and the Patriot. Later, I was in
Hawaii for a month and the patrolman
said, why don’t you go to Piney Point
and upgrade? That’s what I did. I was
there for months, then got my first gig
as a chief cook. I’m still here because
the money is good, and it’s hard to leave
that. I like the travel part, too.

Pics From The Past

The originals are a bit blurry, but these snapshots from the scrapbook of long-
time Seafarer Greg Jackson still carry clear and cherished memories for the
recertified bosun. The vessel, the SS Jeff Davis, is shown in Bremerhaven,
Germany, in 1981. Jackson is at far left in the other photo, with fellow members
of Paul Hall Center Trainee Class 294-B in 1980. They had taken a bus for
firefighting training – not near the Piney Point, Maryland, campus, but rather in
Earle, New Jersey. (For younger readers, the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and
Safety School opened in 1999.)

45318_Seafarers_LOG.indd 16 6/15/2018 11:05:48 AM



July 2018 Seafarers LOG 17

DEEP SEA

THOMAS ANDERS
Brother Thomas Anders, 66,
joined the union in 1969, ini-

tially sailing on
the Fairport. A
steward depart-
ment member,
he upgraded at
the Piney Point
school in 1973.
Brother Anders
last sailed on the

Champion and makes his home
in Baltimore.

PETER BEAN
Brother Peter Bean, 67, donned
the SIU colors in 1970, first sail-
ing aboard a Seat-
rain Lines vessel.
He sailed in the
deck department
and upgraded on
several occasions
at the maritime
training center
in Piney Point,
Maryland. Brother
Bean last sailed on the Overseas
Martinez. He lives in the Philip-
pines.

WILLIAM BRAINARD
Brother William Brainard, 69,
joined the SIU in 1995. He first
sailed on the Long Island and
was a member of the steward
department. Brother Brainard
upgraded his skills at the Piney
Point school in 2001. He most
recently worked on the Flicker-
tail State and calls Portsmouth,
Virginia, home.

EBERTO CASTRO
Brother Eberto Castro, 66, signed
on with the SIU in 1999 and first
sailed on the Performance. He
worked in the deck department
and in 2001 upgraded his skills
at the union-affiliated Paul Hall
Center. Brother Castro last sailed
on the Maersk Pittsburgh before
settling in Channelview, Texas.

ROBERT GILLIAM
Brother Robert Gilliam, 73,
donned the SIU colors in 1969,

initially sailing
aboard the Eagle
Traveler. A mem-
ber of the steward
department, he
upgraded often at
the Piney Point
school. Brother
Gilliam last sailed

on the Endurance. He lives in
Prescott, Washington.

JOHN JONES
Brother John Jones, 66, became
a member of the
SIU in 2006, ini-
tially sailing on
the Oakland. He
was a deck de-
partment member
and most recently
sailed aboard the

USNS Dahl. Brother Jones re-
sides in Tucson, Arizona.

THOMAS TANKERSLEY
Brother Thomas Tankersley, 69,
signed on with the SIU in 1968

and first sailed
aboard the Alcoa
Mariner. The
deck department
member upgraded
at the union-af-
filiated Paul Hall
Center in 1985.
Brother Tankers-
ley most recently

sailed aboard the Bonny. He calls
Burkittsville, Maryland, home.

VLADIMIR TKACHEV
Brother Vladimir Tkachev, 65,
signed on with the SIU in 2004,
initially working
aboard the Cape
Decision. The
engine department
member took
advantage of edu-
cational opportu-
nities at the Piney
Point school and
upgraded in 2008.
Brother Tkachev most recently
sailed aboard the Decisive and
lives in Vancouver, Washington.

DAVID VAUGHN
Brother David Vaughn, 59,
donned the SIU colors in 1977
and first sailed with Erie Naviga-

tion. He was a
steward depart-
ment member
and upgraded
his skills at the
Paul Hall Center
on multiple oc-
casions. Brother
Vaughn most re-

cently sailed aboard the Alaskan
Explorer. He resides in Arnold,
Missouri.

BRUCE WATSON
Brother Bruce Watson, 66,
joined the SIU in 2001. He first
worked for Ma-
rine Personnel
and Provision-
ing, and was a
member of the
deck department.
Brother Watson
upgraded his
skills in 2002 at
the maritime training facility
located in Piney Point, Mary-
land. He most recently sailed
on the USNS Fisher and calls
Youngstown, Ohio, home.

GREAT LAKES

WILLIS EVANS
Brother Willis Evans, 65, became
a member of the union in 1970,
initially working for Michigan
Tankers. He was an engine de-
partment member and upgraded
his skills at the Paul Hall Center

in 1979. Brother Evans last sailed
aboard the Charles E. Wilson,
and settled in Alpena, Michigan.

INLAND

LOUIS CINCO
Brother Louis Cinco, 62, joined
the SIU in 1972 and first sailed
on the Overseas Aleutian. A
member of the deck department,
he upgraded his skills in 1978 at
the union-affiliated Piney Point
school. Brother Cinco most
recently worked for Mariner
Towing and makes his home in
Bayonne, New Jersey.

MARK FAUST
Brother Mark Faust, 68, signed
on with the union
in 2003. He
began his career
with Express
Marine and was
a member of the
deck department.
Brother Faust
upgraded his
skills on several
occasions at the maritime train-
ing center located in Piney Point,
Maryland. He remained with

the same company for his entire
career, and resides in Virginia
Beach, Virginia.

BENJIMAN HALLMARK
Brother Benjiman Hallmark, 70,
became a Seafarer in 1978. A
member of the deck department,
he worked for Crowley Towing
and Transportation for his entire
career. Brother Hallmark calls
Silver Creek, Washington, home.

LESLIE MAXWELL
Brother Leslie Maxwell, 66,
signed on with the union in 1979
when he worked for Hvide Ma-
rine. He was a member of the
deck department and upgraded
his skills on multiple occasions at
the Piney Point school. Brother
Maxwell remained with the same
company for his entire career. He
resides in Nederland, Texas.

KELLY STANFORD
Brother Kelly Stanford, 64,
joined the SIU in 1990, first sail-
ing with Crescent Towing. A
member of the deck department,
he upgraded on multiple occa-
sions at the Paul Hall Center.

Brother Stanford
worked for the
same company
for the duration
of his career. He
makes his home
in Savannah,
Georgia.

DAVID WALKER
Brother David Walker, 66,
signed on with the union in 1978
when he worked for Crescent
Towing. He was a member of
the engine department and re-
mained with the same company
for his entire career. Brother
Walker settled in Abita Springs,
Louisiana.

PACIFIC MARINE

ROGER MARTELL
Brother Roger Martell, 65, be-
came a member of the SIU in
2001. He initially sailed on the
Cape Island and worked in the
steward department. Brother
Martell upgraded his skills in
2001 at the Piney Point school.
He last sailed on the Manukai
and resides in Long Beach, Cali-
fornia.

Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted
their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland water-
ways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members
who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those
members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days
ahead.

Welcome Ashore

Talking Maritime with Senator Nelson

SIU Assistant VPs Archie Ware (center) and Kris Hopkins (right) chat with U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson (D-
Florida) June 9 in Orlando, site of the state AFL-CIO Committee on Political Education convention. They
touched on the importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine to national, economic and homeland security.

45318_Seafarers_LOG_X.indd 17 6/18/2018 6:22:31 AM



18 Seafarers LOG July 2018

Final
Departures

DEEP SEA

JIMMIE COOMBS
Pensioner Jimmie Coombs,
79, passed away May 13. He
joined the union in 1967 and

first sailed on
the Neva West.
Brother Coombs
was a member
of the engine
department and
last worked
aboard the

Overseas Juneau. He retired
in 2002 and made his home in
the Philippines.

ROBERT EGRI
Pensioner Robert Egri, 70,
died May 9. He joined the SIU
in 1992 and first
sailed aboard the
Regulus. An en-
gine department
member, he last
worked aboard
the Philadelphia
Express. Brother
Egri retired in
2013 and lived in Pinellas
Park, Florida.

ROBERT HAMILTON
Pensioner Robert Hamilton,
81, passed away May 10. He
became a union member in
1990, initially sailing on the
Ranger. Brother Hamilton was
a deck department member
and last sailed aboard the Paul
Buck. He became a pensioner
in 2003 and resided in Brooks-
ville, Maine.

HELENE ISHIZAKI
Pensioner Helene Ishizaki, 82,
died April 19. She signed on

with the SIU in
1992, initially
sailing on the
Independence.
A member of
the steward
department,
Sister Ishizaki
last sailed on

the Manukai. She became a
pensioner in 2005 and was
a resident of Lemon Grove,
California.

WILLIAM MACDONALD
Pensioner Wil-
liam MacDonald,
93, passed away
May 5. He joined
the SIU in 1947
when he worked
for Elis Towing
and Transport. A
deck department
member, brother MacDonald
most recently sailed aboard the
Sea-Land Liberator. He went
on pension in 1985 and settled

in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan.

WINSTON MARCHMAN
Pensioner Winston Marchman,
82, died May 5. He signed on

with the union
in 1991, initially
working on the
USNS Harkness.
A steward depart-
ment member,
Brother March-
man last sailed
on the Pride. He

retired in 2005 and lived in Vir-
ginia Beach, Virginia.

HENRY RICHARDSON
Pensioner Henry Richardson,
71, passed away May 15. He
joined the SIU in 1999 and first
sailed aboard the ITB Phila-
delphia. The deck department
member most recently sailed
on the Maersk Michigan be-
fore retiring in 2013. Brother
Richardson was a resident of
Houston.

WILFREDO WILLIAMS
Pensioner Wilfredo Williams,
76, died April 30. He donned
the SIU colors in
2001, first sailing
aboard the Green
Mountain State.
Native to the
Philippines, he
was a member of
the deck depart-
ment. Brother
Williams most recently sailed
on the Yorktown Express before
retiring in 2013. He resided in
Aloha, Oregon.

GREAT LAKES

CHARLES BEARMAN
Pensioner Charles Bearman,

65, died May 31. He signed on
with the SIU in 1989 when he
worked for Bob-Lo Island. A
member of the deck department,
he most recently sailed on the
Burns Harbor. Brother Bearman
became a pensioner in 2017 and
made his home in Rogers City,
Michigan.

JOHN SHASKI
Pensioner John Shaski, 72,
passed away May 14. He be-
came a member of the SIU in

1967 and ini-
tially sailed on
the Lemmerhirt.
Brother Shaski
went on pension
in 2003 after
concluding his
career with Lu-
edtke Engineer-

ing. He resided in Sault Ste.
Marie, Michigan.

INLAND

SYLVESTER DELISTOVICH
Pensioner Sylvester Delistov-
ich, 99, passed away May 29.
He joined the
union in 1963,
initially working
for Erie Lacka-
wanna Railroad.
Brother Delis-
tovich remained
with the same
company for his
entire career before going on
pension in 1979. He called
Columbus, New Jersey,
home.

PETER DUNTHORN
Brother Peter Dunthorn, 62,
died May 1. He signed on
with the SIU in 2000, when

he worked for the Associa-
tion of Maryland Pilots. A
deck department member,
brother Dunthorn remained
with the same company for
his entire SIU career. He
lived in Virginia Beach, Vir-
ginia.

JAMES MUSICK
Pensioner James Musick,
76, died May 16. He joined
the union in 1996 and first
worked for Crowley. A
shore-side mechanic, he
worked for the same com-
pany for the duration of
his career. Brother Musick
retired in 2007 and lived in
Wenonah, New Jersey.

WILLIAM PHILLIPS
Pensioner
William Phil-
lips, 72, died
April 1. He
signed on with
the union in
1973 and first
worked for
Stone Tow-

ing. The deck department
member concluded his career
with Cape Fear Towing and
retired in 2008. Brother Phil-
lips made his home in Bo-
livia, North Carolina.

FRANKLIN REYES
Brother Franklin Reyes, 51,
passed away April 26. He
donned the SIU colors in
1997 when he worked for
G&H Towing. Brother Reyes
worked in the deck depart-
ment and remained with the
same company for the dura-
tion of his career. The Iowa
native resided in Hitchcock,
Texas.

PACIFIC MARINE

DOROTHY REGRUT
Pensioner Dorothy Regrut, 92,
passed away May 11. Born in
Cleveland, she became a mem-
ber of the SIU in 1970. She
initially worked for Michigan
Tankers and sailed in the stew-
ard department. Sister Regrut
last worked aboard the Kauai
before becoming a pensioner
in 1991. She made her home in
Strongsville, Ohio.

NMU

RONALD BLOW
Pensioner Ronald Blow, 78,
died May 28. Brother Blow
began collecting his pension in
2000. He lived in Old Orchard
Beach, Maine.

JAMES BRATTEN
Pensioner James Bratten, 93,
passed away April 30. Brother
Bratten resided in his home
state of South Carolina, in the
city of Irmo.

In addition to the foregoing
individuals, the following union
members have also passed away.
Insufficient information was
available to develop summaries
of their respective careers.

Name Age DOD
Cebollero, Frank 89 05/14/2018
Davis, Arthur 94 03/13/2018
Flowers, Rudy 80 05/07/2018
Forde, Calvin 90 05/12/2018
Leisure, Ora 93 05/23/2018
Lopez, Juan 89 05/14/2018
Maloney, Clyde 92 05/18/2018
Mawry, Saleh 91 05/25/2018
McLetchie, Leroy 82 05/26/2018
Montemayor, Misael 89 05/21/2018
Richardson, John 93 04/16/2018
Thomas, Eugene 76 05/17/2018

Two Seafarers-crewed vessels
– the USNS Carl Brashear (left)
and USNS Bob Hope – conduct
ship-to-ship transfer operations at
Naval Base Everett, Washington,
in mid-May. The transfer hap-
pened in support of an upcom-
ing Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC)
military exercise. According to
the U.S. Navy, 26 nations and
25,000 personnel were sched-
uled to participate in the biennial
exercise slated for June 27 to
Aug. 2, in and around the Hawai-
ian Islands and Southern Califor-
nia. The Brashear is crewed by
members of the SIU Government
Services Division, while the Bob
Hope is operated by U.S. Marine
Management for the U.S. Mili-
tary Sealift Command. (Photo by
Sarah Burford)

Seafarers Team Up in Support of Military Exercise

45318_Seafarers_LOG.indd 18 6/15/2018 11:05:50 AM



July 2018 Seafarers LOG 19

Digest of Shipboard
Union Meetings

The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as
possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted.

Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues
requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’
minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication.

MAERSK MICHIGAN (U.S.
Marine Management), April 14 –
Chairman Kenneth Abrahamson,
Secretary Teresito Reyes, Edu-
cational Director Walden Galac-
gac, Deck Delegate Osei Baffoe,
Engine Delegate Theodore Gon-
zales. Crew mess hall received
new microwave and new chairs.
Members requested additional
chairs for crew lounge. Copies
of new contracts needed on ship.
Members were thanked for good
housekeeping and advised to stay
on top of documents. Educational
director suggested members check
schedule of classes and upgrade.
No beefs or disputed OT reported.
Members requested better internet
on board and new washer and dry-
ers, preferably heavy duty. Crew
happy with food from steward
department.

ALASKAN NAVIGATOR (Alas-
kan Tanker Company), April 15
– Chairman Gregory Hamilton,
Secretary Albert Sison, Educa-
tional Director Leland Peterson,
Deck Delegate Manuel Enrico,
Engine Delegate Aljohn Fer-
nandez, Steward Delegate Steve
Concepcion. Chairman to con-
tact port agent for copies of new
contracts and crew repair list
forms. Members discussed clean-
ing and repair possibilities for
existing recliners, while await-
ing clarification for ordering
new ones. Educational director
encouraged members to upgrade
and also be mindful of STCW
requirements. No beefs or dis-
puted OT reported. Crew noted
issues on board with lounge
computer, heat lamp in bathroom
and latches in drawers. Steward
department was thanked for a
job well done, especially in light
of extra people on board. New
fishing gear on ship. Company

to provide jackets to those who
qualify. Members looking into
getting humidifiers for rooms.
Next Port: Valdez, Alaska.

GOLDEN STATE (Intrepid
Personnel and Provisioning),
April 16 – Chairman Philip Mc-
Geoghegan, Secretary Michael
Carello. Crew received new
microwave, new mattresses and
new dryer. Linens and pillows
ordered. Chairman reiterated
importance of Jones Act and
urged members to stick together.
Secretary reminded everyone
about Crowley’s alcohol policy.
Educational director advised crew
to keep documents up to date. No
beefs or disputed OT reported.
Chairman asked each member
present if new mattresses and/or
cable boxes were needed. Crew
requested additional vacation day.

OREGON (Intrepid Person-
nel and Provisioning), April
22 – Chairman Joseph Caruso,
Secretary Tina Knox. Chairman
welcomed all former Sea River
employees to the SIU. He noted
a smooth transition between the
two companies and expressed
gratitude for steward department.
No beefs or disputed OT reported.
Chairman individually discussed
SIU contracts and information
with new members. Vote of
thanks given to SIU Assistant
Vice President Kris Hopkins for
assisting with transition. Next
Port: Port Everglades, Florida.

CALIFORNIA (Intrepid Person-
nel and Provisioning), April 27
– Chairman John Cedeno, Secre-
tary Benjamin Ines, Educational
Director Mark Canada, Stew-
ard Delegate Michael Gramer.
Chairman welcomed all former

Sea River mariners to the SIU
and discussed dues structure and
overall SIU culture. Secretary ex-
plained importance of registering
once ashore and keeping up with
documents. Educational director

reminded crew of courses being
offered at SIU-affiliated Paul Hall
Center for Maritime Training and
Education, located in Piney Point,
Maryland. Captain purchased
pizza and wings for crew and

allowed steward department an
evening off. No beefs or disputed
OT reported. Captain looking
into purchasing game system for
members on board. Next Port:
Oakland, California.

FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitu-
tion of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and In-
land Waters District makes specific provision
for safeguarding the membership’s money
and union finances. The constitution requires
a detailed audit by certified public accoun-
tants every year, which is to be submitted to
the membership by the secretary-treasurer.
A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file
members, elected by the membership, each
year examines the finances of the union and
reports fully their findings and recommenda-
tions. Members of this committee may make
dissenting reports, specific recommendations
and separate findings.

TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the
SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters
District are administered in accordance with
the provisions of various trust fund agree-
ments. All these agreements specify that the
trustees in charge of these funds shall equally
consist of union and management representa-
tives and their alternates. All expenditures and
disbursements of trust funds are made only
upon approval by a majority of the trustees.
All trust fund financial records are available
at the headquarters of the various trust funds.

SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s ship-
ping rights and seniority are protected exclu-
sively by contracts between the union and
the employers. Members should get to know
their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts
are posted and available in all union halls. If
members believe there have been violations of
their shipping or seniority rights as contained
in the contracts between the union and the em-
ployers, they should notify the Seafarers Ap-
peals Board by certified mail, return receipt

requested. The proper address for this is:

Augustin Tellez, Chairman
Seafarers Appeals Board

5201 Auth Way
Camp Springs, MD 20746

Full copies of contracts as referred to are
available to members at all times, either by
writing directly to the union or to the Seafar-
ers Appeals Board.

CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts
are available in all SIU halls. These contracts
specify the wages and conditions under which
an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship
or boat. Members should know their contract
rights, as well as their obligations, such as fil-
ing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and
in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member
believes that an SIU patrolman or other union
official fails to protect their contractual rights
properly, he or she should contact the nearest
SIU port agent.

EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEA-
FARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG tradition-
ally has refrained from publishing any article
serving the political purposes of any individual
in the union, officer or member. It also has re-
frained from publishing articles deemed harm-
ful to the union or its collective membership.
This established policy has been reaffirmed
by membership action at the September 1960
meetings in all constitutional ports. The respon-
sibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an
editorial board which consists of the executive
board of the union. The executive board may
delegate, from among its ranks, one individual
to carry out this responsibility.

PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies
are to be paid to anyone in any official capac-
ity in the SIU unless an official union receipt
is given for same. Under no circumstances
should any member pay any money for any
reason unless he is given such receipt. In the
event anyone attempts to require any such pay-
ment be made without supplying a receipt, or
if a member is required to make a payment and
is given an official receipt, but feels that he
or she should not have been required to make
such payment, this should immediately be re-
ported to union headquarters.

CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND
OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Con-
stitution are available in all union halls. All
members should obtain copies of this consti-
tution so as to familiarize themselves with its
contents. Any time a member feels any other
member or officer is attempting to deprive
him or her of any constitutional right or ob-
ligation by any methods, such as dealing with
charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details,
the member so affected should immediately
notify headquarters.

EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guar-
anteed equal rights in employment and as
members of the SIU. These rights are clearly
set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the con-
tracts which the union has negotiated with the
employers. Consequently, no member may be
discriminated against because of race, creed,
color, sex, national or geographic origin.

If any member feels that he or she is denied
the equal rights to which he or she is entitled,
the member should notify union headquarters.

SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY

DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate
segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to fur-
ther its objects and purposes including, but
not limited to, furthering the political, social
and economic interests of maritime workers,
the preservation and furthering of the Ameri-
can merchant marine with improved employ-
ment opportunities for seamen and boatmen
and the advancement of trade union concepts.
In connection with such objects, SPAD sup-
ports and contributes to political candidates
for elective office. All contributions are vol-
untary. No contribution may be solicited or
received because of force, job discrimination,
financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct,
or as a condition of membership in the union
or of employment. If a contribution is made
by reason of the above improper conduct,
the member should notify the Seafarers In-
ternational Union or SPAD by certified mail
within 30 days of the contribution for inves-
tigation and appropriate action and refund, if
involuntary. A member should support SPAD
to protect and further his or her economic,
political and social interests, and American
trade union concepts.

NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any
time a member feels that any of the above
rights have been violated, or that he or she has
been denied the constitutional right of access
to union records or information, the member
should immediately notify SIU President Mi-
chael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail,
return receipt requested. The address is:

Michael Sacco, President
Seafarers International Union

5201 Auth Way
Camp Springs, MD 20746.

Know Your Rights

Aboard the Overseas Tampa

Recertified Steward Bobby Darku said it
“had been on my bucket list for a long
time to do a New Orleans-style seafood
boil.” He checked it off the list recently
when the Overseas Ship Manage-
ment vessel docked in Baton Rouge,
Louisiana. The menu included crawfish,
shrimp, red potatoes, corn on the cob,
creole sausage, mushrooms and more.
Pictured from left in photo at the immedi-
ate right are Chief Cook Mauricio Cas-
tro, Darku and SA Reginald Jackson.

45318_Seafarers_LOG.indd 19 6/15/2018 11:05:51 AM



20 Seafarers LOG July 2018

Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information
The following is a schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime

Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland, for the next several months.
All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promot-
ing the American maritime industry.

Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at
the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010.

Title of Start Date of
Course Date Completion

Gap Closing Courses
Engineroom Resource Management October 6 October 12
Leadership & Manageral Skills October 13 October 19

Deck Department Upgrading Courses

Able Seafarer Deck August 25 September 21
October 20 November 16

AB to Mate Modules Module dates vary throughout the year.
Students will be advised of dates once
accepted.

ARPA October 20 October 26


Bosun Recertification July 21 August 6

Crane Familiarization July 14 July 20

100 Ton Master October 13 November 2

ECDIS October 20 October 26

Fast Rescue Boat July 7 July 13
August 11 August 17
September 8 September 14

GMDSS September 22 October 5

Lifeboat July 28 August 10
August 25 September 7
September 22 October 5
October 20 November 2
November 17 November 30

Radar Observer October 6 October 19

Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office

RFPNW July 28 August 24
September 22 October 19
November 17 December 14

Engine Department Upgrading Courses

Advanced Refer Containers December 1 December 14

BAPO July 28 August 24
September 22 October 19
November 17 December 14

Title of Start Date of
Course Date Completion

FOWT August 25 September 21
October 20 November 16

Junior Engineer August 11 October 5
October 27 December 21

Machinist September 1 September 21
October 20 November 9

Marine Electrician August 11 October 5

Marine Refer Tech October 6 November 16

MEECE July 21 August 3

Pumpman July 7 July 13
September 22 September 28

Welding August 18 September 7

Steward Department Courses

Advanced Galley Ops August 25 September 21

Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next
class will start July 9.

Chief Steward July 7 August 24

Galley Operations July 14 August 10

Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 July 21 July 27
August 11 August 17

Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 July 7 July 13
July 14 July 20

Serve Safe July 28 August 3
October 20 October 26

Safety Upgrading Courses

Basic Training/Basic FF July 14 July 20

Basic Training Revalidation July 13 July 13
July 27 July 27

Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation August 18 August 24

Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting July 7 July 13

Government Vessels July 21 July 27

Medical Care Provider July 14 July 20

Tank Barge DL August 25 August 31

Tank Ship Familiarization - DL August 25 August 31

Tank Ship Familiarization - LG August 4 August 10

UPGRADING APPLICATION

Name_________________________________________________________________________
Address_______________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________
Date of Birth___________________________________________________________________
Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o

If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed.

Social Security #_______________________ Book #__________________________________
Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________
Home Port____________________________________________________________________
E-mail_______________________________________________________________________
Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No
If yes, class # and dates attended_ __________________________________________________
Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No
_____________________________________________________________________________

With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five
(125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your
department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested.
Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date.
I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this applica-
tion, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application
to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply
for any benefits which might become due to me.

COURSE START DATE OF
DATE COMPLETION
____________________________ _______________ ________________________
____________________________ _______________ ________________________

____________________________ _______________ ________________________

____________________________ _______________ ________________________

____________________________ _______________ ________________________

____________________________ _______________ ________________________

LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________

Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________

SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________

NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if
you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any
questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are
reimbursable. Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training
and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax
to (301) 994-2189.

The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime
Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits stu-
dents, who are otherwise qualified, or any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with
applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or
activities. 7/18

45318_Seafarers_LOG_X.indd 20 6/18/2018 6:22:31 AM



July 2018 Seafarers LOG 21

Paul Hall Center Classes
Apprentice Water Survival Class
#836 – Graduated April 20 (photo at
right, in alphabetical order): Joshua
Nino Bonita, Daveyon Kymyondro Bur-
ton, Lane Canada, Nicholas Falzone,
Joshua Gail, Marcel Gordon, Carlos
Marcos Gutierrez, Deandre Henry,
Dequan Jamez Markell Joe, James
Langston, Theodore Lopez III, Nicholas
Mason, Orion Milazzo, Kirk Otto Ku-
likana Puchert, Seth Schrader, Anias
Stanford and Justin Turner. Instructor
Bernabe Pelingon is at the far right.

Water Survival Upgraders – Graduated April 20 (in alphabetical
order): Samuel Ezell, Raymond Hoover, Anthony Jackson, Brian Per-
alta and Ivan Moises Vargas. Bernabe Pelingon, class instructor, is at
the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.)

Terrestrial & Coastal Navigation – Graduated March 9: Matthew Jenness (second from left), Bryan Page
(center) and James Wunder (right). Instructor Brian Moore is at the far left.

Marine Refrigeration Techni-
cian – Graduated April 27 (photo
at left, in alphabetical order):
John Brantly, Alvin Cabahit,
Jared Cabasug, Derek Chest-
nut, Earl Dimmick, David Kelch,
Todd Lander, Jean Paul Merino
Lozada, Mana Hassan Muhsen
and Charles Packer. Class in-
structor William Dodd is at the
far right.

Tank Ship Familiarization – Graduated March 16 (in alphabetical order): Enrique Tabamo Ampil, Secundino Abel Arzu, Khiry Bivins, Guillermo Blanco-Nunez, Virgilio Ilisan Deme-
gillo, Jasper Hayward, Marcus Hugee, Jamila King, Joseph Loguidice, Michael Riley, David Seymore, Cortney Smith, Michael Smith, Richard Vega Villafane, Jimmie Willliams Jr. and
Denard Williams. (Note: Not all are pictured.)

Students who have registered
for classes at the Paul Hall Center
for Maritime Training and Educa-
tion, but later discover - for what-
ever reason - that they can’t attend,
should inform the admissions de-
partment immediately so arrange-
ments can be made to have other
students take their places.

Notice to All Students

45318_Seafarers_LOG.indd 21 6/15/2018 11:05:53 AM



22 Seafarers LOG July 2018

Paul Hall Center Classes

UA to AS-D – Graduated April 6 (in alphabetical order): Dalrick Fleming, Joseph
Franta, Tyler Gardner, Raymond Green, William Asdrubal Mercado Ramos and Jose
Javier Santos Montalvo. Instructor Tom Truitt is at the far right.

UA to FOWT – Graduated April 6 (in alphabetical order): Jeffrey Pacaldo Berame, Johnathan
Brown Jr., David Bussey, Charles Collins III, David Cornelius, Mark Nover Miranda Lata, Bryant
McGiffen Jr., Mason McGowan, Bryan Moreira, Karl Morrow Jr., Thomas Nelson Jr., Re’Sean
Peters and Starling Priester. (Note: Not all are pictured.)

ECDIS – Graduated April 13 (in alphabetical order): Martin Baker,
Matthew Botterbusch, Joshua Jayson Gonzalez, Brian Luba, Bryan
Page, George Steube III, James Wunder, and Slavi Zahariev. In-
structor Patrick Schoenberger is at the far left.

Tank Ship Familiarization DL – Graduated April 13 (in alphabetical order): Monasser Mohamed Ali, Kingdom
Chiadikaobi Alozie, George Arthur, Mark Joseph Romero Baclayon, Ashley Codrington, Jessica Crockett, David
Dingman, Jackson Gourgue, Gary Hirsch, William Jackson, Manuel Javier Lata, James Lutrell Jr., Starling Priester,
Cortney Smith, Aldo Thomas, Gary Toomer, Anatoli Vetsinov and Marvin Williams Jr. (Note: Not all are pictured.)

Tank Ship Familiarization LG – Graduated April 20 (in alphabetical order): Ritche Asum-
brado Acuman, Monassar Mohamed Ali, Kingdom Chiadikaobi Alozie, George Arthur, Mark
Baclayon, Ashley Codrington, Jessica Crockett, Tom Dary, David Dingman, Timothy Dowd,
Jackson Gourgue, Maurice Henry Jr., Terry Hester, Gary Hirsch, William Jackson, Manuel
Javier Lata, James Luttrel Jr., Kyle Miller, Tamara Russ, Aldo Thomas, Annie Walker, Jeffrey
Wheatley, Brian Wilder and James Wynegar III. (Note: Not all are pictured.)

Medical Care Provider – Graduated April 27 (in alphabetical order): Tristan Brand,
Dylan Mikaele Casuga, Tom Dary, Kenney Gaston and Alonzo Marbley. Instructor John
Thomas is at the far left.

Government Vessels – Grad-
uated April 6 (photo at right, in
alphabetical order): George
Arthur, Hector Barnes, Xyla
Jillain Toledo Bautista, Guill-
ermo Blanco-Nunez, Joel
Boyd, Jason Cason, Ashley
Codrington, Marcil Ducre,
Peter Babor Durangparang,
Samuel Ezell, Dominick
Glasper, Raymond Hoover,
Anthony Jackson, Reynaldo
Bermudez Lacayo, Fernando
Fernandes Lopes, Erik Loret,
Reina Mendez, Caezar Ri-
vera Mercado, Randy Slue,
Marcus Smith, Krystle Start,
Sean Terry, Carlos Torres and
James Wynegar III.

Search & Rescue (Management Level) – Graduated April 27 (in alphabetical order): Martin
Baker, Matthew Botterbusch, Joshua Gonzalez, Brian Luba, Christopher Mullin, Bryan Page,
George Steube III, Dexter Madrona Turija, James Wunder and Slavi Zahariev.

Radar Observer – Graduated April 6 (in alphabetical order): Dylan Mikaele Ca-
suga, John Consiglio, John Diaz-Hernandez Jr., Scott Gilleland, Charles Hosea
Jr. and Harry Schrefer III.

45318_Seafarers_LOG.indd 22 6/15/2018 11:05:55 AM



July 2018 Seafarers LOG 23

Paul Hall Center Classes

Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting – Graduated April 20 (in alphabetical order): Dylan Mikaele
Casuga, Mohammed Elazzouzi, Kenney Gaston, Karl Guenterberg, Corey Leonard, Alonzo Marbley,
Casey Matheson, Jason Meyers and Ethan Sims. Class instructor John Thomas is at the far left.

ARPA – Graduated April 13 (in alphabetical order): Dylan Mikaele Casuga,
John Consiglio, John Diaz-Hernandez Jr., Scott Gilleland and Harry Schre-
fer.

Advanced Galley Operations – Graduated April 20 (in alphabetical order): Abra-
ham Abdul Allamoth, Masha Blas, Randall Campbell, Matthew Conyac, Stanford
Drakes and Mario Miceleen Lacayo Martinez.

Certified Chief Cook (Module 5) – Graduated April 20:
Sheneisha Thompson (left) and Aurelio Dela Cruz Es-
peranza.

Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated April 13 (in alphabetical order): Timo-
thy Dowd, Erik Loret, Nee Tran, Edvaldo Cantao Viana and Glen Wil-
liams.

Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated April 20: Markese
Haynes (left) and Sherre Wilson.

Galley Operations – Graduated March 9: Rogelio
Dela Nunez (left) and Virnabeth Tomo Cano.

Certified Chief Cook (Module 6) –
Graduated May 4: Madina Lawless.

Certified Chief Cook (Module 2) – Graduated March
9: Timothy Kelley (left) and Shafreda Short Thigpen.

SUA (Galley Operations) – Graduated March 9 (in alphabetical order): Lakeeba
Bazemore, Evelyn Cruz, Axel Omar Lopez Ferrer, Luis Sony Perez-Menendez Jr.,
Manuel Alejandro Robles, Wilhelm Orson Rodrigues-Latorre and Maria Yahaira Soler
Madera.

MLC Cook – Graduated May 4: Keith
Doublin

45318_Seafarers_LOG.indd 23 6/15/2018 11:05:57 AM



FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 o NO. 2JULY 2018 VOLUME 80, NO. 7

Paul Hall Center
Class Photos
Pages 21-23

SIU Members Assist With Operation Atlantic Resolve
Seafarers Continue Upholding Traditional Role as Fourth Arm of Defense

Mariners have once again answered
the nation’s call, as SIU members
recently helped support an impor-

tant military mobilization named Operation
Atlantic Resolve.

Seafarers sailed aboard three American
Roll-on Roll-off Carrier (ARC) vessels – the

M/V Honor, M/V Freedom, and M/V Endur-
ance – in support of this long-term mission.
Together, those ships were loaded with more
than 414,000 square feet of military wheeled
and tracked cargo, such as armored vehicles,
and other important materiel. This equipment
was then transported from Charleston, South

Carolina, to Eastern Europe, where the 1st
Armored Brigade Combat Team of the 1st
Cavalry Division is deploying.

Operation Atlantic Resolve, launched
in 2014, is funded through the European
Reassurance Initiative, which was likewise
created in response to Russia’s annexation
of Crimea in Ukraine. The primary goal of
the operation is to increase the U.S. military
presence in Europe, and to help strengthen
NATO’s defense and deterrence measures.

The aforementioned SIU-crewed ships
are part of the U.S. Maritime Security Pro-
gram (MSP).

Since its inception in 1996, the MSP has
received strong bipartisan backing in Con-

gress and the White House, while receiving
praise from military officials. The program
provides an annual stipend to ensure 60 mil-
itarily useful U.S.-flag, U.S.-crewed ships
are available in times of war or national
emergencies. Companies that are contracted
under the MSP or through the related Vol-
untary Intermodal Sealift Agreement make
their infrastructure available to the military
as needed, too.

MSP backers describe the program as
one of the best public-private partnerships
in government. The DOD has estimated that
replicating the sealift capability provided by
the MSP would cost the government billions
of dollars.

A tank (photo at left) is loaded onto the M/V Endurance. In the photo
above, the Honor takes on cargo in Charleston, South Carolina.

The Seafarers-crewed Endurance is part of the U.S. Maritime Security Program fleet.

SIU-crewed ships (photos immediately above and at immediate right) load military cargo
for Operation Atlantic Resolve. (All photos courtesy ARC)

45318_Seafarers_LOG.indd 24 6/15/2018 11:05:59 AM