Seafarers Log: Vol. 81 No. 1 (2019-01-01)

JANUARY 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 1

USNS Puerto Rico Christened
Page 4

Scholarship Info
Page 10

MSC Praises Mariners
Page 2

O F F I C I A L P U B L I C A T I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N A T I O N A L U N I O N A T L A N T I C , G U L F , L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W A T E R S , A F L - C I O

Matson’s Inouye Enters Service
SIU members are sailing aboard the new Matson containership Daniel K. Inouye, pictured at left and immediately below
Nov. 28 on its maiden voyage to Honolulu. The 850-foot-long vessel, built by union workers at Philly Shipyard, is named
in memory of the late U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye, a lifelong supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine (and honorary SIU book
holder). The Inouye, which has a top speed greater than 23 knots, is the first of four new ships being constructed for
Matson that will be introduced during the next two years. Photos by Tim Rue for Matson.

Thanksgiving
Tradition
Thriving

The SIU in late November con-
ducted its traditional Thanks-
giving luncheon in Oakland,
California, and the 28th annual
event proved typically successful.
Pictured at right are Seafarers
and members of the 4th Marine
Division, 23rd Regiment Color
Guard. Pictured below (from left)
are SIU VP West Coast Nick Mar-
rone, U.S. Rep. John Garamendi
and SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona.
Other guests included additional
U.S. Congressional representa-
tives, SIU pensioners and their
families, members and officials
from other unions, shipping com-
pany executives and more. Page
7.

Thanksgiving
Tradition
Thriving



2 Seafarers LOG January 2019

The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the
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Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator,
Mark Clements.

Copyright © 2019 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights
Reserved.

Volume 81 Number 1 January 2019

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

In taking one last look back at 2018 before we dive into the New
Year, our union has much to be proud of. We welcomed new ships
into the SIU-contracted fleet. We secured new and improved benefits,
along with industry-leading contracts. We opened a new hiring hall in
Puerto Rico, and we also helped our affiliated school in Piney Point,
Maryland, remain on the cutting edge of maritime training.

We also did our part in the constant battle to maintain the laws and
programs that keep the U.S. Merchant Marine
afloat. These of course include the U.S. Maritime
Security program, cargo preference laws, and
the Jones Act. In 2018, I probably devoted more
space to the Jones Act in my monthly LOG col-
umns than any other topic, and that may be the
case again this year as we continue standing up
for an indispensable law.

Last year included a noteworthy political win
in Missouri, where rank-and-file Seafarers helped
defeat a so-called “right to work” provision that
harmed working families. And of course, on Elec-
tion Day, the SIU backed a large number of win-

ning candidates at every level of government – as always, from both
political parties – who will support our industry and our issues.

I prefer to spend time planning ahead for a bright future rather
than reflecting on the past, but I also think it’s important not to take
our success for granted. Year after year, we’re able to report on new
jobs, good contracts, and an affiliated school that’s second to none.
We’ve regularly upgraded the hiring halls, too. None of it happens
by accident. Everyone shares in the credit: rank-and-file members,
union and school staff, and members of my administration. We may
not go undefeated, but we’ve got each other’s backs and we’re a
winning team.

As we start a new calendar, I thank the membership for your sup-
port, and I guarantee you we won’t take any shortcuts in 2019 when it
comes to protecting your jobs (or any shortcuts at all, period). That’s
at the heart of everything we do as an organization. And it just so hap-
pens that SIU jobs support U.S. national, economic and homeland
security. If we needed any more motivation to go to bat every day for
the U.S. Merchant Marine, there it is.

Looking Ahead
For the labor movement, last year’s Supreme Court ruling in the

Janus case can be crippling if we let it, but the early responses from
union reps and members alike are encouraging. If you never read
about the case in detail, the short version is that public-sector employ-
ees in departments that already enjoy union representation must now
opt into the bargaining unit, rather than opt out.

But this is an opportunity for labor to return to our roots, to re-ed-
ucate members and non-members alike about why unions are so vital,
and about why everyone comes out ahead when workers truly have a
voice. This will involve lots of work moving forward, but I know the
movement is up to the task.

Last but not least – yes, I’m going to mention the Jones Act again.
We’re up against a long-term, well-financed campaign that’s just the
latest attack on domestic shipping and U.S. mariners. We’ll ask for
your help in contacting your senators and representatives from time to
time, and we’ll never make those requests lightly.

Where maritime labor has the advantage in this struggle is through
grassroots efforts and our ability to put boots on the ground, so to
speak. We’re going to be working with the port councils of the Mari-
time Trades Department on this front, too, and I’m confident about the
results.

Michael Sacco

Many Accomplishments in 2018
The commanding officer of

the U.S. Military Sealift Com-
mand (MSC) recently voiced a
strong vote of confidence in the
dependability of U.S. Merchant
Mariners.

Rear Adm. Dew Mewbourne,
posting Nov. 1 on his “Com-
mander’s Blog,” said, “In some
war planning room right now,
there is a potential adversary
weighing their odds of victory in
a fight against the United States.
The one factor they will grossly
underestimate is the courage of
the U.S. Mariner.”

The entire post follows and is
reprinted with permission:

“As dawn broke over Ma-
chias Bay, Maine, on June 12,
1775, 32 men, armed with guns,
swords, axes and pitchforks
and led by a revolutionary fire-
brand named Jeremiah O’Brien,
brought their commandeered
sloop, Unity, quietly around the
lee side of Round Island.

“Their target, the British
armed schooner Margaretta, im-
mediately attempted to fire on
the unarmed Unity, but Unity was
too close. O’Brien commanded
his crew to ram the British ship,
boarding and engaging in hand-
to-hand combat. By the end of
an hour, the British captain was
mortally wounded, and the Brit-
ish ship had surrendered.

“O’Brien and the Unity crew
claimed four six-pound guns, 20

swivel guns, muskets, pistols,
and hand-grenades. Unity had
become a warship for the soon-
to-be proclaimed United States
of America in this, considered to
be the first, sea engagement of
the Revolutionary War.

“It was the beginning of
American Merchant Mariner’s
service to our nation, but not the
last time they would go in harm’s
way for the ideals of freedom and
democracy.

“It’s been the same ever since,
from the Battle of the Atlantic in
WWII, to the war in Korea where
our Mariners moved the 24th In-
fantry Division from garrison
duty in Japan to Pusan, Korea
only 11 days after the invasion
of the 38th parallel, to Vietnam
where the Mariners of Mili-
tary Sea Transportation Service
moved supplies to Vietnamese
ports and on the river to Saigon.

“From Desert Storm to Bos-
nia, from Afghanistan to Opera-
tion Iraqi Freedom, America’s
Merchant Mariners continue to
serve on the leading edge of our
defense transportation system,
carrying the combat equipment
and supplies needed by our joint
warfighters.

“To carry that logistics power
to the fight, we have always re-
lied on our Merchant Marine.
And they have always answered
the call. Despite the dangers and
long separations from home, our

U.S. Merchant Marine has sailed
in harm’s way time and time
again to make sure that Ameri-
can warfighters and our allies
have had the supplies they need
to overwhelm our adversaries.

“In some war planning room
right now, there is a potential
adversary weighing their odds
of victory in a fight against the
United States. The one factor
they will grossly underestimate
is the courage of the U.S. Mari-
ner.

“I can assure you that U.S.
Mariners will be there, reliably
and bravely manning our ships --
even if the seas become a battle-
field.”

MSC Commander: ‘Mariners Will Be There!’
Admiral Mewbourne Praises U.S. Merchant Marine’s Reliability, Bravery

Rear Adm. Dee Mewbourne
Commander, MSC

A number of Seafarers-
contracted companies earned
accolades at a recent Chamber
of Shipping of America (CSA)
event.

The CSA on Nov. 7 hosted its
annual environmental achieve-
ment awards dinner in Wash-
ington, D.C. Among the vessel
and tug operators recognized
were SIU-contracted Alaska
Tanker Company, Crescent
Towing, Crowley Maritime and
several of its subsidiaries, E.N.
Bisso & Son, Keystone Ship-
ping, Matson Navigation, OSG
Ship Management, Patriot Con-
tract Services, American Ship
Management, Seabulk Tankers,
Seabulk Towing, TOTE, and
USS Vessel Management.

U.S. Coast Guard Rear
Adm. John Nadeau, assistant
commandant for prevention
policy, participated in the
ceremony and congratulated
the award recipients and the
industry as a whole for their
extraordinary performance. D.
Lee Forsgren, deputy assistant

administrator, Office of Water,
U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency, also addressed the at-
tendees and expressed his con-
gratulations to the participants
on their exceptional environ-
mental efforts.

Kathy J. Metcalf, president
of CSA said, “These awards
celebrate the dedication to en-
vironmental excellence of our
seafarers and the company per-
sonnel shore-side who oper-
ate our vessels to the highest
standards. In today’s world, it
seems our industry only gets
front-page news when spills or
other environmental problems
occur. It is encouraging to see
how many vessels go for years
achieving environmental ex-
cellence. It should be clear to
the American public that we in
the maritime industry take our
stewardship of the marine en-
vironment very seriously. Safe
and environmentally respon-
sible operations is a culture
fully embraced by the maritime
industry as a whole and as evi-

denced by the performances of
the award recipients recognized
tonight.”

According to the host orga-
nization, 1,730 ships and boats
owned by 109 companies with
a total of 15,205 years of envi-
ronmental excellence were rec-
ognized. The average number
of years operating without inci-
dent for ships and vessels that
received awards is 8.1 years.
Some 267 of the vessels have
logged 16 or more years of en-
vironmental excellence.

The awards are open to all
owners and operators of vessels
that operate on oceans or inland
waterways.

“The CSA Board encourages
all operators and owners to take
advantage of this opportunity to
recognize their crew and shore-
side operating personnel and
encourages all operators and
owners to consider participat-
ing in next year’s program,” the
organization noted. “Participa-
tion guidance is found on CSA’s
website www.knowships.org.”

CSA Honors SIU-Contracted Companies

(All photos by Barry Champagne)

CSA President Kathy J. Metcalf
Rear Adm. John Nadeau

U.S. Coast Guard

D. Lee Forsgren,
Deputy Asst. Administrator,

Office of Water, EPA

O F F I C I A L P U B L I C A T I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N A T I O N A L U N I O N A T L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W A T E R S , A F L - C I O



January 2019 Seafarers LOG 3

The Trustees of the Seafarers Health
and Benefits Plan (SHBP) recently ap-
proved a number of benefit improve-
ments, which take effect Jan. 1, 2019.
The following is a summary of these
new benefits:

Out-of-Pocket Maximum Added
Core-Plus employees, non-Medicare

pensioners and their dependents: $2,700
for a single person, $5,500 for a family
of two or more.

Core employees and their dependents:
$3,000 for a single person, $6,000 for a
family of two or more.

At the Core-Plus level, once a single
person pays $2,700, or a family pays
$5,500 for deductibles, co-payments,
and co-insurance in a calendar year, the
Plan will pay 100 percent of remaining
network-allowed charges for that year.

At the Core level, once a single per-
son pays $3,000, or a family pays $6,000
for deductibles, co-payments, and co-in-
surance in a calendar year, the Plan will
pay 100 percent of remaining network-
allowed charges for that year.

Previously, there was no out-of-
pocket maximum.

The out-of-pocket maximum ap-
plies to in-network treatment only.
Prescription costs, dental care, vision
benefits, and services not covered by the
Plan do not count towards this out-of-
pocket maximum.

For example: Sam is a Seafarer who
is married and has three children. He
is eligible for Core-Plus benefits. In
March, his wife, Maria, is hospitalized
for a serious illness, and they pay $5,000

out-of-pocket for the deductible, co-
insurance, and co-payments for her care
from in-network providers. The next
month, one of their children breaks her
arm, and the family pays $500 for the
child’s co-insurance for her in-network
treatment. The Plan will now pay 100
percent of the network-allowed amounts
for all members of the family for the rest
of the calendar year, as they have met the
$5,500 out-of-pocket maximum.

Another example: Manuel is a non-
Medicare pensioner, and is eligible for
health benefits. He is not married. In
February, he is hospitalized at an in-net-
work hospital for a heart condition, and
pays a total of $2,700 for his deductible,
co-payments, and coinsurance. The
Plan will now pay 100 percent of the
network-allowed amount for Manuel’s
medical bills for in-network treatment
for the rest of the year, as he has met the
$2,700 out-of-pocket maximum.

Increase in Payment Percentage for In-
Network Treatment

The Plan will pay 90 percent of the
network-allowed charge for treatment
by an in-network provider, or at an in-
network facility. This applies to Seafarers
and their dependents at the Core-Plus and
Core benefits levels, and-Non-Medicare
pensioners and their dependents. This is
an increase from the current 80 percent.

For example: George goes to a doctor
who is in-network. The billed amount is
$500. As this service was provided by an
in-network provider, the bill will be re-
duced by $100, leaving the network-al-
lowed amount of $400. The Plan will pay

$360, leaving him a balance of $40, as-
suming his deductible has been satisfied.

Physical Therapy and Other Rehabilita-
tive Therapies

At the Core-Plus and Core benefit
levels, dependents are now eligible for
benefits for physical therapy and other
rehabilitative therapies. The Plan will
now also cover cognitive, speech, pul-
monary or occupational therapy for
Seafarers, even when they do not suffer
from a catastrophic illness or injury. The
Plan will cover up to 20 visits per year
for any combination of physical therapy,
cognitive, speech, pulmonary, or occu-
pational therapy for Seafarers and their
dependents. (The Plan also covers up to
40 visits per person per year following a
catastrophic illness or injury.)

Durable Medical Equipment for Depen-
dents

At the Core-Plus and Core benefit
levels, the Plan will now pay for dura-
ble medical equipment for dependents,
even when they are not suffering from
a catastrophic illness or injury. Durable
medical equipment (DME) includes
items such as wheelchairs, CPAP ma-
chines, prostheses, nebulizers, and
wearable cardio defibrillators. The Plan
will pay 90 percent of the network-al-
lowed charge to rent or buy DME from
an in-network provider, or 65 percent
of the reasonable and customary charge
if the item is obtained from an out-of-
network provider.

Payment for Treatment of Illness or In-
jury if Participant Suf fers from Sub-
stance Abuse

In the past, the Plan did not cover
the cost of treatment for an illness if it
resulted from alcohol or drug use (such

as cirrhosis of the liver). The Plan will
now cover the cost of treatment of these
conditions if the medical condition is
the result of a substance abuse problem.
The Plan still will not pay for treatment
of illnesses or injuries that result from a
person’s reckless disregard to their own
health and safety (such as an injury that
results from drunk driving).

Outpatient Drug/Alcohol Treatment for
Seafarers

The Plan covers inpatient detoxifica-
tion treatment and covers the entire cost
of inpatient treatment at the Seafarers
Addictions Rehabilitation Center (ARC)
in Piney Point, Maryland, for eligible
Seafarers. The Plan will now also pay for
prescriptions to treat substance abuse.

The ARC offers the best treatment
option for Seafarers with substance
abuse issues, as the staff is familiar with
the unique problems that mariners may
face, and are extremely knowledgeable
about the Coast Guard regulations and
procedures that apply when a Seafarer
fails a drug or alcohol test. There is no
other facility available that is able to
provide these services.

At the Core-Plus and Core benefit
levels, the Plan will now pay for out-
patient substance abuse treatment for
Seafarers; however, this benefit will be
subject to an individual’s deductible and
co-payment. Be aware that the Seafar-
ers ARC is recognized by the U.S. Coast
Guard as the gold standard for substance
abuse treatment and has a high success
rate for returning mariners to work. Sub-
stance abuse programs outside of the
Seafarers ARC may not be familiar with
Coast Guard requirements, which could
result in the mariner paying additional
fees and having to take additional steps
before returning to work.

SHBP Trustees Approve New Benefits
Seafarers, Dependents, Pensioners Should Realize Savings

House Hearing Underscores Vital Need
To Maintain Strong Merchant Marine

Recent comments from expert wit-
nesses and congressmen alike left no doubt
that America is a maritime nation – one
best-served by maintaining a robust U.S.
Merchant Marine, along with shipbuilding
capability.

The remarks were made Nov. 29 during
a hearing of the U.S. House of Represen-
tatives Subcommittee on Coast Guard and
Maritime Transportation (part of the Trans-
portation and Infrastructure Committee).
Titled “Review of Recent GAO Reports on
Icebreaker Acquisition and the Need for a
National Maritime Strategy,” the hearing
mostly focused on the former issue but also
devoted significant time to mariners and
the laws that help keep the industry afloat.

Testifying at the hearing were Rear
Adm. Michael J. Haycock, assistant com-
mandant for Acquisition & Chief Acquisi-
tion Officer, United States Coast Guard;
Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, USN, Ret., ad-
ministrator, Maritime Administration
(MARAD); Marie A. Mak, director of
Acquisition and Sourcing Management,
Government Accountability Office (GAO);
Andrew Von Ah, director of Physical In-
frastructure Issues, GAO; and Ronald
O’Rourke, specialist in Naval Affairs, Con-
gressional Research Service.

Subcommittee Chairman U.S. Rep.
Brian Mast (R-Florida) noted that legis-
lation has extended the deadline for sub-
mitting the national maritime strategy to
February 2020. “This strategy is critical to
addressing the challenges facing the U.S.
flag fleet, including a potential shortage

of U.S. mariners and the decreasing num-
ber of U.S. flag vessels,” Mast said. “As
a maritime nation, the U.S. needs to ad-
dress these challenges now. I can assure
you I understand firsthand the importance
of having sufficient maritime assets to get
U.S. forces and their supplies where they
need to be.”

Buzby, who formerly served as com-
manding officer of the U.S. Military Sealift
Command, spoke with his usual candor and
insight. He pointed out the GAO in August
2018 completed a report on maritime se-
curity, which examined the role U.S.-flag
commercial vessels play in supporting De-
partment of Defense (DOD) sealift needs.

The GAO also urged formalization of a
national maritime strategy.

“MARAD is conscious of the time it has
taken to develop the strategy since Con-
gress directed that it be done in 2014,” he
said. “In this time, MARAD has conducted
extensive engagement with public and
private stakeholders representing the full
spectrum of maritime industry professions,
sectors, and regions. As the U.S. Commit-
tee on the Marine Transportation System
notes, there are 18 federal agencies and
numerous public stakeholders with a role
in maritime transportation issues. Each of
these agencies is an important stakeholder
and their input is critical to address both
the challenge involved in developing a
strategy for the U.S. Merchant Marine that
can garner widespread support and the im-
portance of developing a long-term strat-
egy to address future needs. As you may
be aware, the draft strategy was placed into
review under the prior administration. It
was subsequently withdrawn by the current
administration so that they could have an
opportunity to review, revise, and align the
strategy accordingly. We appreciate that
Congress provided an extension on this
requirement to allow us to best align this
strategy with the administration’s national
security strategy and national defense strat-
egy. MARAD has not stood idle during this
interim period. We are using the extension
afforded by Congress as an opportunity to
further collaborate with stakeholders to re-

Testimony Cites Indispensable Role in National Defense

U.S. Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby, pictured at the SIUNA convention in 2017, testi-
fied Nov. 29 at a House hearing.

Continued on Page 5



4 Seafarers LOG January 2019

Navy Christens USNS Puerto Rico in Alabama
On Nov. 10, the Navy christened

the newest expeditionary fast transport
(EPF), USNS Puerto Rico, at a ceremony
at the Austal USA shipyard in Mobile,
Alabama. The Military Sealift Command
(MSC) vessel will be crewed by SIU CIV-
MARS from the union’s Government Ser-
vices Division.

The principal speaker at the ceremony
was Congresswoman Jenniffer González-
Colón, resident commissioner of Puerto
Rico. Justice Sonia Sotomayor, associate
justice of the Supreme Court of the United
States, served as the ship’s sponsor and
broke the ceremonial bottle of champagne
across the bow.

“This ship honors the Commonwealth
of Puerto Rico and the contributions
Puerto Ricans have made to our nation

and Navy and Marine Corps team,” said
Secretary of the Navy Richard V. Spencer.
“USNS Puerto Rico will provide our com-
manders high-speed sealift mobility and
agility and I am thankful for this ship, her
crew, and our industrial force teammates
whose service makes this great ship pos-
sible.”

EPF-class ships are designed to trans-
port 600 short tons of military cargo 1,200
nautical miles at an average speed of 35
knots, according to the Navy. The ship
is capable of operating in shallow-draft
ports and waterways, interfacing with
roll-on/roll-off discharge facilities, and
on/off-loading a combat-loaded Abrams
main battle tank (M1A2).

The vessel also includes a flight deck
suitable for helicopter operations, which,

combined with the EPF’s shallow draft,
makes the it “an extremely flexible asset
for support of a wide range of opera-
tions,” the Navy reported.

Three of the Puerto Rico’s sister ships,
the USNS Trenton, USNS Yuma, and USNS
Carson City are operating in the Mediterra-
nean Sea and off the coast of Africa; three
more, the USNS Brunswick, USNS Milli-
nocket, and USNS Fall River are working
in the Pacific, while the USNS Choctaw
County is operating in the Arabian Gulf.
The USNS Burlington was delivered to
the Navy five days after the christening of
the Puerto Rico, and is also currently de-
ployed. All of those vessels are crewed by
SIU Government Services mariners.

MSC Commander Rear Adm. Dee
Mewbourne remarked on the importance

of these vessels, saying, “The work these
ships and their crews are doing around the
world demonstrate the essential character-
istics of the expeditionary fast transport
class: speed, capacity, adaptability, and
resiliency.... It is important to remem-
ber that this ship will be crewed by U.S.
Mariners. As this ship will likely sail in
harm’s way, our Mariners will be there,
reliably and bravely manning this ship,
even if the seas become a battlefield.”

Mewbourne concluded, “I want to rec-
ognize and thank all those in industry, at
MSC, and other Navy commands, who
played a role in bringing this ship to life.
We eagerly await the arrival of this ship
to our fleet where our Mariners will give
her life and sail her into the challenges
ahead.”

Seafarers-contracted New York New Jersey
Rail (NYNJR) is a sea-going railroad which
uses rail barges, known as car floats, to trans-
port thousands of rail cars across New York
Harbor from Jersey City, New Jersey, at a loca-
tion called Greenville Yard to the 65th Street
Rail Yard in Brooklyn, New York.

“Out of the 500-plus railroads in the United
States, only a small percentage float rail cars
across bodies of water,” said SIU Safety Di-
rector Osvaldo Ramos, who services NYNJR.
“And to my knowledge, only one railroad uses
the Seafarers International Union for its labor
force.”

Ramos explained that the SIU members
employed at NYNYR have titles including
trainman, conductor, and locomotive engineer.
Members sort and load rail cars onto the car
floats in all tides and all weather conditions,
year-round.

“NYNJR moves a diverse amount of com-
modities including beer products, scrap steel,
recycled glass, plastics, rice, vegetable oil,
flour, clay, rail and ties, and special oversized
loads that can’t fit on bridges or tunnels in the
metro New York City region,” Ramos added.

The trademarked New York New Jersey
Rail logo features an anchor crossed with a rail
track, and is displayed on their company flag
at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Mari-
time Training and Education, located in Piney
Point, Maryland.

NYNJR Director Donald B. Hutton noted,
“I view the relationship with the SIU more of
a solid partnership. The SIU has been a strong
supporter of the future course and direction of
NYNJR and has been on the same journey as
a partner.”

The members’ and company’s futures look
bright due to several factors including grow-
ing demand for rail service in the Greater
New York Metro Area, which Ramos said “is
less than two percent served and many would
argue is underserved compared to the rest of

the nation. The limited amount of service has
resulted in an overreliance on trucks, tunnels
and bridges. Ships, tugs and barges of course
are a key to relieving that related congestion,
but so is rail.”

A noteworthy project is currently underway
to increase NYNJR’s operational capacity. The
Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is
spearheading the Greenville Redevelopment
Project, which (among other accomplishments)
will rebuild and enhance NYNJR. These im-
provements will include a new rail yard design,
three new low-emission locomotives, and two
new car floats that can carry 18 rail cars each,
Ramos reported.

Also important to NYNRJ’s future is the
key support of pro-maritime U.S. Rep. Jerrold
Nadler (D-New York). Nadler is a leader in nu-

merous maritime and rail job-saving initiatives
and a supporter of “FREIGHTNYC,” a $100
million plan to modernize New York’s freight
distribution system. FREIGHTNYC includes
strategic investments to modernize maritime
and rail assets, create new distribution facili-
ties, as well as a roadmap to add nearly 5,000
good-paying jobs.

Nadler recently said, “The New York region
needs a better way to move goods, plain and
simple. On this, there is overwhelming consen-
sus. We must end our over-reliance on trucks
that clog and destroy our roads….”

Ramos concluded, “The floating railroad
known as New York New Jersey Rail, LLC,
along with its SIU members – moving rail cars,
making up lines, loading car floats – are sailing
toward fair winds and following seas.”

SIU-Contracted NYNJR Expands Infrastructure

With New York City in the background, a new state-of-the-art rail marine loading bridge is
being completed at Greenville Yard in Jersey City, New Jersey. A new car float in visible
in the distance, moored to new mooring cells. (Drone photo courtesy Donald B. Hutton)

SIU and company personnel are pictured in front of new locomotives.

SIU-contracted NY Waterway rose to
the occasion on Nov. 15, as New York and
New Jersey’s roadways were crippled by
a sudden snow. The company never hesi-
tated to offer up its ferry services to assist
the thousands of commuters stranded in
Manhattan on their way to their homes in
New Jersey.

According to NY Waterway, “Ferries
were operating past midnight Thursday,
taking commuters from Manhattan’s West
39th Street Ferry Terminal to the Port
Imperial Ferry Terminal in Weehawken,
where passengers could continue their
trip on the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail or
by bus or private car or cab.”

While road conditions delayed some
of NY Waterway’s free buses, all ferries
ran more or less on schedule, with addi-
tional ferry trips added to the ledger to
ensure passengers arrived at their destina-
tions.

“Our dedicated ferry crews, bus driv-
ers and terminal staff worked late into
the night to help others, a core belief and
practice of our company for 32 years,”
said NY Waterway President and Founder
Arthur E. Imperatore. “We were there
at 9/11 and other emergencies. We were
there for the Miracle on the Hudson and
we will always be there when needed.”

NY Waterway operates the largest pri-
vately owned commuter ferry service in
the U.S., handling more than 32,000 pas-
senger trips per weekday – 10 million trips
per year – on 34 boats serving 23 routes
between New Jersey and Manhattan; be-
tween Rockland and Westchester coun-
ties; and between Orange and Dutchess
counties. NY Waterway’s de facto motto
is, “We will always get you home.”

NY Waterway Crews
Assist Commuters
During Snowstorm

Snow covers a railing as a New York
Waterway ferry pushes off the New-
port dock. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)



January 2019 Seafarers LOG 5

fine goals of the strategy and produce an
effective national maritime strategy.”

Buzby continued, “Developing a na-
tional maritime strategy will help the
Maritime Administration accomplish its
mission to foster, promote, and develop
the U.S. maritime industry to meet the
nation’s economic and security needs….
A critical part of this mission is ensuring
the availability of U.S. ships, and quali-
fied merchant mariners to crew those
ships, to meet DOD sealift requirements.
DOD relies on these strategic sealift ca-

pabilities to efficiently and effectively
deploy military forces around the world.
When the United States goes to war,
DOD’s U.S. Transportation Command
moves 90 percent of its cargo require-
ments with the strategic sealift fleet,
which consists of government-owned
ships augmented by the commercial
U.S.-flagged fleet.”

He then further referenced the GAO
report, which identified challenges and
possible remedies for sustaining the U.S.-
flag fleet and mariner pool for defense
needs.

Similarly, Von Ah mentioned a DOT
working group that formed to address
findings both in the GAO report and
other maritime studies. The working
group “identified two actions that could
help increase the number of U.S.-citizen
mariners – one focused specifically on
mariners and the other focused more

broadly on the merchant marine, which
encompasses U.S.-flag vessels and U.S.-
citizen mariners,” Von Ah said.

The first of those possible actions
would be development by MARAD of a
“broad-based reserve program that would
identify and support qualified mariners
willing to sail in commercial and gov-
ernment-owned vessels during an emer-
gency. MARAD would provide limited
financial assistance in training mariners
and maintaining credentials, in turn for
which mariners who participate would be
obligated to sail in the event of a defense
need.”

The working group’s second poten-
tial recommendation: “The government
should fully support programs includ-
ing MSP, requiring the government to
ship certain cargo on U.S-flag vessels,
the Jones Act, and government charter-
ing of privately owned vessels. If DOD

determines that national needs require
more mariners and vessels than can be
provided through current programs, those
programs should be expanded to meet
such needs.”

O’Rourke said that while the “chal-
lenge of finding adequate numbers of
appropriately trained mariners to crew
DOD sealift ships in time of crisis or
conflict is a longstanding issue, dating
back at least to 1990,” current circum-
stances “may now be affected by a new
factor that relates to the defense of DOD
sealift ships in wartime. From 1990 until
recently (i.e., during the post-Cold War
era), the defense of DOD sealift ships
was not a pressing concern. In the new
era of renewed major power competi-
tion, it has become a concern, given
current and potential future Chinese
and Russian capabilities for interdicting
ships.”

Expert Witnesses
Cite Vital Need

For Strong USMM
Continued from Page 3

The American maritime industry commem-
orated the 77th anniversary of the Japanese air
raid on the United States Naval Base at Pearl
Harbor by honoring those who lost their lives
on that fateful day, and highlighting the critical
need for a robust American shipbuilding capac-
ity to ensure for the preparedness of the nation.

“We honor the fallen at Pearl Harbor, and
the other sailors and mariners of the greatest
generation who protected our great nation in
some of its darkest hours. We are reminded of
their service and sacrifice, and their memory
lives on in the lifeblood of the American mari-
time community,” said Matt Woodruff, chair-
man of the American Maritime Partnership,
to which the SIU is affiliated. “The United
States is, and always has been, a maritime na-
tion. The lessons from Pearl Harbor remind us
in the maritime community that the men and
women of the industry play an essential role

in helping bolster our nation’s security so we
are never forced to rely on foreign countries
to build and man the vessels that support our
military. Without a robust shipbuilding capac-
ity and merchant marine, America would cede
her defense capacity to other nations, and, with
it, the sovereignty of the nation.”

To demonstrate the growing strength of U.S.
shipbuilding capacity, AMP released new com-
mercial shipbuilding and maritime data, which
reveals a vigorous industry that is thriving under
a durable economy, signaling strength for our
national and homeland preparedness.

The U.S. domestic fleet ended 2018 with
a surge in ship construction, including a re-
naissance in new Jones Act containerships. A
sampling of this trend is as follows (a list of
vessels built, and currently under construction
can be accessed on the AMP website); all ves-
sels are crewed and proudly built by the men

and women of American maritime:
Three new Jones Act containerships were de-

livered in the last quarter of 2018 alone – that is
seven new containerships in the last four years
compared to zero between 2005-2015.

Four new environmentally friendly LNG-pow-
ered containerships have been delivered in the past
three years to service Puerto Rico. This trade lane
from the continental United States to Puerto Rico
boasts one of the youngest fleets in the world, in-
creasing the speed of goods and efficiency delivered
to and from the island.

Six new containerships have either just begun
service or are expected in the next several years
to service the Hawaii trade lane – all LNG-power
capable.

An estimated 125 new inland tank barges will
be built in 2019.
An estimated $1.5 billion will be invested
by the American dredging industry in a fleet

expansion.
“These vessels are being custom built to

meet the needs of the domestic marketplace,
and to ensure a shipbuilding capacity that will
serve all Americans in our national security
preparedness,” said Matt Paxton, president of
the Shipbuilders’ Council of America. “When
we abandon our commercial shipyards, we
abandon our ability to be prepared to defend
the nation. We remain committed to construct-
ing the most advanced vessels in the world to
protect the brave men and women who risk
their lives to protect our borders.”

This commercial shipbuilding surge comes
at the same time when the next generation of
Navy and Coast Guard fleets are actively being
constructed in shipyards along the Gulf Coast
and in Norfolk, Virginia.; Portland, Maine; San
Diego; and Groton, Connecticut, among other
locations.

Coalition Highlights New Shipbuilding as Critical
To Continued Strong U.S. National, Economic Security
Lessons of Pearl Harbor Still Reinforce Need for Maritime Capabilities

On Dec. 7, senior leadership and per-
sonnel embarked aboard the SIU CIV-
MAR-crewed Military Sealift Command
hospital ship USNS Comfort attended an
opening ceremony for the final mission
stop of 2018’s Operation Enduring Prom-
ise.

The ceremony took place at a land-
based medical site in Trujillo, Honduras,
and the guest list included Carlos Ramon
Aguilar, the governor of Colón, Hondu-
ras.

“The presence of the ship in the Port of
Trujillo represents the continued support
of the American armed forces and their
solidarity with Honduras,” said Aguilar,
translated from Spanish. “We want to ex-
press our appreciation from the Hondu-
ran government as well as the Honduran
people.”

According to the U.S. Navy, “The
Comfort is on an 11-week medical sup-
port mission to Central and South Amer-
ica as part of U.S. Southern Command’s
Enduring Promise initiative. Working
with health and government partners in
Ecuador, Peru, Colombia and Honduras,
the embarked medical team will provide
care on board and at land-based medical
sites, helping to relieve pressure on na-
tional medical systems caused partly by
an increase in cross-border migrants. The
deployment reflects the United States’ en-
during promise of friendship, partnership
and solidarity with the Americas.”

“The medical team aboard the USNS
Comfort will work alongside the govern-
ment of Honduras to provide top-quality
medical care to people in need,” said U.S.
Navy Capt. William Shafley, commander,

Task Force 49. “This is Comfort’s second
visit to Honduras and her sixth mission to
South and Central America.”

On this final mission stop, more than
900 medical personnel, including mili-
tary, non-governmental organization
volunteers and members from partner na-
tions, began screening surgical patients
the day before the opening ceremony. The
medical site then treated patients for the
next 5 days, concluding on December 12.

“The foundation of every long-term,
successful cooperation is trust and shared
values,” said Shafley. “We build trust as
we work with one another to provide care
to those in need. We are successful when
we are working together.”

The Comfort’s past missions, in North
America, Central America, South Amer-
ica and the Middle East, have provided
medical treatment to more than 390,000
patients, including 6,000 surgeries. This
year alone, the Comfort has treated more
than 20,000 patients, and performed more
than 600 surgeries.

Army Col. Rob Manning, a spokes-
person for the Pentagon, recently talked
about the Comfort’s mission, saying,
“This is medical aid that civilians would
not otherwise have access to. Their pres-
ence speaks to how we see being a neigh-
bor in the Western Hemisphere and how
we see the importance of providing hu-
manitarian assistance to those that other-
wise would not have it.... The Venezuelan
health care system has all but collapsed
and can’t provide aid to its citizens. We
stand with the Venezuelan citizens during
their time of need. That’s what the sym-
bol of the Comfort means.”

USNS Comfort Supports
Operation Enduring Promise

President Juan Orlando Hernandez of Honduras (right in photo above) takes a picture as
he is transported to the hospital ship USNS Comfort for a tour and luncheon. The president
and first lady visited the Comfort during the ship’s five days of providing medical treatment in
Honduras. In photo below, sailors aboard the hospital ship USNS Comfort fuel a UH-60 Black
Hawk in between transporting patients from land to the vessel. (U.S. Army photos by Spc.
Joseph DeLuco)



6 Seafarers LOG January 2019

SIU Mariners Lend a Hand in Typhoon Recovery
SIU mariners sailing aboard Military

Sealift Command (MSC) vessels assigned
to Maritime Prepositioning Ships Squad-
ron Three (MPSRON 3) have been work-
ing to support the recovery efforts of the
Saipan and Tinian islands in the aftermath
of Super Typhoon Yutu. The islands are
part of the Commonwealth of the Northern
Mariana Islands, a U.S. territory.

“My squadron and I are honored to
contribute to Joint Task Force-West,” said
U.S. Navy Capt. Eric Lindfors, commo-
dore, MPSRON 3 and Task Force-West
(TF-W) Forward deputy commander. “The
level of devastation from Super Typhoon
Yutu is hard to describe, even when you
are here on the ground looking at it. The

challenges we face logistically being lo-
cated remotely in the Pacific further com-
plicates the recovery effort.”

The typhoon made landfall on Oct. 24,
and according to the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, Yutu was the
second-strongest system to hit U.S. soil in
recorded history. Hundreds of homes were
severely damaged, and many residents
were left without shelter, food or access to
clean water.

On Oct. 25, TF-W was stood up to help
with the recovery efforts, and ships from
MPSRON 3 have been providing sup-
port since Oct. 29. The SIU-crewed USNS
VADM K.R. Wheeler was the first ship to
arrive, and spearheaded the pier-side op-

erations. Along with fast transport ship
USNS Fast Tempo, the crew was able to
transport vital supplies and personnel from
Guam and from other ships at sea to shore.

Together, the crews of the Wheeler,
USNS John Glenn, USNS Soderman,
USNS Dahl, USNS Pililaau and MV Cap-
tain David I. Lyon moved 222,826 gallons
of water and 86,160 pounds of ice. All of
those vessels are crewed by SIU mariners.
The Wheeler (and Fast Tempo) are oper-
ated by TOTE Services; the John Glenn
by Ocean Shipholdings; the Soderman and
Dahl by Patriot; the Pililaau by U.S. Ma-
rine Management; and the Lyon by Sealift.

Tents, tarps, bottled water and camp
stoves were made readily available to

families in need. Beyond supplies and lo-
gistics, mariners also went ashore to assist
with debris cleanup, as well as washed 110
loads of laundry for emergency and medi-
cal service personnel.

“The resiliency of the Commonwealth
of the Northern Mariana Islands people
amazes me every day,” said Lindfors. “As
they confront the challenges of rebuilding,
the squadron and I look forward to con-
tinuing our relations and keeping strong
ties with the people of Saipan and Tinian.”

Editor’s note: Thanks to Wheeler
vessel master Capt. Glenn Macario
for the photos and background infor-
mation.

The Wheeler fills a potable water tank for distribution across Saipan. The USNS VADM K.R. Wheeler sits pier-side in Saipan.

Safety Directors Hone Skills at Paul Hall Center
SIU safety directors from across the

country recently converged in Piney Point,
Maryland, to brush up on the latest indus-
try trends.

Meeting at the union-affiliated Paul
Hall Center for Maritime Training and
Education (PHC) the last week of No-

vember were James Brown (from the
Port of New Orleans), Kathy Chester
(Oakland), Gordon Godel (Wilmington,
California), DeCarlo Harris (Baltimore),
Anthony Houston (Norfolk, Virginia),
Joseph Koncul (Jacksonville, Florida),
Andre MacCray (Philadelphia), Kevin

Marchand (Fort Lauderdale, Florida)
and Osvaldo Ramos (Jersey City, New
Jersey).

They tackled a full agenda that included
meetings with SIU President Michael
Sacco and other union officials, school
personnel, and representatives from the
Seafarers Plans and medical department.
They also met with individuals from the
legal office, and others.

“It was definitely worthwhile,” stated
Koncul. “We of course primarily focused
on safety, but we also discussed strategies
for staying ahead of the industry’s needs
and protecting members’ jobs as times
change.”

Godel said, “There’s tons to learn, and
I pick up something every time at these
meetings. I enjoy them; they’re very infor-
mative.”

SIU President Michael Sacco (right), PHC Acting VP Tom Orzechowski (center) and SIU
VP Contracts George Tricker address the safety directors.

Some of the safety directors (thus titled unless otherwise identified) are pictured with other
officials at the school. Seated from left are Andre MacCray, Paul Hall Center Acting VP
Tom Orzechowski, Kevin Marchand, PHC Instructor Wayne Johnson Jr. and SIU Asst. VP
Pat Vandegrift. Standing from left are Anthony Houston, Osvaldo Ramos, Joseph Koncul,
Kathy Chester, DeCarlo Harris, James Brown and Gordon Godel.

Recertified Steward Brian Burchette
recently highlighted the actions of a stew-
ard assistant who went above and beyond to
lighten the load on the galley crew.

“We were fortunate on board the Mid-
night Sun (operated by TOTE Maritime) to
have an additional SA added to the crew, due
to the fact we were feeding 40 extra mouths
in addition to the ship’s compliment,” said
Burchette. “This young man (SA) Gervacio
Simon proved to be an exceptional asset,
willing and able to do any task asked and al-
ways wanting to learn more about the stew-
ard department.”

Burchette commended Simon’s work
ethic and aptitude for the job, and described
the SA’s enthusiasm for continuing his ca-
reer and working his way up the ladder. He
also said that Simon is looking forward to
attending the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Cen-
ter for Maritime Training and Education (lo-
cated in Piney Point, Maryland) to upgrade
and further his skills.

As a token of their appreciation, Chief
Cook Matt Gallagher and Burchette pre-
sented Simon with some tools of the trade: a
chef’s knife, peeler, meat thermometer and
carrying case.

The steward also offered some words of
wisdom to his fellow mariners: “Every time
you come aboard a ship, whether it be for
four months or five days, you have an op-

portunity to not only present yourself and
represent the SIU, but to take pride in each
opportunity that the union affords you. Peo-
ple do care and people do notice.”

SA Gervacio Simon (left) receives a
chef’s knife, peeler, meat thermometer
and carrying case from Chief Cook Matt
Gallagher.

Recertified Steward, Chief Cook
Praise Work Ethic of ‘Young SA’



January 2019 Seafarers LOG 7

SIU VP Nick Marrone, U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee, SIU Asst. VP Nick
Celona U.S. Rep. John Garamendi

SIU VP Nick Marrone, U.S. Rep. Jimmy Panetta, SIU Asst. VP
Nick Celona

Oakland Thanksgiving Gathering a Hit
If the SIU’s annual Thanksgiving luncheon in Oak-

land, California, were a sports franchise, it would be
best described as dynastic.

Hosted at the hiring hall on the Tuesday before
the holiday, the yearly gathering is still going strong
after 28 years – most recently on Nov. 20. The 2018
iteration featured the usual assortment of great food,
fellowship, and guests including politicians; Marine
Corps and Coast Guard personnel; Seafarers, pension-
ers, and their families; officials and members from

other unions; shipping company executives and staff;
members of the police and fire fighting communities;
and others.

“We had a packed house and everything went
very well,” said SIU Assistant Vice President Nick
Celona, who worked closely with the committee that
organized the event. “The amount of positive feed-
back the SIU receives for this celebration is really
heartwarming and humbling, and I’m just grateful
it’s something that can be done every year. People re-

ally look forward to it.”
While the luncheon atmosphere was lighthearted,

guest speakers – including several members of Con-
gress – mentioned that the U.S. Merchant Marine
helps protect America’s national, economic and home-
land security. Similarly, they stressed the importance
of the Jones Act, a pillar of American-flag shipping.

Editor’s note: The photos on this page were pro-
vided by Charles Farruggia.

Jennifer Celona, Nick Marrone, U.S. Rep. Jerry McNerney, Nick Celona, Denise Celona,
Nick Marrone II, San Francisco Police Capt. Joseph McFadden

Capt. Jack Sullivan of Matson, Port Agent Nick Marrone II, U.S. Rep. Jerry McNerney, SIU
Asst. VP Nick Celona, SIU VP Nick Marrone, USCG Rear Adm. Peter Gautier

Bosun Michael Carvalho (right) joins members of the 4th Marine Division, 23rd Regi-
ment Color Guard.

Guests (photo above) pack the hall in Oakland, California.
In photo at top right, Art Pulaski, executive secretary-trea-
surer, California Labor Federation, speaks to those present.
San Francisco Fire Chief Joanne Hayes-White (photo at
immediate right), who is retiring, commends the SIU for its
annual luncheon and notes she attends each year.

SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (center) is pictured with members of the 4th Marine Divi-
sion, 23rd Regiment Color Guard.

U.S. Marines surprise SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (center) with a glass-encased sword. Pictured
from left are Sgt. B. Kin, Maj. Michael Baker, Celona, Port Agent Nick Marrone II and 1st Sgt.
Allen Latanero.



8 Seafarers LOG January 2019

At Sea and Ashore with the SIU

AT THE HALL IN LAUDERDALE – Asst. VP Kris Hopkins (right in both photos) presents a full book to
Wilson Montero (above, left) and a first pension check to Bruce Davidson (above, right), who started sailing
with the SIU in 1975.

ABOARD MAERSK IDAHO – Pictured aboard the Maersk Line, Limited
ship are (from left) Paul Hall Center Apprentice Anthony Brown, SIU Port
Agent Georg Kenny and Apprentice Cale Irons. Our extremely reliable
source (that’d be Georg) reports that the apprentices are “loving the life.”

ABOARD OCEAN SUN – This snapshot was taken in Lake Charles, Louisiana, aboard Crowley’s Ocean-Class tug. Pic-
tured from left are Patrolman Kelly Krick, AB Carey Brown, AB/Cook Angel Gonzalez, 2nd Mate Nate Leachman, Patrolman
J.B. Niday, AB Joel Lalin, Asst. Engineer John Guity, AB Boby Morales and Chief Engineer Robert Gretter.

FULL BOOK IN NEW YORK – Seafarer Felipe Gonza-
lez (right), a mate with Harley Marine NY, receives his full
book from Patrolman Ray Henderson. They’re pictured
aboard the Liberty in Brooklyn.

ABOARD MV WASHINGTON – Re-
certified Steward Michael Ingram sub-
mitted these photos from the Crowley
tanker. Individuals in all photos are
identified from left to right. In photo
below at left are ABs Michael Cov-
ington and Paul Clow. Shown in photo
below at right are ABs William Mathis
and Edward Wright. Pictured in the
crew mess (photo at immediate right)
are QMED Philip Francia, Bosun
Mondesto Rabena, Oiler Charles Car-
roll, SA Nasser Alarqban, AB Wright
and Pumpman Diole Bonifacio. The re-
maining photo (below, center) includes
Crowley VP Tucker Gilliam, Chief Cook
Gary Loftin, SA Alarqban, Recertified
Steward Ingram and Crowley VP/GM
Robert Grune.



January 2019 Seafarers LOG 9

ABOARD HORIZON ENTERPRISE – Recertified Bosun George Khan (photo above, far left) emailed these photos late last year from the Sunrise Operations vessel. Pictured from
left in photo second from left are ABs Bobby Belches and Victor Frazier. EU Albert Dulig is shown in photo third from left, while AB Gary Cardillo is pictured in photo second from right.
The remaining image at the far right features AB Fadhl Said.

At Sea and Ashore with the SIU

ABOARD MAERSK PEARY – Recertified Steward Tony
Spain (left) congratulates GSTU Deirick Coltrane for win-
ning Maersk Line, Limited’s monthly safety award aboard
the Peary.

ON THE WATER IN MARYLAND – After a recent stop in Baltimore, the SIU-crewed SLNC York (Annapolis-based Chesa-
peake Crewing) sails past the Bay Bridge in Annapolis, Maryland.

ABOARD TYCO DECISIVE – Chief Mate Timothy McDonald reports that a retirement party for AB Mahmood Tahir took place aboard the cable ship Oct. 28, a few days out from San
Diego. Tahir first sailed with the SIU in 1991, aboard the USNS Vindicator. He’s pictured at left in photo above at right, with Recertified Bosun Victor Nunez, who is presenting ship
souvenirs. The group photo includes (kneeling) AB/Splicer-Joiner Joel Saul and (from left) Chief Cook Walter Schoppe, Apprentice Jack Lanier, Recertified Bosun Nunez, GVA Shayla
Stafford, AB/Splicer-Joiner Santos Contreras, AB Tahir, SA Jony Morales Martinez, OMU Jarrett Ford, Bosun’s Mate Emilio Abreu, AB Thomas Flores Garcia and OMU Mohamad
Kammoun. Thanks to the chief mate for the photos.

ABOARD USNS MAURY
– Pictured aboard the
Ocean Shipholdings-
operated vessel in photo
at immediate right are
Chief Cook Alvin Watson
(left) and Steward/Baker
Joseph Hernandez. MDR
Brandon Maeda supplied
the photo and noted his
fellow Seafarers were
“working the hot grill this
afternoon so that we
could have something
special for dinner tonight.
Great menus, great food
and great service, what
more can you ask?!”

ABOARD USNS ALGOL
– Seafarers gather for a
photo aboard the RRF
vessel in San Fran-
cisco following a servic-
ing. Mariners from the
Algol and USNS Ca-
pella (both operated by
Ocean Duchess) are
included. From left in
photo at left are GUDE
Edsel Felipe, Recerti-
fied Steward McKinley
Jones, Port Agent Nick
Marrone II, GUDE Moh-
sin Mohamed, Bosun
Charles Frisella, GUDE
Emmanuel Bayani, QEE
Salah Saleh and Bosun
Gill Sickles.



10 Seafarers LOG January 2019

Spotlight on Mariner Health

Healthful Recipe
Turkey Meatloaf

Servings: 25

Editor’s note: This article is provided by
the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medi-
cal Department.

A blood clot is a clump of blood that has
changed from a liquid to a gel-like substance
that’s in semisolid state.

Your body has a clotting process that is
inherent in order for a person not to lose too
much blood in certain circumstances, such as
when you are cut or injured.

When a clot forms inside one of your
veins, it may not always dissolve on its own.
This can be quite dangerous and sometimes
life-threatening.

When a blood clot is immobile it will gen-
erally not harm you. However, if that blood
clot dislodges and starts to travel it can be
very dangerous, depending on the area of the
body it may move to. If the clot travels to the
heart or lungs, it can get stuck and prevent
blood flow. This is a medical emergency.

A doctor should be called immediately if
you think you may have this type of situation.
A doctor can look at lab work, your symp-
toms, and scans to see if this has occurred.
The health care professional will take your
health history and ask many questions to help
make a determination.

Your circulatory system is made up of
blood vessels called veins and arteries. They
transport blood throughout your body.

When a blood clot occurs in an artery, it
is called an arterial clot. This clot will cause
symptoms immediately; emergency treat-
ment is necessary to save a person’s life.
Symptoms of an arterial clot are severe pain,
or paralysis of a part of the body. The blood
clot can lead to a heart attack or a stroke.

A clot that happens in a vein is called a ve-

nous clot. This type of clot usually builds up
slowly, but they are still life-threatening. The
most serious is called a deep vein thrombosis.
This most commonly occurs in the legs, but
can also happen in the arms, pelvis, lungs, or
even in the brain.

When a blood clot is suspected, the per-
son may have swelling in the affected area,
pain, shortness of breath, tenderness to the
area, a warm sensation or a discoloration of
the affected part – usually a red color.

The symptoms depend on the size of the
clot. This is why some people may not have
symptoms until the clot progresses in size.

The risk factors for a person developing a
blood clot are age, especially if you are over
65 years old, lengthy travel where you are sit-
ting for a prolonged period, or bedrest and
being sedentary for a long time. Other risk
factors include obesity, pregnancy, smoking,
cancer, certain types of birth control pills, or
a family history of blood clots.

Call or visit a doctor if you develop sud-
den shortness of breath, persistent coughing,
chest pressure, and difficulty seeing or speak-
ing.

Treatment depends on the area of the clot
and the severity. After diagnosis, lab testing
and scans, the doctor may start the patient
on blood thinners (anticoagulants), rest and
immobilization of the affected part, pressure
stockings, or maybe even surgery.

Recovery may take some time. The medi-
cation used to ensure that the blood clot dis-
solves and does not return can be costly and
require frequent blood testing.

Doing what the doctor advises and chang-
ing some lifestyle choices can be beneficial
to the health, wellbeing, and longevity of the
individual’s life.

Preventing, Treating Blood Clots

Ingredients
7 1/2 pounds ground turkey
5/8 pound celery, diced fine
1 5/8 pounds onions, diced fine
10 cloves garlic, minced fine
1/2 tablespoon granulated garlic
3/8 cup olive oil
2 1/2 tablespoons thyme, dry crushed
1 tablespoon sage, dry crushed
1 tablespoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons black pepper
7 ounces wheat bran
3/4 cup ketchup
3 1/3 tablespoons worcestershire sauce
1 1/4 cups Italian parsley, chopped
3/4 cup egg white
1/2 cup ketchup, to top the loaves

Preparation
Sauté the onions and celery in the olive

oil until translucent but not browned. Add the
minced garlic, herbs, salt, pepper, and season-
ings; sauté for about 2 minutes. Remove from
the pan and cool. Set aside for later use.

Place the ground turkey in a large mixing
bowl. Add the bran, 3/4 cup ketchup, worces-
tershire sauce, parsley, and egg whites and mix
well. Stir in the sauté cooled vegetables.

Place the turkey mixture into roasting pans.
Once in the pans make two loafs in each pan.
Top each loaf with about 4 tablespoons of
ketchup on each loaf and make smooth. Cover

each pan with plastic wrap and foil.
Bake the meatloaf in a 350-degree F oven

for about 1 hour and 20 minutes until internal
temperature reaches 165 degrees F. Let the
cooked loaf rest on the counter for at least 15
minutes before slicing.

Cut the loaves into 4 oz portions and place
into 2” hotel pans. Serve above 135 degrees F.

Nutrition Information
Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 283
Calories; 15g fat (46.2 percent calories from
fat) 27g protein; 13g carbohydrate; 5g dietary
fiber; 108mg cholesterol; 570 mg sodium.
Exchanges: 1/2 grain (starch); 3 1/2 lean meat;
1/2 vegetable; 1 fat; 0 other carbohydrates.

Provided by Chef Robert “RJ” Johnson of the
Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and
Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship

EARN YOUR COLLEGE DEGREE

THROUGH THE PAUL HALL CENTER !

The following classes will convene at
SHLSS:

January 14, 2019 through February 1, 2019

English 1011 – Composition and Rhetoric

Math 1011 – Math for Technologies

7 Credit Hours

Includes: tuition, textbooks, room and
board plus one hour of tutoring following

each daily class session

The Paul Hall Center’s Seafarers Harry
Lundeberg School of Seamanship (SHLSS)
has partnered with the College of Southern
Maryland (CSM) to offer an Associate of
Applied Science degree in Maritime
Operations Technology with a concentration
in either

Nautical Science (Deck department)

-or-

Marine Engineering (Engine dept.)

Students must complete a combination of
academic general education courses and
technical education courses in order to earn
the degree.

Courses completed during the Unlicensed
Apprentice program apply toward the
degree.

Students can complete English, Math and
Physics courses at SHLSS. The remaining
general education courses can be completed
online.



Associate of Applied Science Degree

UA courses apply toward the degree

Fully accredited

Some courses held at SHLSS

Online classes

Scholarships available

Enrollment Information

Please contact Seafarers Harry Lundeberg
School Academic Coordinator Dale Rausch

(301) 994-0010 Ext. 5411 -or-
drausch@seafarers.org

Each year, the Seafarers Health and
Benefits Plan (SHBP) makes scholarships
available to qualified individuals who are
looking to further their education.

The 2019 program will offer eight
awards totaling $132,000. Three scholar-
ships will be designated for Seafarers while
five will be targeted for spouses and depen-
dents. One of the endowments reserved for
Seafarers totals $20,000 and is intended to
help defray the costs associated with at-
tending a four-year, college-level course of
study. The remaining two are in the amount
of $6,000 each and are designed as two-
year awards for study at a postsecondary
vocational school or community college.
Each of the five scholarships for spouses
and dependents is for $20,000.

Now is an ideal time to begin the ap-
plication process. The first step is to obtain
a scholarship program booklet. This pack-
age contains eligibility information, proce-
dures for applying for the scholarships and
an application form. Union members and
their dependents now have three avenues
through which they may obtain this book-
let.

First, as has been the case in the past,
prospective applicants may request these
booklets via mail by completing and mail-
ing the form provided below. Secondly,
they may obtain the booklets by visiting
any SIU hall. Finally, applicants may ob-
tain the booklet online by visiting www.
seafarers.org, going to the About tab, navi-
gating to the Seafarers Health and Ben-
efits Plan menu and selecting Scholarship
Application (PDF).

Once the scholarship booklet has been
received, applicants should check the eli-
gibility criteria. They should also begin
collecting and assembling the remainder
of the paperwork needed to submit with
the full application, which must be re-
ceived by April 15, 2019.

Items that need to be incorporated in
the final application package include tran-
scripts and certificates of graduation. Since
some institutions respond slowly in han-
dling transcript needs, requests should be
made as early as possible.

Letters of recommendation – solicited
from individuals who know the applicant’s
character, personality and career goals –
should be included as part of the applica-
tion package. A high-quality photograph
and a certified copy of the applicant’s birth
certificate are also required and should ac-
company the package.

A scholarship selection committee, con-
sisting of a panel of professional educators,
will examine the high school grades of all
applicants as well as evaluate scores from
their Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SAT) and
American College Tests (ACT). Accord-
ingly, arrangements should be made by ap-
plicants who have not done so to take these
tests no later than February 2019. Doing so
will virtually assure that the results reach
the evaluation committee in time for re-
view.

Seafarers and dependents who previ-
ously applied for the scholarship program
and were not selected are encouraged to
apply again this year, provided they still
meet the eligibility requirements.

SHBP Offers Scholarship Funds

Please send me the 2019 SHBP Scholarship Program Booklet which contains eligi-
bility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form.

Name ................................................................................................................................
Street Address ..................................................................................................................
City, State, Zip Code.........................................................................................................
Telephone Number ( ) ................................................................................................
This application is for: Self Dependent
Mail this completed form to: Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan,
5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 1/19



January 2019 Seafarers LOG 11

The following photos were submitted by
Bosun Godofredo Milabo from aboard the
USNS Dewayne T. Williams. The crew of the
Williams – which is operated by Crowley – had
just completed their participation in the annual
Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training
(CARAT) exercise, which ran from June 14 to
Nov. 30.

According to the U.S. Navy, “CARAT is an
annual, nine-country bilateral naval exercise
series between the United States and Bangla-
desh, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia,
Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand, and Timor
Leste and is designed to enhance maritime secu-
rity skills and operational cohesiveness among
participating forces.”

To celebrate another successful exercise, the
steward department members aboard the Wil-
liams organized a cookout for both U.S. and
Bangladesh Navy members on the stern of the
vessel. The results of that cookout are depicted
here.

USNS Williams Galley Gang Caps Multinational
Military Exercise With Scrumptious Cookout

Chief Steward Elizabeth Ibanez makes sure the food has been prepared correctly.

Pictured from left to right are Chief Cook
Kenyetta Isom, Chief Steward Elizabeth
Ibanez, OS Michelle Conage and Bosun
Godofredo Milabo.

Pictured from left are OS Christopher Gomil-
lion, OS Rashad Madison and OS Michelle
Conage. The bosun notes that all three OSs
sail from the port of Jacksonville, Florida, and
worked hard in preparation for the exercise to
help make sure the vessel was in tip-top shape.

Personnel from both navies line up for food and camaraderie.

Both the crew of the Williams and their guests from the Bangladesh Navy and U.S.
Navy enjoy some BBQ on the stern.

In a comprehensive new policy agenda,
the Economic Policy Institute (EPI) de-
tails solutions to address rising inequal-
ity and ensure that everybody in America
gets a fair cut of the benefits of economic
growth they help create. The growing pay
disparity has been the result of intentional
policy decisions made on behalf of the
rich and corporate interests, and only a
complete reorientation of these policy
levers can reverse this, the EPI stated in
early December.

“As Congress prepares to start its 116th
session, EPI’s Policy Agenda plots a de-
liberate and expansive set of policies Con-
gress could enact to rebalance power back
to the broad majority,” the organization
said in a news release.

Specifically addressing its proposed
agenda, the EPA said that its plans pro-
vide “a diagnosis of the problem and a
recommendation for reform across a range
of economic policy issues, recommend-
ing changes in labor, tax, budget, trade,

macroeconomic, regulatory, and climate
policies. The disparate impact of policy
changes across racial and gender lines
is highlighted throughout, and race- and
gender-targeted policies are also exam-
ined in a stand-alone section.”

“For most of the last four decades,
income inequality has exploded, income
growth for the vast majority has slowed
to a crawl, and progress in closing gender
and racial income gaps has been either too
slow or nonexistent,” said EPI Director of
Policy Heidi Shierholz. “Policymakers
must take bold steps to unrig the econo-
my’s rules, paying particular attention to
policies that tilt bargaining power back
toward low- and middle-wage workers.”

The organizing principle behind the
agenda is that economic outcomes over-
whelmingly reflect intentional policy
decisions – and if these outcomes were
created by policies, they can be changed
by different policies. A key example of
this approach can be seen in the EPI’s rec-

ommendations surrounding labor markets.
A growing body of research has shown
that leverage and bargaining power are
key determinants of workers’ wages, and
wage growth for most workers has suf-
fered in recent decades precisely because
their leverage and bargaining power have
been intentionally weakened by policy
choices.

The EPI’s Policy Agenda recommends
boosting this leverage with a range of spe-
cific policies, including labor law reform
to allow workers to effectively bargain
collectively, higher minimum wages, up-
dated overtime standards, banning forced
class and collective action waivers as a
condition of employment, and more-ro-
bust enforcement of anti-discrimination
laws.

“Inequality didn’t explode because of
any one legislative bill or policy change.
Instead, it happened because lobbyists
and advocates for the rich and corpora-
tions worked every single day for decades

to find policy levers that could be pulled
to send every last penny to their clients,”
said EPI Research Director Josh Bivens.
“Reversing this inequality will require
an approach every bit as consistent and
dogged and far-reaching. This roadmap is
a good place to start.”

The complete document is posted on
the EPI website, epi.org.

The EPI is a nonprofit, nonpartisan
think tank created in 1986 to include the
needs of low- and middle-income work-
ers in economic policy discussions. On its
website, the EPI states that it “believes
every working person deserves a good job
with fair pay, affordable health care, and
retirement security. To achieve this goal,
EPI conducts research and analysis on the
economic status of working America. EPI
proposes public policies that protect and
improve the economic conditions of low-
and middle-income workers and assesses
policies with respect to how they affect
those workers.”

EPI’s ‘Policy Roadmap’ Would Boost Workers
Think-Tank Details Path to Deliver Economic Opportunity, Security



12 Seafarers LOG January 2019

American Mariner

The photos on this page were submitted by Port
Agent Todd Brdak, and were taken while servicing
the SIU crews of the American Steamship Com-
pany-operated American Mariner and the Armstrong
Steamship Company-operated Walter J. McCarthy.
The Mariner was docked in Toledo, Ohio, and the
McCarthy was docked in Superior, Wisconsin.

With Seafarers
On the Great Lakes

ABWH Dennis Fitzpatrick The American Mariner docked in Toledo, Ohio
From left: Bosun Mohamed Mohsin, QMED Preston Eiland and
Port Agent Todd Brdak

Chief Cook Mohamed Noman From left: Conveyorman Zaid Mesleh, Port Agent Todd Brdak
and ABWH Nassor James

From left: Gateman Wisam Mesleh, ACU Amin Saleh and
Conveyorman Zaid Mesleh

GUDE Daryl Hicks tying up the Walter J. McCar-
thy The Walter J. McCarthy unloading its boom The Walter J. McCarthy docking in Superior, Wisconsin

Gateman Taha Al Amri tying up the Walter J. McCarthy

Walter J. McCarthy



January 2019 Seafarers LOG 13

One of the SIU’s longstanding traditions is celebrating the winter holidays together, both at
sea and at the hiring halls. Some of the oldest photos on file in the LOG office show Thanks-
giving and Christmas gatherings at various halls. More recently, Seafarers have generously
shared their respective shipboard holiday snapshots with the union’s official publication.

In that spirit, this page features a sampling of Thanksgiving photos from the El Coqui
(operated by Crowley), the Indiana Harbor (American Steamship), and the Honolulu hall.

Visit the SIU Facebook page (@SeafarersInternational) for additional snapshots, both
from the aforementioned locations and from our historic files.

AB Maintenance Jose Canales, AB Maintenance Xavier Alfaro, AB Manuel Rodríguez, Recertified
Bosun Wilfredo Velez, AB Jonathan Rivera

Chief Cook Kevin Valentin, Chief Steward Juan Guanill, SA La’sonia Randolph

El Coqui

SIU Tradition: Seafarers
Brighten Thanksgiving

Aboard Vessels, at Halls

Honolulu Hall Indiana Harbor

Chief Cook Saleh Saleh



14 Seafarers LOG January 2019

3

CREDIT
CARDS

MORTGAGE
PROGRAM

FLOWERS
& GIFTS

Everyday Savings

Learn more at
unionplus.org

Save every day with union member-only discounts

FREE
COLLEGE

1/19



January 2019 Seafarers LOG 15

November 15, 2018 - December 14, 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 22 8 0 11 7 1 3 33 8 0
Anchorage 2 2 1 2 1 0 1 2 5 1
Baltimore 5 3 0 1 2 0 0 5 4 0
Fort Lauderdale 19 11 2 11 11 1 13 36 22 7
Guam 5 1 0 2 2 0 0 4 2 1
Harvey 10 4 1 3 1 1 3 16 6 11
Honolulu 7 3 1 2 3 2 1 14 8 1
Houston 46 25 10 34 11 12 15 97 34 20
Jacksonville 37 17 7 25 14 5 15 68 30 14
Jersey City 38 12 2 30 9 1 17 58 18 8
Joliet 4 3 1 4 2 1 0 1 6 0
Mobile 9 3 5 4 5 4 6 15 7 5
Norfolk 21 16 9 20 13 9 15 38 27 17
Oakland 14 5 3 8 4 5 10 19 5 5
Philadelphia 5 2 0 3 2 1 2 5 3 1
Piney Point 1 5 1 0 2 0 1 3 4 1
Puerto Rico 8 5 1 6 4 0 6 13 10 1
Tacoma 32 13 6 29 7 7 24 63 19 12
St. Louis 2 0 2 1 0 2 1 2 1 1
Wilmington 35 6 9 19 4 3 11 56 19 15
TOTALS 322 144 61 215 104 55 144 548 238 121

Engine Department
Algonac 5 1 1 0 0 1 0 7 2 1
Anchorage 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0
Baltimore 3 1 1 2 1 0 1 4 3 2
Fort Lauderdale 9 7 0 6 4 0 6 16 9 3
Guam 2 0 1 0 1 0 0 3 0 1
Harvey 2 4 0 1 1 0 0 3 6 0
Honolulu 4 0 3 1 0 1 0 14 5 2
Houston 18 10 3 9 5 3 14 28 15 6
Jacksonville 18 17 2 13 11 1 8 39 25 3
Jersey City 12 6 1 12 7 0 7 23 7 1
Joliet 3 2 0 3 1 0 0 3 1 1
Mobile 5 5 3 2 3 2 1 5 4 1
Norfolk 9 15 7 6 13 4 8 19 24 12
Oakland 7 7 3 8 4 1 2 13 9 3
Philadelphia 4 5 0 2 4 0 2 4 5 0
Piney Point 3 2 0 2 3 0 3 1 6 0
Puerto Rico 5 2 0 3 4 0 2 12 2 1
Tacoma 12 2 3 12 5 0 12 21 12 7
St. Louis 2 1 0 2 1 0 2 3 2 1
Wilmington 13 12 6 6 12 1 9 29 16 8
TOTALS 137 100 34 90 80 14 77 249 154 53

Steward Department
Algonac 4 2 0 2 1 0 0 7 4 0
Anchorage 1 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 0
Baltimore 2 1 0 0 1 0 2 4 1 0
Fort Lauderdale 9 6 2 5 4 1 5 14 6 1
Guam 2 1 0 2 0 0 0 3 1 0
Harvey 3 2 1 2 0 0 1 8 2 0
Honolulu 6 0 0 3 0 0 1 15 2 0
Houston 12 6 2 15 4 1 7 28 6 3
Jacksonville 16 10 1 11 12 2 7 33 15 2
Jersey City 16 2 0 12 0 0 5 17 4 0
Joliet 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0
Mobile 5 3 0 1 2 0 2 9 6 0
Norfolk 15 7 1 8 5 0 5 29 14 2
Oakland 13 0 2 6 1 0 6 29 6 2
Philadelphia 2 0 0 1 0 0 1 2 0 0
Piney Point 4 2 1 2 2 0 2 2 4 1
Puerto Rico 3 10 1 3 4 1 4 6 8 0
Seattle 10 2 0 8 2 0 5 17 3 1
St. Louis 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0
Wilmington 26 12 1 12 9 1 15 43 12 0
TOTALS 149 68 12 94 47 6 69 267 96 12

Entry Department
Algonac 1 7 7 0 5 4 1 1 9 13
Anchorage 0 1 2 0 0 1 1 0 3 3
Baltimore 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 4
Fort Lauderdale 0 10 6 0 3 4 0 3 10 8
Guam 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 1
Harvey 0 3 5 0 3 1 0 2 2 4
Honolulu 0 4 3 0 1 2 1 1 8 12
Houston 3 8 16 5 13 8 5 6 20 32
Jacksonville 1 15 27 1 18 20 3 6 23 65
Jersey City 3 13 6 0 9 4 4 6 23 13
Joliet 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 4 1
Mobile 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 1
Norfolk 0 19 17 1 9 22 3 1 34 47
Oakland 5 12 18 1 4 5 1 6 22 31
Philadelphia 0 1 3 0 1 2 0 0 2 0
Piney Point 0 1 1 0 0 0 2 0 1 1
Puerto Rico 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 3 1 1
Tacoma 3 8 6 1 3 8 1 6 18 16
St. Louis 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0
Wilmington 3 16 10 3 17 7 4 2 46 28
TOTALS 19 123 130 13 87 90 27 43 232 281

GRAND TOTAL: 627 435 237 412 318 165 317 1,107 720 467

Piney Point................................Monday: January 7, February 4
Algonac......................................Friday: January 11, February 8
Baltimore...............................Thursday: January 10, February 7
Guam....................................Thursday: January 24, February 21

Honolulu...................................Friday: January 18, February 15

Houston....................................Monday: January 14, February 11

Jacksonville...........................Thursday: January 10, February 7

Joliet....................................Thursday: January 17, February 14

Mobile..............................Wednesday: January 16, February 13

New Orleans...........................Tuesday: January 15, February 12

Jersey City................................Tuesday: January 8, February 5

Norfolk..................................Thursday: January 10, February 7

Oakland...............................Thursday: January 17, February 14

Philadelphia.........................Wednesday: January 9, February 6

Port Everglades...................Thursday: January 17, February 14

San Juan...............................Thursday: January 10, February 7

St. Louis...................................Friday: January 18, February 15

Tacoma.....................................Friday: January 25, February 22

Wilmington...........................*Tuesday: January 22, *February 19

* Wilmington changes due to Martin Luther King Jr.’s and
Presidents Day observances.

Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m

January & February 2019
Membership Meetings

SPAD Works For You.
Contribute To The

Seafarers Political Activities Donation

SPAD

Mariners applying for a Merchant Mariner Credential
(MMC) must list their occupation as Merchant Mariner on
their Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
applications. The United States Coast Guard relies on data
provided by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
when evaluating MMC applications.

Personal data supplied to TSA must match what is provided
to the Coast Guard on the MMC application. If a TWIC appli-
cant does not list his or her occupation as Merchant Mariner,
the Coast Guard cannot reconcile the data provided by the
TSA. In such cases, mariners may be asked to work with TSA
to update information, which could result in MMC application
issuance delays.

To begin the application process for a TWIC, visit the TSA
TWIC enrollment website (https://universalenroll.dhs.gov/
programs/twic).

NMC Notice on TWIC Enrollment
The U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center issued

the following notice on Nov. 13. It’s posted in the News sec-
tion of the SIU website, www.seafarers.org

Important Information
On TWIC Enrollment

ATTENTION SEAFARERS
Another New Ship



16 Seafarers LOG January 2019

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

Kate Hunt,
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

SAN JUAN
659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills

San Juan, PR 00920
(939) 204-0337

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

This month’s question was answered by members at the hall in Wilmington, California.

Joseph George Welle III
Recertified Steward

There are a lot of things I like.
My career is pretty exciting. Besides
seeing all the different parts of the
world, the most exciting part is pro-
viding for my family. For me, that’s
the most important thing, because not
all people can provide. It’s also doing
things you love the most, like cook-
ing and travelling. It’s exciting.

Ruben Siclot
ACU

I like my job. I’ve been an ACU
for a long time, and I just love my
job and supporting my family. I make
good money. I’ve been in this line of
work since I was 18. I enjoy being on
the ship, traveling a lot.

Ramon Guimba
AB

The first things I like are going to
different places, making good money
and eating good food. Everything is
taken care of and we always empha-
size safety. I started in 1993 and am
very happy with the union. The SIU
is always good to my family, always
supportive. I’m going to stick with it.

Daniel Bermudez
SA

I love the kitchen, so that’s a plus.
I’ve been cooking for a long time. I
get to do what I love. Most impor-
tant is just being able to provide for
my family, and travelling. Going
to Sudan was interesting – culture
shock. I’ll remember that experience
for a long time.

Question: What are some of the things you like about your career?

Dan Coffey
Pumpman

I enjoyed it since I first got into it. I
enjoy the camaraderie on the ship, and
I really enjoy my time off. I only ship
about 140 days a year, but I do like the
family environment at the union halls.
It’s always nice to sail with people
you met at the hall. On my time off, I
enjoy restoring boats, I’m an avid skate-
boarder and snowboarder, and I like to
be out enjoying life and enjoying time
off. This job gives you that opportunity.

Hassan M. Mohamed
GUDE

This job is wonderful. I’ve been
with the SIU almost 26 years, and
I’ve been happy. This is my union –
I have to provide for my union and
they have to provide for me, too. It’s
a good union and I get good jobs that
mean I can support my family. It’s
great; I don’t have any problems and
I respect the officials.

Pic From The Past

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

Retired Bosun John Gallagher submitted this gem from 1946, taken at Sloppy Joe’s Bar in Havana, Cuba. These are SIU ship-
mates from the U.S. Army Transport Peter Desmet (sometimes listed as De Smet). Pictured from left are an unknown Seafarer,
Chief Steward Bob, Tim from the engine department, AB Frank Wherrity and Bosun Gallagher.



January 2019 Seafarers LOG 17

DEEP SEA

KENNETH GARNER
Brother Kenneth Garner, 62,
became a member of the union
in 1995. Initially sailing in the
inland division, he first worked
for Delta Queen Steamboat Co.
Brother Garner sailed in both
the deck and engine depart-
ments, and upgraded on several
occasions at the union-affili-
ated Paul Hall Center. He last
sailed on the Atlantic Forest,
and settled in New Orleans.

BERT GILLIS
Brother Bert Gillis, 65, started
his SIU career
in 1978 when
he shipped on
the Aquarius.
He was a deck
department
member up-
graded often at
the Piney Point
school. Brother
Gillis most recently shipped
aboard the Taurus. He lives in
Mobile, Alabama.

PAULETTE HILLIARD
Sister Paulette Hilliard, 65,
embarked on her SIU career in

1997, first sail-
ing aboard the
USNS Regulus.
She worked
as a member
of the steward
department and
upgraded on
multiple oc-
casions at the

Piney Point school. Sister Hill-
iard most recently sailed on the
USNS Yano. She calls Harvey,
Louisiana, home.

DENNIS HUNT
Brother Dennis Hunt, 65,
signed on with the SIU in
1991, initially
sailing on the
USNS Relent-
less. He was
a steward
department
member and
upgraded at
the Paul Hall
Center in
2002. Brother Hunt most re-
cently sailed aboard the USNS
Bruce Heezen. He resides in
Pensacola, Florida.

JOSEPH LAGUANA
Brother Joseph Laguana, 70,
began his career with the Sea-

farers in 1990,
first sailing
on the USNS
Altair. The
engine depart-
ment member
upgraded his
skills on mul-

tiple occasions at the maritime
training facility located in
Piney Point, Maryland. Brother
Laguana most recently sailed
aboard the Midnight Sun. He
calls Bremerton, Washington,
home.

LEO LARSEN
Brother Leo Larsen, 65, joined
the SIU in 1975 and initially

sailed on the
Pacer. He
was a member
of the deck
department
and last sailed
aboard the
Innovator.
Brother Larsen

resides in Foster City, Califor-
nia.

ANGEL PEREZ
Brother Angel Perez, 67,
signed on with the SIU in
1988, first sailing aboard the
Challenger. A deck department
member, he upgraded on nu-
merous occasions at the Piney
Point school. Brother Perez’s
final ship was the William
R. Button. He calls Luquillo,
Puerto Rico, home.

EDWARD RYNBERG
Brother Edward Rynberg, 71,
joined the SIU in 1990. He first
shipped on the USNS Wilkes
and upgraded often at the mari-
time training facility located in
Piney Point, Maryland. Brother
Rynberg was an engine depart-
ment member and also worked
on shore gangs. He last sailed
aboard the Sealand Trader, and
resides in Alameda, California.

JUAN SANCHEZ CABRERA
Brother Juan Sanchez Cabrera,
65, joined the union in 2000,
first sailing
aboard the
USNS Bob
Hope. He
worked in the
engine depart-
ment and up-
graded at the
Piney Point
school in 2003.
Brother Sanchez Cabrera last
sailed on the Sumner; he lives
in Naranjito, Puerto Rico.

OSVALDO SANCHEZ RIVERA

Brother Osvaldo Sanchez Ri-
vera, 65, joined the Seafarers
in 2001, initially sailing in the
Great Lakes division. He up-

graded at the
Paul Hall Cen-
ter the year he
signed on and
worked in both
the engine and
steward depart-
ments. Brother

Sanchez Rivera’s first vessel
was the Saturn; his last, the
Maersk Idaho. He makes his
home in Brooklyn, New York.

MARTIN TINKER
Brother Martin Tinker, 72,
became an SIU member in
1991. His first vessel was the
Lake, and he sailed in all three
departments. Brother Tinker
last sailed aboard the Wil-
liam Baugh. He calls Yellow
Springs, Ohio, home.

GREAT LAKES

GERALD BEAUBIEN
Brother Gerald Beaubien, 59,
signed on with the union in
1978, initially working on the

Exchange.
He shipped in
the deck de-
partment and
upgraded on
several occa-
sions at the
Piney Point
school. Brother
Beaubien most

recently sailed on the American
Mariner. He resides in Alpena,
Michigan.

JEFFERY ECKHART
Brother Jeffery Eckhart, 61,
began his career with the Sea-
farers in 1977 when he sailed
on the Sam Laud. He upgraded
on several occasions at the Paul
Hall Center and was a mem-
ber of the deck department.
Brother Eckhart most recently
sailed on the Great Republic.
He resides in Ossineke, Michi-
gan.

LARRY MIDDLETON

Brother Larry Middleton, 65,
became a union member in
2007, initially
working on the
Pride of Ha-
waii. A mem-
ber of the deck
department,
he upgraded
on several
occasions at
the Paul Hall Center. Brother
Middleton most recently sailed
on the Walter J. McCarthy. He
makes his home in Mayville,
Michigan.

INLAND

JIMMY BANNISTER
Brother Jimmy Bannister, 62,
joined the SIU in 1977 when

he worked with
Dravo Basic
Materials. He
was a member
of the deck
department
and remained
with the same

company for the duration of his
career. Brother Bannister lives
in Uriah, Alabama.

TIMOTHY CLASEMAN
Brother Timothy Claseman,
65, started his SIU career in
1997, first working for Penn
Maritime. He was a deck de-
partment member and spent the
remainder of his career work-
ing for G&H Towing. Brother
Claseman makes his home in
Corpus Christi, Texas.

ROBERT GREGGS
Brother Robert Greggs, 62,
signed on with the Seafarers in

1975, initially
sailing aboard
the Ponce in
the deep sea
division. He
upgraded often
at the Paul Hall
Center and was
a deck depart-
ment member.

Brother Greggs last sailed with
OSG Ship Management be-
fore settling in Moyock, North
Carolina.

GEORGE ELMER
Brother George Elmer, 65,
joined the union in 1980 when
he worked
with Sealand
Manpower
in Houston.
He worked
on the same
shore gang for
the duration
of his career,
and makes his
home in Montgomery, Texas.

VIVION MCRAE
Brother Vivion McRae, 67,
became a member of the SIU
in 1976 when he worked for
Dravo Basic Materials. A deck
department member, he sailed
with the same company for his
entire career. Brother McRae
lives in Wilmer, Alabama.

JAMES MULHOLLAND
Brother James Mulholland, 56,
joined the union in 1996 when

he worked for
Crowley. He
spent his entire
career with the
same company,
most recently
at Penn Ter-
minal. Brother
Mulholland
resides in Turn-

ersville, New Jersey.

ANTHONY MYKLICH
Brother Anthony Myklich,
62, began his SIU career in
1989 when he worked with
OSG Ship Management. He
upgraded at the Piney Point

school on nu-
merous occa-
sions and was a
member of the
deck depart-
ment. Brother
Myklich sailed
with the same
company for his
entire career. He calls Glass-
boro, New Jersey, home.

EDUARDO OLAES
Brother Eduardo Olaes, 68,
signed on with the union in
2003, working for Allied
Transportation. A steward de-
partment member, he upgraded
at the Paul Hall Center within
his first year with the SIU.
Brother Olaes remained with
the same company for the dura-
tion of his career. He resides in
Virginia Beach, Virginia.

JOHN SHEPHERD
Brother John Shepherd, 62,
became a Seafarer in 1978,
initially sailing in the deep sea

division. He
was a deck de-
partment mem-
ber and first
sailed on the
Point Susan.
Brother Shep-
herd upgraded
on multiple
occasions at

the maritime training center in
Piney Point, Maryland. He last
sailed aboard the Liberty Island
and lives in Royal, Arkansas.

ROBERT STONE
Brother Robert Stone, 62,
joined the SIU in 1978, when
he shipped on the Portland. He
sailed in both
the deck and
engine depart-
ments and up-
graded often at
the union-affil-
iated Paul Hall
Center. Brother
Stone concluded
his career working for Crowley
Towing and Transportation. He
settled in Willow Grove, Penn-
sylvania.

NMU

ROBERT HART
Brother Robert
Hart, 65, became
a member of
the SIU in 2001
during the SIU/
NMU merger.
He resides in
Sherman, Con-
necticut.

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



18 Seafarers LOG January 2019

Final
Departures

DEEP SEA

URSEL BARBER
Pensioner Ursel Barber, 67, passed
away November 2. He donned
the SIU colors in
1968, first sailing
on the R Semmes.
Brother Barber
sailed in the en-
gine department.
The Texas native
also worked on
shore gangs, most
recently in Houston. He retired in
2013 and lived in Midway, Texas.

ZAINE BASIR
Pensioner Zaine Basir, 82, died
August 21. Born in Malaysia, he
signed on with the SIU in 1966
when he sailed aboard the Steel
Scientist. Brother Basir was a deck
department member and most
recently shipped on the Maersk
Virginia. He became a pensioner in
2007 and settled in New York.

GEORGE BRADLEY
Pensioner George Bradley, 67,
died August 19. He joined the SIU
in 1968, first sailing on the Seat-
rain New Jersey. Brother Bradley
was a member of the deck depart-
ment. After sailing aboard his final
vessel, the Enterprise, he went
retired in 2016. He lived in San
Francisco.

MATTHEW CARROLL
Pensioner Matthew Carroll, 74,
passed away November 8. He

became an SIU
member in 1965
and first sailed
on the Producer.
Brother Carroll
was a member of
the deck depart-
ment and last
shipped aboard the

Defender. He retired in 2009 and
settled in El Paso, Texas.

WALTER CHANCEY
Pensioner Walter Chancey, 77,
died October 16.
He joined the SIU
in 1958, first sail-
ing on the Alcoa
Partner. An en-
gine department
member, brother
Chancey most
recently sailed on
the Express. He
became a pensioner in 1999 and
resided in Troy, Alabama.

FRANCISCO CHARNECO
Pensioner Fran-
cisco Charneco,
89, passed away
October 14. He
joined the union
in 1955 and first
sailed aboard the
Cubore. A deck
department mem-

ber, Brother Charneco last sailed
aboard a Michigan Tankers ves-
sel. He retired in 1978 and was
a resident of Bayamon, Puerto
Rico.

DONNIE COLLINS
Pensioner Donnie Collins, 93, died
November 5. He joined the SIU
in 1948 and first
sailed on the Del
Mundo. Brother
Collins was a
steward department
member and last
sailed on the OMI
Dynachem. He
went on pension in
1990 and made his
home in Kenner, Louisiana.

MARCUS DENNIS
Pensioner Marcus Dennis, 93,
passed away October 17. He joined
the union in 1967 when he sailed
with Isthmian Lines. An engine
department member, he last sailed
aboard the USNS Capella. Brother
Dennis retired in 1990 and settled
in Jacksonville, Florida.

RAUL GIRON
Pensioner Raul Giron, 95, passed

away November 24.
He signed on with
the SIU in 1970,
first sailing on the
Keva Ideal. Brother
Giron worked in all
three departments
and last sailed on
the Overseas Arc-

tic. He became a pensioner in 1988
and lived in Del Rio, Texas.

ROSS HARDY
Pensioner Ross
Hardy, 79, died
November 7. He
joined the union
in 1965 and first
sailed on the Del
Valle. Brother
Hardy was a mem-
ber of the engine
department. His
last vessel was the Cape Texas. He
began collecting his pension in 2001
and called La Marque, Texas, home.

LOUIS HACHEY
Pensioner Louis Hachey, 75, passed

away October 27.
He signed on with
the SIU in 1964,
initially sailing
on the Del Sud. A
deck department
member, Brother
Hachey last sailed
aboard the Over-
seas Valdez. He

retired in 1996 and settled in Man-
chester, Michigan.

MAURICE HETRICK
Pensioner Maurice Hetrick, 69,
died November 11.
He became an SIU
member in 1991
when he sailed on
the Sealift Arctic.
Brother Hetrick
was a deck depart-
ment member, and
last sailed aboard
the Ocean Atlas.
He began collecting his pension
in 2014 and lived in Veedersburg,
Indiana.

VAN JOYNER
Pensioner Van Joyner, 72, passed
away October 18. He began his ca-
reer with the SIU in
1973, first sailing
aboard an Anchor-
age Tankship ves-
sel. Brother Joyner
worked in all three
departments and
concluded his
career aboard the
Overseas Vivian.
He became a pensioner in 2015 and
was a Houston resident.

ALEX RESENDEZ
Pensioner Alex Resendez, 71,
passed away August 31. He em-
barked on his SIU career in 1972,
first working for G&H Towing.
Brother Resendez was an engine de-
partment member and sailed in both
the inland and deep sea divisions.
He most recently sailed on the Bal-
domero Lopez, and resided in San
Antonio, Texas.

ROBERT SCOTTI
Pensioner Robert Scotti, 86, died

November 14. He
joined the union in
1953 and initially
sailed aboard the
Chiwawa. Brother
Scotti worked in
both the deck and
engine departments,
last sailing aboard
the Integrity. He

became a pensioner in 1989 and
lived in Lachine, Quebec.

OLIE WEBBER
Pensioner Olie Webber, 73, passed
away November 2. Born in Boston,
he joined the SIU
in 1969. One of
the engine depart-
ment member’s
first vessels was the
OMI Willamette.
Brother Webber
last shipped on the
Horizon Enterprise.
He went on pension
in 2017 and made his home in Pah-
rump, Nevada.

GREAT LAKES

DAVID AKERSTROM
Pensioner David Akerstrom, 72,
passed away November 1. He

signed on with
the union in 1967
when he worked
with Great Lakes
Associates. Brother
Akerstrom worked
in the deck de-
partment and last
sailed aboard the
St. Clair. He began

collecting his pension in 2001 and
lived in Duluth, Minnesota.

INLAND

AUGUSTUS BLAKE
Pensioner Augustus Blake, 87, died
November 7. He began his career

with the Seafar-
ers in 1960 and
initially worked
for Gulf Atlantic
Transport. Brother
Blake was a deck
department member
and retired in 1995
after sailing with
Allied Transportation. He resided in
Belhaven, North Carolina.

ALFRED DOHERTY
Pensioner Alfred Doherty, 90,
passed away November 17. He
signed on with the SIU in 1957,
working for J.I. Hass. A deck de-
partment member, he retired in 1991
after sailing with Crowley Towing
and Transportation. Brother Doherty
lived in Tarpon Springs, Florida.

ALFRED McCULLEN
Pensioner Alfred McCullen, 84,

died October 29.
He joined the
union in 1967 and
first worked for
Michigan Tankers.
A deck department
member, Brother
McCullen sailed
with Taylor Marine
Towing. He began

collecting his pension in 1996 and
made his home in West Deptford,
New Jersey.

WILLIAM MORRIS
Pensioner William Morris, 74,
passed away November 11. He
became an SIU
member in 1960,
initially sailing
aboard the Sampan
Knot. Brother Mor-
ris sailed in both
the deep sea and
inland divisions and
was a deck depart-
ment member. He
last worked for Crowley Towing and
Transportation before his retirement
in 2008. Brother Morris settled in
Galveston, Texas.

MICHAEL PRIVETTE
Pensioner Michael Privette, 64,

died November 5.
He signed on with
the union in 1975,
first sailing aboard
the Yukon in the
deep sea division.
Brother Privette
worked in both the
deck and engine
departments. After

concluding his career with Crowley
Towing and Transportation, he re-
tired in 2009. He called Lancaster,
California, home.

STEVEN SORENSON
Brother Steven Sorenson, 65, passed
away September 26. He began his
career with the Seafarers in 1993
when he worked for American Ma-
rine. Brother Sorenson sailed in the
deck department and remained with
the same company for the duration
of his career. He became a pensioner
in 2018 and resided in Westminster,
California.

NMU

ANDRES ANDUJAR
Pensioner Andres Andujar, 86, died
October 20. Brother Andujar was
native to Puerto Rico and became
a pensioner in 1997. He lived in
Midlothian, Virginia.

NORMAN BUSH
Pensioner Norman Bush, 83, passed
away November 22. He was born
in Honduras and
became a member
of the SIU in 2001
during the SIU/
NMU merger. A
member of the
steward depart-
ment, Brother
Bush’s first SIU
vessel was the
Ocean Atlas. He most recently
sailed aboard the Yorktown Express
before settling in Tampa, Florida.

FRANK MCDOWELL
Pensioner Frank McDowell, 91,
died November 10. He was an NMU
member before the 2001 SIU/NMU
merger. Brother McDowell was an
engine department member and last
sailed aboard the Global Mariner.
He was a resident of Baltimore.

ELVIS MCLURE
Pensioner Elvis
McLure, 74, passed
away October 15.
He joined the SIU
in 2001 during the
SIU/NMU merger.
Brother McLure’s
first SIU vessel was
the Perseverance;

his last, the Comet. The deck depart-
ment member became a pensioner
in 2009 and resided in Wilmington,
California.

JOHN PENA
Pensioner John Pena, 84, died Oc-
tober 3. He sailed with the NMU
prior to the 2001 merger with Sea-
farers International Union. A deck
department member, Brother Pena
last sailed on the Delaware Trader.
He retired in 2002 and called Lake-
wood, California, home.

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
Callender, Reuben 83 11/03/2018
Castagna, Oscar 85 11/05/2018
Cenac, Walton 99 10/27/2018
Coleman, Robert 92 11/07/2018
Freedman, Alvin 92 09/30/2018
McCoy, Ephrim 85 10/24/2018
Pimentel, Luis 91 11/18/2018
Rodriguez, Charles 95 09/19/2018
Schreib, Emil 84 01/11/2016
Vieira, Eduardo 81 10/19/2018





January 2019 Seafarers LOG 19

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 ex-
clusively 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 Sea farers 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 capacity 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 payment 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 reported 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. Conse quently, 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

Digest of Shipboard
Union Meetings

ALASKAN EXPLORER (Alaska
Tanker Company), September 9 –
Chairman Jose Loureiro, Secretary
John Huyett, Educational Direc-
tor Tristan Brand, Deck Delegate
Francisco Hernandez Davila, En-
gine Delegate Kevin Kelly, Steward
Delegate Roberto Martinez. Crew
still waiting for recliner repair or
replacement. Chairman reviewed
importance of shipboard meetings.
Sister ship Alaskan Frontier was laid
up. Funds will be distributed to three
other vessels. Secretary went over
free college and Union Plus program.
Bosun mentioned availability of new
training at Piney Point for various
shipboard positions. No beefs or dis-
puted OT reported. Crew requested
radio. Members hope to receive YETI
cups, printed with SIU logo. Steward
department was thanked for good
food and service. Next Port: Valdez,
Alaska

ALASKAN NAVIGATOR (Alaska
Tanker Company), September 9
– Chairman Gregory Hamilton,
Secretary Cayetano Toledo, Edu-
cational Director Leland Peterson,
Deck Delegate Manuel Enrico, En-
gine Delegate Anne Scott, Steward
Delegate Wilson Peniston. Recliner
and heat lamp in need of repair. Store
intake planned at Port Angeles. Ship
schedule includes anchoring at Long
Beach. Chairman reminded members
to stay current on dues. Secretary an-
nounced provisions at Port Angeles.
Crew was encouraged to contribute to
SPAD. Educational director advised
members to be sure documents are up
to date. He encouraged everyone to
upgrade at the Piney Point school. No
beefs or disputed OT reported. Stew-
ard department was thanked for a job
well done and crew commended for
keeping house clean. Next Port: Long
Beach, California.

SANTORINI (Overseas Ship Man-
agement), September 23 – Secretary
Isaac Newsome, Steward Delegate
Noel Segovia. Crew reviewed health

and benefits plan improvements. Ed-
ucational director urged members to
upgrade their skills at the union-affili-
ated Paul Hall Center. Members were
encouraged to go on SIU website.
No beefs or disputed OT reported.
Members pleased with right-to-work
(for less) victory in Missouri. Crew
requested changes to pension com-
pensation formula.

ALASKAN EXPLORER (Alaska
Tanker Company), September 30 –
Chairman Jose Loureiro, Secretary
John Huyett, Educational Direc-
tor Tristan Brand, Deck Delegate
Charles Ford, Engine Delegate
Kevin Kelly, Steward Delegate
Yolanda Martinez. Broken-chair
issue to be clarified with captain.
Chairman reminded members to go
through proper chain of command
to resolve problems and encour-
aged everyone to start within SIU.
Educational director urged crew to
keep documents current and to attend
courses at Piney Point. Help with
applications available for members.
Crew discussed Union Plus benefits
and installation of DirectTV system.
No beefs or disputed OT reported.
Members requested increase to vaca-
tion days and were reminded to keep
mess hall clean after hours. Next
Port: Valdez, Alaska.

ALASKAN LEGEND (Alaska
Tanker Company), September 30
– Chairman Alvin Martin, Secre-
tary Just Self, Educational Director
Corey Hann, Deck Delegate Wood-
row Brown, Engine Delegate Eric
Garcia, Steward Delegate Roberto
Coronado. Crew still waiting for
update on cell phone boosters. Pinup
board for union minutes installed.
Water leaks reported on both scul-
lery sinks. Steamtable insert in need
of replacement. Educational director
announced ATC conference at Piney
Point set for Spring 2019. No beefs
or disputed OT reported. Members
requested new recliners and increase
of vacation days. Steward department

doing a great job. Next Port: Long
Beach, California.

NATIONAL GLORY (Crowley),
September 30 – Chairman Joseph
White, Secretary Lionel Packnett,
Educational Director Oswald Ber-
meo, Deck Delegate John Schman-
ski, Engine Delegate Jose Urra,
Steward Delegate Jesus Pacheco.
Chairman thanked crew for their hard
work when preparing for ABS inspec-
tion. He reminded everyone to keep
common areas clean and to be con-
siderate while shipmates sleep. New
remotes purchased for Blu-ray player
and new remote ordered for sound
bar. Chairman reminded members to
take care of equipment. Educational
director advised crew to upgrade at
Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT
reported. Members discussed impor-
tance of cargo preference and Jones
Act. Next Port: Puerto Rico.

HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Sunrise
Operations), October 1 – Chairman
George Khan, Secretary Raymond
Garcia, Educational Director Trent
Sterling, Deck Delegate Gary Car-
dillo, Engine Delegate Albert Dulig,
Steward Delegate Bernie Igot. Chair-
man reminded members that com-
pany gives allowance for safety shoes
only. He commended deck gang for
great job preparing for ABS inspec-
tion. Educational director encour-
aged members keep all documents
up to date. No beefs or disputed OT
reported. Crew read and discussed
Seafarers LOG. Members requested
cost of living increases to occur every
two years for pensioners. Crew would
like to increase vacation pay. Steward
to order new sheets, pillows and bed-
spreads.

OVERSEAS LONG BEACH (Over-
seas Ship Management), October 6
– Chairman David Martinez, Edu-
cational Director Edgardo Barrios,
Deck Delegate Basil McMillan,
Steward Delegate Lissette Ramirez.
Members received communication

from union concerning Wi-Fi. All
departments practicing work safety.
Crew was encouraged to join Seafar-
ers 401K and donate to SPAD. Edu-
cational director advised members
to attend upgrading courses at Paul
Hall Center. No beefs or disputed
OT reported. Captain announced
plans to contact company for inter-
net booster.

ALASKAN LEGEND (Alaska
Tanker Company), October 7 –
Chairman Alvin Martin, Secretary
Just Self, Educational Director
Corey Hann, Deck Delegate Taw-
nia Stucker, Engine Delegate Eric
Garcia, Steward Delegate Joshua
Bingham. Educational Director
plans to check with chief engineer
for cell phone boosters. Crew still
needs a microwave oven plate.
Lockers now available in change-
out room for steward department.
Galley sinks, garbage disposal and
steamtable insert are now in working
order. Chief engineer will order parts
needed for oven door repair. Ship
is going through maintenance for
next two-and-a-half months and will
be carrying four extra riders. ATC
conference dates have been posted.
Deck delegate urged members to
check overtime sheets. No beefs or
disputed OT reported. Crew still
waiting for response about recliners
and vacation day increase requests.
Members asked for detailed informa-
tion regarding P310 form, and were
reminded to secure two other forms.
Next Port: Cherry Point, Washing-
ton.

LIBERTY EAGLE (Liberty Mari-
time), October 7 – Chairman Robert
Hoppenworth, Secretary George
Quinn, Educational Director Shawn
Yancey, Deck Delegate Brian
Jackson, Steward Delegate Sherre
Wilson. Restricted to ship in Singa-
pore. Chairman discussed expiration
dates on credentials. Educational
director reminded members to attend
upgrading courses at Piney Point. No

beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew
discussed mattress replacement and
Wi-Fi. Steward department thanked
for excellent food. Next Port: Orange,
Texas.

MAERSK MONTANA (Maersk
Line, Limited), October 7 – Chair-
man Sunnil Motley, Secretary
Johnny Sawyer, Educational
Director Monroe Monseur, Deck
Delegate George Phillips, Engine
Delegate Antonio McAdams, Stew-
ard Delegate Malcolm Holmes.
Chairman reiterated importance of
learning computer skills. He advised
crew to be sure documents are up
to date when applying for a job.
Secretary thanked crew for pulling
together and working safely. Edu-
cational director encouraged mem-
bers to upgrade and to take Maersk
safety training at Piney Point. Crew
requests Wi-Fi access and trans-
portation to stores from port. Deck
delegate commended members’ hard
work, making the ship look sharp
and staying safe. No beefs or dis-
puted OT reported. Copies of new
contract needed on ship. Members
requested more linen and suggested
change to vacation benefits. Crew
discussed interest in reducing time
required for retirement. Next Port:
Charleston, South Carolina.

MAGNOLIA STATE (Intrepid Per-
sonnel and Provisioning), October 12
– Chairman Adel Ahmed, Secretary
Maili Wang, Educational Director
Eddie Pittman, Deck Delegate Ryan
Boltz, Steward Delegate Tracey
Newsome. Chairman discussed
upcoming federal elections and re-
minded crew to be sure documents
are up to date. Members requested
fresh produce to be supplied bi-
weekly. Crew waiting on Wi-Fi con-
nection for computer in crew lounge
and DVR availability in all state-
rooms. Members requested change in
vacation benefits and relief schedules.
Crew would like more visits from
union representative.

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

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



20 Seafarers LOG January 2019

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 promoting
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

Leadership & Managerial Skills June 29 July 5

Storekeeper Courses

MSC Storekeeper Basic February 2 February 22
April 13 May 3

MSC Supply Configuration Management February 23 March 22
May 4 May 31


Deck Department Upgrading Courses

Able Seafarer Deck March 2 March 29
April 27 May 24

AB to Mate Modules Modules must be taken in order. Those who
are not in the mates program cannot apply
for these courses. Contact the Admissions
Office for further details.

Advanced Meteorology May 4 May 10

Advanced Shiphandling May 11 May 24

Advanced Stability April 27 May 3

ARPA March 9 March 15
April 27 May 3

Bosun Recertification July 20 August 5

Crane Familiarization April 6 April 12

ECDIS April 13 April 19

Fast Rescue Boat June 1 June 7

GMDSS July 20 August 2

Lifeboat February 9 February 22
March 9 March 22

Radar Observer February 23 March 8
April 13 April 26

Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office

RFPNW February 2 March 1
March 30 April 26

Title of Start Date of
Course Date Completion

Deck Department Upgrading Courses

RFPNW March 30 April 26
May 25 June 21

Engine Department Upgrading Courses

Advanced Refer Containers May 18 May 31

BAPO February 2 March 1
March 30 April 26

Engineroom Resource Management June 22 June 28

FOWT March 2 March 29

Junior Engineer March 16 May 10

Marine Electrician May 18 July 12

Marine Refer Tech March 9 April 19

MEECE June 1 June 14

Pumpman January 26 February 1

Welding February 16 March 8


Steward Department Courses

Advanced Galley Ops March 30 April 26

Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next
class will start January 7.

Chief Steward February 2 March 22

Galley Operations February 2 March 1

Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 January 26 February 1

Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 February 2 February 8

Steward Recertification April 13 May 6


Safety Upgrading Courses

Basic Training/Basic FF February 2 February 8

Basic Training Revalidation January 25 January 25

Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation March 30 April 5

Government Vessels February 9 February 15

Medical Care Provider January 26 February 1

Tank Ship Familiarization - DL February 16 February 22

Tank Ship Familiarization - LG February 9 February 15

UPGRADING APPLICATION

Name ________________________________________________________________________
Address ______________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________
Date of Birth __________________________________________________________________
Deep Sea Member Lakes Member Inland Waters Member

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? Yes No
If yes, class # and dates attended __________________________________________________
Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? Yes 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. 1/19



January 2019 Seafarers LOG 21

Paul Hall Center Classes

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.

Important Notice
To All Students

Apprentice Water Survival Class #842 –
Graduated Oct. 10 (photo at right, in alpha-
betical order): Zachary Anderson, Sharde
Baker, Jason Bottari, Kyree Carter, Chris-
topher Eke, Joshua Glancy, Travon Gor-
don, Ernest Grant Jr., David Hain-Mendez,
Kenneth Kauffman, Manuel Gerard Manzur
Rosado, Christopher Nicolosi, Keauni Na-
tele Pullett, Abraham Quiner, Neil Lacon-
say Tupas, Oliver Vickers, Dax Walton and
Danielle Woodward.

Machinist – Graduated September 21 (above, in alphabetical order): Latiffe Brooks, Jonathan
Collier, David Garrett, Antonio Griffin, Timothy Hetz, Ronilo Rublica Monares and Gajatri Norma-
tova. Class instructor William Dodd is at the far left.

RFPNW – Graduated August 24: Sosiua Faasavaliga Peau (center) and Patricia
Placek (right). Bernabe Pelingon, their instructor, is at the left.

Government Vessels – Graduated
September 14 (photo at left, in alpha-
betical order): Julian Beasley, Robert
Bryson III, Joseph Hernandez, Jam-
ison McIntyre, Mason Con Melland,
Lawrence Mills Jr., Christina Price,
Annie Scriven, David Wakeman,
Brian Wiley, Andre Winningham and
Shaun Wood.

UA to AS-Deck – Graduated September 21 (above, in alphabetical order): Rizaldy Ano Jr., Arnold Dimaandal Baluyot, Phillip Borders, Hector Ulises Garibaldi, Macey Horne, Jared
Nichols, Patricia Placek, Levon Prophet, Tiyhana Shonye Roddy, James Russell, Charles Turner Jr., and Jerald Welcome.



22 Seafarers LOG January 2019

Paul Hall Center Classes
Tankship Familiarization
LG – Graduated August 24
(photo at right, in alphabetical
order): Joshua Barber, Allan
Bombita, Ana Marie Chona
Razon Calma, Antony Chap-
man, Donell Criswell, Sherron
Davita DeCoteau, Artemio Ga-
labo Galaura, Jasmine Gar-
rett, Timothy Hetz, Bud Sok
Khuth, Nadzeya Mikhailovna
Kuptsova, Steven Ariel Lopez
Ferrer, Mark Mahoney, Sonny
Perez, Atm Zahid Reza, Paul
Riley Jr., Adam Riley, Leroy
Andres Ramos Sierra, Leon-
ard Elad Soriano, Jason Stahl,
Iker Emanuel Urruchi Lugo and
Reginald Yeager. (Note: Not all
are pictured.)

Government Vessels – Graduated August 17 (above, in alphabetical order): Allan Bombita,
Prentice Baptista Conley, Kelly Doyle, Artemio Galabo Galaura, Martin Garcia, Bud Sok Khuth,
Michael Maldonado, Sterling McCosh, Scott Opsahl, William Rackley, Marlon Suazo Fernan-
dez and Reginald Yeager. (Note: Not all are pictured.)

MSC Storekeeper – Graduated August 10 (above, in alphabetical order): Julian Beas-
ley, Phillip Best, Rocky Dupraw, Joseph Hernandez, Christina Price and Shaun Wood.
Instructors Zak Schaver and Matthew Rogers are at the far left and far right, respectively.

BAPO – Graduated August 24
(photo at right, in alphabetical
order): Adam Brundage, Elyser Val-
dez Carpio, Dion Cheeseborough
and Carlos Manuel Noriega. John
Wiegman III, their instructor, is at
the far left.

Tank Barge DL – Graduated August 31 (above, in alphabetical order): Jose Argueta, Raibonne Charles, Scott Forrer, Luke Yves Fouilloux, Matthew Hargrove, Gilbert Johnson, John
Kehoe, Mark Mahoney, William Mercer, Adam Riley, Michael Riley, Glen Williams and Damon Zschoche.



January 2019 Seafarers LOG 23

Paul Hall Center Classes
Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) –
Graduated August 24 (photo at left, in
alphabetical order): Jamel Akia Anders,
Keithan Bland, Kirk Chambers, Alexan-
dra Erickson, Paisami Gay, Jurgen Gott-
schlich, Charles Kamaualii Hanohano III,
Daniel Howard, L.G. Johnson, Lamarai
Jones, Shadonna Jones, EsStonia Moore,
Eugenia Porter, Noah Susumu Santiago-
Stephens, Ben Skuban, Lareesa Warren,
Jessica Williams, Kendra Williams and
Jarid Wilson.

WATCO – Graduated August 10 (above, in alphabetical order): Ibrahim Awadalla Abdelkarim, Nabeel
Ahmed Alawi, Nicholas Mora, Joseph Negron, Kyle Pillsworth, Timothy Pillsworth, Orlando Reveron,
Michael Sedita and Richard Serrano. William Dodd, their instructor, is at the far right.

Small Arms – Graduated August 10 (above, from left): Rick James, Eric
Van Mose and Joshua Rawls. Class instructor John Thomas is at the far
right.

Basic Training (Advanced Firefighting Revalidation) – Graduated August 24 (above, in alphabetical
order): Michael Maldonado, Andre Skevnick, Jared Smith and Dean Lopaka Waiwaiole.

Chief Steward – Graduated August 24 (above, in alphabetical order):
Bernard Butts, Roberto Odchimar Coronado Jr., Susan Emmons, Ingrid
Soveira Ortiz-Rosario and Rommel Reston. (Note: Not all are pictured.)

Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated August 31 (above, from left):
Meili Wang Seegers, Alan Hollinger and Elizabeth Remotigue
Ibanez

Galley Ops – Graduated August 10 (above, in alphabetical order): Tayseer Alshaibi, Esmaralda Salazar Cueto,
Jolanta Czeslawa Goch, Brandy Griffin, Nadzeya Mikhailovna Kuptsova, Liliana Oliveros, Sonia Pabon Barreto,
Chad Sikorski and Dominique Wesley.



Paul Hall Center
Class Photos
Pages 21-23

O F F I C I A L P U B L I C A T I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N A T I O N A L U N I O N A T L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W A T E R S , A F L - C I O

Under the leadership of President Michael Sacco, the SIU
steadily moved forward in 2018, with a list of accomplish-
ments that included adding new jobs, ratifying solid contracts,
improving its affiliated school in southern Maryland, opening
a new hiring hall in Puerto Rico and helping lead the fight to
defend cabotage laws.

The latter issue produced some of last year’s biggest head-
lines, and involved (among other efforts) one study concerning
the Jones Act’s effect on Puerto Rico, and a separate, longer-
term examination of cabotage laws around the world.

Economists from Boston-based Reeve & Associates and
San Juan-based Estudios Técnicos, Inc. on July 18 released a
joint report, “The Impact of the Jones Act on Puerto Rico,” that
concluded the Jones Act has no impact on either retail prices or
the cost of living in Puerto Rico. In addition, the report found
that the state-of-the-art maritime technology, Puerto-Rico fo-
cused investments, and dedicated closed-loop service offered
by Jones Act carriers provide a significant positive economic
impact to the island, at freight rates lower or comparable to
similar services to other Caribbean Islands.

These findings factually shot down claims to the contrary
from Jones Act opponents, who seemingly blame the time-
tested law for every problem under the sun and whose main
strategy apparently is to repeat lies loudly and often.

Later in the year, Seafarers’ Rights International (SRI), an
independent center for mariner advocacy and research, released
its full report – “Cabotage Laws of the World” – on the find-
ings of their global cabotage study. The study, commissioned
by the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), pro-
vides the first independent analysis of maritime cabotage laws
since the early 1990s.

Based on extensive research involving 140 countries, the
SRI report revealed that 91 countries representing 80 percent of
the world’s coastal United Nations Maritime States have cabo-
tage laws restricting foreign maritime activity in their domestic
coastal trades.

Merriam-Webster defines cabotage as “trade or transport
in coastal waters or airspace or between two points within a
country.”

ITF Seafarers’ Section Chair David Heindel, who also
serves as the SIU’s secretary-treasurer, said, “The lack of ac-
curate facts on cabotage laws around the world has been an im-
pediment for policymakers considering implementing cabotage
laws. This report represents a circuit breaker, providing poli-
cymakers with the relevant facts for proper decision-making.
The SRI report debunks the myth that cabotage is an exception,
not the rule. Laws governing maritime activity are widespread,
currently existing in 91 countries covering 80 percent of the
world’s coastlines of U.N. maritime states. We know there are a
number of countries considering introducing, strengthening or
diminishing cabotage regulation. This report will assure those
governments that it makes sense to enforce national cabotage
laws.”

Additionally, the SIU testified or otherwise supported sev-
eral U.S. congressional hearings covering the Jones Act, cargo
preference, and other laws and programs that are vital to the
U.S. Merchant Marine.

The union threw its full support behind a new bill, the
Energizing American Shipbuilding Act, which would boost
shipboard jobs as well. Championed by U.S. Rep. John Gara-
mendi (D-California), the bill has strong bipartisan support and
legitimate prospects for approval in the new year.

Not all of the news from the nation’s capital was positive
for maritime or the labor movement. The Supreme Court ruled
against working families with its long-awaited decision in the
Janus case. However, unions have responded by significantly
ramping up efforts to remind workers of the ongoing extreme

relevance of unions.
There were victories, too, both in the U.S. and in Canada.

Missouri citizens soundly rejected a statewide, so-called “right
to work” law. Meanwhile, the SIU of Canada led the way in
winning major cabotage rights for that nation’s mariners.

Also, the annual report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Sta-
tistics showed that union membership grew by 262,000 in 2017
(the most recent year for which data was available).

New Ships
Seafarers and SIU CIVMARS welcomed many new vessels

throughout the year, plus the start of construction on several
ships.

Crowley acquired three tankers (Oregon, Washington,
California) from SeaRiver mid-year, and later christened the
ConRo El Coqui.

Matson launched the Daniel K. Inouye, the largest contain-
ership built in the U.S. (850 feet). Construction also started on
the Matsonia, a ConRo.

The general cargo ship SLNC York (Argent Marine) re-
flagged under the Stars and Stripes, while the first steel plates
were cut for the Pasha Hawaii Jones Act containership George
III.

SIU Government Services Division members had much to
applaud, including the christenings of the expeditionary fast
transports USNS Burlington and USNS Puerto Rico, and the
start of construction on the fleet replenishment oiler USNS
John Lewis and the expeditionary sea base USNS Miguel Keith.

New Contracts and Benefits
It was a banner year for the Seafarers Health and Benefits

Plan (SHBP), which bookended 2018 by announcing assorted
new benefits for Seafarers and their dependents. The SHBP
also awarded nine scholarships worth a combined $132,000.
Four of the grants went to Seafarers, while the other five were
claimed by SIU family members.

SIU negotiating teams continued to defy nationwide trends
by securing agreements that feature regular wage increases
while maintaining or increasing benefits. Such was the case
both at Great Lakes Dredge & Dock, where members ratified
a five-year contract; and at G&H Towing, where SIU boatmen
approved a three-year pact.

Piney Point
The union-affiliated Paul Hall Center and its Seafarers

Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship continued pressing
ahead to set the standard for maritime training. Located in
Piney Point, Maryland, the school introduced a new class for
storekeepers and launched a totally revamped steward depart-
ment curriculum – collectively dubbed Culinary 2.0 – that was
a hit with the first students.

In the fall, the Paul Hall Center also hosted a packed meet-
ing of the U.S. Transportation Command’s executive working
group on the Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement. The
group includes SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez.

In May, the school’s advisory board examined current and
future training needs, and discussed various upgrades being
made to both the campus itself and the classes. The board in-
cludes representatives from the union, school, ship-operating
companies and government agencies.

That same month, Piney Point was the site for the sixth
annual Seafarers Waterfront Classic. The event benefits the
American Military Veterans Foundation (AMMILVETS), pre-
viously called the Wounded Warriors Anglers of America.

New Hall and More
On Nov. 8, the SIU officially opened the new hiring hall in

San Juan, Puerto Rico, with an event that included food, drinks
and a live band.

“Welcome to your brand-new SIU union hall,” SIU Port
Agent Amancio Crespo began, before being interrupted by
cheers and applause from the more than 150 members, elected
officials, company executives and guests gathered outside the
building for the ceremony.

The new facility, located at 659 Hillside Street in the Sum-
mit Hills neighborhood of San Juan, is immaculate, with
all-new furniture in multiple member lounge areas, wheelchair-
accessible restrooms, a modern galley and mess area, WiFi
access and a second-floor conference room. Most importantly,
it’s in a safe and secure neighborhood – a huge improvement
from the previous hall.

In other news, the SIU remained very active with the ITF,
and Heindel was re-elected as chair of the federation’s Seafar-
ers’ Section at its congress in Singapore.

Several SIU crews upheld the finest traditions of the Broth-
erhood of the Sea by executing rescues, including Seafarers
from the USNS Trenton, USNS Wally Schirra and multiple NY
Waterway ferries.

The National Transportation Safety Board published a sum-
mary of its investigation of the El Faro tragedy. Two books
(by private authors) were published about the October 2015
sinking. Later in the year, the SIU conducted and participated
in memorial services at sea and ashore for the 33 individuals
(including 17 Seafarers) who lost their lives in the sinking.

Two longtime Seafarers called it quits: SIU Vice President
Government Services Kermett Mangram retired after 40 years
with the union, and SIU Assistant Vice President Contracts
Archie Ware did the same, also capping a 40-year career. For-
mer UIW National Director Kate Hunt made history when she
succeeded Mangram, becoming the union’s first female vice
president.

Seafarers continued their philanthropy across the globe,
including annual efforts in Tacoma, Washington, and Fort Lau-
derdale, Florida.

The Maritime Trades Department conducted a Jones Act-
themed winter meeting, helping set the record straight on a law
that is vital to U.S. national, economic and homeland security.

Finally, the union bid a solemn farewell to Charlie Stewart,
retired vice president and former NMU official, who passed
away at age 84.

Cabotage Studies, New Tonnage Highlight 2018

SIU President Michael Sacco opens the winter meeting of
the Maritime Trades Department executive board.

The SIU gained jobs when the Oregon and two other tank-
ers were acquired by Crowley.

The new hall in Puerto Rico is a hit with members, their families and other guests. Among those pictured at the ceremo-
nial opening are (starting third from left) SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez, former Puerto
Rico Gov. Carlos Romero Barcelo, Port Agent Amancio Crespo and (third from right) Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel.

JANUARY 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 1