Seafarers Log: Vol. 81 No. 5 (2019-05-01)

MAY 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 5

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

White House Experience
Page 6

Jones Act Ship Delivered to Matson

SIU-contracted Matson recently took delivery of the new containership Kaimana
Hila, built by union members at Philly Shipyard. Page 4. (Photo courtesy of Matson)

SIU President Michael Sacco (left) received a prestigious honor
from the Marine Society of the City of New York for his lifetime of
dedication to both the U.S. Merchant Marine and the American
labor movement. He’s pictured at the awards ceremony with
Capt. Bob Johnston (center), longtime executive at OSG, and
Marine Society President Capt. Tim Ferrie. Page 7.

Marine Society Honors
SIU President Sacco

Jones Act Support Abounds
A wave of Jones Act support has been evident throughout the first months of 2019, including during a recent
event in Jacksonville, Florida. U.S. Rep. John Rutherford (R-Florida) is pictured at the podium March 22 as
the Sunshine State celebrates how the nation’s freight cabotage law boosts its economy and security. Various
Jones Act coverage appears on Pages 2, 3, 4 and 5.

Snapshots of NOAA Crews
Page 24

Rule on Shore Access
Page 12

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2 Seafarers LOG May 2019

The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the
Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters,
AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301)
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POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth
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Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo;
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Editor, Nick Merrill; Piney Point Photographer, Harry
Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content
Curator, Mark Clements.

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

Volume 81 Number 5 May 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

Reversed to White
Reversed to White

At press time, some 31,000 unionized grocery workers were
reviewing a tentative new contract on the heels of an 11-day strike
in Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. The agreement
between the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) and
Stop & Shop’s parent company, Netherlands-based Ahold Delhaize,
preserves health care and retirement benefits, provides wage
increases, and maintains time-and-a-half pay on Sunday for

current members, the union reported.
Strikes are always an absolute last resort,

but in this case, workers had little choice. The
company had proposed unreasonable cuts to
workers’ take-home pay, health care and pension
benefits. That’s despite management taking in
more than $2 billion in 2018 and authorizing
over $4 billion in stock buybacks from 2017 to
2019, the UFCW noted.

In fact, Ahold Delhaize (which also owns the
viciously anti-union Food Lion chain) sought to
cut pension benefits by more than 70 percent,
raise health care premiums by nearly 90 percent
and exclude spouses from health coverage.

But the real story here is the workers’ solidarity and the outpouring
of community support that buoyed members and their families from
the five UFCW locals. Like the unionized teachers who’ve also
stood up and stood together in recent years in numerous states, the
grocery workers said enough is enough and proved grassroots action
works. They demonstrated that unions very clearly still have power
and relevance.

The SIU supported this job action at rallies and with other
assistance, and we’ll be there for our union brothers and sisters
with money, marbles and chalk wherever and whenever needed.

Autonomous Vessels
Much has already been written about the possible use of

autonomous ships, and several European-based firms currently
are testing crewless vessels.

Considering the news we often see about massive, global-scale
hacking and data breaches, ransomware and more, hey, what could
possibly go wrong on 1,000-foot ships totally controlled by computers?
On a more serious note, fatalities in some of the early usage of driverless
automobiles are the ultimate signal that caution is in order.

Listen, we’ve never tried to stand in the way of progress. In our
industry, the norm 30 years ago provided crews on containerships and
tankers somewhere in the range of 35 to 40 mariners top to bottom.
Today, as technology develops into automated systems, crew sizes for
vessels three to four times larger are in the 18-22 range.

But automation should be a tool to assist workers in making
their jobs safer and more efficient – not a means to replace them.

Very simply, workers and the need for jobs must be part of
the discussion regarding automation. As systems and technology
evolve, so must workers and their unions. We will identify the new
opportunities that present themselves in the years ahead. We’ll
develop and provide training and education to prepare our
members for these new avenues.

The SIU and the labor movement as a whole will make sure
people are prominently considered as changes continue affecting
everyday life. We’ll ensure that new technologies being introduced
into our industry are done with safety in the forefront of planning,
and we’ll stand up for our members and other workers to make sure
they reap the benefits of such change and are not cast overboard.

Even though autonomous ships on any sort of significant scale
are many, many years away, our bottom line is that the human
element must be as important as financial factors and convenience
when change is considered and implemented.

Michael Sacco

Solidarity Prevails Again

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

Legislators Pronounce Bipartisan
Backing of Jones Act to President

Attacks on America’s freight
cabotage law – and the hundreds of
thousands of U.S. jobs that go with
it – are nothing new, but neither is
solid bipartisan support for the cen-
tury-strong statute.

The latter point again came into
focus March 13, in the form of a
bipartisan letter sent by members
of Congress to President Trump.
U.S. Rep. Steven Palazzo (R-Mis-
sissippi) led a group of his House
colleagues on the letter expressing
strong opposition to temporarily
waiving the Jones Act for the U.S.
territory of Puerto Rico.

The Jones Act requires ships
moving between domestic ports to
be American-crewed, American-
owned, American-built, and Amer-
ican-flagged. The act helps ensure
thousands of shipboard and ship-
building jobs aren’t lost to unfair
overseas competition, while protect-
ing U.S. national defense interests.
A new study by PricewaterhouseC-
oopers (released earlier this year)
found that the Jones Act supports
nearly 650,000 American jobs and
contributes $154 billion to the na-
tion’s economy annually.

Palazzo’s office said the letter
“follows a short-sighted Congres-
sional proposal to permanently re-
peal the Jones Act.”

“Protecting our national defense
is a sworn responsibility of every
member in our legislative body,” the
congressman said. “I believe that
there are very few industries that
are as important to the economic
health and security of our nation as
those who comprise our maritime
industries. Understanding the po-
tential ramifications associated with

waiving the Jones Act and allowing
foreign imports of any sort could se-
riously harm our national security.
From both an economic perspective
and a national security perspective,
we cannot sit idly by as uninformed
individuals in Congress attempt to
erode our American maritime in-
dustry.”

The full text of the letter is as
follows:

“We are writing in strong sup-
port of the Jones Act and to voice
our opposition to waiving the
Jones Act for Puerto Rico. The
Jones Act has been the law of the
land for nearly a century support-
ing our economy and protecting
our national security. As Mem-
bers of Congress that represent
the maritime and shipbuilding
industry, we are concerned that
any consideration by your Admin-
istration for a long-term Jones Act
waiver to provide liquefied natural
gas (LNG) to Puerto Rico could
severely damage our domestic
maritime industry.

The Jones Act provides that
ships moving between Ameri-
can ports are U.S.-crewed,
U.S.-owned, U.S.-built, and U.S.-
flagged. It sustains thousands of
high-paying jobs and ensures the
military has access to U.S. flagged
ships for the delivery of vital mili-
tary assets. Waiving the Jones Act
would help foreign entities, harm
our American maritime base, and
risk our military readiness.

A waiver for Puerto Rico is
unnecessary and in direct conflict
with existing law. For the next four
years, Puerto Rico’s infrastructure
lacks the capacity to receive large

scale LNG deliveries. Instead of
a waiver, we should look toward
recapitalizing an American-built
LNG carrier fleet. This option is
consistent with your “Buy Ameri-
can, Hire American” agenda.

Furthermore, the Jones Act
may only be waived in the inter-
ests of national defense. Puerto
Rico has no known national se-
curity justification for the waiver.
Senior members of the military
have consistently expressed the
importance of the Jones Act to our
national defense and sealift capac-
ity. Vice Chairman of your Joint
Chiefs of Staff, General (Paul)
Selva has said, “I am an ardent
supporter of the Jones Act,” and
that it “supports a viable ship-
building industry.

“Thank you for your consid-
eration of our perspective on the
importance of the Jones Act. We
look forward to working with you
on this issue.”

Signing the document were
Palazzo and fellow Republi-
cans Don Young (Alaska), Peter
King (New York), Garret Graves
(Louisiana), Duncan Hunter (Cal-
ifornia), Ralph Abraham (Louisi-
ana), Clay Higgins (Louisiana),
Michael Guest (Mississippi),
David McKinley (West Virginia),
Brian Fitzpatrick (Pennsylvania),
Brian Babin (Texas), Tom Graves
(Georgia), Lee Zeldin (New
York), Mike Bost (Illinois) and
Bradley Byrne (Alabama). Dem-
ocrat signees were John Gara-
mendi (California), Joe Courtney
(Connecticut), Alan Lowenthal
(California) and Donald Norcross
(New Jersey).

Financial Committee Approves Records
Seven Seafarers have signed

off on the SIU’s 2018 financial
records.

As mandated by the union’s
constitution, a group of rank-and-
file Seafarers (elected by fellow
members) each year examines the
organization’s financial records
for the previous calendar year.
Most recently, this process hap-
pened in early April – first with
the financial committee’s election
in Piney Point, Maryland, and
then in the ensuing days when
they reviewed the paperwork
at SIU headquarters in Camp
Springs, Maryland.

The committee found that the
SIU’s financial records for 2018
are in good order. Their report,
filed with the secretary-treasurer’s
office, will be read in all ports
and presented for approval at the
union’s May membership meet-
ings.

Serving on the committee were

Recertified Bosun Karl Mayhew
(chairman), QMED Riley Dona-
hue, QMED Donald Lumpkins,
QMED Ann Mensch, QMED
Timothy Pillsworth, Recerti-
fied Steward Exxl Ronquillo and
Recertified Steward Glenn Wil-
liams. They were elected April 8
at the monthly membership meet-
ing at the Paul Hall Center for
Maritime Training and Education.

The members handled their
tasks in accordance with Article
X, Section 14-c of the SIU Con-
stitution, which lists the duties of
the annual financial committee
along with rules and procedures
for electing the group.

In part, their report reads,
“We, the committee, do hereby
state that we have examined
the procedure for controlling of
the funds of the union and have
found that the system of internal
control is adequate to safeguard
them properly…. We find that

the headquarters of the union is
taking all steps possible to safe-
guard union funds and to see that
the disbursements of the union
are in accordance with the au-
thority delegated to them and
that, at the same time, there is a
striving effort to increase day-to-
day efficiency of our operation.”

The members reported that
they met with representatives
from the certified public account-
ing firm that periodically audits
the union’s books and records.
Those representatives explained
their procedures for checking the
secretary-treasurer’s financial re-
port of the union’s records, and
they also further discussed the
SIU’s overall financial operation.
SIU Secretary-Treasurer David
Heindel also worked with the
committee “and made himself
and the records of his office avail-
able” to the group, according to
the report.

Pictured from left to right in the photo at left are (seated) QMED Donald Lumpkins, Recertified Steward
Glenn Williams, Recertified Steward Exxl Ronquillo, (standing) SIU Asst. VP Pat Vandegrift, QMED Riley
Donahue, Recertified Bosun Karl Mayhew, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, QMED Timothy Pills-
worth and QMED Ann Mensch. In the other photo, committee members begin their work.

SIU Members Examine 2018 Files

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May 2019 Seafarers LOG 3

The SIU recently participated in a bi-
partisan celebration of the domestic mari-
time industry’s hugely positive effects on
Florida.

Members of both major political par-
ties from around the state also joined the
Florida Maritime Partnership (FMP) and
the American Maritime Partnership (AMP)
in Jacksonville and Tampa on March 22 to
announce the 25 percent growth of domes-
tic maritime industry jobs in Florida.

SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean
Corgey was a featured speaker at the Jack-
sonville event, which took place next to the
SIU-crewed, Crowley-owned El Coqui.
Corgey shared a story about his grand-
father’s Navy ship being refueled by the
U.S. Merchant Marine during World War
II. “We have a merchant marine because
of the Jones Act,” Corgey said. “God bless
America, God bless my grandfather, and
God bless the Jones Act.”

According to the findings of a new report
conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers on
behalf of the Transportation Institute, Flor-
ida ranks second in the nation for the num-
ber of domestic maritime jobs, employing
at least 65,990 individuals and generating
more than $3.73 billion in worker income.
The industry produces $14.6 billion annu-
ally for the Florida economy.

“The importance of the maritime indus-
try to both Florida and the United States
cannot be overstated. A robust maritime

industry means a strong economy, good
jobs, and enhanced national security. I’m
proud to support the work of the Florida
and American Maritime Partnerships, and
today’s effort to highlight the industry’s
vital role to our nation,” said U.S. Rep.
Charlie Crist (D-Florida).

“The strength of Northeast Florida’s do-
mestic maritime industry helps position our
region as the logistics hub on the eastern
seaboard. Our vessel-operating companies,
shipyards, and maritime professionals cre-
ate thousands of jobs each year and propel
our economy forward. In Congress, I am
proud to support pro-maritime policy such
as protecting the Jones Act and investing in
our seaports,” said U.S. Rep. John Ruther-
ford (R-Florida).

“Ports play a vital role in Florida’s
economy and produce stable jobs for our
workforce,” said U.S. Rep. Al Lawson (D-
Florida). “This recent study is evident that
Jacksonville’s maritime industry is essen-
tial to the state’s overall economic growth.
Our hard-working men and women who
crew the vessels work in this critical sector
to ensure our national security, stimulate
trade and promote economic prosperity.”

“This is good news for Florida and the
greater Tampa Bay area and demonstrates
the impact the maritime industry has on our
economy,” said U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan
(R-Florida). “With 15 deep-water ports,
including Port Manatee, Florida has an in-

credible opportunity to grow its maritime
industry to help diversify our economy,
create jobs and move goods and services.”

“The impact of the domestic maritime
industry in the state is undeniable – deliver-
ing over 65,000 jobs and generating nearly
$4 billion in income across Florida. The
Jones Act ensures these jobs go to Ameri-
can workers, living and working in our com-
munities. It is essential that we continue to
uphold the law for these very real economic
reasons,” said Florida State Senate Minority
Leader Audrey Gibson (D-Duval).

“Across Florida and the country, the
hard-working men and women of the do-
mestic maritime industry are delivering for
a better tomorrow,” said Florida State Rep.
Jackie Toledo (R-Tampa). “With nearly
65,000 jobs, over $14.6 billion in eco-
nomic impact, and $3.73 billion in worker
income, the domestic maritime industry is
vital in building and expanding Florida’s
thriving economy.”

“The state of Florida is a leader in the
domestic maritime industry,” said James
L. Henry, chairman and president of the
Transportation Institute. “The findings
in our most recent study demonstrate the
strength and necessity of the Jones Act,
which serves as the backbone of the Ameri-
can maritime industry, the U.S. industrial
base, and job creation for the hard-working

men and women that crew the vessels de-
livering both in times of war and peace.”

“Quite simply, the Jones Act is Ameri-
can security,” said Matt Woodruff, presi-
dent of the American Maritime Partnership,
to which the SIU is affiliated. “In addition
to the job creation benefits detailed in this
study, our American mariners are relied
on by defense leaders to project American
force overseas in a national emergency.
Alongside our waterfront workers, they
are the eyes and ears of homeland security
on our nation’s coasts and waterways. Our
American-controlled fleet provides eco-
nomic security, ensuring that our nation’s
internal freight transportation system, in-
cluding fuel deliveries from American
refineries to Florida, is not subject to for-
eign interference. American maritime jobs,
guaranteed by the Jones Act, make this
possible.”

Thanks to the Jones Act, the domestic
maritime industry now employs approxi-
mately 650,0000 Americans across all 50
states, creates $41 billion in labor income
for American workers and adds more than
$154.8 billion in annual economic output
each year. Nationally, there are more than
40,000 American vessels – built in Ameri-
can shipyards, crewed by American mari-
ners, and owned by American companies
– that operate in U.S. waters daily.

U.S. Rep. John Rutherford (foreground) reaffirms his backing of the maritime industry. SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (at podium) addresses the Jacksonville crowd.

SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (standing third from left) and Port Agent Ashley Nelson
(standing second from right) pose with SIU members Recertified Bosun Abel Vazquez Tor-
res, AB Victor Cortes, AB Christian Reyes Herencia, AB Manuel Rodriguez Maldonado,
Recertified Steward Juan Vallejo Hernandez, Chief Cook Bryan Alvarez and SA La’Sonia
Randolph.

Sunshine State Celebrates Jones Act
Domestic Maritime Industry Creates 65,990 Jobs in Florida

The SIU-crewed El Coqui served as a backdrop at the Jacksonville gathering, as did con-
tainers from Seafarers-contracted TOTE Maritime.

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4 Seafarers LOG May 2019

Seafarers-contracted Pasha
Hawaii on March 5 announced
factory-acceptance testing of the
main engine has been completed
for the MV George III, the first of
two liquefied natural gas (LNG)-
fueled containerships being built
in Brownsville, Texas.

The two Ohana Class vessels
will join the company’s fleet in
providing service between Hawaii
and the mainland U.S. The Jones
Act ships are scheduled for deliv-
ery in 2020.

According to Pasha, “Both the
main and auxiliary engines for
the MV George III were tested on
LNG and diesel fuel, as the two
new 774-foot containerships will
operate fully on LNG from day
one in service. Each vessel will
carry 2,525 TEUs, with a sailing
speed of 23 knots.”

Pasha Hawaii, an independent

operating subsidiary of The Pasha
Group, operates a fleet of six
Jones Act-qualified vessels out of
multiple port terminals.

The Jones Act guarantees that
the transportation of merchandise
between two U.S. points is carried
out by vessels that are crewed,
built, flagged and owned Ameri-
can. Supported by broad biparti-
san majorities in Congress and top
U.S. national security officials,
the freight cabotage law promotes
the maintenance of the nation’s
vitally important maritime indus-
trial base, ensuring that American
jobs are not shipped overseas and
that defense capabilities and read-
iness not outsourced to foreign
nations.

One day before Pasha’s an-
nouncement, the Transportation
Institute reported that the domes-
tic maritime industry now em-

ploys almost 650,000 Americans
across all 50 states and contributes
$154 billion to the nation’s eco-
nomic growth annually. That data
comes from an extensive study by
PricewaterhouseCoopers.

The graphic directly above is an artist’s rendering of the new ship. The photo at right, above shows the dual-
fueled main engine of the MV George III will meet Tier III emission standards. (Graphic and Photo courtesy
Pasha Hawaii)

The commanding officer
of the U.S. Coast Guard re-
cently left no doubt about his
strong support of the nation’s
freight cabotage law.

During a March 26 bud-
get hearing conducted by the
House Appropriations Home-
land Security Subcommittee,
U.S. Rep. Steven Palazzo
(R-Mississippi) asked Coast
Guard Commandant Adm.
Karl Schultz: “The Jones
Act, why is it important to
our economic and national
security?”

Shultz replied, “The Jones
Act is important to the secu-
rity of the nation, the merchant
fleet here, and our ability to
move military supplies and
military out loads. Let’s say
we had a large-theater war in
the Pacific and that part of the
world – that (The Jones Act)
is important. I think economi-
cally, folks have invested in
that. The Jones Act gets at-
tacked that there’s cheaper
ways to do business.

“The Jones Act has been
in place here for about 100
years, sir, and it serves a very
important – continually im-
portant – service,” Schultz
continued. “I think before
there’s any meddling with
the Jones Act, people should
really step back and have an
informed conversation about
all the puts and takes and the
impacts to national security.”

The Jones Act requires that
cargo moving between do-
mestic ports is carried aboard
vessels that are crewed, built,
flagged and owned American.

Last September, Seafarers’
Rights International (SRI), an
independent center for mari-
ner advocacy and research,

released a report titled “Cab-
otage Laws of the World.”
The findings of their global
cabotage study provided the
first independent analysis of
maritime cabotage laws since
the early 1990s.

Based on extensive re-
search involving 140 coun-
tries, the SRI report revealed

that 91 countries represent-
ing 80 percent of the world’s
coastal United Nations Mari-
time States have cabotage
laws restricting foreign mari-
time activity in their domes-
tic coastal trades.

Merriam-Webster defines
cabotage as “trade or trans-
port in coastal waters or air-
space or between two points
within a country.”

Coast Guard Commandant:
‘The Jones Act is Important

To the Security of the Nation’

Adm. Karl Schultz
Commandant

U.S. Coast Guard

SIU-contracted Matson took delivery of
the second of two Aloha Class container-
ships, the Kaimana Hila, on March 28. The
Jones Act vessel was built by union mem-
bers at Philly Shipyard.

Kaimana Hila is a Hawaiian translitera-
tion for “Diamond Head,” the name of Ha-
waii’s iconic landmark crater near Waikiki
Beach.

The new vessel is the sister ship to the
Daniel K. Inouye, which was christened
in June 2018 and went into service in No-
vember 2018. The two vessels, at 850 feet
long and 50,794 DWT, are the largest con-
tainerships ever built in a U.S. shipyard.
Though bigger, the ships are also designed
to accommodate future needs by being able
to navigate safely into some of Hawaii’s
smaller ports.

Steinar Nerbovik, Philly Shipyard presi-
dent and CEO, stated, “Matson is a first-
class customer and on behalf of all of the
men and women of the shipyard, we thank
them for their trust and confidence in us.
By all measures, Kaimana Hila will be an-
other wonderful addition to Matson’s fleet,
servicing the containership trade between
the U.S. West Coast and Hawaii.”

The two ships are the first of four new
vessels that Matson will put into its Hawaii
service during the next 18 months. Kai-
mana Hila is the 30th vessel built at Philly
Shipyard in the company’s 20-year history.

“This is a proud day for everyone at

Matson,” said Matt Cox, the company’s
chairman and CEO, during a ceremony at
the shipyard. “Daniel K. Inouye has per-
formed well in its first four months of ser-
vice, and we are excited to have Kaimana
Hila joining it soon. These new vessels
herald the beginning of a new era in our
Hawaii service and will allow us to serve
our customers better than ever for decades
to come.”

U.S. Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard
(D-Hawaii) officially christened the vessel
by breaking a ceremonial bottle of cham-
pagne against the ship’s navigation bridge
superstructure on March 9. The ceremony
was attended by approximately 70 repre-
sentatives of Matson and PSI.

When the first vessel in the class was
christened, Maritime Administrator Mark
Buzby spoke at the ceremony, saying,
“America has a proud maritime history, but
it has never been just about ships and ports.
To me it’s more about the American mariner;
the men and women who have advanced the
American way of life by serving at sea, and
the men and women of the U.S. Merchant
Marine. They are always among the first
called to action to support and sustain our
armed forces in national and international
crises. Those same mariners will breathe life
into this new ship and sail her confidently
and competently for years to come.”

The new vessels incorporate a number
of “green ship technology” features that

help protect the environment, including a
more fuel-efficient hull design, dual-fuel
engines that can be adapted to use lique-

fied natural gas (LNG), environmentally
safe double-hull fuel tanks and fresh water
ballast systems.

Matson Takes Delivery of Kaimana Hila

The union-built ship will carry an SIU crew. (Photo courtesy of Matson)

Workmen Continue to Make Progress
On Jones Act Containership in Texas
Pasha Hawaii’s LNG-Powered MV George III
Navigates Through Crucial Main Engine Test

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May 2019 Seafarers LOG 5

The Apostleship of the Sea of the
United States (AOS-USA) recently
passed separate resolutions supporting
the Jones Act and active U.S. Merchant
Mariners, plus U.S. Merchant Mariners of
World War II.

During its annual conference last
month in Dania, Florida, the organization
emphasized that the Jones Act is vital to
America. The AOS-USA also said it’s
time to deliver on long-overdue recogni-
tion for the civilian mariners who were
instrumental to Allied victory in the war.

In its statement titled “A Resolution
in Support of the United States Merchant
Marine & the Jones Act,” the organiza-
tion noted:

“Whereas Catholic maritime ministry
is called to focus on the needs of all sea-
farers, their families, and cadets.

“Whereas, United States Merchant
mariners, their families and cadets are
important members of our United States
Catholic community.

“Whereas the Jones Act is the law
which requires that any cargo transported
between two points in the U.S. by water
move on American vessels crewed by
American workers.

“Whereas, the Jones Act helps support
nearly 650,000 jobs across America,

“Whereas, the Jones Act provides im-
portant national, homeland, and economic
security benefits.

“Be it resolved that the Apostleship of
the Sea of the United States of America
at its 18th Annual National Conference,
joining together with The American Mari-
time Partnership, The Navy League, The
Transportation Institute, United States

maritime unions, and maritime shipping
companies, expresses its continued sup-
port of the Jones Act.”

The AOS-USA was no less compelling
in its support of World War II merchant
crews. That statement read in part:

“Whereas Catholic maritime ministry
is called to bring pastoral care to retired
merchant mariners.

“Whereas United States Merchant
Marine Veterans from World War II are
members of our community of maritime.

“Whereas the World War II Merchant
Mariner Veteran played a critical role in
victory over Fascism.

“Whereas unlike other veterans of the
Greatest Generation, these veterans never
received the wartime benefits that Presi-
dent Franklin Roosevelt promised for
their service and sacrifice.

“Whereas H.R. 154 would complete
the long-overdue promise and properly
recognize Merchant Mariner World War
II service. The legislation would provide
a one-time lump sum of $25,000 to each
of surviving WWII Merchant Marines.

“Whereas H.R. 550 would present the

Congressional Gold Medal to World War
II United States Merchant Marine veter-
ans, and would be an appropriate way to
shed further light on the service of the
merchant mariners in World War II and
the instrumental role they played in win-
ning that war.

“Whereas many of these veterans are
now well into their 90s, and fewer than
five thousand World War II United States
Merchant Mariners still are living.

“Be it resolved that the Apostleship of
the Sea of the United States of America,
at its 18th Annual Conference in Dania,
Florida, calls on Congress to pass of H.R.
154 & H.R. 550, and endorses the efforts
of the American Merchant Marine Veter-
ans to gain these long-delayed benefits
for these veterans.”

The AOS-USA is self-described as
“the professional association of Catholic
Maritime Ministers, Cruise Ship Priests,
Mariners and all those who support the
ministry to the People of the Sea.

AOS-USA provides mutual support,
continuing education, and intercommuni-
cation for Catholic Maritime Ministers.”

Apostleship of the Sea Backs
Jones Act, WWII Mariners

Bipartisan backing of the U.S. mari-
time industry remains evident in the na-
tion’s capital.

In one recent example, U.S. Rep. John
Garamendi (D-California) and U.S. Sen.
Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi) on March
26 sent a letter urging U.S. Trade Repre-
sentative Robert Lighthizer, Commerce
Secretary Wilbur Ross, and Treasury
Secretary Steven Mnuchin to ensure that
U.S.-flagged, U.S.-crewed vessels play a
key role in the transportation of liquefied
natural gas (LNG) exports to China.

Recent reports indicate that an agree-
ment to end the retaliatory tariffs be-
tween the U.S. and China will include
substantial commitments by the Chinese
to purchase U.S. LNG exports. Wicker’s
and Garamendi’s letter urges the admin-
istration to use this opportunity to create
new jobs in America and reinvigorate the
U.S.-flag international fleet.

“America is on pace to be the third-
largest producer of LNG exports by
2020. If we don’t use these trade negotia-
tions to require our LNG exports to ship

on U.S. vessels, the United States will
continue exporting its LNG on foreign-
flagged ships manned by foreign crews,”
said Garamendi. “The U.S.-flag interna-
tional fleet has declined 60 percent since
1991 to just 80 vessels. These negotia-
tions give us the opportunity to reener-
gize American shipyards and rebuild our
nation’s dwindling merchant fleet, which
provides a vital economic stimulus and
critical sealift capacity for our military.
I look forward to establishing a dialogue
with the administration on this matter,
and I thank Senator Wicker for leading
the effort in the Senate to grow the U.S.-
flag fleet.”

“The United States should seize every
opportunity to bolster our domestic mari-
time industry,” Wicker said. “As we pur-
sue stronger trade agreements with China
and other nations, I urge the administra-
tion to consider supporting the American
merchant marine fleet by requiring liq-
uid natural gas and crude oil exports be
transported by U.S.-flagged and -crewed
vessels.”

During the last Congress, Wicker and
Garamendi introduced the Energizing
American Shipbuilding Act. This legis-
lation would guarantee that fixed per-
centages of all exported LNG and crude
oil would travel on ships that are built,
crewed and flagged American starting
in 2025. If enacted, the proposal would
grow the U.S.-flag fleet and support

thousands of new jobs for American
mariners, shipyards, and the domestic
maritime industry.

Wicker and Garamendi plan to rein-
troduce the bill this Congress.

Editor’s note: The full letter is linked
in a March 26 post in the Labor/Mari-
time News section of the SIU website.

Rep. Garamendi, Sen. Wicker Urge
Support of American Maritime

Senator Roger Wicker
(R-Mississippi)

Congressman John Garamendi
(D-California)

Allies Testify on Future of Maritime Industry
USCG Commandant, Maritime Administrator, FMC Chair Support Mariners

During a recent hearing on “Federal
Maritime Agencies: Ensuring a Safe, Se-
cure, and Competitive Future,” the impor-
tance of the Jones Act and the U.S.-flag
fleet remained at the forefront of the dis-
cussion.

Providing testimony to the Senate
Committee on Commerce, Science, and
Transportation Subcommittee on Security
were Maritime Administration (MARAD)
Administrator Mark Buzby, Coast Guard
Commandant Admiral Karl Schultz and
Federal Maritime Commission Chairman
Michael Khouri. All three men provided
a written testimony, then answered ques-
tions posed by the senators seated on the
committee.

Buzby said in his written statement,
“Congress recognized long ago that a
U.S. Merchant Marine composed of the
best-equipped, safest, and most suitable
types of vessels, constructed in the United
States, and crewed by trained and efficient
citizen mariners is critical to national de-
fense and robust domestic and foreign
commerce. MARAD’s mission is to fos-
ter, promote, and develop our maritime

industry to meet the Nation’s economic
and security needs.

“The U.S. Merchant Marine is a funda-
mental component of our national defense
strategy. Our strategic sealift relies on a
Government-owned fleet and assured ac-
cess to commercially operated U.S.-flag
vessels, and the intermodal networks that
these vessel operators maintain, to trans-
port equipment and supplies to deploy
and sustain our military forces anywhere
in the world. Critical to both Government-
owned and commercial U.S.-flag vessels
is an adequate supply of qualified U.S.
mariners to crew them. Currently, we face
readiness challenges because of aging
Government-owned vessels, historically
low numbers of U.S.-flag vessels operat-
ing in international trade, and ensuring
we have a sufficient number of qualified
U.S. mariners that would be needed in the
event of a long-term national emergency,”
he wrote.

Schultz also addressed the importance
of mariners, saying, “Service readiness
starts with our most valuable asset – our
people. We must continue to recruit, train,

support, and retain a mission-ready total
workforce that not only positions the Ser-
vice to excel across the full spectrum of
Coast Guard missions, but is represen-
tative of the diverse Nation we serve....
Adequate increases to depot maintenance
funding, coupled with strategic human
capital investments, are critical to ad-
dressing these readiness challenges.”

In a brief summary, Khouri explained
the Federal Maritime Commission’s rela-
tionship with the shipping industry: “The
FMC is an independent agency with spe-
cialized experience in the international
ocean transportation industry. We admin-
ister a focused antitrust regulatory regime
tailored to the particular factors affecting
the ocean liner trade.... While the Fed-
eral Maritime Commission is not charged
with a national security role in the same
sense as the U.S. Coast Guard or the U.S.
Maritime Administration, America’s eco-
nomic security very much depends on a
competitive and efficient ocean transpor-
tation system. That is the Commission’s
mission.”

He also elaborated on cabotage laws,

saying, “What economists call the ‘invis-
ible hand’ is not the only force that guides
the global shipping industry. Many na-
tions throughout the world go to great
lengths to support national ocean trans-
portation companies, including use of
indirect subsidies and direct capital infu-
sion to maintain the national company’s
solvency.... For the moment, such links
between governments and national car-
riers hold the potential to provide lower
freight costs and greater service choices
for imports and exports. Some economists
argue that such foreign state support tends
to distort otherwise competitive markets.”

In his testimony, Buzby also men-
tioned the state of the U.S.-flag fleet, say-
ing, “As I stated earlier, the number of
vessels in the U.S.-flag, oceangoing fleet
has reached a low point. I am concerned
that the current fleet size could impact our
ability to quickly assemble an adequate
number of qualified mariners with the
proficiency to operate large ships (unlim-
ited horsepower and unlimited tonnage)

Continued on Page 7

54925_MAY_2K19_LOG_X.indd 5 4/25/2019 3:59:52 PM



6 Seafarers LOG May 2019

Spotlight on Mariner Health

Healthful Recipe
Baked Chili Lime Rockfish

Servings: 25
Editor’s note: The following article is pro-

vided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits
Plan Medical Department.

Sickle cell disease is a group of genetic
blood disorders that are manifested when an
individual inherits two abnormal copies of the
hemoglobin gene, one from each parent. This
gene occurs in chromosome 11.

The most common type of Sickle cell dis-
ease is called, Sickle Cell Anemia. It results in
an abnormality in the oxygen-carrying protein
hemoglobin which is found in the red blood
cell. Under certain incidences, this irregularity
leads to a rigid, sickle-like shape in the cells.

Under normal circumstances, red blood
cells are flexible, round in shape and move
easily through the blood vessels. In the case
of sickle cell anemia, however, red blood cells
become rigid, sticky and are shaped like a
sickle or a half moon. These irregular-shaped
cells can get stuck in the small blood vessels,
and thereby slow down blood flow and oxygen
to vital organs.

Symptoms associated with sickle cell dis-
ease usually are seen during the infancy stages
of an individual’s development, around five to
six months of age. A number of health prob-
lems can arise during this period including
pain, sickle cell crisis, anemia, edema of the
hands and feet, bacterial infections, delayed
growth, vision problems, acute chest syn-
drome, pulmonary hypertension and organ
damage. A stroke is also possible.

With respect to timing, sickle cell attacks
can happen during periods when infected indi-

viduals are experiencing high levels of stress;
are in environments with frequent temperature
changes; or are experiencing dehydration.
High altitudes are also regarded as trigger-
ing mechanisms. Once a sickle cell crisis has
surfaced, it could last from five to seven days.
Most individuals are hospitalized at this stage.

People having only one copy of the previ-
ously cited abnormal gene usually don’t have
any of the symptoms mentioned above. These
individuals are said to have Sickle Cell Trait
and are referred to as carriers. You must have
both abnormal copies of the gene to have
Sickle Cell Disease.

Currently, there is no cure for this disease
and, as a consequence, the more than 4.4 mil-
lion people who have the disease must rely on
preventative measures and treatment for relief.
An estimated 43 million have the sickle cell
trait.

The care of people with Sickle Cell Disease
normally will consist of the prevention of in-
fections with vaccines, antibiotics, high fluid
intake, folic acid, and pain medications. Other
treatments may include blood transfusions and
medications such as hydroxyurea.

Sickle Cell Disease diagnosis is done by a
blood test. Those who carry the sickle cell trait
should see a genetic counselor before trying to
have children. It is advised that both partners
be tested.

It’s always good practice to do the fol-
lowing: eat a healthy diet, stay hydrated by
drinking plenty of fluids, take medications as
directed, avoid stress as much as possible, and
see your doctor at the first signs of a problem.

People With Sickle Cell Disease
Inherit Condition from Parents

Ingredients
6 2/3 pounds rockfish fillets
Marinade recipe:
2/3 cup lime juice
2/3 cup lemon juice
2/3 cup water
1/3 cup olive oil
½ cup cilantro, chopped
2 2/3 tablespoons garlic clove, minced fine
2 2/3 tablespoons chili powder, ground
1 tablespoon paprika
1 tablespoon granulated garlic
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon white pepper, ground
Fresh parsley, chopped
Lime cut into twists

Preparation
Place all of the marinade ingredients
into a large bowl or container and whisk
together to combine.
Marinate the fish for at least 3 hr prior
to cooking. Discard used marinate.
Grill the fish on an oiled grill or flat top
grill, on med-high heat 3-5 minutes on
each side until done. Place in 2” hotel
pans. (Fish can also be par-cooked on
grill then finished in the oven)

Cover and serve. Garnish with chopped
parsley and lime or lemon twists.

Nutrition Information
Per Serving (excluding unknown
items): 150 Calories; 5g fat (30.3%
calories from fat); 23g protein; 3g
carbohydrate; trace dietary fiber; 42
mg cholesterol; 308 mg sodium. Ex-
changes: 0 grain (starch); 3 lean meat; 0
vegetable; 0 fruit; ½ fat.

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

Paul Hall Center Apprentice Recalls Oval Office Experience
Corey Daniel Reseburg’s first trip to

the nation’s capital will be tough to top.
An apprentice at the SIU-affiliated

Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training
and Education, Reseburg on March 4
participated in an Oval Office ceremony
where President Trump signed an execu-
tive order aimed at facilitating military
veterans’ entry to the U.S. maritime
industry.

A U.S. Army veteran, Reseburg was
one of 18 people standing behind the
president as he signed the order. Attend-
ees also included Transportation Sec-
retary Elaine L. Chao, Labor Secretary
Alexander Acosta, Maritime Administra-
tor Mark Buzby, Deputy Maritime Ad-
ministrator Richard Balzano, and other
mariners.

Reseburg, 32, appreciated the experi-
ence but wasn’t overwhelmed by it.

“I’d never been to D.C. before,”
he recalled. “Just to be able to go the
Oval Office and meet the president
was quite the opportunity. Standing
there in the office, there’s a lot of his-
tory. I felt honored, and it felt like the
president was happy to sign the order
and support veterans coming into the
industry.”

Reseburg said that although his time
at the White House was “short and
sweet, probably 15 to 20 minutes,” he
got to meet “quite a few people.” That
list included Chao, a longtime friend
of the SIU and supporter of American
maritime.

“I got to speak with her, which was
pretty cool,” Reseburg noted. “I also got
to meet Admiral Buzby and got to see
some colleagues from the Great Lakes.”

Asked about his nerves, the Jackson-
ville, Florida, native replied, “I was a
little nervous to speak to everybody and
meet them for the first time, but not re-
ally very much. Being with a group of
people, it wasn’t so bad.”

He said Trump handed out markers

from his desk that he uses to sign bills,
and Buzby got a signed copy of the
executive order (one supported by the
SIU).

As for his post-Army career choice,
Reseburg is optimistic. He separated
from the service in 2008 and then
“had been working dead-end jobs for a
while,” Reseburg said. “I met a guy and
asked him what he did for a living. He
gave me the number to the SIU and the
rest is history.”

The connection wasn’t purely luck,
though. Reseburg said that, living in a
port city, “I had always had an interest”
in the maritime industry. “I guess living
in Jacksonville, seeing those big ships, I
wondered, how do I get there?”

His training at the school in Piney
Point, Maryland, is “moving right
along,” he said.

He’s unsure which department he’ll
choose but is “leaning engine.”

Paul Hall Center Apprentice Corey Daniel Reseburg (second from right in photo above) joined other White House attendees for an
impromptu news conference after the executive order’s signing. In photo below, Reseburg is pictured on the campus in Piney Point,
Maryland.

54925_MAY_2K19_LOG.indd 6 4/25/2019 1:14:52 AM



May 2019 Seafarers LOG 7

needed for surge and sustainment sealift operations
during a mobilization that lasts more than six months.
We may be short of the number of mariners needed
to meet crewing requirements beyond those first six
months. While, historically, the men and women of the
U.S. Merchant Marine have voluntarily shipped out
in times of need, and even extended their time at sea
beyond normal tours when called upon to do so, it is
important to note that commercial mariners are under
no legal obligation to do so.

“MARAD is conducting a survey of mariners to as-

certain with more certainty their potential availability
and willingness to ‘answer the call.’ The results will
help clarify the size of the pool of qualified mariners
upon which our Nation could potentially rely in times
of need,” he said.

When asked by Subcommittee Chairman Dan Sul-
livan (R-Alaska) about the prevalence of cabotage laws
around the world, Buzby replied, “Over 98 countries
that have their version of cabotage law, similar to the
Jones Act.… A recent study revealed that. There are
so many aspects where the Jones Act impacts our both
economic security and national security. I would offer
just one and that is that the operators of our Jones Act
fleet that ply the waters every single day of this na-
tion, inland waters, coastal waters, they are invested
in our country. They are our countrymen. They know
what normal looks like. They know when something
doesn’t look quite right and it’s out of sorts. They will
say something if they see something. You cannot say
that about a foreign operator in our waters. They have
no equity. They have no reason to want to report. Our

people ply those waters every day. They make their liv-
ing there. They are members of our community. If they
see something, they will say something. That is a bona
fide layer of our national security.”

Khouri followed up on the administrator’s points:
“I grew up in the U.S.-flag fleet inland, as the admiral
knows. I had the opportunity after law school to work in
this precise area, worked on trying to put together cab-
otage trades and trying to remember France, Germany,
Venezuela, throughout the river system, Indonesia, and
last, one of the most interesting, to move coal on the
Grand Canal in China. And so, I have some hands-on
experience in dealing with those cabotage rules with
various countries as you mentioned, and they’re tough.
They are not receptive to foreigners coming into their
area. And so I agree with everything Admiral Buzby
said.... I never have understood just the simplest fun-
damental point that with the thousands of miles of U.S.
coastline and all the business that we have here, why
would we unilaterally disarm ourselves to all of these
other countries. That never made any sense to me.”

Marine Society Honors SIU President
A prestigious maritime organization recently sa-

luted the outstanding career of the SIU’s top official.
SIU President Michael Sacco on April 8 received

a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Marine
Society of the City of New York for his years of
dedication to the U.S. Merchant Marine. Marine So-
ciety President Capt. Tim Ferrie described Sacco’s
accomplishments as “second to none.”

The yearly event took place in New York City.
In part, the award itself cited Sacco’s “dis-

tinguished service in the field of labor relations
representing merchant mariners, industrial and gov-
ernment workers over a 50-year career…. Michael
Sacco is a tireless supporter of Seafarers and their
families, advocating for improved medical, educa-
tion and retirement benefits…. Michael has given
selflessly to benefit the merchant mariner through
the years, quietly and without fanfare, as becomes a
seafarer.”

The framed certificate also noted some of the
numerous gains that have occurred both within the
SIU and at its affiliated school in Piney Point, Mary-
land, thanks to Sacco’s leadership.

Capt. Robert Johnston, retired Overseas Shi-
pholding Group executive, introduced Sacco and
pointed out they have known each other for nearly
40 years.

“Mike has led the SIU to new heights in jobs and
benefit plans and is the unquestioned heavyweight
of maritime labor,” Johnston said. “Mike works and
fights hard for his sailors – for their jobs, their work-
ing conditions, their benefits, their pensions. Don’t
ever get in the way of Mike fighting for his sailors.”

Addressing the crowd of more than 200, Sacco
stated, “My hat is off both to the Marine Society
of New York and to Snug Harbor, which I know is
a separate but closely aligned organization. Snug
Harbor in particular has done so much great work

to help retired mariners, including a lot of our old
NMU retirees. And the Marine Society has helped
people throughout our industry, largely through pro-
viding educational opportunities.

“In that way, my union has a lot in common with
you,” he continued. “We put a premium on training
and education, because nothing is more important to
the rank-and-file member. I’m sure the crew of the
Green Lake would tell you that they couldn’t have
saved those people without their safety training,
much of it provided by union-affiliated schools. In
fact, I’m proud to point out that every single SIU
member on that ship when the rescue took place has
trained at our school in Maryland.” (Editor’s note:
The SIU-crewed Green Lake also was honored by
the Marine Society for a rescue its crew executed
Dec. 31, 2018, as reported in the February LOG.)

He added, “I’m proud to have spent my life in
this industry. The U.S. Merchant Marine is vital to
America’s national, economic and homeland security.
Who wouldn’t be excited to be part of it? And I’m
grateful to have found a home with the SIU many
years ago. Our union has been a source of good,
family-wage jobs almost since our founding in 1938.
We deliver the goods for our country, for our troops
when needed, and for our own members.”

Sacco concluded, “You’ve given me a lifetime
achievement award – and my lifetime of experience
tells me that we’ve still got many great days ahead
in the American maritime industry. I can see it in
the new members joining the SIU. I can see it in the
new vessels being built in union yards across the
country. We have tremendous potential for growth
in the international trade, and we’ve got solid, bi-
partisan support on the domestic side as well. Our
future is bright as long as we’re willing to work for
it. And I can tell you for sure, the SIU is willing to
work for it.”

Marine Society President Capt. Tim Ferrie (right) congratulates SIU President
Michael Sacco.

SIU President Michael Sacco (right) addresses the audience. (Photo by Howard Hill)

Group Lauds Sacco’s Career Achievements

Jones Act, U.S.-Flag Fleet
Receive Strong Backing
During Senate Hearing
Continued from Page 5

54925_MAY_2K19_LOG.indd 7 4/25/2019 1:14:53 AM



8 Seafarers LOG May 2019

At Sea and Ashore with the SIU
MEMBERS WELCOME HQ OFFICIALS – Pictured recently at the New Orleans hall are (photo above, from left) SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, SA Abraham Pena, SIU
President Michael Sacco, SA James St. Amand, Recertified Bosun Stanley Daranda, QMED Grant Simonson, AB Aurelio Ortiz, AB Arthur Price and AB Harold Christopher.

CELEBRATING SAFETY – Recertified Bosun Oliver Balico (standing third from left) recently earned a monthly safety
award from Maersk Line, Limited aboard the Safmarine Kuramo. He received it in front of the whole crew and was com-
mended for continuous contributions and long-standing commitment to safety.

HAPPY REUNION – AB James Osei Bonsu (left) re-
cently reconnected with his brother, Charles (right), in
Bremerhaven, Germany, while the Seafarer was work-
ing aboard the Charleston Express (Marine Personnel
and Provisioning). They hadn’t seen each other in 20
years. Charles lives in Hanover, roughly a two-hour
drive from where the vessel docked.

ABOARD ATB LIBERTY – Aboard the Crowley vessel in Texas City, Texas, are (from left) SIU
Patrolman J.B. Niday, Capt. Kenny Graybill, Chief Mate Caleb Buckley, AB/Utility Filmore Solomon
and AB/Cook Robert Leslie.

ABOARD ISLA BELLA – Pictured on the TOTE Maritime vessel in Puerto Rico
are ABs Victor Velez-Perez, Ricky Rivera-Martinez, and John Diaz-Hernandez,
all Puerto Rico natives and residents of the island.

54925_MAY_2K19_LOG.indd 8 4/25/2019 1:14:54 AM



May 2019 Seafarers LOG 9

At Sea and Ashore with the SIU

MILESTONES IN HAWAII – AB Rolando Pangan (right in photo at left, with administrative assistant Shu-
reen Yatchmenoff) recently received his A-seniority book at the Honolulu hall, while SA Shana Zeidenberg
(left in photo at right, with Safety Director Amber Akana) picked up her full B-book.

LICENSE EARNED – Former Seafarer Carlos Sanchez displays his newly
earned chief engineer’s license aboard the Crowley tanker Magnolia State.

ABOARD CAPE HORN – Pictured aboard the Matson-operated vessel in San Francisco are (photo
at left, from left) Chief Steward Ali Munsar and SIU Port Agent Nick Marrone II.

SLNC GOODWILL CREW – Seafarers and officers are pictured in front of the
Chesapeake Crewing vessel at Keppel Shipyard in Singapore. The SIU crew
includes Bosun Wilson Trayvilla, AB Wallace William, AB Celso Gutierrez, AB
Mario Loria, STOW Tommy Benton, Oiler Phil Leger, Oiler Mason McGowan,
Steward/Baker Janelle Harper, ACU Nicoll Rodriguez, SA Fahd Saleh, Appren-
tice Samuel Reyes and Apprentice Robert Mason.

WELCOME ASHORE IN JAX – Picking up their respective first pension checks at the
hiring hall are Chief Mate Conrado Abinuman (left in photo at left) and AB Jared Blavat
(right in photo at right). Each is pictured with Safety Director Joseph Koncul.

FULL BOOKS IN HOUSTON – Receiving their respective full books at the hiring hall are AB
Juan Bermudez (left in photo at left, with Patrolman J.B. Niday) and AB Simon Valerio (center
in photo at right, with VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, right, and Asst. VP Mike Russo).

WELCOME ASHORE IN OAKLAND –
Electrician Kashmir Dhillon (left) picks up
his first pension check at the hall in Oak-
land, California. Congratulating him on
retirement is Asst. VP Nick Celona.

PROMOTING MARITIME IN JERSEY – Pictured at a recent fundraiser are (from left) NY
Waterway Chairman Armand Pohan, SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, U.S. Rep. Bill
Pascrell (D-New Jersey), Port Agent Mark von Siegel and Patrolman Ray Henderson.

FULL BOOK IN PINEY – AB Will Jordan
(right) receives his full membership book in
Piney Point, Maryland. He’s pictured with Port
Agent Victor Nunez.

54925_MAY_2K19_LOG.indd 9 4/25/2019 1:14:57 AM



10 Seafarers LOG May 2019

NATIONAL GLORY SAFETY MILESTONE – The vessel re-
cently celebrated seven years without a lost-time injury. The
ship carries an SIU crew and AMO officers. It sails between
Houston and Puerto Rico for National Shipping and is man-
aged by Crowley Global Ship Management. Standing from
left are Chief Cook Claudia Mauricio-Brice, Electrician Os-
wald Bermeo, AB Jose Bermudez, Recertified Bosun Robert
Natividad, Oiler Abraham Moreira-Mejia, OS Nassor James
and OS Stalyn Mena Avila. Kneeling from left are AB Paul
Dooley, AB Gerardo Arroyo, Oiler Francisco Martinez and
Recertified Steward Lionel Packnett.

ABOARD MAERSK KENTUCKY – Thanks to vessel master
Capt. Bill Imken for this snapshot of Seafarers during the last full
day aboard the ship, which recently completed its final voyage.
(The vessel is being replaced by a newer one, the Safmarine
Mafadi, which will sail under the Stars and Stripes.) Pictured from
left are GUDE Gil Lawrence, SA Rodrigo Cother, Bosun George
Steube, AB Gremar Rio, QMED Antonio Watson, AB Thyron Dy,
AB Walter Ott, Steward/Baker Jerome Jordan, QEE Monroe
Monseur, Chief Cook Ricardo Arauz Rochez, AB William Kovacs
and AB Timothy Heil.

SPAD SUPPORT – SIU boatmen continue signing
up for SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action
fund. This photo was taken March 20 in Freeport,
Texas, aboard the G&H tug Zeus. Pictured from
left are SIU Patrolman J.B. Niday, Chief Engineer
Shawn Atkinson, Capt. Jarrad Williams, Oiler Mi-
chael Diggs and SIU Safety Director Kevin Sykes.
The members had just signed up for SPAD check-
off.

ARTISTIC SEND-OFF – Recertified Steward Christina Mateer (right in photo
at left) received a unique gift from a friend’s daughter shortly before return-
ing to work aboard the Maersk Ohio in late March. The daughter, Ava (left),
“thinks my job is really cool,” Mateer reports. With that in mind, Ava drew a
likeness of the vessel and presented it to Mateer.

MARINERS HONORED – Recertified Bosun Greg Jackson was pleasantly surprised to
see the U.S. Merchant Marine included in the City of Semmes (Alabama) Honor Park.
Greg sent these photos (at left and above) from his recent stop there. More info on the
park is available at: https://cityofsemmesal.gov/our-community/honor-park/

54925_MAY_2K19_LOG.indd 10 4/25/2019 1:14:59 AM



May 2019 Seafarers LOG 11

Snapshots from Puerto Rico

CONGRESSMEN, MAYOR DISCUSS CABOTAGE – Gathering for
a photo after a hearing in San Juan that included discussions about
FEMA and the Jones Act are (from left) SIU Port Agent Amancio
Crespo,U.S. Rep. Al Green (D-Texas), U.S. Rep. Jesus Garcia (D-
Illinois), San Juan Mayor Carmen Yulin Cruz and U.S. Rep. Bennie
Thompson (D-Mississippi), who chairs the House Homeland Security
Committee.

CONGRESSMAN ATTENDS ENERGY SUMMIT – U.S. Rep. Ted
Yoho (R-Florida) (second from right) toured Puerto Rico Electric
Power Authority facilities as part of a recent discussion concerning
new energy sources for the island. He’s pictured with (from left)
TOTE Services VP Ben Christian, SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo
and TOTE Maritime VP Eduardo Pagan.

TALKING JONES ACT WITH SENA-
TOR – SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo
(right) meets with the Hon. Angel Chay-
anne Martinez, a member of the Puerto
Rico Senate, to discuss the numerous
ways the Jones Act benefits the territory
and its citizens.

MEETING WITH MAYOR – Jose
Sanchez (right), mayor of Manati,
is a longtime backer of the mari-
time industry. He met recently
with SIU Port Agent Amancio
Crespo (left) to discuss the lat-
est developments pertaining to
the Jones Act, including how the
law helps provide good jobs for
Puerto Rico residents.

MARITIME COMMUNITY MEETS WITH SENATOR – U.S. maritime advocates on April 8
conducted a meeting with the Hon. Nelson V. Cruz Santiago (second from left), a member
of the Puerto Rico Senate. They discussed the vital role the Jones Act has played in the ter-
ritory’s economy. Pictured with him (from left) are SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo, TOTE
Maritime VP Eduardo Pagan, Jose Nazario and A. Rivera of Crowley, Teamsters Local 901
President Carlos J. Marrero and Josue Montijo of the Puerto Rico AFL-CIO.

RECRUITING TRAIL – Seafarers helped promote
the union and its affiliated school in Piney Point,
Maryland, during a mid-March job fair in Carolina.
Pictured from left are Recertified Steward Ismael Ga-
rayua, Chief Cook Christian Borroto and Chief Cook
Jacob Parrilla.

ENTHUSIASTIC DONATION – AB Leroy Sierra dis-
plays a dramatic photo of a sailboat that he donated
to the new hiring hall in San Juan.

FAMILIES WELCOME – One of the improvements
cited by Seafarers regarding the new hiring hall is its
family-friendly location. Third Asst. Engineer Jose R.
Encarnacion (right) brought his wife, Moraima (left) and
their daughter, Leah, to the building in early April.

A-BOOK AWARDED – AB Julio Perez (left) receives his A-seniority
book at the hall. He’s pictured with Port Agent Amancio Crespo.

54925_MAY_2K19_LOG_X.indd 11 4/25/2019 3:59:55 PM



12 Seafarers LOG May 2019

SIU-Backed Final Rule Boosts Mariner Access
A years-long effort strongly assisted by

the SIU has resulted in new regulations
aimed at benefiting mariners.

The U.S. Coast Guard on April 1 is-
sued a final rule titled “Seafarers’ Access
to Maritime Facilities.” Published in the
Federal Register, the rule requires “each
owner or operator of a maritime facility
regulated by the Coast Guard to imple-
ment a system providing seafarers, pilots,
and representatives of seamen’s welfare
and labor organizations access between
vessels moored at the facility and the facil-
ity gate, in a timely manner and at no cost
to the seafarer or other individuals. These
access procedures must be documented in
the Facility Security Plan for each facility,
and approved by the local Captain of the
Port. This final rule, which implements a
congressional mandate, ensures that no fa-
cility owner or operator denies or makes it
impractical for seafarers or other individu-
als to transit through the facility.”

Compliance is required by June 1, 2020
(the rule’s “effective date” is May 1, 2019).

Organizations and individuals from
many sectors of the industry teamed up to
push for this regulation.

When the rule initially was proposed,
SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Hein-
del testified on behalf of both the union
and the International Transport Workers’
Federation (where he chairs the Seafar-
ers’ Section) during a U.S. Department
of Transportation public meeting in early
2015. At that time, Heindel said that shore
leave and terminal access aren’t just mat-
ters of convenience – they’re crucial to
maritime safety and the general wellbeing
of mariners. They should also be consid-

ered part of the cost of doing business as a
maritime terminal, he stated.

Additionally, Heindel thanked the
agency for proposing the rule, and said it
is imperative that if any additional costs
arise for making it easier for mariners to
go ashore, those costs must not be passed
on to seafarers, either directly or indirectly.
He noted that although that sentiment is
consistent with the proposal’s stated in-
tent, unions and other mariner advocates
were on guard to make sure that’s how it
is implemented.

“The concern we have on the labor side
and also with the ministry side is that the
seafarers have access to shore in a timely
manner and at no cost to the seafarer,”
Heindel stated. “We think the terminal
operators have a responsibility here. They
have an obligation to make sure people
have access through their terminals.”

Heindel said foreign mariners in par-
ticular have “a very, very tough time get-
ting ashore at a lot of different terminals,”
and that a balance can be reached between
proper security measures and reasonable
treatment of seafarers.

The SIU also submitted formal com-
ments soon after the meeting.

Meanwhile, the Coast Guard noted in
the final rule, “Another benefit … is that it
will conform to international conventions,
which in turn benefits seafarers…. We be-
lieve this is a benefit to seafarers because
if the U.S. does not adhere to these interna-
tional conventions and denies shore leave
to these individuals, other countries may
engage in an act of reciprocity and deny
shore leave to U.S. seafarers abroad.”

According to the agency, 2,469 port

facilities governed by the Maritime Trans-
portation Security Act of 2002 will update
their respective facility security plans,
while an additional 420 MTSA-regulated
facilities will update both their respective
plans and “facility operations.”

The Coast Guard described some of the
benefits of the final rule as enhancing “the
safety, health, and welfare of seafarers,
and the overall quality of life by allowing
seafarers access to fundamental human
services.”

The last page of the rule spells out dif-
ferent considerations and options pertain-
ing to mariner access. That page includes
the following:

C. Timely access. The facility owner or
operator must provide the access described
in this section without unreasonable delay,
subject to review by the Captain of the
Port (COTP). The facility owner or op-
erator must consider the following when
establishing timely access without unrea-
sonable delay:
n Length of time the vessel is in port.
n Distance of egress/ingress between

the vessel and facility gate.
n The vessel watch schedules.
n The facility’s safety and security pro-

cedures as required by law.
n Any other factors specific to the ves-

sel or facility that could affect access to and
from the vessel.

D. Access methods. The facility owner
or operator must ensure that the access de-
scribed in this section is provided through
one or more of the following methods:

(1) Regularly scheduled escort between
the vessel and the facility gate that con-
forms to the vessel’s watch schedule as

agreed upon between the vessel and facil-
ity.

(2) An on-call escort between the vessel
and the facility gate.

(3) Arrangements with taxi services
or other transportation services, ensuring
that any costs for providing the access de-
scribed in this section, above the service’s
standard fees charged to any customer, are
not charged to the individual to whom such
access is provided. If a facility provides
arrangements with taxi services or other
transportation services as the only method
for providing the access described in this
section, the facility is responsible to pay
any fees for transit within the facility.

(4) Arrangements with seafarers’ wel-
fare organizations to facilitate the access
described in this section.

(5) Monitored pedestrian access routes
between the vessel and facility gate.

A method, other than those in para-
graphs (d)(1) through (5) of this section,
approved by the COTP.

If an access method relies on a third
party, a back-up access method that will
be used if the third party is unable to or
does not provide the required access in any
instance. An owner or operator must en-
sure that the access required in paragraph
(a) of this section is actually provided in
all instances.

(e) No cost to individuals. The facility
owner or operator must provide the access
described in this section at no cost to the
individual to whom such access is pro-
vided.

The complete rule is linked on the SIU
website, in the news archive (look under
April 2019).

People who own high-tech “smart lug-
gage” and wish to travel with it aboard air-
craft potentially could encounter problems.

According to several sources, three
airlines (American, Delta and Alaska) in
early 2018 announced that passengers
owning smart luggage with a non-re-
movable battery built into it would not be
able to take the baggage onto the aircraft.
United and Southwest Airlines joined the
three inaugural carriers in the ban shortly
thereafter.

“Customers who travel with a smart
bag must be able to remove the battery in
case the bag has to be checked at any point
in the customer’s journey,” according to a
statement issued by American Airlines.
“If the battery cannot be removed, the bag
will not be allowed.”

The policy change applies to checked
as well as carry-on bags that require
lithium batteries to power features such
as a USB charging station and a location
tracker. The policy’s origin is the result of
safety concerns surrounding lithium bat-
teries.

Lithium metal and lithium ion/poly-
mer batteries are susceptible to emitting
smoke, catching fire and even exploding.
Between March 1991 and May 2017, the
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
documented 160 incidents involving lith-
ium batteries that were being transported
as cargo or baggage. The agency already
prohibits passengers from checking spare
lithium batteries used for personal elec-
tronic devices and portable rechargers,
as well as several lithium-powered items
such as e-cigarettes and vape pens.

The FAA permits the items inside the
cabin. For information on flying with
hazardous materials, see the FAA’s Pack
Safe guidelines at www.faa.gov/hazmat/
packagesafe/

Airlines Dub Luggage
With Non-Removable
Battery a ‘Big No-No’

A new addition to the course schedule
at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for
Maritime Training and Education is de-
signed for those serving on government
vessels. The MSC Ship Reaction Force
class is a hands-on training course, and
draws from the knowledge and expertise
of Military Sealift Command and other
military advisors.

Acting Vice President of the Paul Hall
Center Tom Orzechowski said, “Ap-
proved by the agency, this course is the
latest in continuing improvements and
additions to the curriculum here at the
school. We’re confident that the skills
learned in this course will prove invalu-
able to SIU mariners out at sea.”

“This course provides tailored training
and techniques for Military Sealift Com-
mand civilian personnel who may serve
as a member of the security reaction
team,” said instructor Wayne Johnson Jr.
“To be enrolled in this class, students are
required to have successfully completed
Basic Watch Stander, Advanced Watch
Stander, hold a current small arms quali-
fication for 9mm pistol and/or M500 12-
gauge shotgun.”

“I enjoyed the hands-on training,” said
STOS Eric Reich. “The simulations teach
you how to actually react and respond to
an emergency. They did great!”

Johnson Jr. described the course: “Stu-
dents will learn to respond, move, and

communicate tactfully and efficiently as
a member of the vessel’s security reaction
team. Classroom and practical exercises
include, but are not limited to: non-ver-
bal communication, tactical movements,
room clearing, target acquisition, threat
recognition, tactical response, hostage
situations, bomb searches, and simulated
force on force exercises.

“Unfortunately, piracy is an issue
in our industry,” he added. “What bet-
ter way to thwart it than to have a better
understanding of how to respond? This
type of training is focused on the protec-
tion of one’s self, fellow crew members
and the ship, which in my opinion is in-
valuable.”

School Rolls Out MSC Ship Reaction Force Class

Students participate in the new course at the union-affiliated school in southern Maryland.

New Course Joins Piney Point Lineup

54925_MAY_2K19_LOG_X.indd 12 4/25/2019 3:59:55 PM



May 2019 Seafarers LOG 13

SIU Government Services Division
members once again are answering the
call, sailing aboard the Military Sealift
Command expeditionary fast transport
ships (EPF) USNS Brunswick and USNS
Fall River in support of this year’s on-
going Operation Pacific Partnership.
The annual multinational exercise began
March 4; both CIVMAR-crewed ships
will host the operation’s commanders at
various times.

According to the Navy, “Pacific Part-
nership, now in its 14th iteration, is the
largest annual multinational humanitarian
assistance and disaster relief preparedness
mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific.
Each year, the mission team works col-
lectively with host and partner nations to
enhance regional interoperability and di-
saster response capabilities, increase sta-
bility and security in the region, and foster
new and enduring friendships across the
Indo-Pacific.”

“Pacific Partnership brings nations
together to prepare in calm to respond
in crisis,” Capt. Randy Van Rossum, the
commander for Pacific Partnership 2019
and commodore of Destroyer Squadron
1, said in a statement. “Our mission team,
made up of servicemembers and volun-
teers from around the world, reflects this
enduring commitment to the region.”

This year’s mission began with stops in
the Republic of the Marshall Islands and
the Philippines, Malaysia, the Federated
States of Micronesia, Timor-Leste, Viet-
nam and Thailand.

“The impact of disaster emergencies
transcends borders and requires com-
prehensive preparation and coordination
among nations for an effective disaster
response,” said Capt. Rossum during the
Kuching, Malaysia, mission stop. “I am
confident that the planning and hard work
we’ve invested thus far will show in our
successful collaborative efforts for a long-
lasting impact here in Kuching.”

“Pacific Partnership is about building
trust and sharing knowledge,” said Rear
Adm. Joey Tynch, commander, Task Force
73, the executive agent for Pacific Partner-
ship 2019. “This mission shows that the
U.S., our partners and hosts are working
together to making this region better pre-
pared for disaster response.”

Experts in the fields of engineering,
medicine and disaster response part-
ner with each host nation to conduct
civic-action projects, community health
exchanges, medical symposiums, and di-
saster response training activities. The
U.S., partner nation military members, and
non-governmental organization volunteers
are scheduled to take part in a variety of
events including first aid training, pre-
ventive medicine training, various health
care conferences, engineering projects,
disaster response seminars, and commu-
nity outreach engagements with the goal
of improving the overall humanitarian and
disaster preparedness in the region.

“Malaysia and the United States have
a comprehensive partnership, which is
building every day on the things that we

can do together to make the region safer
and to enable our people in a more effec-
tive regional crisis response,” said U.S.
Embassy Malaysia Deputy Chief of Mis-
sion Dean Thompson.

Pacific Partnership began in response to
one of the world’s most catastrophic natu-
ral disasters, the December 2004 tsunami
that devastated parts of South and South-
east Asia. The mission has evolved over
the years from emphasis on direct care to

an operation focused on enhancing part-
nerships through host nation subject matter
expert and civil-military exchanges.

Working at the invitation of each host
nation, Pacific Partnership is joined by
partner nations that include Australia,
Canada, Japan, Malaysia, Peru, the Phil-
ippines, South Korea, Thailand, and the
United Kingdom to strengthen disaster
response preparedness around the Indo-
Pacific region.

SIU CIVMARS Support Pacific Partnership 2019

The CIVMAR-crewed expeditionary fast transport ship USNS Fall River arrives at the Port of
Kuching for Pacific Partnership 2019. (Photo courtesy Petty Officer 2nd Class Nicholas Bur-
gains)

U.S. Navy Sailors conducting small boat operations approach the CIVMAR-crewed USNS
Brunswick during Pacific Partnership 2019. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication
Specialist 1st Class Tyrell K. Morris)

U.S. Ambassador to Timor-Leste Kathleen M. Fitzpatrick speaks with Capt. Randy Van
Rossum, Pacific Partnership 2019 mission commander, during a tour of the CIVMAR-
crewed USNS Fall River following the ship’s arrival at the Port of Dili, Timor Leste. (U.S.
Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Nathan Carpenter)

Aboard Seabulk ATB

Chief Cook Roxanne Fike, SIU Asst. VP
Kris HopkinsAB Doug Crawford

These photos were taken last month in Port Everglades, Florida, aboard (and
near) the Sea Power, an articulated tug-barge that was instrumental in deliv-
ering fuel to Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria.

54925_MAY_2K19_LOG.indd 13 4/25/2019 1:15:05 AM



14 Seafarers LOG May 2019

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54925_MAY_2K19_LOG.indd 14 4/25/2019 1:15:05 AM



May 2019 Seafarers LOG 15

March 14, 2019 - April 15, 2019

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 15 8 2 33 7 1 5 17 9 2
Anchorage 5 1 3 1 1 2 1 4 1 5
Baltimore 1 1 0 4 1 0 2 2 1 2
Fort Lauderdale 22 17 6 18 6 2 12 31 21 4
Guam 6 2 0 5 1 1 0 3 1 0
Harvey 9 3 2 7 2 3 3 13 6 7
Honolulu 1 2 4 1 8 7 0 5 17 9 1
Houston 52 22 7 40 11 7 24 98 36 20
Jacksonville 39 22 3 28 14 4 19 67 39 6
Jersey City 36 9 6 33 8 5 20 65 18 6
Joliet 5 2 3 5 2 2 0 4 3 2
Mobile 9 2 3 9 5 2 2 12 7 3
Norfolk 22 19 8 11 8 7 9 25 27 12
Oakland 14 4 2 13 4 2 5 20 9 5
Philadelphia 2 3 3 2 1 3 0 2 6 1
Piney Point 5 4 0 2 3 0 2 5 4 0
Puerto Rico 6 7 1 6 1 1 2 9 7 4
Tacoma 34 8 2 17 7 1 11 52 16 10
St. Louis 2 2 3 6 0 1 1 4 4 4
Wilmington 29 16 6 27 8 4 16 59 26 14
TOTALS 325 156 61 275 97 48 139 509 250 108

Engine Department
Algonac 3 0 1 3 2 1 0 1 1 0
Anchorage 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0
Baltimore 5 1 0 1 2 0 0 6 2 0
Fort Lauderdale 11 5 1 8 8 1 6 14 9 1
Guam 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0
Harvey 4 3 0 2 2 1 2 5 4 0
Honolulu 10 3 1 5 2 1 3 20 3 1
Houston 11 7 2 8 4 2 7 20 16 5
Jacksonville 25 13 1 9 12 0 6 32 29 2
Jersey City 14 7 1 11 3 1 4 17 11 1
Joliet 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 1 2
Mobile 1 2 2 2 0 0 0 9 7 2
Norfolk 13 13 7 6 7 8 7 21 21 6
Oakland 9 3 2 2 3 2 1 13 6 2
Philadelphia 2 5 0 1 2 0 0 7 5 0
Piney Point 1 3 1 2 3 0 0 3 3 1
Puerto Rico 2 1 0 3 1 0 3 7 3 0
Tacoma 12 2 3 10 2 2 2 25 9 4
St. Louis 0 4 1 0 1 0 0 3 4 1
Wilmington 11 4 2 9 4 0 5 20 22 3
TOTALS 136 77 25 83 59 20 46 226 157 31

Steward Department
Algonac 3 2 0 2 2 0 1 9 1 0
Anchorage 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0
Baltimore 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 3 2 0
Fort Lauderdale 13 4 0 4 2 1 3 25 10 0
Guam 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 0
Harvey 7 2 1 2 3 0 2 8 1 2
Honolulu 10 0 0 8 2 0 4 13 5 0
Houston 17 6 3 13 3 2 7 28 10 3
Jacksonville 18 14 1 14 8 3 8 29 21 2
Jersey City 16 4 2 12 2 0 5 17 4 2
Joliet 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 1 1 1
Mobile 4 1 0 1 4 0 1 5 0 0
Norfolk 16 6 1 13 7 0 8 26 17 1
Oakland 17 8 0 10 5 1 4 25 9 1
Philadelphia 4 0 0 4 0 0 3 2 0 1
Piney Point 1 4 3 5 3 3 2 2 3 1
Puerto Rico 5 7 0 2 5 0 1 5 8 0
Tacoma 10 3 2 13 3 2 7 17 1 3
St. Louis 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 4 1 1
Wilmington 20 13 1 12 7 0 11 36 15 2
TOTALS 165 77 15 117 57 12 67 259 110 20

Entry Department
Algonac 1 5 14 0 4 4 5 3 13 15
Anchorage 0 4 1 0 2 1 0 0 3 2
Baltimore 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 4
Fort Lauderdale 1 7 5 0 1 1 2 2 8 4
Guam 0 2 2 0 2 1 0 0 3 2
Harvey 0 1 3 0 1 1 2 0 0 3
Honolulu 1 3 3 1 6 3 1 2 6 4
Houston 5 15 13 0 9 8 6 9 20 19
Jacksonville 1 19 16 0 18 16 6 3 43 56
Jersey City 0 17 14 1 9 6 3 3 30 22
Joliet 0 0 2 0 0 2 0 0 1 1
Mobile 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 3
Norfolk 0 19 21 0 10 14 5 0 29 38
Oakland 3 8 9 0 5 8 3 5 14 15
Philadelphia 1 5 0 0 3 1 0 1 1 0
Piney Point 1 0 4 0 0 0 1 0 1 4
Puerto Rico 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 1
Tacoma 7 12 11 1 5 3 3 9 18 19
St. Louis 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 1
Wilmington 6 22 9 2 11 8 6 9 35 32
TOTALS 29 139 130 6 86 78 45 48 226 245

GRAND TOTAL: 655 449 231 481 299 158 297 1,042 743 404

Piney Point...........................................Monday: May 6, June 3
Algonac.................................................Friday: May 10, June 7
Baltimore............................................Thursday: May 9, June 6
Guam..............................................Thursday: May 23, June 20
Honolulu.............................................Friday: May 17, June 14

Houston..............................................Monday: May 13, June 10

Jacksonville........................................Thursday: May 9, June 6

Joliet................................................Thursday: May 16, June 13

Mobile..........................................Wednesday: May 15, June 12

New Orleans........................................Tuesday: May 14, June 11

Jersey City............................................Tuesday: May 7, June 4

Norfolk................................................Thursday: May 9, June 6

Oakland...........................................Thursday: May 16, June 13

Philadelphia.....................................Wednesday: May 8, June 5

Port Everglades...............................Thursday: May 16, June 13

San Juan.............................................Thursday: May 9, June 6

St. Louis...............................................Friday: May 17, June 14

Tacoma.................................................Friday: May 24, June 21

Wilmington............................................Monday: May 20, June 17

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

May & June
Membership Meetings

As previously reported, the
SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Cen-
ter for Maritime Training and
Education continues to offer
Culinary 2.0 classes designed
to help students boost their
skills while complying with a
new rule that takes effect next
year. Completing the course-
work also is intended to aid
individual shipping opportu-
nities.

Shipping Rule 5.A.(6),
which will go into effect Jan-
uary 1, 2020, states, “Within
each class of seniority in the
Steward Department, priority
shall be given to those seamen
who possess an advanced Cu-
linary 2.0 certificate from the
Seafarers Harry Lundeberg
School of Seamanship, in the
event such program is being
offered and that the seaman is
registered in Group I, Steward
Department.”

While every new member
of the steward department
who completes their ap-
prenticeship at the Paul Hall
Center’s Lundeberg School
of Seamanship will have suc-
cessfully passed Culinary
2.0, it’s important to remem-
ber that those already sail-

ing as chief cooks and chief
stewards must also take the
coursework in order to exer-
cise preference and priority
beginning next year (unless
they have received training
after January 1, 2017 at the
Piney Point, Maryland-based
campus).

For those seamen cur-
rently employed as permanent
stewards aboard commercial
vessels, they must attend Cu-
linary 2.0 in order to maintain
their current employment sta-
tus.

For those already sail-
ing as chief cooks and chief
stewards, there are two new
revalidation courses that have
been designed to ensure a
consistent level of culinary
training and efficiency: Ori-
entation/Assessment Chief
Steward 2.0 and Orientation/
Assessment Chief Cook 2.0.
The courses are being offered
regularly, but spaces are lim-
ited, so members are encour-
aged to plan ahead and enroll
as soon as possible.

For more information,
contact your port agent and/
or the school’s admissions of-
fice.

Notice/Reminder

Culinary 2.0 Training Still
Available at Paul Hall Center

Upgraders hone their culinary techniques at the Paul Hall Center.

54925_MAY_2K19_LOG.indd 15 4/25/2019 1:15:05 AM



16 Seafarers LOG May 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
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(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
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(808) 845-5222

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

(713) 659-5152

JACKSONVILLE
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(904) 281-2622

JERSEY CITY
104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306

(201) 434-6000

JOLIET
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(815) 723-8002

MOBILE
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(251) 478-0916

NEW ORLEANS
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(504) 328-7545

NORFOLK
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(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
(787) 721-4033

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

(314) 752-6500

TACOMA
3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409

(253) 272-7774

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

(310) 549-4000

Seafarers International
Union Directory Inquiring Seafarer

This month’s question was answered by SIU members at the hiring hall in New Orleans.

Stanley Daranda
Recertified Bosun

West coast of Africa. I was on a
run for all the African ports. I got to
try to figure out what the world was
all about. I lucked out – right place,
right time. I learned about African
culture.

Harold Christopher
AB

I’m in my first year and only
sailed along the East Coast. I like
warm places, and if I could ship to
Africa, that would be perfect.

Adolfo Figueroa
AB

Got to be New Orleans. Very
friendly here. And I live here.

Aurelio Ortiz
AB

I like to learn. Africa, because
it is something different over there
than here.

Question: What was your favorite port and why?

Grant Simonson
QMED

I had fun in Singapore – great
city, very clean. It is a whole bunch
of little communities, so clean and
safe. Lots of great experiences –
pretty awesome.

Shawn D. Jefferson
Storekeeper

Greece and Dubai. Spain was
beautiful. The Mediterranean coun-
tries with the warm weather are nice.

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

Pic From The Past

This photo originally was published in the May 1977 LOG. It features SIU boatmen aboard the G&H Towing tug Tarpon in Hous-
ton. From left are Oiler Harold Moore, Deckhand Tony McDuffy, Deckhand Ervin Jeffery, Capt. Harris “Toots” Morgan and Chief
Engineer Fred Hickman. (There’s also an unidentified member in the background, mostly obscured.)

54925_MAY_2K19_LOG.indd 16 4/25/2019 1:15:10 AM



May 2019 Seafarers LOG 17

DEEP SEA

ROBERT BORRO
Brother Robert Borro, 65, joined
the SIU in 2001, initially sailing on
the Patriot. He was a member of the
deck department and upgraded on
several occasions at the Paul Hall
Center. Brother Borro most recently
sailed on the Endurance. He makes
his home in Barstow, California.

DONALD BOUSSON
Brother Donald Bousson, 65, signed
on with the union in 1977. A deck
department mem-
ber, he first sailed
aboard the Over-
seas Aleutian.
Brother Bous-
son upgraded at
the Piney Point
school on mul-
tiple occasions
and concluded
his career on the
Leader. He calls Merritt Island,
Florida, home.

FAROOK ESSA
Brother Farook Essa, 70, began his
career with the SIU in 1973 when
he shipped on the Transuper. He
sailed in all three departments and
upgraded often at the Piney Point
school. Brother Essa’s last vessel
was the American Pride. He resides
in Houston.

MARIO FERNANDEZ
Brother Mario
Fernandez, 69,
joined the union
in 2001. His first
vessel was the
Atlantic and he
was a member of
the steward de-
partment. Brother
Fernandez last

sailed on the Overseas Houston. He
lives in Miami.

JOHN JARADAT
Brother John Jaradat, 65, joined the
union in 2001 during the SIU/NMU
merger. A deck department member,
he first sailed aboard the Maersk
Maryland. Brother Jaradat upgraded
his skills at the Paul Hall Center
within his first year. He last shipped
on the Buffalo and settled in Brook-
lyn, New York.

NATHANIEL LAMB
Brother Nathaniel Lamb, 61, be-
came an SIU member in 1977 when
he sailed on Waterman’s A Middle-
ton. He shipped in all three depart-
ments and upgraded on numerous
occasions at the Paul Hall Center.
Brother Lamb’s final vessel was
the Green Ridge. He is a resident of
Jacksonville, Florida.

RICHARD LEE
Brother Richard
Lee, 70, signed on
with the Seafarers
in 1998, initially
sailing aboard the
USNS Henson.
Shipping in both
the deck and
steward depart-

ments, he upgraded often at the Paul
Hall Center. Brother Lee concluded
his career on the Overseas Cascade
and resides in Aventura, Florida.

MICHAEL LOCKHART
Brother Michael Lockhart, 67,
joined the union in 1999 when he

sailed on the
Global Mariner.
The deck depart-
ment member
upgraded on mul-
tiple occasions
at the maritime
training center
located in Piney
Point, Maryland.
Brother Lockhart

most recently sailed on the Pride of
America. He calls Southfield, Michi-
gan, home.

BOGUSLAW MIKULA
Brother Boguslaw Mikula, 65,
began sailing with the SIU in 2005.
He was a deck department member
and initially shipped on the Energy
Enterprise. Brother Mikula’s last
vessel was the Maersk Idaho. He is
a resident of Phoenix.

MICHAEL PERRY
Brother Michael Perry, 58, joined
the SIU in 1977 when he shipped
on the Columbia.
Brother Perry
upgraded on nu-
merous occasions
at the Paul Hall
Center and was
a member of the
deck department.
He last sailed on
the Yorktown Ex-
press, and settled
in Port Orange, Florida.

RODNEY ROBERSON
Brother Rodney Roberson, 59,
donned the SIU colors in 1989, ini-

tially sailing on
the USNS Assur-
ance. He shipped
in the deck
department and
upgraded often at
the Piney Point
school. Brother
Roberson’s last
ship was the
American Pride.

He makes his home in Claymont,
Delaware.

CHARLES RUMBLE
Brother Charles Rumble, 65, em-
barked on his career with the union
in 2006 when he shipped on the
Philadelphia Express. He upgraded
on several occasions at the Paul Hall
Center and sailed in the steward de-
partment. Brother Rumble’s last ves-
sel was the Maersk Pittsburgh. He
resides in Portsmouth, Virginia.

GILL SICKLES
Brother Gill Sick-
les, 71, signed on
with the Seafarers
in 2005, initially
sailing aboard the
Noble Star. The
deck department
member upgraded
on multiple occa-

sions at the maritime training center
located in Piney Point, Maryland.
Brother Sickles most recently sailed
on the Cape Mohican. He calls An-
chorage, Alaska, home.

SAMUEL UYATEDE
Brother Samuel
Uyatede, 69,
joined the union
in 2002. His first
vessel was the
Developer; his
last, the Houston.
A deck depart-
ment member,
Brother Uyatede
upgraded at the
Paul Hall Center on numerous occa-
sions. He is a resident of Houston.

EDDIE WASHINGTON
Brother Eddie Washington, 68,
began sailing with the SIU in 1968,

initially aboard
the Steel Archi-
tect. In 1981, the
deck department
member enhanced
his skills by
upgrading at the
union-affiliated
Piney Point
school. Brother
Washington last

sailed on the Falcon Champion. He
lives in Mobile, Alabama.

GREAT LAKES

EDWARD CARLSON
Brother Edward Carlson, 65, donned
the SIU colors in 1989 when he
worked for Lu-
edtke Engineer-
ing. An engine
department mem-
ber, he upgraded
often at the Paul
Hall Center.
Brother Carlson
continued his
employment
with the same
company for the majority of his ca-
reer. He is a resident of Bear Lake,
Michigan.

RICHARD LALONDE
Brother Richard Lalonde, 65, began

sailing with the
SIU in 1974. He
was a steward
department mem-
ber, first sailing
with Inland Lakes
Management.
Brother Lalonde
concluded his ca-
reer on the Alpena

and resides in Alpena, Michigan.

INLAND

CONRADO ABINUMAN
Brother Conrado Abinuman, 72,
joined the SIU in 2003. He was
a deck department member and
upgraded on
numerous
occasions
at the Piney
Point school.
Brother Abinu-
man worked
for Crowley
Towing and

Transportation for the duration of
his career. He lives in Jacksonville,
Florida.

RICHARD ANDERSON
Brother Richard Anderson, 62,
signed on with
the Seafarers in
1997, initially
working for
Crowley Towing
and Transporta-
tion. Shipping in
the deck depart-
ment, he was em-
ployed with the
same company
for his entire career. He calls Pen-
sacola, Florida, home.

BRIAN BOWMAN
Brother Brian Bowman, 65, joined
the SIU in 1991 when he worked
for Piney Point Transportation. He
upgraded on several occasions at the
Piney Point school and was a deck
department member. Brother Bow-
man last sailed with Penn Maritime.
He resides in Jennings, Louisiana.

JOHN COYLE
Brother John Coyle, 63, donned the
SIU colors in 1978, initially sail-
ing aboard the Columbia. He was a
member of the deck department and
upgraded at the Piney Point school
in 1980. Brother Coyle last worked
for OSG Ship Management. He re-
sides in Audubon, New Jersey.

WILLIAM HARVELL
Brother Wil-
liam Harvell, 67,
joined the union
in 1989, first
working with
Interstate Oil. He
upgraded often
at the Paul Hall
Center and was a
deck department
member. Brother

Harvell most recently sailed aboard
the Courage and settled in Mollusk,
Virginia.

ANTHONY HUGHES
Brother Anthony
Hughes, 62,
became an SIU
member in 1977
when he worked
for Meyle Tow-
ing. He sailed in
both the deck and
steward depart-
ments and last
worked for Taylor Marine. Brother
Hughes resides in Marmora, New
Jersey.

TIMOTHY HURST
Brother Timothy
Hurst, 62, began
his career with
the union in 1989,
initially working
for OSG Ship
Management. He
sailed in the deck
department and
upgraded his skills

on numerous occasions at the Paul
Hall Center. Brother Hurst most re-
cently sailed on the Honor. He lives
in Athens, Tennessee.

DAVID JORDEN
Brother David Jorden, 62, signed
on with the Seafarers in 1977 when
he worked for Crescent Towing
and Salvage. The deck department
member upgraded in 1980 at the
maritime training center located in
Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Jor-
den continued working for the same
company for his entire career. He
calls Hammond, Louisiana, home.

RANDY LEDET
Brother Randy Ledet, 62, joined the
union in 1976 when he worked for
Crescent Tow-
ing and Salvage.
He upgraded at
the Paul Hall
Center the fol-
lowing year and
shipped in the
deck depart-
ment. Brother
Ledet remained
with the same
company for the duration of his ca-
reer. He calls Covington, Louisiana,
home.

JAMES MCCLURE
Brother James Mc-
Clure, 66, became
an SIU member
in 1989 when
he sailed on the
Manhattan Island.
Brother McClure
was a deck depart-
ment member.
He concluded his

career working for Alabama Pilot Inc.
and lives in Dauphin Island, Alabama.

JOSEPH RAVARY
Brother Joseph Ravary, 62, began
his career with the Seafarers in
1976, first sailing with Inland Tugs.
A member of the deck department,
he upgraded his skills in 1976 at the
union-affiliated Piney Point school.
Brother Ravary concluded his career
working with OLS Transport. He is
a resident of Erie, Michigan.

PAUL RIGGS
Brother Paul Riggs, 69, donned the
SIU colors in 2005. He first was em-
ployed with Penn
Maritime and up-
graded on several
occasions at the
Paul Hall Center.
A member of the
deck department,
Brother Riggs
remained with the
same company for
the duration of his
career. He lives in Brenham, Texas.

JAMES STEWART
Brother James Stewart, 64, joined

the union in 1976
when he worked
for G&H Towing.
He shipped in the
deck department
and upgraded
at the Paul Hall
Center in 1995.
Brother Stewart
remained with the
same company

for his entire career. He lives in
Ingleside, Texas.

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

54925_MAY_2K19_LOG.indd 17 4/25/2019 1:15:11 AM



18 Seafarers LOG May 2019

Final
Departures

DEEP SEA

RUBEN ACEVEDO
Brother Ruben Acevedo, 95,
passed away December 21. He
began his career with the SIU in
1979, initially sailing aboard the
Santa Maria. Brother Acevedo
shipped in the steward depart-
ment and sailed last aboard the
Defender. He resided in Torrance,
California.

DAVID BECKER
Pensioner David Becker, 70, died
March 3. He signed on with the
SIU in 1992, initially sailing on
the USNS Vindicator. Brother
Becker was an engine department
member and concluded his career
on the Pathfinder. He retired in
2014 and settled in North Point,
Alabama.

ARMANDO BUSTAMANTE
Pensioner Armando Bustamante,
81, passed away January 31. He
became an SIU
member in 1990,
first sailing aboard
the Independence.
Brother Busta-
mante primarily
sailed in the stew-
ard department.
His last vessel was
the Maersk Arizona. He went on
pension in 2003 and lived in San
Leandro, California.

MICHAEL CASANUEVA
Pensioner Michael Casanueva,
94, died April 3. He signed on

with the SIU in
1951 when he
shipped aboard
the Alcoa Ranger.
Sailing in the
deck department,
Brother Casanu-
eva concluded his
career on the Wil-

lamette. He became a pensioner
in 1981 and was a resident of
Pelzer, South Carolina.

STEPHEN CASTLE
Pensioner Stephen Castle, 70,
passed away March 29. He started
his career with the
Seafarers in 1967,
initially shipping
aboard the Inger.
Brother Castle
was a deck depart-
ment member and
last sailed on the
Horizon Tacoma.
He retired in 2010 and resided in
Suquamish, Washington.

JOHN COLEMAN
Pensioner John Coleman, 69,
died February 3. He joined the
union in 1967 when he shipped
on the Neva West. Brother Cole-
man was a member of the engine
department, and last sailed aboard
the Cape Hudson. He became a

pensioner in 2016 and lived in
Berkeley, California.

JOSAN CONSTANTIN
Pensioner Josan Constantin, 66,
passed away February 3. He
began shipping with the Seafar-
ers in 2001 during the SIU/NMU
merger. The deck department
member’s first SIU vessel was
the USNS Heezen. Brother Con-
stantin last shipped aboard the
Maersk Kensington before going
on pension in 2018. He resided in
Ridgewood, New York.

DAVID DUNKLIN
Brother David Dunklin, 65, died
December 16. He started his SIU
career in 1977, initially shipping
aboard the Overseas Natalie.
An engine department member,
Brother Dunklin last sailed on the
Shughart. He was a resident of
Metairie, Louisiana.

MICHAEL DUNN
Pensioner Michael Dunn, 65,
passed away March 12. He
joined the union in 1973, when
he shipped aboard the Overseas
Aleutian. Brother Dunn sailed in
the deck department. His last ves-
sel was the Liberty Spirit before
his retirement in 2007. Brother
Dunn called San Francisco home.

RALPH GOSNELL
Brother Ralph Gosnell, 62, died
November 10. He donned the SIU
colors in 1982, initially sailing
aboard the LNG Taurus. An en-
gine department member, Brother
Gosnell last shipped aboard the
Cape Wrath. He lived in West-
minster, Maryland.

JUSTO GONZALEZ
Pensioner Justo Gonzalez, 89,
passed away March 29. He began
shipping with the SIU in 1963
when he sailed on
the Petrochem.
Brother Gonzalez
primarily sailed
in the engine
department. He
last shipped on
the Overseas
Harriette before
retiring in 1998. Brother Gonza-
lez was a resident of Blythewood,
South Carolina.

KARL HERMANSEN
Pensioner Karl Hermansen, 81,
died February 5. He embarked on
his SIU career in 1966 when he
shipped on the Steel Apprentice.
Brother Hermansen was a deck
department member. He last sailed
on the Beaver State before becom-
ing a pensioner in 2002. Brother
Hermansen lived in Norway.

IDOWU JONATHAN
Brother Idowu Jonathan, 60,
passed away February 9. He

joined the SIU in 1992, first
sailing on the USNS Denebola.
Brother Jonathan sailed in the
deck department. He most re-
cently shipped on the Santorini
and resided in Houston.

JAMES MASTROKALOS
Pensioner James Mastrokalos,
84, died February 1. He signed
on with the SIU in 1961 when he
shipped on the Arizpa. Brother
Mastrokalos was a deck depart-
ment member and also worked
on shore gangs. He became a
pensioner in 1990 and settled in
Jackson, New Jersey.

LINWOOD PRICE
Pensioner Linwood Price, 84,
passed away March 8. He joined
the union in 1954, first work-

ing for Sprogue
Steamship.
Brother Price
shipped in all
three departments
and concluded his
career aboard the
Sam Houston. He
began collecting

his pension in 1994 and made his
home in Elizabeth City, North
Carolina.

WAYNE SHINDLER
Pensioner Wayne Shindler, 81,
died March 3. He became a mem-
ber of the union in 2001 when he
sailed on the USNS Dahl. Brother
Shindler shipped in the steward
department and concluded his
career on the USNS Watkins. He
became a pensioner in 2013 and
resided in Albany, Oregon.

JOE SMOLER
Pensioner Joe Smoler, 68, passed
away February 1. He started his
career with the
SIU in 1991, first
sailing on the
Sealift Antarctic.
Brother Smoler
was a deck depart-
ment member and
last sailed on the
Prentiss Brown.
He retired in 2015 and lived in
North Las Vegas, Nevada.

PAUL STUBBLEFIELD
Pensioner Paul Stubblefield, 83,
died March 11. He signed on

with the Seafar-
ers in 1968 when
he worked on the
Bradford Island.
Sailing in the
steward depart-
ment, Brother
Stubblefield con-
cluded his career

aboard the Liberty Spirit. He re-
tired in 2000 and made his home
in Jacksonville, Florida.

PAUL TITUS
Pensioner Paul Titus, 60, passed

away March 22.
Upon joining the
SIU in 1981, his
first vessel was
the Cove Engi-
neer. Brother
Titus shipped in
the engine depart-
ment and concluded his career on
the Maersk Chicago. He became
a pensioner in 2015 and called
Delmar, Maryland, home.

FEDERICO VIDAL
Brother Federico Vidal, 80, died
January 28. The steward depart-
ment member began shipping
with the SIU in 1978 when he
sailed on the Santa Mariana.
Brother Vidal’s last vessel was the
President Kennedy. He resided in
Walnut Creek, California.

EDWARD WINNE
Pensioner Edward Winne, 79,
passed away March 3. He embarked

on his SIU career
in 1979, initially
sailing on the Santa
Mercedes. A mem-
ber of the steward
department, Brother
Winne last sailed
aboard the Maersk
Arkansas. He went

on pension in 2006 and made his
home in New York City.

GREAT LAKES

TERRANCE PYRLIK
Pensioner Terrance Pyrlik, 70, died
January 31. He joined the SIU
in 1990 and first shipped on the
Presque Isle. Brother Pyrlik was a
deck department member and last
sailed aboard the Sam Laud. He
went on pension in 2013 and settled
in Brookston, Minnesota.

INLAND

ANDRES BRITO
Pensioner Andres Brito, 77,
passed away February 6. He
started shipping with the Seafar-
ers in 1980 when he worked for
Crowley Towing & Transporta-
tion. Brother Brito was a steward
department member and last
shipped on the USNS Denebola.
He retired in 2011 and resided in
Jacksonville, Florida.

EDWIN CARTER
Pensioner Edwin Carter, 90, died
March 6. He signed on with the
SIU in 1962, initially working for
Gulf Atlantic Transport. A deck
department member, Brother
Carter sailed last with Mariner
Towing. He became a pensioner
in 1992 and lived in Moyock,
North Carolina.

WILLIAM DOUGHERTY
Pensioner William Dougherty,

79, passed away March 3. He
became an SIU member in 1996
and sailed in the deck department.
Brother Dougherty was employed
with Crowley until his retirement
in 2003. He was a resident of
Glenolden, Pennsylvania.

JOHN MICKLOS
Pensioner John Micklos, 64, died
January 29. He began his career
with the Seafarers in 1977 when
he shipped on the Long Lines.
Brother Micklos primarily worked
in the deck department, sailing
last with Allied Transportation. He
retired in 2016 and made his home
in Beverly Hills, Florida.

PAUL ROACH
Pensioner Paul Roach, 86, passed
away February 15. He signed
on with the union in 1988, first
working for Energy Ammonia
Transportation. Brother Roach
sailed in the deck department,
most recently with Crescent
Towing and Salvage. He retired
in 2004 and called Mobile, Ala-
bama, home.

GERALD STONE
Pensioner Gerald Stone, 67, died
March 9. He joined the SIU in
1990 when he worked for OLS
Transport. A deck department
member, Brother Stone was em-
ployed with the same company
for the duration of his career. He
started collecting his pension in
2013 and lived in South Fulton,
Tennessee.

NMU

DONALD TYLER
Pensioner Donald Tyler, 78,
passed away February 2. He was
an NMU member before the
2001 SIU/NMU merger. Brother
Tyler was an engine department
member and sailed last aboard
the Liberator. He began collect-
ing his pension in 2004 and was a
resident of North Port, Florida.

In addition to the foregoing individ-
uals, the following union members
have also passed away. Insufficient
information was available to de-
velop summaries of their respective
careers.
Name Age DOD
Arana, Alejandro 94 01/28/2019
Banks, Carlos 100 02/06/2019
Beckles, Aubrey 87 03/05/2019
Carrasquillo, Pedro 92 02/07/2019
Chavis, Sylvester 101 03/21/2019
Cristello, Nicholas 96 03/26/2019
Dones, Jose 93 03/17/2019
Feurtado, Clord 87 03/10/2019
Hinds, Sandy 80 03/10/2019
Jackson, George 85 01/20/2019
Manifold, Robert 80 03/08/2019
Martinez, Ruben 96 03/17/2019
McCoy, James 94 03/06/2019
Moreira, Julian 92 02/07/2019
Stalf, Johann 83 11/09/2018

54925_MAY_2K19_LOG_X.indd 18 4/25/2019 3:59:56 PM



May 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 Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an
editorial board which consists of the executive
board of the union. The executive board may
delegate, from among its ranks, one individual
to carry out this responsibility.

PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are
to be paid to anyone in any official 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. Consequently, no member may be
discriminated against because of race, creed,
color, sex, national or geographic origin.

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

SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY

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

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

Michael Sacco, President
Seafarers International Union

5201 Auth Way
Camp Springs, MD 20746.

Know Your Rights

Digest of Shipboard
Union Meetings

OVERSEAS NEW YORK
(Overseas Ship Management),
January 17 – Chairman David
Graves, Secretary Thomas
Smith, Educational Director
Kenneth Spivey. Crew dis-
cussed upcoming arrival in
Tampa. Educational director
urged members to stay up to date
on documents and upgrade at the
Paul Hall Center. No beefs or
disputed OT reported. Members
seek verification regarding vaca-
tion accrual for 60-day rotation
as well as information on union
benefits. Crew requests a patrol-
man at first available time and
requests a new refrigerator.

JEAN ANNE (Pasha), January
31 – Chairman Thomas John-
son, Secretary Ismael Garayua,
Educational Director Joseph
Letang, Engine Delegate Ser-
vando Canales. Ship sailing
smoothly. Secretary noted gov-
ernment shutdown and reminded
members to keep documents
and Piney Point classes up to
date. No beefs or disputed OT
reported. Chairman discussed
new union hall in Puerto Rico
and new SIU-contracted vessels.
He encouraged members to sup-
port Jones Act and went over
the president’s report from Sea-
farers LOG. Members request
increasing pension benefits while
decreasing time needed in order
to retire.

HORIZON SPIRIT (Sunrise
Operations), February 3 – Chair-
man Sanjay Gupta, Secretary
Rene Guity, Educational Di-
rector David Watkins. Chair-
man advised crew to stay safe.
Educational director reminded
crew that union halls are closed

on Saturdays and recommended
members upgrade at Piney Point.
No beefs or disputed OT re-
ported. Next port: Honolulu.

LIBERTY EAGLE (Liberty
Maritime), February 4 – Chair-
man Albert Konning, Secretary
Gerald Joseph, Deck Delegate
Washington Williams, Stew-
ard Delegate Santiago Amaya.
Members reviewed old busi-
ness including Wi-Fi access,
monthly pay vouchers and re-
quests for new washer and dryer.
Educational director reiterated
importance of keeping shipping
documents current. No beefs or
disputed OT reported. Crew dis-
cussed benefits relating to both
maternity leave and pension.

OVERSEAS MARTINEZ
(Overseas Ship Management),
February 12 – Chairman Anton
Sulic, Secretary Marlon Battad,
Educational Director Anthony
Hulsey, Deck Delegate Michael
Ross, Engine Delegate Alfredo
Nieto, Steward Delegate Mau-
ricio Castro. Crew waiting for
new pillows, new DVDs and
Wi-Fi access on board. Chair-
man reminded members to leave
clean rooms for oncoming crew
and to stay current on all paper-
work. Secretary asked crew to
put all linen in appropriate white
bags for departing crew members
and that all galley plates and
cups be returned. Chairman en-
couraged crew to attend upgrad-
ing courses at the Piney Point
school. No beefs or disputed OT
reported. Members went over re-
imbursement policy for steel-toe
boots and discussed resolutions
for pension benefits. Crew re-
quested new furniture for lounge

and new TVs for staterooms.
Vote of thanks given to steward
department for job well done
during long voyage overseas.
Next Port: Texas City, Texas.

WEST VIRGINIA (Intrepid
Personnel and Provisioning),
February 27 – Chairman John
Cedeno, Secretary Wilma Jack-
son, Educational Director Scott
Fuller, Deck Delegate Christo-
pher Dickens, Steward Delegate
Amelia La Beur. Crew reviewed
announcements including 10-
year charter of Jones Act tanker
Oregon Voyager. Ship to be
renamed to Overseas Key West.
Also discussed new Crowley
and Matson ships entering SIU
fleet. They noted the union has
launched a revamped, mobile-
friendly member portal as part of
overall website redesign. Secre-
tary reminded members to keep
rooms clean for oncoming crew.
Educational director urged mem-
bers to check all documents and
credentials. He recommended
upgrading at the maritime train-
ing center in Piney Point. No
beefs or disputed OT reported.
Due to interior wear and tear,
microwave removed from crew
mess. Members requested new
refrigerator and freezer appli-
ances, new pillows/pillow cases
as well as hypoallergenic covers.
Crew requested a match to 401K
as well as an increase to vacation
time. Steward department was
thanked for positive attitudes
during meal hours. Next Port:
Garyville, Louisiana.

ALASKAN NAVIGATOR
(Alaska Tanker Company),
February 27 – Chairman Adel
Ahmed, Secretary Marcelo

Param, Educational Director
Leland Peterson, Steward Del-
egate Bob Tuilaepa. Chairman
encouraged crew to keep docu-
ments up to date. He directed
members to the SIU website for
benefit information. Chairman
reminded crew to keep rooms
clean and to pay dues on time.
Secretary recommended mem-
bers upgrade at Piney Point and
renew documents ahead of their
expiration dates. No beefs or
disputed OT reported. Members
would like an increase to vaca-
tion time while decreasing work-
ing time needed to accrue. Next
Port: Valdez, Alaska.

EL COQUI (Crowley), March
3 – Chairman Abel Vazquez-
Torres, Secretary Juan Vallejo
Hernandez, Educational Direc-
tor Rodney Passapera-Barbosa,
Deck Delegate Kemer Rojas,
Engine Delegate Christian Ro-
sado, Steward Delegate Bryan
Alvarez. Crew discussed vaca-
tion benefits and upgrading.
Chairman reiterated importance
of safety and thanked steward
department for job well done.
Secretary commended SIU ex-
ecutive board for their work on
Capitol Hill. He praised Port
Agent Amancio Crespo and SIU
Executive Vice President Augus-
tin Tellez for their help in edu-
cating Puerto Rico residents and
politicians about the Jones Act.
Educational director urged mem-
bers to keep documents current
and to upgrade at the Piney Point
school. No beefs or disputed OT
reported.

ALLIANCE FAIRFAX (Maersk
Line, Limited), March 6 –
Chairman Victor Eligio, Secre-

tary Robert Seim, Educational
Director Paul Pagano, Deck
Delegate Milan Taigan, En-
gine Delegate Medardo Vale-
rio, Steward Delegate Elida
Miguel. Chairman reported a
safe and well-working ship and
announced payoff. Educational
director reminded crew to keep
documents in good standing. No
beefs or disputed OT reported.
Vote of thanks to all three de-
partments for good teamwork.
Next port: Houston.

AMERICAN PHONEIX
(Phoenix Crew Management),
March 8 – Chairman Juan
Ruiz Manaiza, Secretary Nor-
man Jackson, Deck Delegate
Edward Gavagan, Engine
Delegate Latiffe Brooks. Ship
arrived in port Monday. No
beefs or disputed OT reported.
Crew was advised to check out
union’s revamped website. As
per contract, members aboard
vessel should be paid room
sanitation.

AMERICAN PRIDE (Intrepid
Personnel and Provisioning)
March 11 – Chairman Felsher
Beasley, Secretary Cynora
Hunter, Educational Director
Daniel Chisum-Coffey, Deck
Delegate Mario Baja, Engine
Delegate Marcus Brown.
Chairman reviewed shipping
rules and commended crew
for job well done. Educational
director reminded members to
attend upgrading courses at the
Paul Hall Center. No beefs or
disputed OT reported. Crew dis-
cussed new tonnage and Jones
Act. Members expressed inter-
ests in increasing B-book tour to
two years.

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 requir-
ing attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The
minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication.

–

54925_MAY_2K19_LOG.indd 19 4/25/2019 1:15:12 AM



20 Seafarers LOG May 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

Deck Department Upgrading Courses

Able Seafarer Deck June 22 July 19
August 17 September 13
October 12 November 8

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.

ARPA May 25 May 31
September 28 October 4

Bosun Recertification July 20 August 5


Crane Familiarization October 5 October 11

ECDIS June 1 June 7

Fast Rescue Boat June 1 June 7
July 20 July 26
August 17 August 23

GMDSS July 20 August 2

Lifeboat June 1 June 14
June 29 July 12
July 27 August 9
August 24 September 6
September 21 October 4

Radar Observer September 14 September 27

Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office

RFPNW May 25 June 21
July 20 August 16
September 14 October 11
November 9 December 6

100 Ton Master September 7 September 27

Engine Department Upgrading Courses

Advanced Refer Containers May 18 May 31
July 13 July 26

Title of Start Date of
Course Date Completion

Engine Department Upgrading Courses

BAPO May 25 June 21
July 20 August 16

Engineroom Resource Management June 22 June 28

FOWT June 22 July 19
August 17 September 19

Junior Engineer June 22 August 16

Machinist June 29 July 19

Marine Electrician May 18 July 12

Marine Refer Tech July 13 August 23

MEECE June 1 June 14

Pumpman July 20 July 26

Welding May 18 June 7
June 8 June 28


Steward Department Courses

Advanced Galley Operations June 22 July 19

Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next
class will start May 13.

Chief Steward July 27 September 13

Galley Operations May 25 June 21

Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 May 18 May 24
June 8 June 14

Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 June 1 June 7
June 15 June 21


Safety Upgrading Courses

Basic Training/Basic FF May 25 May 31

Basic Training Revalidation May 24 May 24

Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation June 22 June 28

Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting June 8 June 14

Government Vessels June 8 June 14

Medical Care Provider June 1 June 7

Tank Ship Familiarization - DL June 8 June 14

Tank Ship Familiarization - LG June 1 June 7

UPGRADING APPLICATION

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

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

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

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

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

____________________________ _______________ ________________________

____________________________ _______________ ________________________

____________________________ _______________ ________________________

____________________________ _______________ ________________________

LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________

Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________

SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________

NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if
you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any
questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are
reimbursable. Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training
and Education Admissions Office, 45353 St. George Ave., Piney Point, MD 20674; 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. 5/19

54925_MAY_2K19_LOG.indd 20 4/25/2019 1:15:12 AM



May 2019 Seafarers LOG 21

Paul Hall Center Classes

Students who have registered
for classes at the Paul Hall Cen-
ter for Maritime Training and
Education, but later discover -
for whatever reason - that they
can’t attend, should inform the
admissions department imme-
diately so arrangements can be
made to have other students take
their places.

Important Notice
To All Students

Apprentice Water Survival Class #846
– Graduated January 25 (photo at left,
in alphabetical order): Dominick Bach,
Keegan Brown, Campbell Busbey, Evan
Dize, Kevin Johnson Jr., Juwan Jones,
Sophia Lewis, Paul Mena, Emir Omar
Quinones Torres, Osmar Luis Ramos,
Anthony Simpkins and Joseph Vacca-
rino.

Welding – Graduated November 16 (left in
photo above): Isaac Nugen. Chris Raley, his
instructor, is at right

BAPO – Graduated December 14 (above, in alphabetical order):
Clark Quimada Castrodes, Christian Fredrick, Helen Zenaida
Martinez, Nicholas Sampson, Brian Wiley and Denard Williams.
(Note: Not all are pictured.)

Celestial Navigation – Graduated December 21 (above, in al-
phabetical order): Glenn Valera Agustin, Robert Bryson III, Shoal
Nervo, Harry Schrefer III and Gavin Scott. Brian Moore, their in-
structor, is at the far left.

UA to FOWT – Graduated November 16 (above, in alphabetical order): Rahsaan Alexander, Alberto
Luis Alvarez-Gonzalez, Dion Cheeseborough, Francois Emmanuel Doucet III, Christopher Hinton, Sher-
man Kennon Jr., Cody Klekar, Justin Krainis, Tommy McGahe, Dillon Nelson, Philip Pete, Tyler Summer-
sill and Camonte Terrell. Class instructor John Wiegman III is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.)

BAPO – Graduated December 14 (above, in alphabetical order): Phase III
Apprentices Dominique Archibald, Timothy Jones, Wayne Linnette IV, Marcus
Lopez, Joshua Mann, Nelito Ronie Monteiro, Brandon Reed, Hyuk-Joong Kim
Seeman, Harry Whitney IV and Kevin Willis. (Note: Not all are pictured.)

Government Vessels – Graduated December 7 (above, in alphabetical order): Ritche Asumbrado Acuman, Secundino Abel Arzu, Steven Blair, Francis Brown, Roger Chrappa,
Shardaysha Giles, Nassor Naeem James, Ty Lewis, Paul Newman, Bernardo Perez, Courtney Turner, Justin Enrique Valencia Rodriguez, Juan Jose Vallejo Hernandez, Oscar Jan
Vencer, Raul Cabrera Ventanilla and Brian Wilder.

54925_MAY_2K19_LOG.indd 21 4/25/2019 1:15:14 AM



22 Seafarers LOG May 2019

Paul Hall Center Classes

RFPNW – Graduated December 14 (above, in alphabetical order): Phase III Apprentices Patrick Anderson Jr., Bradley Bagwell, Thomas
Burch, James Douglas, Darren Elder, Mitchell Laskowsky, Christian Miguel Mercado Nunez, David Franz Pelczmann, Mykel Potter, Cole
Vose and Seamus Woods.

Basic Training (Basic Firefighting Up-
grader) – Graduated December 7 (above) :
Yolanda Williams.

RFPNW – Graduated December 14: Eduardo Jaculan
Jorge (above, left) and Javaris Wright.

Advanced Refer Container Maintenance – Graduated December 14 (above, in alphabetical order): Elliot Duncan,
Julio Gomez, Michael Gray, David Kelch, Mahare Kidane, Ann Mensch and Guiomar Rancel. Class instructor Mike Fay
is third from the left.

Tankship Familiarization LG – Graduated December 14 (above, in alphabetical order): Arles
Ballestero, Jeffrey Pacaldo Berame, Steven Blair, Rigoberto Boggeano Herrera, Randolph
Cash Jr., Derrick Clark, Gregory Eady, Manolito Gener Garcia, Rene Fernando Guity, Nassor
Naeem James, Dominique Johnson, Mohamad Mahmoud Kammoun, James Martin Jr., Bashir
Mohamed Nasser, Michael Papaioannou, Juan Jose Vallejo Hernandez, Oscar Jan Vencer and
Edvaldo Cantao Viana.

Basic Training (Basic Firefighting Upgraders) – Graduated November 9 (above,
in alphabetical order): Jason Beckford, Matthew Brown, Carlos Omar Diaz-Torres,
Robert Joyce, Ali Saleh Naser, Phillip Spencer Nichols, Erwin Renon, William Sulivan
Jr., Clyde Sundberg and Denard Williams. (Note: Not all are pictured.)

SUA (Galley Operations) – Graduated December 14 (above, in alphabetical order):
Ronald Antonio Allamby, Nathan Brailsford, Daniel Cage, Jasmine Donahue, Paul Erick-
son Jr., Ronda Jackson, Gil Serrano and Lekesha Stevenson.

Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated December 7 (above, in alphabetical order): Charles Atkins,
Todd Curry, Jordan Harris and Algie Mayfield Jr.

54925_MAY_2K19_LOG.indd 22 4/25/2019 1:15:16 AM



May 2019 Seafarers LOG 23

Paul Hall Center Classes

Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated November 30 (above, in alphabetical order): Rene Fernando Guity, Johnnie McGill Jr.,
Erwin Renon and Juan Jose Vallejo Hernandez.

Advanced Galley Ops – Graduated December 7 (above, in alphabetical order): Jatniel Cesar Aguilera
Santiago, Jason Beckford, Reno Ibanez Duque, Gregory McNiel, Lonnie Myers Jr. and Ian Schluder.

Galley Ops – Graduated December 14 (above): Phase III Apprentices Erjay
Dimalanta Velasco (left) and Brian Kluth Jr.

Certified Chief Cook Module 2 – Graduated November 16
(above): Gregory Watts (left) and Mohamed Ahmed Nour.

Galley Ops – Graduated December 14 (above): Destany
Howard (left) and Ama1do Paulito Estimada Angeles.

Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated November 9 (above, in alphabetical order): Gerald Archie, Toni Johnson, Frank
Acoba Ramones, Dennis Skretta and Leanne Smith.

Certified Chief Cook (Module 4) – Graduated Decem-
ber 14: Duane Washington.

Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated December 14 (above, in alphabetical order): Alexander Banky III, Michael Carello,
Leola Johnson and Esper Jordan.

54925_MAY_2K19_LOG.indd 23 4/25/2019 1:15:18 AM



Paul Hall Center
Class Photos
Pages 21-23

MAY 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 5

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

With NOAA Crews in Mississippi
The photo at left shows the NOAA ship Gordon Gunter underway at sea. (Photo by Jennifer Gatzke)
Aboard the vessel (photo above, from left) are Bosun Jerome Taylor, AB Angie Ullman, Fisherman Warren
Brown, Junior Engineer Wynzavian Parker and Wiper Ty Ballance.

Members of the SIU Government Ser-
vices Division who sail aboard National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
(NOAA) vessels consistently meet the
challenge of living up to the agency’s
lofty goals.

So said SIU Safety Director/Govern-
ment Services Division Representative
Sam Spain following recent visits to sev-
eral NOAA vessels in their home port of
Pascagoula, Mississippi. SIU Port Agent
Jimmy White (based in Mobile, Alabama)
also helped service the ships; the meet-
ings included reviews of a new, five-year
agreement covering the crews.

According to the NOAA website, the
agency, “enriches life through science.
Our reach goes from the surface of the

sun to the depths of the ocean floor as we
work to keep the public informed of the
changing environment around them. From
daily weather forecasts, severe storm
warnings, and climate monitoring to fish-
eries management, coastal restoration and
supporting marine commerce, NOAA’s
products and services support economic
vitality and affect more than one-third of
America’s gross domestic product. NO-
AA’s dedicated scientists use cutting-edge
research and high-tech instrumentation
to provide citizens, planners, emergency
managers and other decision makers with
reliable information they need when they
need it.”

SIU NOAA crews do their part, said
Spain, who cited three of the vessels

serviced in Pascagoula. Mariners from
the Oregon II (one of the vessels ser-
viced in Pascagoula) assist in operations
related to conducting varies fisheries,
plankton and marine mammal surveys in
the Gulf of Mexico, Atlantic Ocean and
Caribbean Sea. Crews from the Gordon
Gunter, operating in those same areas,
help monitor the “health and abundance
of fisheries resources and marine mam-

mals,” according to the agency. And,
NOAA crews also ably operate the Pi-
sces, described by the agency as a “state-
of-the-art, acoustically quiet fisheries
survey vessel … built for a wide range
of living marine resource surveys and
ecosystem projects. The ship focuses pri-
marily on U.S. waters from the Gulf of
Mexico, Caribbean, and South Atlantic
to North Carolina.”

The Oregon II (photo above) is pictured at sunset (NOAA photo). Pictured aboard the
vessel in photo balow are (back row, from left) SIU Safety Director/Government Services
Division Representative Sam Spain, Skilled Fisherman Charles Godwin, AB John Kent,
Junior Engineer James McDade, (front) Wiper O.C. Hill, Lead Fisherman Chris Nichols
and Fisherman Christopher Rawley.

Aboard the Pisces (standing, from left in photo above) are Fisherman Christopher Rowly,
Second Cook Dana Reid, GVA Austin Patti, (seated) GVA Michael Fountain, Junior En-
gineer Travis Martin, Chief Bosun James Walker and Charles Knott. In photo below, the
Pisces is shown dockside in Pascagoula, Mississippi.

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