http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/09017b6100d839bedba181492e05e84f.PDF eef78e81de3be247e81ba46ebd4dd1eb PDF Text Text i. Official Organ of the Atlantic and Gulf District, Seafarers International Union of North America Vol. VIII. NEW YORK. N. Y.. FRIDAY. AUGUST 16. 1946 Unemployment Insurance For Seamen Now A Reality h Success finally crowned the long eight-year struggle of merchant seamen for unemployment compensation. In the final rush for adjournment on August 2, Congress passed watered down amendments to the Social Security Act extending coverage to over 200,000 maritime workers never before protected by sucht for more than 26 weeks in any insurance. one calendar year. In addition, the new amend­ As it stands now, seamen are ments increased the Federal funds authorized for maternal protected by the provisions which and child health, and for crip­ have been so far enacted, and the pled children; extended the pro­ door is now open to further li­ tection of the Federal old-age beralization of the law, and to and survivors insurance system perhaps a permanent Federal to • qualified survivors of World system. War II veterans; and extended maternal and child health and welfare services to the Virgin Is­ lands. SEAMEN PROTECTED The provisions of the amend­ ments, as they apply to merchant seamen, are as follows: First of all, seamen will be in­ cluded into existing state sys­ tems of unemployment compen­ sation. At the present time, only nine states grant coverage to mar­ itime workers, but in accordance with the amendments, all states now have to provide compensa­ tion for maritime workers. AFL Meeting CHICAGO. Aug. 15—Dele­ gates from all AFL Unions connected in any way with the waterfront convened to­ day at the request of AFL President William Green to lay plans for the formation of an AFL Maritime CounciL Representing the SIU at the meeting are John Hawk. Secretary - Treasurer; Paul Hall. Director of OrgEmization and Chairman of the Greater New York AFL Mar­ itime Council; and represen­ tatives from other ports of the Atlantic and Gulf Dis­ tricts. Read next week's LOG for further details. No. 33 SS Helen Crew Pleased With Case Progress NEW YORK—Tacit admission that the action taken in the case of the eight militant men of the SS Helen was a gross error was received when the A. H. Bull Company sent a letter to the Union stating that the Helen men will be hired for stand-by work, while their papers are suspended. Kathleen Holmes Crew Proves That Seamen Won't Be Slaves and that other members of the original crew will not be dis­ criminated against. The company states that they are anxious to restore amicable relations between the SIU and the company, and that they wiU do everything possible toward that end. In the future, the com­ pany says, they "will immediate­ ly refer to the Union and discuss with the Union difficulties which might involve the Union or its members." TOO LATE This type of cooperation would have prevented the drastic consequence.s which were visited on Charles Moats, Eduardo Bonefant, Mariano Cortez, Clinton Fjerstad, Johnny Crenca, Pedro Cardona, 'William Gooden, and Juan Acosta Soto. The letter from the company follows: Paul Hall, Port Agent Seafarers International Union 51 Beaver Street New York. N. Y. Dear Sir: Confirming verbal advices to you. the company agrees that it will not discriminate against the crew of the SS Helen. With respect to the eight SS Helen seamen, whose certifi­ cates have been suspended, the company will employ these men at the regular standby pay provided in collective bar- . The beef of the crew of the SS have been entered. Some of them in the harbor, the American Kathleen Holmes, Isthmian were written up in the Log dated Consul held a hearing at which April 19, 1946, but for the record, time two of the original charges Lines, is a two edged one. One here is a short account of what were withdrawn, and the re­ is against the Master, Bert E. made the Holmes crew get hot maining three charges were to Smith; and the other is against under the collar: be referred to the proper author­ the NMU which is trying to make ities in the United States. First off, the crew charges capital out of what is really a Incidentally, two of the ships that an injured crewmember victory for the crewmembers and was repeatedly denied appropri­ which backed up the militants the Seafarers International ate and suitable medical care were Canadian ships manned by During the war, the great bulk Union. members of the Canadian SIU. when it was available. of maritime work was carried Against the Master of the ves­ The Ship's Committee recom­ Second, the lifeboats were in an on by people who were techni­ sel a goodly number of beefs unseaworthy condition and the mended that the derision be ac­ cally employees of the Federal Master falsified the log to mask cepted with the provision that Government in the War Shipping the Consul instruct the crew to this. Administration. Such employees are excluded from coverage by Third, slopchest prices were return the vessel directly to the all state laws. Therefore a tem­ entirely too high, and officers United States. porary system of reconversion were given first pick on articles ALL LIES benefits has been enacted to pro­ that were available. Now here is where the beef vide unemployment insurance for Fourth, sea watches were dis­ against the NMU and their pa­ seamen on WSA vessels. This continued as a money saving per, the Pilot, comes in. The Pilportion of the new amendments venture while the ship was still ot. in a story appearing in the NEW Orleans, Aug. 14 — The officially at sea. becomes effective in September {Continuci! on Prfgc 16) (Continued on Page 3) AFL Joint Council of New Or­ and ends on .June 30, 1949. Fifth, legitimate overtime was leans, composed of affiliated AFL The payments which can be denied Wipers for work which made under the existing law are Unions of seamen; longshoremen; was assigned to them. admittedly low, but they provide teamsters; masters, mates and The American Consul in some sort of a cushion against' pilots; checkers; carloaders; ba­ Shanghai was apprised of the lo.ss of a job. In the main, pay­ nana carriers; towboatmen, ra­ situation, but he pigeonholed the ments will average about $20.00 dio operators, warehousemen and charges without even the cour­ a week, and cannot be collected carpenters announced today that tesy of telling this to the crew's they are submitting to the delegation. This was the straw Merchant seamen desiring to blank spaces which are to be UNRRA the following offer; that broke the well-known vote in Primary, General or filled in by the seamen, and then 1. That they will man a ship camel's back. A Ship's Commit­ Special elections may do so by addressed to the Secretary (of his) with a full crew complement cov­ tee was elected representing all absentee ballot, as provided by State. The ballot will be forward­ ering all licensed and unlicensed shades of opinion. Here is the Congress under Public Law No. ed upon receipt of the card, Seafarers Sailing 348. ratings from master to messboy way the committee shaped up: which is -designated as USWBC who will donate their services for Form No. 1. The law, approved April 19, Robert Larsen—SIU As Engineers any relief voyage as the UNRRA MUST BE WITNESSED 1946, "abolishes the supplemen­ Clyde Chang—NMU may desigate on any ship of any All members—retired mem­ Both the postcard application, tary Federal ballot (used during Peter Innes—^Unorganized type the WSA will allocate for and the ballot (where permitted the war) and provides that ab­ Seamen bers and former members— such purpose. by State law) must be signed imsentee voting by members of the The first thing that this com­ of fhe Seafarers Internation­ 2. That the longshoremen, mittee did was to issue an open merchant marine and the armed der oath. The oath rfiay be al Union who are now sailing teamsters and other maritime letter to all the seamen in Shang­ forces shall be by State ballot taken in the presence of, and at­ as licensed Engineers: Please tested by, Masters, First Officers, workers will donate their services hai. This leaflet gave all the only." report as soon as possible to in loading and preparing the ves­ facts, and the result was over­ The procedure for obtaining a Chief Engineers and Pursers of sel for the voyage. whelmingly in favor of any ac­ ballot is a simple one. The vessels documented under the the Seafarers Hall at SI Bea­ This offer is made with no tion taken by the crew. United States War Ballot Com­ laws of the United States, which ver Street, New York City. qualifications of any type what­ Through force of. the action mission has issued a special post for Seafarers' purposes includes Your presence is necessary in soever and a volunteer crew of applied by the crew of the card to be used in applying for practically all SlU-contracted a matter of great importance. the AFL Marine Union will be Holmes, plus the solidarity of a ballot. The post card may be ships. the crews of 265 ships berthed mailed free. The card carries (Continued on Page 4) . . (Continued, on Page 4) N.O. AFL Council Offers To Work UNHRA Ship Free New Voting Law Permits Absentee Voting By Seamen Attention Members! �TBE SEAFARERS LOG ^ge Two Friday, August 16, 1946 SEAFARERS VuMisbed Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliutcd with the Afierjran federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York, 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 t HARRY LUNDEBERG 3^ 4- 1 ------- President 105 Market Street, San Francisco, Calif. JOHN HAWK Secy-Treas. P. O. Box 25, Station P., New York City Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. 267 More Hog Wash As a substitute for the gains which were not made during the negotiations in Washington, the Committee for Maritime Unity has had the difficult task of persuading its membership that they really won a victory instead of suffering a terrific loss. Of course, in the face of the tremendous advances made recently by the SIU and the SUP, this task is a ma­ jor one, and requires quite a bit of doing. One of their propaganda releases, dated July 19, starts out with the bald statement that'the negotiations in Wash­ ington "resulted in great advances for seafaring workers." A statement like that might fool the people who don't know very much about the maritime situation, but to those who earn their living as seamen, it is sheer nonsense. All the efforts of the member unions of the CMU were directed at trying to gain for their members the same conditions and wages already being enjoyed by the AFL Maritime Unions. Even this they were unable to gain fully, and the latest contracts signed by the SIU and the SUP put us even further in the lead. Hospital Patients When entering the hospital notify the delegate by postoard. giving your name and the number of your ward. Staten Island Hospital Propaganda cannot take the place of solid gains such as these. The release goes on to say that "greater gains could have been made with complete unity and participation by all the maritime unions in the national negotiations." It would be well to remember that this plea for unity and complete cooperation comes from Harry Bridges and Joe Curran, who repaid the AFL Maritime Union's pledges that legitimate picketlines would be honored, and that Government manning of merchant ships would be con.sidered a lock-out, by attempting raids on the SUP on the West Coast, and the ILA in New Orleans. We have grown accustomed to the fact that the com­ munist-dominated waterfront unions say one thing and practice another. We are not too much shocked over the way trade union principles are distorted by them to con­ form to communist policy. But even we are forced to pause when they make outlandish statements about the gains they have made for the seafaring workers. If seamen had to wait for advances to be made by the NMU and the CMU, they would still be slaves on hell.ships, and with little chance for anything better. Gains are not made by bragging—-gains are won only through action. And action is something that the NMU reserves for fights for power within the organization. The merchant seamen look to the SIU and the SUP for leadership on every score. All maritime v/orkers arc now looking to the newly formed AFL Maritime Councils for leadership on all national issixes. This puts the CMU in the position of operating in a vacuum, and so putting jont publicity releases, even if they are untrue, is a job which they can do well. \t would benefit marine workers everywhere if the CMU would confine itself to just such tasks, and leave actual battling for the democratic waterfront unions. Men Now in The Marine Hospitais These are the Union Brothers currently in the marine^hospitals. as reported by the Port Agents, These Brothers find time hanging heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by writ­ ing to them. STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL W. HUNT S. J. SOLSKI L. L. OWENS P. R. DEADY C. G. SMITH L. A. CORNWALL^ W. B. MUIR J. L. WEEKS R. J. TURNER R. YOUNG J. S. SEELEY JR. F. TOKORCHUK D. A. WARD T. L. KEITH T. J. DAWES J. E. VILLAFANA T. L. SIMONDS N. TSOAUSKIS R. G. MOSSELLER E. ORTIZ a W. SMITH F. GAMBICKI R. LUFLIN L. L. MOODY M. C. BROOKS » » » BALTIMORE HOSPITAL BENJAMIN THOMAS MATHEW LITTLE STANLEY BUZALEWSKI ALBERT COMPBELL HARRY BENNETT PETER LOPEZ E. J. DELLAMANO JAMES KELLY WM. SILVERTHORNE THOMAS CARROLL MORSE ELLSWORTH MOSES MORRIS FLOYD LILES ARMAND RIOUX HERBERT SEIRY LONNIE TICKLE JAMES LAWLOR % % % -SAN JUAN HOSPITAL R. GAUTIER P. PAGAN B. DEL VALLE P. PEDRO V. T. C. LOCKWOOD J. VANDESSPOOLL » » & BOSTON HOSPITAL BENJAMIN THOMAS MATHEW LITTLE STAJ^LEY BUZALEWSKI HARRY BENNETT HAVEY CRONIN LONNIE TICKLE E. J. DELLAMANO PETER LOPEZ JAMES KELLY "W. SILVERTHORNE THOMAS CARROLL MORSE ELLSWORTH You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing times: Tuesday—1:30 to 3:30 p. m« (on 5th and 6th floors) Thursday^—1:30 to 3:30 p. m. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday—1:30 to 3:30 p. m. (on 1st and 2nd floors.) MOSES MORRIS JAMES LAWLOR GUSTAVO PASSARETTI NILS JOHNSON ARMAND RIOUX JULIAN COGGINS NICK MAROWICH » » » NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL D. C. ZERRUDO RAY W. CURTIS EDWARD CUSTER ROY PINK R. L. FRENCH JOSEPH WALSH WILBUR MANNING JOHN R. GOMEZ W. BROCE JR. KEITH WINSLEY ARTUR MITCHELL J. W. DENNIS R. M. NOLAN GLEN DOWELL % % % ELLIS ISLAND HOSPITAL D. MCDONALD J. W. RUBEL M. BAILEN H. KARLSON J �Friday, August 16, 1946 TEE SEAFARERS LOG Bull Lines Admits Mistake On SS Helen; Suspended Men Pleased With Progress ff. li m I 6 I hi:' 'A Albert Colditz You would think that men who sail the ships that make the American Merchant Marine the most powerful in the world would receive halfway decent treatment from the shipowner if they are hurt in shipboard acci­ dents. Yes, you would think that, but you would be wrong. You would be wrong because ship­ owners care more for the al mighty dollar than they do about human life. Take the story of Albert Col­ ditz, Wiper, for instance. Al has been sailing for quite some time. A good portion of the last few j^ears has been spent on Isthmian ships, doing what he could to bring this company into the SIU fold. When the going was heavy, during the black days when mer­ chant ships wore like sitting gulls for Nazi submarines, Colditz took his chances in the thick of things. Like all other members of the SIU, he sailed the ships right into the teeth of the Nazi menace, and helped to break the back of the German drive. BADLY HURT And then, when the fighting was over, here is how he was re­ warded. On June 11, on board the SS Horace See, Pacific Tank­ ers, going to Gydnia, Al was hui't in a fall from a scaffold. He was injured doing work which he was not required to do, and which he protested doing. When the boat docked in Gydnia, he was im­ mediately rushed to the hospital, where he was placed under treat­ ment. The vessel moved out while- he was still in the hospital, so food was left for him with the com­ pany agent. A few days later, he was surprised to find out from the agent, that his food had been stolen, and that there was no more available for him. Mind you, it was only Colditz's food that was stolen; nothing else was touched. When Al went to the company agent for an explana­ tion, he was given the brush-off. Sfiil afloat," says Al, "but I am sure that it is the worst vessel I was ever on. Boy it sure made me glad that I sail on SIU ships only." Colditz was treated horribly, given the worst possible quar­ ters, and was even denied water. The Chief Engineer and the Pur­ ser were the only ones who treat­ ed him decently. His wound was still open and required dressing, which the Purser did for him each day. The long voyage was finally over, but Al's troubles still dog­ ged him. Galveston was sup­ posed to be the port of discharge, but the Master of the Trumbull refused to discharge him as a "repatriated seaman," and insist­ ed on signing him off as a "work­ away." (Continued from Page 1) gaining agreement. They will receive a minimum of 40 hours straight time per week at $1,45 per hour and $2.17 Vi per hour overtime until they are in a position to ship out with their original certificates restored. It is understood that these men will be hired for standby work in port and not to re­ place any regular crewmembers on the vessel. The company is most anx­ ious to restore amicable rela­ tions and will do everything possible to work toward that end. As a helpful step to ac­ complish this purpose, the com­ pany will immediately refer to the Union and discuss with the Union any difficulties which might involve the Union or its members in an endeavor to work out a satisfactory solution before an issue is created that might get beyond the control of either of us. By working to­ gether with mutual respect for the problems we both are faced with, we are of the opinion that unfortunate instances such as the SS Helen case can be avoid­ ed and the resulting effects on both of us and the SS Helen incident speedily alleviated. We believe the Union should immediately release the SS Helen with her cargo, some of which consists of food products on the point of spoilage. Such action on your part would clear the decks for the harmonious relations which we both desire. Very truly yours, A. H. BULL AND CO. After the letter was received. ON THE MEND WaitingPays Off; Patient Seaman Collects At Last Now Colditz is in the Marine Hospital at Stateri Island, but the Pacific Tankers have not heard the last of this. Al is bringing' suit against the company for forc­ ing him to do work not required of a Wiper, and for compensation for the injuries he suffered while Here is a story designed to doing the work. comfort men who have beefs Al hopes that his recovery will pending for a few days. John De be rapid because, as he puts it, Abreu waited from January 1, "there is a lot of work to be done, 1945, until last week before he and I want to do my share. If collected the money due him it's not sailing Isthmian, it will be from the Moran tug, the MV Yaquina Head. something else that I can do." This tug took part in the in­ It is such spirit and willing­ vasion of Normandy, and when NMU RUST-BUCKET ness to do a job that has made payoff time came around, the His insistence did him no good, the Seafarers the strong Union company disputed the overtime and as punishment, he was placed that it is today. We hope that Al which Oiler De Abreu claimed on board an NMU ship for repa­ for supper relief. The Chief En­ gets on his feet quickly, too. The gineer refused to sign the over­ triation. And punishment it was. "I don't think that the SS John Union can't afford to have men time, and then he disappeared Trumbull is the worst ship like him in the hospital. before the matter could be settled. It tok 15 months to locate the fast-moving Engineer, and Anally the O.T. sheet was forwarded to him in Texas, where he did his duty, and signed his John Han­ cock in the proper place. About time too, because De Abreu had already spent the money many times by now. Of course, the Union tried every means at its command to settle this matter speedily, but red tape is red tape, and the company would not pay off with­ out the necessary forms. Ineidentally, the Patrolman By PAUL HALL who Anally settled the beef was Jimmy Purcell, and Purcell was ("Clearing The Deck," will not appear Ihis week. Brother also ships Delegate at the time Hall, in his capacity as Chairman of the AFL Greater New York the beef came up, in January, Maritime Council, is in Chicago with a delegation from the 1945. It was a long, long time, Seafarers, meeting with officials of all AFL maritime unions but the money is just as good for the purpose of forming a country-wide AFL Maritime today as it would have been then. Council. Further details will appear in next week's LOG.) a special membership meeting was held on Saturday, August 10, and the terms of the letter were made known to the membership. The concessions by the company, and the company's admission of fault were accepted by a unani­ mous vote of those in attendance. Charles Moats, Bosun of the Helen, and leading spirit in the action that took place aboard the vessel, said, "On behalf of the Helen crew I would like to ex­ tend thanks and appreciation for the way that this was fought through. We are glad that the Union is continuing the fight to regain our papers. We are also very happy about what has hap­ pened so far." In the meantime, the efforts of the SIU to have the papers of these men restored has not abated one bit. On August 13, appeals of the men v/ere urged before an Admiral of the New York CG. ACTION MOUNTS Representing the Helen men and the SIU were Ben Sterling, attorney, and Joe Volpian, Spe­ cial Service Department. For the Coast Guard Commander Dugan and Lieutenant Coughlin did the honors. As of this date, final decision has been reserved, but there is every reason to believe that an announcement will be made this week as to the fate of the appeal. By ROBERT MATTHEWS The laws affecting maritime he belongs, one-half part of the workers are so varied and so balance of his wages earned cind complex as to make it an im­ remaining unpaid at the time possibility for a seaman to know I when such demand is made at just how the law applies to him i every port where such vessel, and affects him in many case.s. after the voyage has been com­ This series is not intended to menced, shall lead or deliver car­ make a "sea lawyer" out of every go before the voyage is ended, member, but to point out how and all stipulations in the con­ some of the laws affect a seaman tract to the contrary shall be basically, and to let a man know void; Provided, such a demand what his fundamental rights are. shall not be made before the ex­ Some of our Maritime Laws are piration of,, nor oftener than once still on the statute books in their in five days nor more than once original form and some of them in the same harbor on the same date back to the 18th century. entry. Any failure on the part of Some of them have been amended the master to comply with this from time to time and in vari­ demand shall release the seaman ous ways. It all points up a from his contract and he shall crying need for Congress to give be entitled to full payment of serious consideration to drafting wages earned. And when this new and better laws to replace voyage is ended every such sea­ old, outmoded statutes that have man shall be entitled to the re­ been on the books for a couple of mainder of the wages which shall hundred years. The present be then due him, as provided in ship's articles are an example of the preceding section:" The interp'-ctations given this what I mean. particular law by the courts pco-^ Realizing that seamen have vide that such demand must be very little opportunity flo ex­ actually made in good faith, and amine the laws that are being such demand refused to be deem­ amended from day to day, I will ed a violation. When a demand attempt to answer some of the is made upon the skipper by the most common questions. What seaman in accordance with the seaman at one time or another law, the Master must be given a hasn't had trouble with some reasonable time in which to com­ skipper about getting a draw? ply. I'll warrant there are not many For instance, if a vessel arrived who haven't because, in my years in port dm-ing the night or on a of representing the Union and holiday or Sunday, when it is paying off ships, I've had ques­ physically impossible for the tions thrown at me on this point skipper to get iiiouey, failure on from literally thousands of men. the skippers' part to give ad­ You've all heard the beefs— vances immediately would cer­ the skipper wouldn't put out a tainly not constitute a refusal. By draw, because he wanted the the same token, if a vessel ar­ crew on the job the next morn­ rived during weekdays, when ing and sober; or the Old Man money was available, and the wouldn't put out but $5.00 per skipper refused to make an effort man because he wanted the guys to get money for advances, or if to save their money and be capi­ he ignored the demand, this could talists. And there's the skipper be deemed a violation. who doesn't want to put out a What is a seaman to do if the draw because it's a small port, skipper refuses to comply with and there's nothing to buy any­ this law? If the refusal takes how. place in a foreign port, the sea­ Well, what is the law on it? man should appeal directly to the The United States Code Anno­ American Consul, if in a domes­ tated, Title 46, Section 597 pro­ tic port, the seaman should im­ vides that: mediately contact his Union or, "Every seamen on a vessel of in the absence of a branch of the the United States shall be en­ Union, then he should take his titled to receive on demand, from beef directly to the United States the master of the vessel to which Shipping Commissioner. �Friday, August 16, 1946 THE SEAFARERS tOG 'jSSB Ftnii After All Praise Seaman Is Still Forgotten Man WHAT ttHIMK QUESTION:—Do you think that slopchests on board ship have good supplies at reasonable By LOUIS GOFFIN prices, as stated by the American Merchant Marine Institute? JOHN WEIR, Bosun: That business is as phony as the rest of the shipowner propa­ ganda. They make all kinds of statements hoping that someone will be foolish enough to heliovo one of the lies and pass it on. I have been sealing for quite some time, and I never have seen a slopchest that was decent, or that had a variety of articles at reasoncd>le prices. The shipowners want to make suckers out of sea­ men, so they try their level best to sell them shoddy merchandise at top prices. Those fat boys sure have plenty of nerve. WILLIAM E. LAKE, Utility: That is certainly not true. Prices on board ship are much higher than they are ashore, and the quality of goods is just plain lousy. I never buy anything from the slopchest because I can't af­ ford to spend good money for ar­ ticles that won't last even a little while. I work too hard for my money to be willing to waste it on shoddy clothes and other things that are for sale at slopchests. I buy my gear ashore, and take it with me. In that way I am sure of having what I need. GERALD MIETH, OS; That is as silly as any other statement they have ever made. The contrary is true; there is sel­ dom anything for sale on board ship, and the prices are way up. Most of the shipowners think that the slopchesf is a dumping ground for stuff that the manufacturers can't sell to any one else. I wish that we could believe their story, but we who sail the ships know that it is either a plain lie, or else these guys are complete fools. Maybe the shipowners should get close to their own ships sometime and really find out what goes on. New Voting Law Permits Absentee Voting By Seamen than 6:00 P.M. Nov. 4); Delaware (Coitlhmcd from Page I) Postcard applications for an (ballots must be in by 12 noon absentee ballot may be obtained election day). Idaho (ballots must be receiv­ from any of the following: ed not later than Nov. 4); Illin­ All ships documented under ois, Kansas (ballots must be in the laws of the U. S.; Seafarers by Nov. 2); Louisiana (no speci­ International Union; Ship Opera­ tors or Agents; USS Clubs; US fic notice of voting status of Marine Hospitals; Seamen's merchant seamen has been re­ Maryland,. Michigan, Church Institutes; WSA Offices. ceived) ; Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri STILL TIME (merchant seamen may vote only There are elections in two if they are in the State on elec­ states in which seamen, may vote tion day). if they act promptly: Montana (ballots must be in Maine^—^Election on Sept. 9 of at 6:00 P.M. on election day); Ne­ one Senator and Representatives braska (ballots must be in 10:00 in Congress, and State officials. A.M. election day); New Hamp­ Since no information has been shire, New Mexico (ballots must received regarding deadline date be in not later than 12:00 noon for receipt of ballots, it is sug­ Nov. 4); Ohio (not later than gested they be mailed as early as 12:00 noon election day); Okla­ possible. homa (7:00' P.M. election day). Colorado — For the primary Oregon (ballots must be in by election on Sept. 10, ballots must Oct. 30); Rhode Island (no infor­ be received not later than Sept. mation available); South Dakota, 7. Tennessee, Texas (ballots must General elections will be held be in not later than midnight in most states on Nov. 5 for elec­ Nov. 1). tion of Congressional RepresenUtah, Vermont, Washington tati'.'es. Senators, and various (ballots must be received within State officials. Unless time is 18 days after election); West Vir­ otherwise noted, ballots must be ginia, Wisconsin and Wyomin.g received not later than the day (ballots must be in not later than of election in order to be counted. 7:00 P.M. election day). States which hold elections on It is suggested that residents Nov. 5 are: of states not listed above write Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, to their respective State Secre­ Colorado (ballots must be receiv­ taries if they desire infonnation ed by Nov. 20); Connecticut (bah concerning their absentee voting lots must be received not later status. 7 ATTENTIOie If yotr don'f frad Hnen when you go aboard your ship, notify the Kali at once. A telegram from Le Havre or Singapore won't do you any good. It's your bed and you have to lie in it. My childhood days are far be­ hind me and I no longer ask "why?" in matters concerning seamen. 1 know only too well the answers. The desire to en­ slave the seaman and the lust for power and money supplies all the answers. During the war we were hailed as heroes by everyone, but now that the shooting has ceased the seamen has become the forgot­ ten man. We were promised the many things that the Gl's have already received, but those who made the promises have reneged. We were told that the Bureau of Marine Inspection and Navi­ gation would revert back to the Department of Commerce six months after hostilities ceased. STEPHEN MANGOLD, AB: This has not been done. The list rd like to know what ship of broken promises could go on tbey are talking about. I would indefinitely. sure be glad to sail on that boat GOT THE BUSINESS just to see how a dream slopchest really works. Most seamen like All the mad desires of the pow­ to buy their gear ashore because ers that are have managed to the prices are lower and the qual­ shake down the seaman and the ity is much better. Also, on land public until our heads swim. an unlicensed seaman's money We, the seamen, were given is as good as an officer's. It's dif­ the busines by the phony politi­ ferent at sea. On board ship, the cians in Washington by sticking officers usually get their pick of us under the Coast Guard.—The anything in the slopchest, then ships that cost millions to build when the voyage is almost over, during the war and paid for by the seamen are allowed to buy the public are now being sold to anything that the slopchest is the shipowners for peanuts. The stuck with. shipowners, with only profits in mind, turn a deaf ear to the de­ mands of the seamen for a living wage — they have managed to taint and corrupt wherever they laid their hands. N. 0. AFL Council Offers To Work UNNRA Ship Free (Contimiei from Page 1) the most skilled and efficient men in the' industry. THEY KNOW This movement was initiated by both licensed and unlicensed seamen who more than other people know the suffering of the millions of people in the war ravaged countries of Europe and The week's most fascinating Asia. They feel that their war story deals with the discovery by services in the liberation of these the House Appropriations Com­ people which resulted in 'the mittee of a war agency that death of over 6,000 American sliould have liquidated itself some seamen are not complete until time back, What- makes the story the peacetime war against stardifferent is that it wasn't a World ;vatix>n is won. War II agency but one that was This- plan, initiated by the New somehow left over from World Orleans AFL Marine Council, is War I and was. simply forgotten expected; to be adopted nationally about by everybody. The agency by the AFL Marine Organiza­ was set up during the first World tions. The Council, at a mee .ing War to obtain spruce for airplane held' last evening, selected dele­ construction. It spent several gates to attend the AFL Marine hundred million dollars but never supplied a stick of wood for Trades Council being held in planes. But for the last 28 years Chicago August IS-. The dele'gates. Steely White, SIU; ,and' the agency has been spending ap­ iPat Ryan, AFL Organizer; are proximately $20,000 a year—pre­ leaving today by plane from sumably to liquidate itself. Com­ Moissant Airport. mented one Congressman: "After The Council emphasizes that this I wouldn't be the least bit surprised to find that stuck away this is an unsolicited offer with in some Washington cubby-hole no motive, political or otherwise, there's a Federal agency still than aiding by a voluntary do­ paying off the construction costs nation of their labor in relieving of the Merrimac and the Monitor the suffering of the millions of —and probably in Confederate hungry people throughout the world. money." Just Noteif lit l^assing There is a three letter word in the English language that is used early in life by all children. Why is- the sky blue? Why do dogs bark? and so on indefinitely. Mr. shipowner has in mind the return to the days prior to 1934 when, with his blessing, we re­ ceived low wages and long hours. The old days of "we don't make much money but we have a lot of gun" are dead and buried. For the infonnation of these parasites we seamen have other ideas and we intend to carry them out. Mr. Shipowner who profited so much during the war will be made to share his profits with the men who made them possible. TINffi TO RISE Jt is time for the shipowners to get off of their fat fannies, and get wise to the fact that they as well as us, are living in a new age. Seamen have the right to live decently and have families just as anyone else. In order to do so we must be paid wages on a; par with shoreside pay. These facts the shipowners should know by now so if they want to keep those ship.s sailing, they, on the advice of those who know,, should take their pen in hand and sign those agreements. After all, Mr; Shipowner, how long can you continue in business if your ships don't move? �FzidB7. Aiqpist JS, TBE S E A F ARE&S LO€ Page Galveston SIU Hall Is Activities Center If you have been walking down 23rd Street in downtown Galves­ ton recently, your ear drums would have received something of a jolt from the rhythmic racket coming from the building num­ bered .^08V2. That racket was some of the most industrious hammering and knocking heard in the Gulf area in many moons. It was, in fact, the Seafarers In­ ternational Union, Galveston Branch Hall taking shape. u And this new Galveston Hall is getting in .shape fast. In spite of the acute shortages, and the difficulties involved in getting the necessary materials and fur­ niture for a ship-shape HaU, the boys have knuckled down. They have overcome the law of supply and demand by work­ ing it out in the old tradition of "doing the best you can with the tools you have." All hands have He WAS DIRT/ . on the deck is taking a Brodie. The community spirit prevails. The recreation room is spa­ cious, and has ample seating fa­ cilities. The Hall points up the close and amicable working arrange­ ment between the SIU and the SUP. The SUP has been given It's nice and cool here in the recreation room and, just outside within walking distance, is a clean beach with bathing beauties and even some water to swim in. The life of a sailor on the beach is not too tough in Galveston. Come to think of it, what makes guys ship out of this burg, anyhow? D. L. PARKER Agenf, Galveston Branch office space in the building, and the membership of both sections of the Seafarers utilize the rec­ reation and dispatch halls joint­ ly. In the settlement of all beefs, all work together. In fact, the only evidence of any difference is in the color of the receipts issued. AFL MARITIME CENTER labored unsparingly. The pro­ duct of their joint and unstint­ ing efforts is a Hall of which the entire Union can be justly proud. CONVENIENT The Hall, by the way, is very conveniently located. It is just a few blocks from the docks. Seafarers will find that it is within easy walking distance of the beach. The structure has windows on three sides, providing cross-ven­ tilation, and electric fans aid in keeping the building and the Sea­ farers comfortably cool and safe from the hot Texas sun. Mem­ bers like to hang around in this clean atmosphere, which they keep as clean as a Dutch widow's kitchen. And woe be unto the guy who slops up the deck. Any­ one who throws a cigarette butt The Hall will also serve as the office for the Galveston District AFL Joint Maritime Council, with space being provided for a council meeting room. At the moment these facilities are not ready because of the shortage of materials. However, it is expect­ ed that the needed accommoda­ tions will be. available soon.. In addition to the New Hall, another activity has the member­ ship buzzing. The drive to or­ ganize the tugboats is presently centered in Galveston with the companies exerting every effort to maintain their power through the instrumentality of company unions. The membership as a whole are participating in the Seafarers drive to organize all tugs. Many of the men have already shipped aboard the boats, and are actually organizing on the job. Everj'thing , it seems, points to the fact that Galveston is- really taking shape. « There are jobs on the board and plenty of takers at the one o'clock call. Dispatcher Williams calls out the jobs while Agent Parker makes out the slips. Through the open door in the backgrovmd you can see sweet magnolia blossoms. Suh. This is Texas, and don't you forget it. One Of Many This brand-new Union Hall now being occupied by the SIU-SUP in Galveston is typi­ cal of the tremendous growth of the Seafarers. The best part about it is that we are still growing, and every day sees new strides being made in the direction of higher wages and better conditions. A good bet for the future is "SIU to win — across the board." This classy office belongs to the SUP; the SUP shares the shipping Hall with SIU. Here Gordon Ellis, SUP Agent, sits with his back to the window as he discusses matters with SUP Patrolman Bennie Barrena. The West Coast boys are not doing so bad down South—take a look at the snazzy furniture and the swivel chair. Shipping Continues Very Good in Gaiveston; Cargo Movement Up By D. L. PARKER The tugboat situation is what interests these men. Organizer Turk James, Steely White, and Agent D. L. Parker give the lowdown on how things shape up in the area. They're doing a big job down here, and volunteers aplenty can be had for any job from organizing to educating. A Icall on the public address system (mike to you) does the trick. GALVESTON — Shipping has been very good here, although business is not so hot. We get a few ships in each week, but we also have plenty of men to crew them. It seems that shipping is getting back to normal again. There are plenty of tankers lying up now w'hich means we have more men on the beach for cargo ships. I am sending two men to Cor­ pus Christi as we are getting quite a few ships there every week. That port will have quite a lot of coastwise shipping in the near- future. It seems that all the ports in the Gulf ai-ea are getting on Uneir feet again. We have quite a few men from the West Coast coming in. I guess it must be tough shipping out there. We shipped and registered the following number of men this past week. Shipped: Deck—76; Stewards—40; Engine—55. Re­ gistered: Deck—69; Stewards— 43; Engine—51. �TrtE SEAFARERS LOG ALLEGHENY VICTORY—FAR EAST BOUND ir Snapped on the Brooklyn docks just before their ship, the Allegheny Victory, shoved off for the Far East, this group of Isthmian seaman happily contemplate their future—when Isth­ mian will be under an SIU contract. They are: S. Greenblatt, S. Hollstedt, R. Hallis, J. Vincent, E. R. Hall, D. Boyne, R. Arnold, A. Lamanna, H. Stallones, D. Nichols, and organizer Whitey Lykke. Now SIU Shipping Ruios As Amended Augmt 18, 1S48 Allegheny Victory Drops SlU A Line From Panama PANAMA, August 4 — Hello, when coke went to war—on land, Gang: A bit of thisa and data on sea, and etc., etc. Three loud that may prove of interest to you. jeers for the coke people, and we Although this voyage is still in do mean jeers! it's embryonic stage, it appears NIGHT MATE THANKED as though it is to be a rather en­ Thanks to the Night JVTate joyable one. A fine gesture of aboard our ship, while in Brook­ consideration for his crew has lyn, for consideration of the crew. placed the faith of the crewmemHe made certain that the crew bers behind Capt. Hutchinson. would have night lunch by lock­ The issuance of a draw in New­ ing the pantry. And when the port News, when all factors box was not working, the lunch pooled proved negative to any such draw at the time has caused was taken to the officers' pantry. much talk of the Good Old Man. And the crew was told where the lunch could be obtained. By the . Resume — Brooklyn — Before way, the box in the crew's pan­ leaving Bruuklyii, the cieW of try still doesn't work. Oh, well! the SS Allegheny Victory phoned Scope — The interest with in an order for cokes to the which crewmembers view the Brooklyn Coca Cola Bottling progress of the present bill afford­ Company. Due to the company's ing citizenship rights to men hav­ "no delivery on Saturday" policy ing served in the Merchant Ma­ the cokes never did arrive. Any­ rine atomics all beliefs of the thing for the boys! (Ha, ha! We're seaman's thoughts being of minor laughing). focus. Newport News — Determined Hopes — General consensus of to have cokes along on this voy­ the crew: we hope to have won­ age, another call was made to derful, good and splendid news the coke people. This time the awaiting our arrival in Shanghai answer was a blunt, "Sorry, but to the effect that the Isthmian we do not make deliveries to Lines has finally gone SIU. ships." Until later—This is being writ­ Could it be that we were for­ ten betwen the locks of the Pan­ gotten so soon? Or has the status ama Canal. Best of locks to you, of the merchant marine as good too. Sorry, we couldn't resist it. P. S.—More pledge cards to advertising copy for the coke ads dropped? We can remember come from Shanghai. Finis. Here are the shipping rules of months old must re-register on right to establish the shipping the Seafarers International Un­ the sh.'oping list and take out a hours for calling out jobs. All ion, brought up to date to include new shipping card and date. jobs shall be called out on either the amendments dated July 31, (b) Members more than three the half-hour or the full hour. 1946. These rules are effective months in arrears in dues or as­ Jobs, under exceptional circum­ in all branches of the Atlantic sessments and less than six stances, may be called out at any and Gulf Districts. They are of­ months in arrears in dues or as­ time after the Job comes in, but ficial, and must be respected by sessments shall register and ship not before such jobs have been all Agents and members. from the same list sf Tripcard posted on the shipping black­ The rules were made and and Permit Men do. board first. amended by democratic processes (c) Former members more 18. Mail or telephone check-in of the membership. Infractions than six montlis in arrears in on shipping cards or for jobs shall •will not be tolerated. Following dues or assessments, after ap­ not be honored under any cir­ are the rules as they now stand: proval by membership action, cumstances. 1. The Union Hall .shall be op­ shall take the first job assigned 19. All men must be shipped en from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. On Sat­ to him by the shipping dispatcher. through the offices of the Sea­ 9. Members of the Seafarers farers International Union by the urday, Sunday and Holidays, the hours shall be governed by the International shall have prefer­ official Dispatcher. The Dis­ ence over permit men at all patcher shall be required to is­ port. PHILADELPHIA—Well, ship­ 2. When a member leaves his times, regardless of shipping date. sue two assignment cards to ping here has been very good the 10. NO MAN SHALL BE every man shipped; one to be ad­ last six days, after the way ship he shall report to the Union Hall and register his name and SHIPPED UNDER THE INFLU­ dressed to the department dele­ Whitey Hawk and the rest of the book number, and in return, he ENCE OF LIQUOR. No man gate and the other to the depart­ Brothers on the Negotiating Com­ shall be given a shipping card shall report on a ship under the ment head. mittee settled the beef with our dated the day he registers; a dup­ influence of liquor, after ship­ 20. Members shall attend any contracted companies. licate entry is to be kept by the ping from the hall. Offenders Department Meetings that are It was a fine feeling to pick up shall be brought before a Trial Dispatcher. called. Joint metings shall be a daily paper here and read Vic­ 3. Any member may make a Committee on charges. held every other Wednesday tor Reisel's column on Hawk. 11. Crews delegates shall see night at 7 p.m. Any member mis­ After the Peglers and the other pier-head jump, providing he does so outside the hours of the that all vacancies are filled by sing a meeting WILL BE TAKEN anti-labor columnists, its a plea­ Union Hall, and then, only after members of the SIU when avail­ OFF THE SHIPPING LIST, but sure to read something in favor all efforts to secure a man able. will be issued a new shipping of labor and labor's leaders. 12. No man shall be dispatched card when he applies for it. through the Union Hall have fail­ Brother Ray Gates has been ed. In such cases. Ships Delegate to a job more than 24 hours be­ When Wednesday falls on a holi­ doing a very good job dispatch­ shall make a detailed account fore turning to. Pay shall start day, meeting will be held on ing here, and manages to See his and forward same to the Agent the day required to pass the doc­ Thursday at 7:00 p.m. beloved "Phillies" every so often. of the port involved. The ship's tor or report aboard ship. 21. Only a member of the un­ Red Truesdale is keeping pretty 13. Each member shall have ion for six months or over shall busy along the waterfront; in f—^legate shall be held responsible if he fails to report as provided the preference of shipping on act as ship's delegate. Patrol­ fact, 1 saw him on board ship last three ships. If he does not sail on men shall see that a crew delegate Sunday. herein. 4. No member shall be given the third ship he shall lose his is elected before ship sails from 1 notice plenty of oldtimers a shipping card for another rnem- original shipping card. port. Ordinary seamen and wip­ around the Hall, including a ber, nor have another member's 14. Members who have ship­ ers shall not be allowed to act as great many from New York— shipping card stamped. The Dis­ ped, and later quit or get fired, delegates. the more the merrier, so keep patcher shall not ship any mem­ and who do not report back to coming. Brothers. 22. Members upon shipping ber presenting another's card. the Dispatcher within 24 hours shall show their qualifications to W. J. Reidy nor shall he honor the card of after -shipping, shall lose their Dispatcher for the job shipped 4 4 4 any member not presenting his original date. on. No man shall be shipped own card. This Ain't Hay 15. No member shall be dead- who does not qualify. 5. No shipping card shall be headed from one port to another 23. Members 50 years old or ASHTABULA—The article ap­ issued to any member prior to for the purpose of taking a job over shall have preference to pearing in the current issue of the his paying off any vessel. j on *he vessel in another port un- watchmen's jobs. Pilot stating that the Stewards 6. No member shall be given the branch where the jobs 24. Members will not be per­ and Galley Departments of the an open shipping date for any requests another branch to mitted to register on more than D & C Lines are withholding reason. | send men to fill the jobs. In com- one list, but in an emergency, a their dues and assessments from 7. All shipping cards must be Union has man may be shipped off his list the SIU treasury is not only a stamped after the regular meet- agreements which give the com­ for a job in other departments, gross misstatement of a true fact, ing. Any member wishing to Panies the right to hire certain provided he has the proper en­ but a vicious, below the belt at­ leave the meeting must ask the company may dead- dorsements on his certificates. tack upon our Union, which can 25. Men shipped on regular be expected from a group who permission of the membership to head those men to another port; do so through the Chair. If the but they must first report to the jobs, whose ship lays up in less neither recognize nor adhere to membership extends this privi­ Union Hall for an assignment than 15 days after original em­ any rules in their battle to gain lege, the member may leave the card. When they reach the port ployment date, shall have his full contro.l of Great Lakes ship­ meeting and have his shipping to which they were deadheaded, shipping card restored. When a ping. card stamped. Dispatcher or they must first report to the Un­ ship lays up and calls for a crew Instead of attacking the SIU doorman shall check men in at ion Hall in that port before re­ again within 10 days, the same in this below the belt method, meetings until 7:30 p.m. and porting aboard ship in order that crew shall have preference for tht 1.1"ik and file members of the members coming after that time they may be given another as­ the jobs, providing they register NMU should be watching how shall not receive credit for at­ signment card from that branch. on the shipping list. The above their own treasury is being rob­ 16. No shipping card issued in figures shall be conclusive. tending the meeting. bed by a small minority who are 26. Shipwrecked members posting a $5000 reward for the 8. (a) Any member on the one port shall be honored in an­ shall have preference of joining apprehension and conviction of regular shipping list who has a other port. the members of the mob who shipping card more than three 17. Each branch shall have the {Continued on Page 14) The Patrolmen Say... Keep Coming lynched four Negroes in the South. No fair-minded American ap­ proves of this murder, and every means should be employed to apprehend and punish the par­ ties who committed this murder. Nor does any American approve of lynching, and we agree that laws should be enacted against it, and be strictly enforced. However if a union sees fit to post a $5000 reward in this one instance why not post rewards for other equally atrocious mur­ ders? However, in the SIU, when any money is to be paid out of our treasury for an unusual ex­ pense, it would take a two-thirds majority vote of the entire mem­ bership, and not the vote of a few officials of the union. Again 1 repeat to the rank and file members of the NMU, watch out for your own treasury. The SlU's treasury is protected by the entire membership. When we pay our dues and assessments we demand fi'om our Union a voice and vote as to how it is to be spent and we get it. Henry Chappell Kfou oAN'WtoaoW WgAe-rH€'BADSP/ ifoa^ HRXOH! �1 THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday, August 16,'1343 Page Set Shipping Going At Fast Clip In Philly—All Hands Are Invited By JAMES TRUESDALE 'Most All Beefs Against Stewards Could Be Avoided With Great Ease NO NEWS?? By C. J. (BUCK) STEPHENS NEW ORLEANS — Shipping and business are still slow here, but there are lots of coastwise, bauxite and Puerto Rico run ships in port. I have often •writen to the Log and requested the members to come to New Orleans and ship out—but now. Brothers, I am writing and asking all members that don't have a pretty good stake or a flop and feed here in N. O. to steer clear, because ship­ ping is really on the down grade. This week was not so bad with three ships paying off and taking almost full crews; however, the outlook for the next couple of weeks is really bad. I have a few words of advice for the Stewards on some of our ships. I hope what I say will help them in the future and perhaps clear pp a sore spot among crews. FAVORITE VICTIMS As everyone knows. Stewards have been blasted at when some­ thing goes haywire in the Stew­ ards Department. As we know, some of them have it coming, and then again some of them were rigiit, but technically wrong. The last three ships that came into this port to pay off had beefs against the Stewards, and on all three the situation was al­ most the same. The Stewards Afow-THiS ISWDE/\L. always come cr:, ng to the offi­ cials that they are being perse­ cuted by the crews, but when asked if they reported the com­ pany cutting out the stores, or the cook not knowing how to cook or the messmen refusing to work and so on to the delegates, they say: "No, I reported it to the Skipper." This is one of the biggest beefs against Stewards. A Steward is only good so long as he can put out good food and satisfy his crew. When he can no longer do his job, he ceases being a Stew­ ard and becomes a phony bellyrobber. SEE CREW My advice to these Stewards is for them to confide less in the Skipper and officers, and spend a little more time with the Ship's Delegates and crew. They are the ones that will back you up when the company cuts you short, etc. Remember, it is the crew that spearheads any beef that comes up and sticks it out to the end. So in the future, Stewards, if you have trouble in your department, don't go to the Skipper, but go to IJie crew and get it squared away. You will find that the crew then will not be blasting you at the end of the voyage. Another point to keep in mind is if the Skipper or the other officers have a beef against you, remember that as long as you satisfied your crew, they will back you 100 per cent. Silence this week ff^a the Branch Agents of the follow­ ing ports: HOUSTON CHARLESTON MOBILE TAMPA JACKSONVILLE NORFOLK PORT ARTHUR CORPS CHRISTIE PHILADELPHIA—Things .sure have been going along fast in the Port of Philadelphia these days. Shipping has continued to be very good, and many an oldtimer has been practically shanghaied, so great has been the need for rated men. Ships have been paying off with all beefs settled at the pay­ off, to the great satisfaction of the crew — and the Patrolmen, too, for that matter, who like all men, like to see and do a good job. Gus Dorazio and Danny Samp­ son, two ex-heavyweight fight­ ers, who fought the best right here in Philadelphia, are just about ready to ship. Well, here's wishing good luck to the both of them; if they turn out as good Praise Belongs Where Praise Is Certainly Bue This Operator Comes To Aid Of Two SiU Seamen By ARTHUR THOMPSON SAVANNAH — One of our battles has been won. The battle for higher wages and overtime. But don't let your elation get the better of you. That was only half the battle, and you didn't get any more than you should have. You have a prize nego­ tiating committee—shrewd, tough and, to my mind, the best in maritime history. They were our leaders in the battle for wages; they are our leaders in the battle for better working conditions. Let their names sink in your minds, and stand behind them. Business picked up a little since the wage increase. We crewed the SS Joshua Hendy, gave her a litle push, and she's on her way to Norfolk and points east. The SS Bertram Goodhue was taken ov6r by South Atlantic from the Black Diamond outfit and is now crewing up. We hope she'll be in better shape than the other NMU ships we took over. The SS Cyrus W. Fields, also taken over by South Atlantic from Alcoa is also nearly ready to sail. She's in Florida now, and will stop here before proceeding to Baltimore and then Europe. She's another cattle carrier. SWELL CREW We paid off the SUP ship SS John Howland last week — no beefs and a swell crew of oldtimers. The Old Man is a former SUP man, and well liked by his crew. There were a few things needed such as percolators, toast­ ers, etc., and these were brought aboard and she should sail soon with a contented creW. An incident occurred down here which I believe deserves mention. Two crewmembers of a South Atlantic ship went ashore for a good time. Too many drinks got the better of them and they decided to go for a ride, and they were not particular about whose car they used. They had no keys and tried starting the car by crossing wires but were either tfio far gone or too inexperienced to knov/ and tried pushing the car. WRONG GUY They even went so far as to ask a city policement to help push. This proved to be their undoing. They were taken to the local hoosegow, and were bound over to Superior Court and stood a good chance of getting a few years in the bucket, but people started working for them. I don't like to mention the boys names .for obvious reasons, but they are members and well liked by their shipmates. One of the engineers started the ball rolling by contacting the USS. They helped by getting a lawyer who took the case on the cuff, since the boys were broke. - The upshot of the whole affair was that if the boys could get a sponsor they would be paroled. We contacted the South Atlantic SS Co. and they took the boys over and got them out. Don't get the idea they are com­ pany stooges. They never sailed with this company before and are not known to anyone there, just thought the incident was worth mentioning as a local oc­ currence and a good deed by a SS Company official. I HERE'S THE REASON In the last issue of the Log, Brother Charles Hartman asks why a lot of our oldtimers don't act as delegates. Brother, you have the answer in your own letter. I refer you to the third para­ graph in your letter. It reads, "The new members do not know, or are not .well up on the con­ tracts, and when there is a beef or misunderstanding aboard they like to lay the blame on the wrong party, which is the Delegate." (The emphasis is mine.) I've often heard com­ plaints from various delegates, that they are blamed for every­ thing from the Revolutionary War to the Dodgers losing the pennant. (God forbid.) It isn't right to blame him for anything. He works overtime for the crew, studies the agree­ ment, argues with the officers and tries' to settle petty disputes among crew members. His only reward is the knowledge that he tried his best and, maybe, he was thanked by one or two members. BEST FRIEND Your delegate on the ship is yoxu- friend and your counselor. He may make mistakes since he's only human; so don't bawl him out and don't blame him if things go wrong. If you want oldtimers to work in your behalf they'll do it gladly if you'll only cooper­ ate with them and leave all your major arguments for your officials at home. Do you ever read about the go­ ings on in Washington? There's a committee there known as the Mead Committee. They are do­ ing a lot of investigating and have dug up some mighty nasty facts. They have a list of some 690 ships which were worth about $37,900,000. These ships were insured for the grand sum of $477,300,000 during the war. That's damned near 13 to 1. This is only the money side of the story. Consider also the fact that about 6,000 of your ship­ mates were lost. Consider also the thousands who were so dis­ abled they could no longer sail. LOT OF DOUGH Getting back to the money question: the Mead Committee further discloses the fact that 758 ships valued at $37,000,000 were chartered to the government, which is you, for the sum of $199,700,000. A little more arithmetic tells us that this was a little bet­ ter than 5 to 1. Ships worth a quarter of a million were traded in to the government for new ships and the allowance was about three and a half million. I'm not making these figures up. They are now public prop­ erty. $21,000,000,000 (yes that's nine zeroes you see) were appropriated for the WSA during the war. Where did all this money go? We hope the Mead Committee can tell us. Wlien you read all about it, you'll understand what I mean when I say you didn't get any more than you should have. Operating a steamship com­ pany has always been a lucrative business. Working for one has not. The sooner the shipowners realize that they must give a fair share to those who make their millions, the sooner we will have less strikes and work stoppages. I dare any shipowner to refute the figures in this article. I know what I'm talking about and can back it up. MARINE HOSPITALS There's one more thing on my mind which I'd like to bring out. That is, the conditions in our Marine Hospitals. I was never a patient in a hospital, except for (Continued on Page 8) as .sailors as they were as box­ ers, there is no doubt in my mind as to their future. Right now, they are training in the Phila­ delphia gym, and are passing on •jlWD TV/^T'S WHV yocAiusTAjew£ft- their experience to the younger boys. Come on down and see how it's done! COOL AND COLLECTED M. Moran, another of the oldtimers, is ready to ship. He has all his baggage with him, car­ ried neatly in his back pocket. Ray Gates, our hard working Dispatcher, who has broken an­ other girl's heart, is without a doubt one of the best Dispatch­ ers we know of. He has never lost his calm, cool manner no matter how much work lies be­ fore him, or how many questions , are thrown at him—and, broth­ er, the questions he has to an­ swer would make most any guy go nuts. Tony Forgione and Blackie Cardullo, our two Patrolmen, have been really slugging the ball, the way they settle beefs on all ships. No ship ever stays without these two Brothers' rep­ resentation. No beef is too small or too big: Just call the Hall and we will be there to take care of your beef. If there is any doubt in your mind, try paying off in Philadelphia—or ask anyone who has. PHILADELPHIA POTPOURI Let's start our tour of who's who and who's what from 511; Bob Nolan is hanging on the ropes . . , Say, Larson, was that the boss we saw you with? Mighty nice dish . . . W. Gard­ ner, the goon, is still trying br make the waitress — give up, Gardner, the Patrolmen have everything in hand . . . Dave and Jack have sure set everything right in 511. A sailor can always be sure of getting a fair deal as long as these two have anything to do about it ... B. Miller has been strutting since the raise; he insists on being called Mr. Bosun 205 a month is a lot of chips, hey Miller? . . . Ted Dyer is getting married this week to a really swell girl. She is smart, pretty lass, and Ted is certainly not go­ ing wrong. So look for Ted to have his nose to the grindstone from now on. Lot's of luck to the both of you . . . B. Cardullo and Tony Forigone are to be the bartenders, so everything will turn out fine—we hope . . . Wel­ come back home to Mr. Mitch, owner of Sonia's Cafe, who is out from the hospital. We sure are glad to see him again . . . Won­ der what happened to the NMU goons with the high pressure uni­ forms who offered their uniforms and their full books in the* NMU for an SIIT tripcard? . . . That's all for now: having a drink with each one we interview—well, we do have a limit! B. Cardullo T. Forigone ^5 �THE SE AF AREttS LOG If'tidayi Augutt'16, 1946 The Patrolmen Say- True Golors Out: Soviet Ship toston Is Having Its Troubles Good Joe Scabs On Mexican Longshoremen With Coast Guard, But Who Isn't By JOHN MOGAN BOSTON — Business and ship­ ping picked up considerably dur­ ing the past week. Portland and Providence are both showing signs of life and the Port of Bos­ ton is getting plenty of the coast­ al and intercoastal shipping. The Union buried Brother Steve Kelly last week. Brother Kelly had been hospitalized for six months alternating between the. Brighton and the Baltimore Marine Hospitals. He had no rela­ tives or friends to claim the body for burial, so the Union took charge and laid him to rest in a fitting manner. Another excursion outfit was signed up this week. They are only running one boat and the season is practically over, but next year the company figures to expand. At any rate, these jobs are considered very desirable GOILTV / GuiLTi'fGuiLlVf and also on the grounds that the defendant had no prior miscon­ duct record in his 2% years on merchant ships. Result: two rnontlis' suspension of certificates. NO CHANCE Now, the one deep impression on any observer at one of these "kangaroo" sessions is that the seaman hasn't got a chance, and one also wonders how long it will remain "legal" for a military of­ ficer i.e., a Coast Guard lieuten­ ant, to have the power to de­ prive, arbitrarly, a workingman of his right to work for himself and his family. There are fundamental demo­ cratic and constitutional rights involved in this crazy deal, and it is not hard to visualize a con­ centration of all maritime work­ ers in a bitter battle to end this fascist control. So much from Boston for this week—it is hoped that the ship­ ping of the past couple of weeks will continue at the same or a faster pace, as there are still plenty of members waiting to grab a job. NEW YORK—On a recent voy­ age of the SS Vereiidryo (Los Angeles Tanker) which left Port Arthur on a five months' trip, taking in several ports in Japan, China, Singapore, Italy, Trini­ dad, and return to New York, Captain C. Lyall and other offi­ cers of this ship were highly commended by the entire crew. During the trip, one character by the name of Petterson was run off the ship in Singapore for bullying and beating up a young crewmember. Three replace­ ments were picked up in that port, among them being two NMU men and an old time ISU member by the name of N. Schastma. This man had been a Jap prisoner for three years, had been shot by them and mutilated with sabers several times. By the end of the voyage, one of the NMUers was well thought of by the Verendrye crewmen, but the other man was a 6 foot 3 inch individual who tried to intimidate the entire crew with his bullying ways. However, he decided to change his tactics be­ fore the payoff. Ray Gonzales Blackie Colls Jimmy Sheehan By JOHNNY HATGIMISIOS BALTIMORE — Sliipping has conditions and more equitable been very good, with payoffs rights. a-plenty. ISTHMIAN SOON SIU The increase which we just The Isthmian drive is on the won will go a long way with our last lap now, and soon the men Seafarers. The men who are sailing her vessels will be under fighting for the membership are the SIU banner. It will be a great day for these men, because the getting a real break for the sea­ SIU is the one Union which does men. We have no record of sell­ most for its membership. 1 say to outs as the NMU ha.s. Our men all unorganized seamen that you got what they went after, and should get under the SIU ban­ as usual our rivals are crying ner. The MFOW on the West Coast their heart? out is now running into a little un­ I was reading Victor Reisel's expected trouble, and they are column the other day—the one really raising hell. They thought which he devoted to John Hawk they were doing the right thing and the Seafarers. For the ef­ when they went into the CMU, forts which they have expended but there's a catch to anything in in behalf of the Union member­ which the commies are involved. ship, our thanks go to him and They tried to get the SIU to to the many others who have fall victim to their little game, fought so hard. too, but failed, of course. Very They know what it is to be shortly, we hope to have our a seaman. They have come up own AFL Maritime Council or­ the hard way, and have been ganized on a national scale. It personally engaged in all the bit­ will be a Maritime Council which ter battles which confronted the will have its foundation in the SIU. Seafarers are well repre­ rank and file of. the various mem­ sented in the fight to gain better ber unions—unlike the CMU, in which rank and file does not ex­ ist, for with the commies in con­ trol the rank and file can have no voice. Port New York Is Busy Handling All Beefs While Shipping Activities Pick Up Considerably during the summer months by the local members, and from the By JOE ALGINA point of view of the membership all these outfits should be under NEW YORK —Maybe it's the contract, regardless of how small heat, or maybe it's the Helen, they may be. but it seems as though things TROUBLES STILL are really buzzing around here. We are still having our troubles I don't know whether the Helen with the Coast Guard up this or the new^ contracts are the most way. No doubt it is a concerted • program to make things as diffi­ discussed subjects in the Hall at cult as possible for the SIU mem­ this time. I guess the contracts bership, and is not confined to are the most discussed, and the Boston alone. The latest fiasco Helen is the most cussed. involved an AB aboard the SS The men are really hot about Robin Adair, who was charged the treatment of the militant with two offenses by the Chief crew members of the Helen, and Mate—who, incidentally, is one are prepared to go to any lengths of those guys who are not too to get their papers back for them. sure of themselves or their ability They take it as a threat to them­ to hold down their jobs, and con­ selves, and want to meet the sequently attempt to excuse the threat at least halfway, in typical defect by frequent displays of SIU fashion. authority. HOLIDAY BEEF He did give his crew a bad time throughout the trip, and appear­ To add to the activity, shipping ed against his AB at the Coast has picked up considerably, and Guard hearing. One charge was although things are not as hec­ failure to attend a fire and boat tic as they were during the height drill. of the war, still and all, we man­ The defendant proved that it age to ship a good number of men should not have been "failure each week. The George Wash­ to attend" but rather "late for fire and boat drill." However, he was found guilty on this speci­ fication. BOSUN'S ORDER Next charge was refusal to obey a lawful command of the Mate. This turned out to be one of those things where the Bosun knocked off the man, who had worked a couple of hours over­ time immediately after coming off watch, because the man was both tired and ill, and the Mate overruled the Bosun's order. Although there was no proof of any emergency existing which would make it necessary for all hands to turn to on overtime the defendant was nevertheless found guilty dn the second specifica­ tion. A plea for leniency was then made to the Hearing Officer, on the grounds that the finding of "Proved" on both specifications could well have been different, ington, Alcoa, finally crewed up after long wrangling, and is re­ suming regular runs to Bermuda. One beef has arisen lately that could have been settled before it started. The crew of a ship requested holiday pay for work­ ing one day in a foreign coun­ try. The Master says that it was not a holiday, and that the long­ shoremen worked without extra compensation. Now, if these men had brought back some proof that it actually was a legal holi­ day, the whole thing could be settled before you could say "Seafarers International Union." In the future, I advise all Sea­ farers to make sure that they bring back proof of a holiday in a foreign country, and in that way we can collect for you with­ out a whole lot of rigamarole. PORT DATA Here on the fifth deck of the New York Hall we get a lot of requests from guys who want probationary books. We would like to be able to tell them the books are theirs for the asking. but that is not the case at this time. •At the present time no more books are being issued, but the time will come when new mem­ bers will be taken in and, when it does, those who have their dues and assessments paid up will be allowed to apply for membership. So cheer up, fellows, soon you tripcarders can be full members in the Brotherhood of the Sea— the SIU. For a long time seamen have been battling for Unemployment Insuranrce. Well, our long fight might be successful finally. Joe Volpian, SIU Special Services representative, is currently con­ ferring with New York state of­ ficials, and an announcement might be forthcoming at any time now. It's about time that we sailors got some sort of a break. The men who were aboard the Point Carbillo when she took that freighter in tow are entitled to salvage money. That dough is waiting for them at 37 Broad­ way, New York City. Go get it, fellows, it's all yours. COMMIE SCABS A very interesting situation de­ veloped last month down in Vera Cruz, Mexico. The Soviet ship Vovrov was in the port. Guards were necessary to prevent a fight from breaking out between the Russian crew and Mexican long­ shore workers, when the Rus­ sians began loading fruit on the vessel. Russian officials stated that the loading costs were too high, and that, therefore, the crew had to do the loading. The longshore­ men served noticed on the ter­ minal loading outfit that they ex­ pected a day's pay for the work which was their's. We hope they get it. PREACHING and PRACTICING But that's how the nation which preaches that they are the true upholders of the workers' rights practices its doctrines. I would like to see them go out to the west coast and pull such a stunt. I'd like to see how Harry Bridges would react to a deal like that, whether he would stand for his men being scabbed on by or­ der of his big bosses. That would really be worth something to see! Our motto is one for all and all for one, while the commies say all for one, and that one is them. Our way is the right way, so let's all get out in full swing and get all the companies we can un­ der our banner. Make the SIU the most powerful Union on the time and a few cents for stamps waterfront. writing letters to his Congress­ Here's wishing you all good man, there would soon be a pile shipping. of letters which they could not ignore. As I mentioned at the start of this letter we have fin­ ished one battle. We have many more. The conditions in the hos­ pitals must be fought. The ges^ All men who come within tapo tactics of the CG must be the provisions of the Draft fought. The raiding actions of Law should keep in touch the CMU must be fought. with their draft boards while No seaman worthy of his call­ ing can ever stop fighting. We've on board ships. Do not de­ shown in recent months that pend on the Purser to do this we've got what it takes. -So sit for you. He may fail to do so. down now and write to youj: and the first thing you know, congressman. And you, too. And you're not a civilian anymore. wake up that guy over in the cor­ Praise Belongs Where Praise Is Certainly Due— This Operator Comes To Aid Of Two SIU Seamen Maritime Unions and there must (Contimied from Page 7) one day as a kid when I had my be three times that many more in other unions or unorganized. tonsils removed. This was be­ fore I went to sea and naturally I did not go to a Marine Hos­ pital. I have, however, visited many of our members and many of my personal friends in Marine Hos­ pitals and, while I never heard much good about them, I never did know they were quite so bad until the recent Log stories brought them to niy attention. One recent writer said it should be brought to the attention of the If each one of these seamen public. That is true, but we have about 80,000 members in AFL would spend five minutes of his ner and tell him. About The Draft J �Fridar, Augufi 16i 1948 THE SEAFARERS LOG Gold Coast Teaches Anti-Unien Isthmian Skipper Maritime Law By W. H. SIMMONS i: ti SAN FRANCISCO—Things on the old Gold Coast are still hum­ ming. The past few weeks have almost caused me to miss out on my quota of cool boers, and that is something I really hate to lose out on. Anyway fellows I have had my share of grief, misery and some good laughs. For instance yester­ day, August 8, one of the good old Isthmian ships pulled in here. Now, this ship, namely the SS Jeremiah S. Black, signed on and crewed up in New Orleans around July 3. The Lord and Master, non-union Herron, de­ cided down in New Orleans that he would make a name for him­ self with the Company by taking all the meat and food off the idle ships lying around and thereby saving the company money. Well, that is what he did and this is what happened. Enroute to the West Coast the crew be­ gan getting sick. About twothirds of the crew had diarrhea so bad they could not work. Fin­ ally she arrived in San Pedro and the Old Man paid some of the sick rhen off and logged them for being absent from work. Coast Guardsmen and sent them down to the ship. When they came back, there was the Old Man sitting on one of those hard benches in the back of a big Black Maria truck. Man, oh man, that was good to see! Well, fellows, the trial lasted until 5:30 p. m. of that day. The men got their money, and the Captain is a sad, but wiser man today, as his sea career is over. A Typical Seafarer Pag* Ten SiU Crews Hold Meeting In Trinidad—BWI Marine Workers Ask SIU For Aid In Organizing I Oncp an organizer, always an I organizer! There's something j about this organizing that gets in a person's blood. Look at the case of Bill Higgs. Bill did considerable work for the Seafarers in the Gulf area and on the Atlantic Coast in the Isthfbian and tugboat organizing drives. Since then, he's gone to sea again. Now, he's on the Al­ coa scow, MV Span Splice. a . .. : She was one of ten SIU vessels in the harbor at PoiL of Spain, Trinidad, B. W. I., when word Smiling Mike Hook, Book came of the SIU-SUP work stop­ No. 27528. is an Asst. Electrician page to force the ship operators who is typical of many Sea­ to negotiate on SIU contract de­ farers doing a swell organizing mands. Bill and his shipmates de­ cided that something must be job for the Union aboard Isth­ done. mian ships. Since the drive Looking around the harbor, started. Mike has been on the they could see nine other SIU Steel Electrician. Eastpoint Vic­ ships scattered around them. tory. Beaver Victory, and Sea These other ships were AlcoaScorpion. He was in port dur­ owned just like the Span Splice. ing the demonstration against So Bill Higgs, with the assistance Bridges' Coos Bay raiding ac­ of Brothers Joe Martello and tivities. and actively partici­ Vernon Tarter, decided that a pated in the picketlines. Now. joint meeting should be held in Brother Hook is shipping out order to inform all of the SIU on an SIU ship, the Walter W. ships what was taking place in Christiansen. It's about time he the U. S. v/ith regard to maritime took a rest, says the Log! conditions. Contacting officers of a local Union, The Federated Workers Trade Union, Higgs received perliiisslon to Use their hall. The meeting call went out, and the entie crews from ten SIU ships along with various representa­ tives from the local Unions at­ tended the mass meeting. When the meeting v/as con­ vened at 10:00 p. m., 541 men were present, mainly Seafarers,' with a few representatives from , the local waterfront Unions —> stevedore.s, dockworkers, light­ ermen, and tugboatmen. Higgs was elected chairman, and Mar­ tello and Tarter were chosen as recording clerk and reading clerk respectively. ISTHMIAN PAYS This is costing the Isthmian Company quite a bit of dough. As all the meat and grub in his ship has to be hauled off and burned, also all the ice boxes had to be cleaned and steamed out ac­ cording to the U. S. Public Health specifications. I reported these conditions to the Inspectors, as we can't send our men out to live under those conditions. Not even for the good old Isthmian Company. Well, dear readers, shipping is very slow at the present time, as we haven't had very many ships in the port for a couple of weeks. So steer clear of the Coast if you TWO SICK MEN are planning to come out for a Then the ship came up here to ship. At present we have plenty Opening the meeting, Higgs told Frisco. When she reached here, of men on the beach. the assemblage that the purpose the" Steward Harry E. Brophy I am looking for things to pick was to acquaint all .SIU-SUP and First Assistant Engineer Jo­ up a little, but due to the fact members in the port with the seph Clark were sick, so the Skip­ we have so many idle men on the latest developments of the con­ per paid them off under mutual coast, I am afraid there is enough tract negotiations. He relayed a consent with six days logged, at help around to handle any jobs message from New York Port two for one, for being absent that come up. If and when ship­ By BUD RAY Agent Paul Hall informing them from work. It so happened this ping is good out here I will re­ that the SIU would win their Steward and Engineer were SIU SAN JUAN—Shipping remains fortable. Here is one that I beport it to the Log. demands as they alwaj's had, and men. They came up to the office The Atlantic and Gulf has suf­ on the slow side in the Enchant­ lieve will work. Figure ways to probably without the necessity of to see me. (Here is where Papa fered a bad week. Not one At­ ed Isles with only one Waterman put more portholes in, and then a strike. Simmons gets his laugh.) lantic and Gulf ship paid off here. ship coming in each week, and no install suction and blower fans It was then moved and sup­ I immediately called the Chief That is not good for our Financial shore gangs being put to work. ported that "If the ship operators MV GlRlMV£ Alg Shipping Commissioner here in status. "When there is no income, do not meet with the SIU rep­ The membership knows that, -rwe COLD SHOt^LOCR. Frisco, Lt. Garvis. He asked me then I feel low and weary. resentatives to negotiate the just to bring the two men right down when the ships start to come in So long, dear readers, until the demands of our membership, that to see him. Upon reaching his again that the SIU will still be we be ready to strike and fight office I found the Purser of the next Gold Coast report. Oh say, the Union that always has and don't forget a word of praise to the operators to the bitter end." ship sitting on a bench in the our Negotiating Committee back The motion was carried unani­ always will represent the mem­ Commissioner's office. in New York. I say we have the mously. bership in their best intere.sts. I asked him if he had the Of­ FOREIGN SUPPORT ficial Log Book with him and he best negotiating committee ever. The new contracts prove con­ said, yes. The Commissioner look­ Officials of the various Unions clusively that, as always, wc ed through the Log Book and present went on record at this have the highest wages and the could not find any entry of the meeting to back* the actions of best working conditions on the days absent from work, nor was . the SIU-SUP 100 per cent. These waterfront of any nation. there any Log entry. Unions — representing seamen-,The Isle of lovely ladies, and Upon questioning, the Purser stevedores, dockworkers, bargeland of the brew that puts you to bring in fresh air and take the stated that he only had them higher than a Georgia Pine, was hot air out. (Conthiucd on Page 14) typewritten on plain forms. Boy, While at Alexandria, James shaken by one of those things oh boy! Was that a kick! The Barnett, one of the crewmem- called an earthquake last Sunday Commissioner read him the laws which lasted for two minutes and on logging a man, and how and bers aboard the Isthmian scow. 40 seconds. when he must enter it in the Of­ Steel Engineer, was attacked by Yours truly had just finished a ficial Log Book. The commis­ an NMUer with a knife. During By WILLIAM (CURLY) RENTZ bit of fried chicken and had laid sioner informed the Purser that the ensuing fracas, Barnett sus­ down to get the famous 40 winks BALTIMORE — Funeral serv- my husband belonged to such a he was to refund the men the tained several cuts on his arm that is traditional in the land of ices were held here recently for, fine Union, with such a swell $42.10 that they had been logged. The Shipping Commissioner then necessitating his removal to the the sunny clime, when the shack Brother John J. Samardjic, an old j bunch of guys. . made out clips to the Master and hospital at Alexandria for a cou- .started to shake and shiver like SIU member, who drowned at j "All I can say is thanks again. the morning after the night be­ Ocean City, Md. Several Seafar­ You fellows are tops. Company for the money to be plg of days. Five witnesses, including both fore. ers, representing the Union, Mrs. John J. Samardjic." refunded. (Here is where the fun SIU and NMU members, were But you can believe me when served as pallbearers. starts.) HOSPJTAL COMM. ACTIVE present in the messroom, and A floral offering, purchased say the siesta was off Tor the TOUGH • BABY John Taurin of our Hospital saw ythe unprovoked attack of day as I quickly removed this from donations made by the On going down to the ship to Charles Cox on the unarmed carcass to a place where there membership in this port, was sent Committe reports that $60.00 has been divided among the hospi­ get their money back, the Old Barnett. Since then, these wit­ were no concrete buildings. We to the funeral. talized SIU men in this port. The Man disregarded the Shipping nesses have agreed to appear are supposed to have gotten the Mrs. Samardjic, wife of the Commissioner's seal and stamp against Cox in whatever action big end of it, but there was very late Seafarer, has forwarded a money was donated by the crews on the chits. He ran the Stew­ Barnett decides to take against little damage and no one was letter to this Hall, expressing ap­ of the following ships: SS South ard and First Assistant off the him. hurt. I guess the skipper sitting preciation for the Union's con­ Bend ($20.50); SS A. Dvorak ($22.50); and the SS William ship and said: "To hell with the on high figured if we wanted dolences. Christensen ($17.00). Commissioner and your Union. I atomic power he would show us The letter follows: Seafarers in the Baltimore Hos­ will pull every damn one of your he had a few of the secrets left. "To the SIU, pital receiving the proceeds — papers." WHEW! THE HEAT! I want to thank you for such $4.00 each were: Annand Rioux, In thirty minutes the men came cooperation when Hart Brown, Flip Libs, Moses The Victorys that are running wonderful back to my office and told me ex­ actly what happened. I called here for Waterman are proving needed. I certainly appreciate Morris, Morse Ellsworth, T. A. the Commissioner and quoted the just a little hot for the members your kindness, and also the mem- Carroll, W. W. Silverthorn, Old Mans exact words. Boy, was who must give their pound of bers who were so kind in my James E. Kelly, E. J. Dellamano, the Commissioner hot! He had flesh daily in the galley. There hour of need. I want to thank Peter Lopez, Harry Bennett, Lorme send the men right back to his have been numerous complaints each and every one of them, rancc Tickey, Stanley Buzalewoffice. (Here is the real laugh.) and hundreds of suggestions on They were swell. ski, M. Little and Benjamin. The Commissioner called in six "I am very proud to know that Thomas. how to make it a little more com- Earthquake Rocks Puerto Rico, But Slow Shipping Only Yawns Seafarer Is Cut In Attack Sends Thanks To Baltimore SIU a -•i| • t| �c-isf ' •• • ^ • Friday, Au^alr 16, 1946 T BE SEAFARERS LO a I* Ten >• SHIPS' MIMUTES AMD MEWS • Bellyrobber Gets The Old 'One-Two' On SS Pepperell The Steward aboard the SS William Pepperell was strictly on the defensive, deflecting verbal blows tossed at him recently by the crewmembers. It seems that the crew didn't like the way he was running his Department and told him so. One crew member was ap­ proaching the bursting point as he related how the Steward told him to "walk ashore" if he didn't like the way the Steward Dept. w^s being handled. It seems that all he wanted was some more tea. -Another crewmember tossed at hipi the question: "Hey, whjy haven't you turned your overtime sheets into the delegate?" The Steward's nifty retort was: "I am the Steward and I am not forced to do so." He was losing ground fast but the crew gave him no rest. "Why isn't there any butter put out for the night lunch?" chimed forth one of the deck crew. The Steward came forth with the old standby: "I am rationing it so there will be enough for the return trip." He was then asked why he didn't consult the crew and he re­ plied that it was his job and he would handle it his way. By this time the Steward was definitely hanging on the ropes. Now fellas, the plot thickens. Did the crew rush in with a hay­ maker, or were they going to have their revenge by having him flogged on the quarter deck? No! A belly robber is entitled to mercy according 'to international law, so the crew gathered up _lhein'verbal barbs and silently stole away leaving the tired and worn frame of the bellyrobber gasping for breath on the floor of his quarters. Beef Outlook Good For Mobile Agent From way out in Shanghai comes advance notice that Port Agent Chailie Kimball had better prepare himself for a "grub beef when the SS Azalea City finally winds up her present voyage in Mobile sometime in October. Seymour A. Heinfling, who acts as recording secretary aboard the vessel, penned the fol­ lowing post script, and attached it to a note accompanying the ship's minutes: "As of July 8, 1946, the can­ ned milk is being mixed with water and we are going to have one sure grub beef when we get back to "Hominy Grits town." The Azalea City arrived in Shanghai July 3. She had been held up in Panama for six days because of refrigerator trouble and drain valve leaks. Tentative ports of call include Hoi^kong, Calcutta, Aden (Ara­ bia), San Juan and Havana. i Chief Cook In A Stew Over NMU, Crew Scores Finds SIU Is Better Of The Two Skipper As Union Hater George Ruttloff is a good cqok.f He knows, too, the ingredients that make up a good union. The SIU, he has discovered, has those ingredients. For George Rutt­ loff the SIU is THE Maritime Union. He gaVe up a full book in the NMU to become am SIU tripcarder. Ruttloff, who has been sailing in the Stewards Department since 1920, recently went into the SIU Hall in New Orleans, and said he'd like to transfer from the NMU to the SIU. Buck Stephens, acting Agent, told him sorry, but no can do. "The SIU doesn't transfer men to its rolls from the NMU," said Buck. But Stephens told Ruttloff that if he cared to turn in his NMU fuU book, he could have a tripcard, and he could make a trip on an SIU ship. If Ruttloff proved his worth to the crew, Stephens said, he could get an SIU book in the same way other tripcarders do'. SAILS ON GAMBRILL That was plenty good and fair as far as Ruttloff was concerned. He sailed on the SS Stephen W. Gambrill, which Stephens re­ ports, turned out to be as tough a ship that sails. A phony Skip­ per and Chief Engineer made it a hell-ship. But in spite of this Ruttloff completed the voyage with a good word for the SIU. In a signed statement, Ruttloff stressed some prominent differ­ ences between the NMU and the SIU, and made special mention of the friction existing in the NMU. But here it is in his own words: In comparing the NMU and the SIU, I wish to state that the SIU runs much cleaner ships (and the Gambrill was a baux­ ite-carrier) and has better crews that act more like a large family than a bunch of strang­ ers. I was well respected al­ though I was a tripcard man. I found a much better and greater variety of food to cook with, which made my job easier, and made it easier to please the crew. And above all, if it was neces- A letter citing the vicious, an­ ti-Union conduct of the Skipper of the MV Manrope Knot has been forwarded by the crew to the SIU Port Agent in Mobile. The Skipper also demonstrated a complete disregard for the wel­ fare of his men even to the ex­ tent of giving civilians preference in making slopchest purchases in foreign ports, the letter points out. The letter sets forth the crew's reasons for judging the Manrope Knot's Captain J. L. Splane as being "unworthy of holding Mas­ ter's papers. TEXT OF LETTER George RiHtlofl' baked a birthday cake for one of the crew, but some bad weather knocked it over on the deck. George baked another one inscribed with "better late than never," He's shown handing it to the AH whose birthday it was. sary to work overtime on an SIU ship, as was the case on this one, you are able to collect at the payoff without any ar­ guments. On various NMU ships I have worked plenty of overtime, but if it is disputed you just try to collect. When I was on NMU ships the food was of a poor variety, the ships were dirty, and the Union did not try to make the crews clean them up. The crews were always fighting among themselves about the friction in the NMU, and too much politics. The crews all had the general attitude of "to hell with everything." In closing, I wish to state that I wish I had joined the SIU years ago, and I would never had to put up with the corny stuff of the NMU. Not only was the SIU and its membership enthusiastically en­ dorsed by Ruttloff; the Gambrill crew had good words for the former NMUer. They wrote a VESSEL IS STRICTLY FROM HUNGER letter to the New Orleans SIU Hall recommending the Chief Cook. CREW'S LETTER The letter follows: "We, the undersigned book members of the SIU, hereby make application for invitation to membership in our Union for George Ruttloff, who, until re­ cently, has been an NMU mem­ ber, but has since resigned from that union. His sea experience dates back to 1920. "He signed on this ship, the Stephen W. Gambrill of the Al­ coa Steamship Company, as Chief Cook. His ability in this line is unexcelled and you can well im agine that he has made marly friends in this manner alone. However, he has many other qualities that make him a most desirable prospect for our Union. He is well-liked by all hands on this vessel for his sobriety, hon­ esty, efficiency and his desire to do a Job right. "We, therefore, subinit, his name for membership and hope that the SIU will continue its policy of selecting the best men in the Maritime field." The letter was signed by 14 full book members including the three Delegates aboard the vessel. Attention Members! Seafarers Sailing As Engineers The identity of the man who painted what fhe crew unani­ mously agreed was a more appropriate name on this vessel is not known, although there are suspicions, says James Tucker, former SIU Port Agent, who turned the picture over to the LOG. Brother Tucker was one of the crew which sailed the scow to fha Far East and return on a voyage lasting four months and 23 days. In addition to the very scant servings, the crew had to contepd with a phony Chief Mate. They were able to control him, but they didn't fare so well with the food. The ship had a good deck crew, some of who were Jim Morrow, Pete Oberby, A1 Richards, and John Harrison, reports Tucker. All members—relired mem­ bers and former members— of the Seafarers Intemalional Union who are now saUing as UcenifMd Zngineerst Pleas* report as soon as possible to the Seafarers Hall at 51 Bea­ ver Street, New York City. Yottr presence is necessary in a matter of great importance. The complete text of the crew's letter, addres.sed to the Mobile Port Agent, follows: At the Union meeting aboard ship tonight the following letter was voted to be forwarded to you. This letter is being sent to you with the hope that none of our fellow seamen will be unfortun­ ate enough to have to sail with this Skipper, Captain J. L. Splane, license No. 165497. Below are listed some of the reasons why we think and know that this man is unworthy of holding Masters papers. From the beginning of this voyage out of New York May 22 to July 22 when we were payed off in Mobile, Ala., Cap­ tain Splane has been viciously anti-Union. BREAK UNIONS He has shown this attitude nu­ merous times when talking with the crew. He always complained tht none of the crew would do any work without the payment I IT.' -SoAfg ^10 I mn!' of overtime. He mentioned sev­ eral times that he will be glad when all Seafaring Unions have been broken. This man apparently has never sailed a ship carying electricians before. He has jumped the elec­ tricians on this ship accusing them of not doing enough work. Any one sailing one of these ships as an Electrician knows that there is plenty of work to keep him busy most of the time. The Skipper saw fit to turn a Wiper to sweeping and mopping the officers' port passage on the main deck. When he found out the Wiper put in for overtime he hit the roof. He then took it up with the Chief Engineer. He was told that the overtime would be (Contiimed m Page It) Si. . �Friday. Augual 16, 1846 THE SEAFARERS LOG Pmga Etoa Digested Minutes Of SiU Ship Meetings I SEAFARER SAM SAYS BRAZIL VICTORY. Febru­ ary 24 — Delegates' reports ac­ cepted. Motion carried to notify SS Company not to give the crew the run-a-round when or­ dering supplies. It was agreed lhat supplies should be ordered three days before ship sails. Discussion on the prominence of high pressure hats aboard ship. Good and Welfare: Lin­ en beef straightened out. Re­ port shows enough for all. Molion carried to investigate san­ itary work being done by OS and Wipers which doesn't con­ form to agreement. t- i X WHITE OAK. June 13 — Chairman Percey Boyer; Sec­ retary Ray Rife. One minute of •ilence observed for departed brothers. Discussion of strike situation. Crew agreed to await developments and take best course., as decided by Union. Good and Welfare: Question was raised as to the pric« of slop chest cigarettes. It was decided to tuni matter over to Patrolman at first U. S. port. Electrician reported shortage of fans with proper current and urged that those on hand be carefully used; reported need of better room ventilation and more portholes. Motions car­ ried: new toasters, clocks, cof­ fee pots and salt dispensers needed; new supply of cots should be put in; to ask Cap­ tain to open gunners quarters for crew as they are cooler. Point was raised lhat wash water at limes is so rusty thai It is unusable. XXX Maybe The Smoke Gets In His Eyes ' The Purser on the SS Citadel Victory evidently wanted to be the only one on the ship to blow smoke rings. While the ship was tied up in South America he came aboard with the sad tale that he was unable to purchase cigarettes for the slopchest. He neglected to mention however, that he was able to buy them for himself at a buck per carton. Maybe the boy's smokers hack kept him awake nights. XXX ELROY ALFARO. June IBChairman Halloway; Secre­ tary Palmer. Motion carried: lhat the Delegates check to see lhat ample fresh and dry stores are brought aboard before sail­ ing. the Delegates to be further instructed to call a special meeting of the crew report all Items ordered and not recjeived in order to take necessary job action. Good and Welfeure: A repair list was made up by the crew. A copy to be presented to the Captain and one re­ tained to give to the Union up­ on arrival in Frisco; The crew has been urged to write their congressmen immediately re­ questing them to vote against the President's Reorganization Plan 3. Part 1. which, if passed would give the Coast Guard continued jurisdiction over the Union. XXX Ridge Skipper Rates Crew's Raspberry not disturbed; lhat only one book be taken from the library at one time. XXX SS POWELLTON SEAM. July 27—Chairman Tilly; Sec­ retary Kerester. Good and Welfare: A good talk on union­ ism. and what it stands for was given by the Chairman. The First Assistant to be asked to raise the temperature of the thaw box from its present tem­ perature of 32 degrees to at least 45 degrees F. The Stew­ ard was requested to order sufficent quantities of milk when in port and in case of any beefs he v/ill receive the full support of the crew. The crew of the SS Blue Ridge Victory recently bestowed upon tlx their Captain the rather dubious SS TRISTAM DALTON. honor of "Captain of the year," or June 3—Chairman Rudolph the man they'd LEAST like to Himel; Secretary Arthur Belsail with. Having a large field lew. Delegates reported every­ to choose from it was quite dif­ thing running smoothly in their Depts. Motions carried: thai all ficult, but on the tenth ballot the crew members using cups, Skipper coasted in. The rasp­ dishes and spoons wash same berry being all his. The ship's after night lunches, also return minutes chose not to mention the perishables to refrigerator; that Captain's failings, but they must all men who disregard these have been many, with all the rules will be fined $2 after the steel eyed, whip swinging Mas­ first offense. The money col­ lected to be divided and turned ters on the loose. over to the Log and the Hos­ Allaying any doubts that they pital Fund. were in a vicious mood, the crew » » » went on to vote letters of thanks to Richard Callihan, Chief Ra­ Bartram Skipper dio Operator; Spencer Evans, As­ sistant Purser, and Army Cap­ Measures Up tain Tourville, Troop comman­ According tothe way the crew der, for their efforts to provide of the SS John Bartram measures recreation for the membership. a guy, the Skipper of the vessel XXX CECIL N. BEAN. June 23 — is "every inch a gentleman," and Chairman Fred Bura; Seci'y since this might be the exception Paul Nagy. Deparlment dele­ rather than the rule, we pass on gates have no overtime or other the statement which was attach­ beefs to report. Good and Wel­ ed to the minutes of the June 23 fare: New coffee urns to be in­ meeting. stalled in pantry; have toasters "The crew of this ship," the for use by crew; put new or statement goes," wish to state better refrigerator in mess, and that the Captain, M. Lobby, is put messhall radio speaker in every inch a gentleman, and it listening order. has been a pleasure to sail with XXX him." SS OUACHITA VICTORY. And it's a pleasure to hear it. June 3—Chairman Cohen. Sec­ S, J, ^ retary Lerner. Motions carried: to have meetings aboard ship SS FELIX GRUNDY. July 19—Chairman Joseph Mackey. once per week while at sea; Secretary Fred Shaio. Dele­ that all garbage be placed- on starboard side of after main gates reported no beefs. It was decided to put in for one hour deck when ship is at anchor, overtime for each towel change, and also to use cans when avail­ which is Tuesday and Friday. able. When in port along side Motion carried that thereafter dock; contact Chief mate and ask to have garbage removed all men who are not on watch are'to attend meetings held on as soon as possible;. that all board ship, or present their ex­ men cooperate in not slamming cuse to the members for vote. doors, or whistling too loud in Membership will determine ac­ passage-ways so the watch be­ tion. low and all sleeping men are Crew Scores Skipper As Union - Hating Bucko (Conthmvd from Page 10) paid and to keep his hands off all Engine Room personnel. When in foreign ports he au­ thorized the slopchest to be open­ ed to almost anyone who came aboard. On June 12 at P6rt-ofSpain, Trinidad he had the slop­ chest opened to people from Bhore, but not to the crew. He also started rationing cigarettes, one carton a week at 70c. At once the crew sent their dele­ gates to him and they were given a hard time. The Captain said he was not worrying about the crew and fheir cigarettes for he had plenty himself. On June 24 coming out of the Orinoco River in South America we had two pilots aboard, when they left the ship they were seen earrying ten cartons of cigarettes. When entering a port where we had shore leave, there was no blackboard notifying the crew when the ship was to sail or at what hour shore liberty was over. At Paramaribo, Dutch Guiana it was necessary for the Captain to sound the ship's whistle num­ erous times to get the crew back aboard, as no one in the crew knew when the ship was to sail. NO DRILLS In the two months that we have been aboard we have had only two fire and boat drills which were carried out in a very haphazardous way. Our main radio transmitting and receiving antenna has been down most of the trip. It is now draped around the top of the deckhouse tied to handrails. One of the deck crew just missed getting severely shocked while the Radio Operator was sending a message. The aforementioned items are only a few of the things that we, the crew, are complaining about. We hope that another SIU crew will not have to sail under this Captain. We also ask that this letter be published in the Log at the earliest possible time. This letter of protest against Captain J. L. Splane has been signed by five full book members along with the balance of the Pro-book and trip card members down to the last man. Crew of M. V. Manrope Knot, Alcoa SS Co. i LOG WAMIB THE MAMES AA/O ADDRESSES dF BARS AMP C.UU8S FREQUEMTEP BY SEAMEM IN FORE16M PDRTS SOTHeyC/W BB PcrfoN THE UDG MAILING usf. LerosHAVE in! CUT AND RUN By HANK Well, it seems just about everybody is in New York right now trying to ship out before the winds start whispering the old white uncomfortable magic of winter . . . Spurgeon Woodruff didn't give his working gear and his sun-tanned, mustached face a chance to rest. He grabbed another ship for Santos, etc. for some of that in­ toxicating Brazilian music and those beautiful butterfly trays to buy . . . Vince Kane came in smiling from a visit to his home town. Say, Vince, can your pal, Whitey Philllips, still be in New York or down there in Puerto Rico again for more rum and sunshine? . . . John Bilinski, a humorous character at all times, really gave the boys a lotta laughs aboard the South Bend Victory, according te a reliable rumor. Frank Radzvila. the big smiling cook, is in town again, with a few more shipmatey bellyrobbers similar to his size. Say. Frank, how did some of the crews like that much garlic in their food? . . . Chet Pyc shipped out to the Land of Perfume . . . Johnny Meghrian. who said adios two weeks ago. should be walking under the blowers getting some Atlantic air right now . . . Robert High, pride and joy of Tennessee, just came in from Baltimore which is hot with ships . . . Where's Harold Nelson, the Junior Engineer right now? Hasn't been in New York since he and Pete Bush were waiting for ships many months ago . . Slug Siekmann was talking about Pork Chops, Roddy Smith was dreaming about Havana, Cuba, and Frank Moran was gallopping away with some horse sense when all of a sudden they started to wonder where Joe "Rudy" Rudolph, the watch-fixer, is right now. Say, Where's that little singing salt of a brother, Jimmy Crescitelli right now? . . . We just got the flash that Tommy Hannan, the Pinochle Champ and Irish Oiler, and Joe James just came int» New York five days ago . . . Robert McQueen says he might have to go down to the Southern part of the coast for a ship to England. Looks like all the oldtimers, mostly Gulfers, too, are right down there in Mobile. There's Otis Edwards, C. Walker, L. H. Jones. Armfield Chappell, Eunice Chappell, Cyril Lowry. Henry Dukes. Ernest Anderson. Mathes Oswald. A. S. Nelson. Leroy Eckhoff. Antonio Schiavone and C. F. Eberhart ... In New York there's Steve Simmons and W, A. Beyer. . . Over there in Frisco there's Gulfer A. B. Edwards and Maurice Lizotte . . . And in good Philly there were Evaristo Aldohondo, George Lopshas. Walter Hartman and Joe Velazquez . . . Jimmy Rey­ nolds said he lost a swell home when they recently laid up the tug, SS Farrolon. It always happens, Jimmy, �TBE SEAFARERS LOG TAAait. ILufntf IS, t9i6 THE MEMBERSHIP SPEAKS THE BOAMER GIVES SOME SIU HALLS THE ONCE-OVER 'MURPHr DRINKS ONE ON THE HOUSE Dear Editor: After visiting all the Halls on the Atlantic Coast, with the ex­ ception of Savannah and Jack­ sonville, and all the Halls on the Gulf coast, I found them to be in excellent condition. However, the Hall in Mobile is in dire need of change for the following reasons: the building is too old to keep in decent condi­ tion; it is as obsolete as one of the oldtime fo'csles, if you Broth­ er Seafarers know what I mean. Also, the Hall is too small for the meetings. I was up there at the last meeting, and the Broth- Log'A' Rhythms My Dream By Tony Zaleski I've sailed the seas in fashion high To many a foreign land; Many a time I've said goodbye And shook a welcome hand. Yet often I could not release The hold they had on me; Ah, if I could but hold that peace And never sail the sea. To think, if I should quit the sea And never sail the blue. How very happy I could be Back there at home with you. I often think ©f bygone days I've had on foreign shore: The old ways and the wild ways I'll not see any more. ers had to stand five men deep as the seating space had been taken. Pretty much like it would be if a meeting were held on the first deck of the New York HaU. Now this Hall has gone on rec­ ord for a change, and I under­ stand that all of the other branches concurred. What is the holdup? The officials here say that a lot is obtainable in a good location, but it will not be avail­ able for a month or so. For day has come when I must part The seas, and never roam; To put away my empty heart Into my wife's sweet home. Locale is the Billy Goat Inn in Chicago where many SIU men go to quaff a cool one. ac­ cording to Seafarer John E. Ross, Bosun, who sent the picture to the Log. The two guys in the high pressure suits are Charles Jindra, Deck Engineer, and Ray Blair, Second Mate—both friends of "Murphy." But where did you get them suits, fellows? I am running into some of the oldtimers who went to sea with me, and in our talks it is surpris­ ing to discover how many of the oldtimers went down to sea dur­ ing the war. In Savannah, New Orleans, Mobile and Baltimore, I also heard of the high percen­ ALL OKAY tage of casualties among the men Outside of Mobile, all seems to I had formerly sailed with. be okay to this reamer of the COAST GUARD beaches. The officials seem to be very attentive to their duties. Well, Brothers, it looks like we Brothers, if by any chance I are in for a fight with the Coast am able to get hold of any films Guard. Despite all the arguments for my camera, I will send pic­ against the Coast Guai'd, Presi­ dent Truman, and Congress, think tures of the different Halls. BROTHER REYES READY TO FORGIVE EX-OFFICERS RETURNING TO THE FOLD Dear Editor: They are coming back! , I'm sending you these words hoping that you can find an empty corner for them in our Seafarers Log. It's to remind you, Brothers, about the bunch of SIU Once they were officers, thfe union was gone and forgotten. They spent their spare time talking about the Union in be­ littling terms, not thinking that sooner or later they might want to come back to the SIU.. And, Brother, were we treated lousy by some of them! I remember once that I told the First Asst. on the SS Dorothy to treat me square because we both belonged to the same Union, and were supposed to be Brothers. This one answered me in plain English, "To hell with you and yoirr Union." Me, like a good boy, I just told him, "I'U wait for you at the SIU Hall." Brothers, has my dream come true! Now, they're starting to hang around the Union Hall and make friends with the boys again. Why? Just because they haven't got enough brains to go through the hard examinations now being given to them. Brother Reyes at work. What about these guys now? members who during the war Oh, I guess v.'e'U get soft-hearted, bomwed some of those nice and give these brainless guys an­ sh9^ Maritime School licenses. other chance. Juan Reyes, 2251 MOTHER WANTS we should come under this Hooli­ gan Navy. In a ruling, or should I say, proclamation, by the President, all civilians in a military zone oc­ cupied by the armed forces would come under military law. Yet I believe there is a Supreme Court ruling to the effect that as long as there was a civil court in a locality, a civilian would have to be tried in that court. Seems to me like it would be the same thing in Coast Guard versus Sea­ men. Oh yes, I wonder if Red Davis got that Beachcomber picture? I sent one to him at the San Juan Hall. The Beachcomber Dear Editor: Would you please have this printed in the Log. We would like very much to hear from our son, Wilfred Ber­ nard Loll. The last we heard from him was shortly after the SS .Cecil N. Bean docked in New York on July 12, 1945. We are quite worried about him as he has never been in the States without writing. Thank you very much. • Mrs. E. A. LoU SEAFARERS LOG , A REFRESHER TO SUPer IN ISLANDS AND ANOTHER WIFE ENJOYS THE LOG Dear Editor: After moseying aroimd Manila for the past two hours I finally ran into,a few editions of the Seafarers Log. It sure was a break fur' "ie. They are the best reading by a long ways, in the Islands. The shelves here are all stocked with the phony NMU sheets, but after going through a few Logs I can sure see the dif­ ference between the two unions. I would appreciate it if you would send the Log to my^home. I am a member of the SUP, but enjoy reading your paper too. It carries a true and unaltered view of the existing conditions. I am also behind any move­ ment that leads to the elimina­ tion of Coast Guard and WSA control over Merchant Seamen. Out here is where you really see them displaying their true colors. The sooner these controls are abolished the better off the sea­ men will be. 4eorge Shearer Dear Editor: I am writing in behalf of my husband who Is an Ordinary Sea­ man and a member of the SIU. He is now on his way to England. We would both appreciate it if you would send us tlie Seafarers Loig each week, as we enjoy read­ ing it very much. Mrs. E. T. Mikesh: WORD! FROM BERNARD LOLL FIRST ASSISTANT SAYS SIU CREW BEST HE'S HAD Dear Editor: As First- Assistant of the Lindenwood Victory I wish to voice my praise of the SIU. I can truthfully say that the men the Seafarers International Union sent me were the best. They all knew their jobs, were good workers and as shipmates were as fine as they come. My only hope is when I join another ship it will be crewed with SIU men. DEAR BROTHERS: PLEASE SIGN THOSE LETTERS The Log has been receiving each week a considerable num­ ber -of letter which do not bear the signatures of the writers. Psactically all of them would be of interest to our readers. Palicy,^bowover, prevents the publication of any unsigned . correspondence. The Log, therefore, urges, all correspondents to double-check and make certain they have / DIP I SISN THAT LETTER ? EX-SEAFARER, GOING OVER, WANTS LOG Dear Editor: Since I have been stationed here at Kessler Field I have re­ ceived each edition of the Log and enjoy it very much. I ex­ pect to ship overseas soon, and woudd appreciate it greatly if you send it to me over there. I will inform you immediately of my change of address. L. W. Gtifififh signed their letters. Should a writer so wish, his name will be withheld upon request. Meanwhile, the Log thanks those who have been filling its mail-bag, and asks all Seafarers to keep the mail rolling in. �Ftiday.^ August 1446 THE SEAFARERS LOG Maritime Reservist Bill A Strike-Breaking Stunt SS ROGER SHERMAN CREWMEMBERS Dear Editor: The other day I felt in' need of a laugh, so I thought I'd catch up with what the Hollywood sailors and glamour boys of the Martime Service were doing. I got a copy of the Mast, that slick paper fan magazine of theirs, and was soon howling away at the an-t tics of these subsidised sea-pups, ful forces are evidently behind this scheme. The chairman of when my eye lit on the follow­ the House Committees, the WSA, ing, which stopped my laughing the millions of Government very quickly. money to support it—All these "An organized Merchant Ma­ are a dead giveaway of the ship­ rine Reserve is provided for in owners behind the scenes, mov­ a bill recently introduced by Rep. ing their puppets in another S. O. Bland, chairman of th grand aftpmpt to return the sea­ House Merchant Marine and men to involuntary servitude. Fisheries Committee. This bill When Congress reconvenes, we would lodge administration of must fight this hellfire plan tooth the reserve in the U. S. Maritime and nail. If it should go through, Service. Known as the Organized no one can be a member of the Reserve, the new organization SIU and a member of these sea­ would be composed of officers going strike-breakers too. If and men required to perform an­ these Admirals of the head use it nual training and other duties, to break a strike, God help them. and be available for immediate The spirit of Bloody Thursday mobilization in a national emer­ isn't dead yet. gency. Only U. S. civilians would Steamboat O'Doyle be eligible for appointment to the Organized Reserve. TOPEYE" POPS OFF ON THE WILLIAM MACLAY ORDER TO DUTY "The Maritime Service would be empowered to order members to active duty during a national Dear Editor: emergency declared by the Pres­ Hello Pal—^just a line to let you ident. Ranks and ratings would know I came across your piece in be fixed by the Maritime Service, the Log in regards to Frank, his with pay and allowances the wife Tina and myself. We were same as those prescribed for sim­ at Mariners Bay at the time. A couplie of shots of some of the crew, which were sent ilar Navy grades. Members on Say pal, can you spare a min­ in by an Unidentified Seafarer. Ho gave no names. inactive duty would receive re­ ute and hear me out? My last tainer pay equal to one-twelfth trip was quite a story. of base pay for each grade. Or­ Recently the Alcoa William ganized Reservists would have Maclay unloaded in Brooklyn. the same rights of advancement, One-half of the load was taken retirement and longevity as pre­ off and the rest taken to Phila­ scribed for Naval Reserve per­ delphia. Well pal,, when the crew sonnel. Members on active duty wanted to pay off in New York would be entitled to medical and the answer was "nothing doing." dental treatment and hospitaliza­ In Philly: "Okay." WeU, Frank tion by the U. S. Public Health and I went to Philly separately, Service; dependent families of re­ Frank joined and I didn't due to servists would be furnished with the fact I was very sick. So I medical advice and outpatient leave Philly, with "Red" Truestreatment." dale's help and arrive in Balti­ Ye gods and little fishes, more, as Philly was refused the Brothers! Was there ever a more payoff, and Baltimore for sure brazen attempt to organize a na­ was going to be the payoff. tional strike breaking machine than this? "The Maritime Serv­ So I get to Baltimore and there ice would be empowered to order was nothing doing. New York members to active duty during a had said the crew was to finish Dear Editor: national emergency declared by the six months articles. Well, we I notice from the beef box that it is a good medium for the President." That's really raised a stink here in Baltimore, but nothing could be done about the gang to let off steam. So I think I'll let off a little steam coming out in print! What kind of "National Emergency" are it. The crew was froze to the that will be beneficial to the entire membership. they talking about? The kind ship. The crew asked the Old Members signing on in one port and then going to another Truman meant when, he called on Man for a mutual release and still nothing doing. At this point I port to get their beefs squared away are a great headache to the the- Navy to break the seamens got my four weeks pay and as I officials and of no benefit to themselves. The first thing any strike last June? They certain­ was sick I went to the hospital. member should do before signing on is^to have the ship ly don't mean the Boll Weevil Tomorrow I will undergo an op­ thoroughly checked to see that all repairs that were promised Plague! eration. have been taken care of, that all stores and fixtures requested TRICK Aboard ship- we had a happy have been put aboard, and the articles in good shape. If every­ family all around except for the thing has not been squared away as the former crew requested, Even the Maritime Morons can then call die Hall- and get a Patrolmani Above all, if you have see that the only emergency this Old Man, and at the payoff the a beef DO NOT SIGN ON. reserve could apply to is a strike. crew and officers were swell. All There is as much need for a. sea- took it on the chin except for a DON'T ACT ON PROMISE mans reserve as for a coal miners few here in the hospital. When I arrived here in Bal­ When you sign on in a port with a promise that the repairs, reserve or a lollypop makers re­ timore the staff treated us swell stores, etc., will be gotten in the next port, then you are stuck. serve. Nevertheless, they will If they want you to take the ship out on a promise, get it in gladly back the shipowners for even to sending two patrolmen to •writing or you'll soon be crying the blues for sure.. the bureaucratic gravy of run­ the ship, but as I stated before ning it—and the satisfaction of what the result was, nothing When you sign on first and request repairs, stores, etc. could be done. breaking the sailors unions. later, than you are taking away from the Patrolman or Agent Notice the bait put out to trap' I went to the hospital, the ship the power that he has, because you are then on articles and the the suckers. One month's pay a ;went to Norfolk, and where the "Coast Guard Gestapo Unit" will be on your tail if you refuse year—and hospital treatment for heU else I don't know. to sail. Not only do you make it hard for the officials of the Well pal, give my regards to your family. Even the seagbing Union to obtain your demands, but you give to the company your Paul Hail and dim Sheehan, Joe sailors don't get that! privileges as a Union man and your right to pull job action. Algina and John Hawk. The This plan is too clever to have So Brother members, before you sign on make sure the brothers here send their regards come from any bell-bottomed to the brothers in. N; Y. We are repairs and stores you requested have been taken care of. If you bureaucrat; It was obviously ail sorry to hear about the trou­ have a grievance call the Hall, but don't sign on unless you are born in the miUion-a-year brain of some steamship lawyer and ble on the Bull Line; SS Helen, satisfied with the set-up. C. Jw- 'Buck' Stephens carefully planted down in the and hope the Union won't let up Port of missing brains, there to until it gets the papers of our Acting Agent N. O. Branch be quietly slipped through Con­ eight: brothers reinstated; gress behind our backs. Power­ Hanrr (POPEYE)i CHONIN CATCHER TRIES PITCHING ONE; AGENT HAS BEEF TO PREVENT BEEFS Pags TUni Intercoastal Has Rum & Coke Run Beat, 'Kid' Says Dear Editor: For 'IS' and 'IS-NOT' though With RULE and LINE And 'UP-AND-DOWN without, ; I could define, . I yet in all I only cared to know, / Was never deep in anything but—Wine. You didn't ask for it Editor,., but I'm giving it to you straight. , This is the saga of the Nashau, (Calmar Line) Victory. She sailed out of Philadelphia on the intercoastal run and of all places ended up on the West Coast in the land of Golden' Sherry and Muscatel wines. All in all, the crew was a good bunch who worked hard at sea and in port, but they soon be­ came the biggest bunch of lush hounds and giggle juice addicts ^ that were ever gathered together, driven to drink by the old man, who was a direct descendent of Captain Bligh. In the Deck Dept. there was a turn over in every port we made. One of the Engine Dept. men was left in Vancouver at the mercy of the local gestapo, and of the three Depts. the Steward's was the only one that remained intact throughout the entire trip. As with yours truly,, every­ one was not a chronic lush, de­ voted entirely to the bottle. They fitted into different categories, such as the occasional drinkers, moderate drinkers, heavy diinkers and chronic drunks. This has the rum and coke run beat a mile in every way and I have the sworn statements of several men to back me up. So you can tell Bud Ray, that Uie golden west is calling and when he misses the old timers down hiS " way he will know they are run­ ning inter-coastal. Incidentally, we have one Sam Foss on here as second Electri­ cian, he's either the richest sea­ man or the damnest liar that ever sailed the seas. Sam has been everywhere and done everything and spent more money that J. P. Morgan ever had. Right now he's considering running for Presi­ dent in '48, So from the Nashau (Madhouse) Victory, with a log-happy, unionhating skipper, I bid you adieu. The Moving Finger writes; and having writ. Moves on: nor aU thy Piety nor wit Shall lure it back to cancel half a line, Nor all thy Tears wash out a word of it. Dennis (The Brooklyn Kid) Saunders Editor's Note: The land of the grape must have really woritedN on Brother Saunders. His quotting: from Omar Khayj^m brings to mind the lines: "I often wonder what the vintners buy One half so' precious ae the goods they sell." Qlad 10 hear from you4' �^•g» Fourieen THE SEAFARERS LOG Fxidaj, August 16, 1946 Ten SlU Crews Hold Meeting In Trinidad—BWI Marine Workers Ask SlU For Aid In Organizing (Continued from Page 9) men, lightermen and tugmen — asserted that their membership would not work cargo or do imy , work whatsoever on SIU-SUP ships in the event of a strike. Seafarers at the meeting were loud in their praise of this ac tion expressing international sol ' idarity between Unions, and • passed a motion thanking their brother Unions in Trinidad for their support. In addition, n motion approving the action of Agent Paul Hall in keeping SIU crews in foreign ports informed on all events con­ cerning the Union was passed unanimously. Meeting was then adjourned at 12:00 p. m. Members from the Hawser Eye, Span Splice, Ransom A. Moore, Oliver Loring, Alcoa Pioneer and five other (unnamed) ships were present at the meeting. Stories concerning the mass meeting ap­ peared in local papers and in those of Surinam also. REQUEST AFFILIATION Higgs, Martello and Tarter were all approached by more than a dozen of the local labor leaders to assist them in or­ ganizing members and bettering their wages and living conditions. These Union leaders-want to af­ filiate some of their Unions with the SIU, and all of them with the AFL. According to a report from Higgs, all of the waterfront work­ ers in the British West Indies, and in British Guiana as well, are in desperate need of the kind of unionizing and contracts for which the Seafarers International Union is famous. It is also plainly apparent from a translation of an article appear­ ing in the Surinam paper that a • battle in the bauxite industry is shaping up between Alcoa, which has long ruled the roost in this section of the world, and new interests represented by the Kaiser-Frazer Company. Bauxite is the basic ore from which aluminum is made, and any struggle between aluminum interests represented by the old Akoa monopoly and the new Kaiser-Frazer Company will have far reaching effecte. Kaiser is trying to break into the alum.inum field which has been the sole property of Alcoa for years. in March, 1944, the above Union was founded and reg­ istered. "We have at the present time an enrollment of 140 out of a possible 200 deep seamen in our colony. At least 80 of these men are members of one or the other of your Unions in the U. S., but due to unemployment are unable to maintain their financial standing. In addition, over 100 of our men have served in the vessels of the U. S. Merchant Marine, e3= specially during the war. Many of them are survivors, and about 50 lost their lives as a re­ sult of enemy action. "From this end, we have made every effort to secure employment for these men. During March of last year, we got our Governor to take up the matter with the WSA through the British Ministry of Transport, but after five months of negotiations, we were told that no arrangements could be arrived at. And this at a time when your Merchant Marine was appealing for ex­ perienced seamen! We are in­ clined to believe that the Brit­ ish authorities do not want us to work in your service, and are doing all they can to pre­ vent it. "I believe that if it can be arranged for me to meet your National Executives to explain the whole situation in detail to them, we could find a solution to this difficulty. But passen­ ger accomrnodations are at a premium in British Guiana, and I might have to wait another six months or more to secure a pasage to the U. S. either by plane or steamship. "Is there any way that the Union can assist me and our Union in this matter? Say a one way job as a seaman or a BRITISH GUIANA WORKERS Higgs was given a letter by one work-a-way passage. Some of of the British Guiana seamen, ad­ your delegates, I^have spoken dressed to John Hawk, Secretary- to on various ships']' might bring Treasurer of the SIU, from their this matter up in the Union Secretary-Treasurer. Written on Hall at meetings. Chas. B. I. Burnham, the stationery of The Marine Secretary-Treasurer," Workers' Union of British Guiana REFERRED TO AFL with offices in Georgetown, the text follows: The entire matter of organizing "Dear Brother Hawk: Unions within the British West It is with great pleasure that Indies, British Guiana, and other I greet you in the name of our islands and countries in that area fellow workers^ After some is one of many complexities, and discussion with your Deck del­ must be taken up with the AFL egate on the Alcoa Pioneer, leaders before any decision or Henry Snelling, Jr., and on his solution is arrived at. suggestion, I decided to write There is no doubt that wages you of our problems down here and living conditions in these in British Guiana. countries are very poor when "Late in 1943, I went to the compared to U. S. standards, and U. S. on a Panamanian ship and that these same low standards discussed the question of your provide a constant threat to our Union forming a branch in the condiHons. But whether they can West Indies with some of your be settled by the SIU or AFL re­ Patrolman. It was then sug­ mains to be seen. It might be gested that it was better to or­ necessary to do something for ganize our own Union back these unfortunate workers here, and affiliate with your through the ILO. Whatever the Union or the AFL. I therefore solution, something must be done returned to British Guiana and for them. PHILADELPHIA INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS A. Jean Jr., $1.00: E. Negos. $1.00; J. Chamberlain. $2.00; V. Hipkina, $7.25; W. Richards. $2.00; R. Ayala. $10.00; J. Brazel, $1.00; R. Willis. $1.00; A. Triantafilopoulos. $2.00; J. Scott, $1.00; Bojke. $14.00; David P. Bell, •tl 00: Paul Knlsenick. $1.00; Ed. Sopp. $1.00; Jos. Yonchik. $3.00; Robt. Underhood. $1.00; M. Quinn. $2.00; Ber­ nard Hunter. $1.00; F. M. Greaney. $2.00; Burton S. DeFrees. $2.00; J. Fisher. $13,00; Donald McCorkle. $1.00. SS WILLIAM C. BRYANT Crew—$8.00. SS CAPE HATTRAS J. Calabrese. $2.00; .W. Hunter. L. A. Allen. $2.00; P. Sanchez, E. J. Olive. $2.00; T. Walker. J. A. Miranda. $1.00; R. DiPaola. P. Lipscomb. $2.50; E. Mofiene. R. S. Confer. $1.00; R. W. Pohle, A. P. Todd. $2.00. $1.00 $1.00 $1.00 $1.00; $2.00; $2.00, John J. DuBose. $1.00; $1.00; D. W. Gentry. $1.00; C. C. Buttler. $3.00j J. W. Tower. $5.00; S. A. Thompson, $5.00; Maurice Dement. $1.00; D. B. Miller. $3.00; B. Gambill. $2.00: I. Fridgen. $2.00; W. G. Heater. $2.00; H. Kenney, $5.00. S. Roman. $1.00; R. Woodward. $1.00; A. Helju. $1.00; Robert G. Bannecker, $F08: B. Bcrgland. $1.00; Gerard Da Meo. $1.00. SS CEDAR BREAKS NORFOLK E. A. Tanner. $5.00; R. D. Steed, $5.00; R. Reddick. $2.00; S. E. Miller, INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS $5.00; T. H. Duncan. $5.00; J. E. Fedd, R. B. Mullen. $2.00; S. E. Hargrave, NORFOLK $5.00; N. C. Beck. $5.00; E. Paris, $5.00; Lionel Barletta. $5.00; O. Haak- $2.00; A. L. Lofland. $3.00; L. O. Posey. INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS $2.00; W. 1-1. Garbee. $2.00; M. Sporlch, R. J. Glover. $2.00; F. H. Glover. land. $5.00; Robert Guerrero. $2.00; $2.00; R. E. Cooley. $2.00; H. L. Moore, Robert C. Fravel. $2.00; O. R. Kerr, $2.00; A. B. Cummins. $2.00; C. W. $2.00. Brantly. $2.00; M. A. Podnick. $2.00; $2.00; W. S. Heth. $2.00. SS JAMES GUNN H. L. Brady. $2.00; J. T. Alexander. GALVESTON $2.00; G. R. Barbee. $2.00; T. T. Ro­ B. S. Lacey. $1.00; J. M. Fuller. $1.00; INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS binson. $2.00; H. D. Judson. $2.00; J. S. Borges. $2.00; K. C. Crowe. $1.50; E. Scarborough. $2.00; J. W. Whitley. $2.00; H. W. Hill. $2.00; C. L. Mulli­ gan. $2.00; T. L. Chesenhall. $2.00; A. M. Welch. $2.00; W. G. Eudailey. $2.00; W. J. Meehan. $2.00; Repsholdt. $1.00. BOSTON B. C. Jones. $2.00; T. A. Wainwright, J. Dejesus, $1.00; C. Rominkaitis. $2.00; J. Prestridge. $2.00; N. J. Temple. $1.00; $2.00; C. Medley. $1.00; E. A. Hansen, E. H. Deshar. $1.00; K. King. $2.00; $1.00; J. Evans. $2.00; J. Martin. $1.00; W. S. Stewart. $1.0; B. Ingram. $2.00; E. W. Weise. $2.00. J. C. Brown. $2.00; W. H. White. $3.00; SS CARLSBAD G. W. Weathers. $2.00; J. A. Wingct, Leslie T. Wright—$10.00. $2.00. INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS Philip Marshall. $1.00. M. Gordon. $5.00; Alfred T. Joaquin. FOR BRIGHTON MARINE HOSP. Crew of SS Nicholas Labadie—$6.00, $1.00; E. Laws. $2.00; D. Horan. $2.00; - Crew of SS Donald S. Wright—$26.00. C. Olafsson. $2.00; R. Jaffco. $2.00; Jose Tussas. $2.00; M. A. Reyes. $3.00; NEW YORK J. Anderson. $2.00; T. P. O'Sullivan. SS BUTTON GWINNETT $1.00; J. C. Vandemark. $2.00; T. H. E. O. Ohman. $2.00; C. D. Shively. MacDonna. $28.00; H. F. Gallagher. $2 00; I.. F. Pope. $1.00; B. Boyles. $2.00; S. Alexander. $1.00; C. J. H. $1.00; G. E. Phillips. $2.00; J. J. Small- Adams. $2.00; L. J. McLean. $1.00; ing. $2.00; W. J. McAmespy. $2.00; F. J. Dixon. $2.00; A. Valanzuela. $2.00; Jenkins. $1.00; R. F. Curry. $2.00; R. Joseph Rose. $25.00; L. A. Bussi. $1.00. Robert Asher. $1.00; S. C. Segree. Cosby. $1.00; J. M. McDugald. $1.00; L. H. Pcntacost. $l.0;0 J. Fredrick. $2.00; $1.00; R. Trumbell. $2.00; E. Jaks. C. E. Scheverman. $1.00; B. Provenzano. $2.00; Ray Wagenhoft. $2.00; K. A. $2.00; S. H. Cooper. $2.00; M. Copado. Pugh. $5.00; N. L. Trapaga. $lfl00; P. D. Artell. $5.00; G. H. Palsson. $5.00; $1.00; P. J. Jenkins. $2.00. NEW ORLEANS INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS S3 John Quitman—$1.00. SS C.na. Competator—$2.00. SS Robert Treat—$40.00. SS Tulane Victory—$34.00. SS Nicholas Biddle—$ 12.00. SS Delvalle—$9.00. SS Haiti Victory—$17.00. SS Flagstaff Victory—$14.00. Flagstaff Vic UNRRA Cattletender— $5.00. A. Santiago. $1.00; H. A. Walker, $1.00; L. Ledingham. $1.00; S. Skiba, $2.00; A. Evenson. $5.00; H. Seymour, $2.00; James Johnston. $1.00. New SIU Shipping Rules As Amended will be furnished for less than pital he must, upon his discharge, four hour periods. Three days report immediately to the Union shall be the limit such reliefs Hall where he will receive, upon are furnished. This shall not ap­ pi-esentation of proper proof of ply when replacements are un­ his hospitalization, his original shipping date providing he has necessary. 33. In the event that anything not been in the hospital over 30 happens not specifically covered days. If the member has been by these rules, any member has in the hospital over 30 days, he the right to present his case in shall be given a new shipping 28. Standby jobs shall be ship­ writing to the Union and have it card prior to his date of dis­ ped in rotation. No man ship­ settled by the membership at a charge from the hospital. ping on job will be permitted to regular meeting. 3. Any member who has been take a regular job on the same 34. Men coming ashore on va­ in the hospital 30 days or longer vessel, but must return to the cation shall register on bottom of shall be given, upon presenta­ Union Hall when standby jobs list and ship out in their regular tion of proper proof of hospitali­ are completed. Only one standby turn. zation, a shipping card dated 30 job allowed each member. All 35. (a) All Tripcard Men and days prior to his date of dis­ members have a chance. Mem­ Permit Men who have their dues charge from the hospital. Any bers taking standby jobs must paid for the current month shall member who has been in the hos­ report to our Union Hall within register on a separate shipping pital less than 30 days shall be 15 days or lose original shipping list other than the regular ship­ given a shipping" dale as of the number. ping list and shall ship from this date he entered the hospital. 4. Any member receiving out­ 29. Any man may be promoted list as Tripcard and Permit. Men patient treatment shall have his on a ship providing he is capable in a rotary manner. (b) All Tripcard Men and Per­ shipping card stamped in the of performing duties required. mit Men shall be shipped only regular manner at the regular But he must make one complete after book members do not take business meeting. trip before promotion. jobs. If no members on regular 5. Any member who is dis­ 30. Ordinary seamen, wipers shipping list take jobs after charged from any hospital shall and messmen must not be pro­ three hourly calls, then Permit have his hospital discharge hon­ moted on board vessel, but must Men or Tripcard Men shall be al­ ored at any Union Hall providing come off and register at next lowed the privilege of throwing he reports within a period of 48 rating before being permitted to in cards for the job. hours from the time of his dis­ sail at next highest rating. (c) Tripcard Men and Permit charge from the hospital. 31. Members of the Union Men shaU be allowed to make 6. Any member forced to leave serving as officials of the Union either one complete round trip his ship on account of illness or and "leaving office, shall be en­ or not less than 60 days continu­ injury, who goes to the hospital titled to have a 30 day shipping ous employment on same vessel." immediately and is later dis­ card issued them. HOSPITAL CASES charged as fit for duty, shall 1. When a member has been have the right to go back on the 32. In the event an employed member wants time off, he shall discharged from any hospital he ship upon her first return to the have the ship's delegate call the shall report to the Union Hall port at which he left, providing Union Hall and secure a relief where he will be given a dated there is a vacancy. However, the man shall register on shipping and shall pay the relief himself shipping card. 2. When a member who is on list as soon as he leaves the hos­ at the regular overtime rate as per the agreement and no reliefs the shipping list goes to the hos­ pital. {Continued from Page 6) the vessel taking the place of the lost one, providing such vessel goes into commission within 15 days. 27. When a vessel has been laid up and orders a full crew, all re­ spective ratings shall be shipped from Union Hall. �Friday, Augrust 15, IS46 THE SEAFARERS 10 G Pag© Fi^ BUMiniN M fo Ifji k —Unclaimed Wages— Mississippi Shipping Company, Inc. Miller, Raymond E 2.67 Miller, Richard 6.93 Miller, Robert 1.48 NEW YORK 51 Beaver StHAnover 2-2784 Miller, .Victor R 2.23 BOSTON .....330 Atlantic Ave. Miller, Wm. A 32 Liberty 40S7 This list comprises unclaimed wages as of December 31, 1945, some BALTIMORE Mills, Donald A 45 14 North Gay St. Calvert 4539 Mills, Lloyd D 1.14 of which may have already been paid. If you still have a claim, write to PHILADELPHIA 9 South 7th St. Mills, Russell 2.75 Phone Lombard 3-7551 Mississippi Shipping Company, Hibernia Bank Bldg., 13th floor. New Or­ NORFOLK 127-129 Bank Street Mills, Russell 11.93 4-1083 Miltner, August LU 2.82 leans, La., enclosing your z-number, social security number, date and place CHARLESTON 68 Society St, Phone 3-3680 Mims, David N. 36.72 of birth and present address. NEW ORLEANS 339 Chartres St. Minark, Louis C 2.75 Canal 3330 Miner, Paul C 31.84 SAVANNAH 220 East Bay St. 3-1728 22.93 Newton, Wm. P. Jr 1.98 1.93 Munyer, Harry J Minke, Donald E 17.21 Moore, William H MOBILE 7 St. Michael St. 59 Nick, Jules T. Jr., 2.47 6.24 Murchison, Sterling Minks, Lucian H 1.34 Moore, William M 2-1754 45 Ponce de Leon 2,89 Nicies, Paul 3.74 Murdo, R 5.30 SAN JUAN, P. R Minotto, R 1.00 Morales, Alfred San Juan 2-5990 4.50 Nidifer, James C 2.48 Murpher, Herbert 2.28 GALVESTON Minton, James M 4.74 Moran, Edmund F 305 Vi 22nd St. 2-8448 17.64 Niedt, Norman A. ..: 30.20 Murphy, David V 5.83 Miotke, John A 69 Moran, Walter J 1809-1811 Franklin St. 2.25 Nielsen, Eugene E 89 TAMPA .45 Murphy, Francis G Miraglia, Felice A 12.88 Morente, Ralph P M-1323 7.38 Nielson, Robt. F 2.74 Murphy, James M 1.38 JACKSONVILLE Mire, Karl E 34.17 Moreaux, Allen A 920 Main St. Phone 5-5919 3.22 Nielson, Nils 1.98 61 Murphy, Maximo Misko, Michael 69 Moreau, Camille PORT ARTHUR 445 Austin Ave. Murray, Chevalier C 9.44 Nihoff, Archibald 1.38 Morel, Jose 1.98 Minstretta, Salvadore 36.96 Phone: 28532 1515 75th Street 2.25 Ninkonowiez, Walter 8.26 Murray, John A 2.23 HOUSTON Mitcham, John R 3.82 Moreland, Gerald W Phone Wentworth 3-3809 3.17 Noah, Wilbur 1.68 Murray, Francis 3.40 RICHMOND, Calif Mitchell, A 11.19 Morejou, Greg 25V 5th St. 80 Noble, Albert 2.23 SAN FRANCISCO 48 Murray, John C Mitchell, Barton A 1.42 Moren, Francis A 59 Clay St. Garfield 8228 8.63 Noble, Harold R 69 4.82 Murray, John T Mitchell, J 5.35 Moi-eno, Luis SEATI LE 86 Seneca St. 18.80 Noble, L. W .89 Murray, Jojgeph B 2.25 Mitchell, J. R 3.96 Morgan, Claude A Main 0290 1.04 Noel, Harold L Ill W. Bumside St. 1.42 Murry, James K 10.34 PORTLAND Mitchell, Kenneth E 2.25 Morgan, David L 440 Avalon Blvd. 1.34 Nogas, Edmund 69 Murray, Paul A ,99 WILMINGTON Mitchell, Marcell 2.79 Morgan, Floyd E Terminal 4-3131 2.11 Nolan, E - 7.63 Murphy, Peter 5.15 HONOLULU Mitchell, R. J 64.83 Morgan, John C 16 Merchant St. 2^11 Nolan, John J 10 Exchange St. 14.00 Muscatto, Charles A 16.50 BUFFALO Mitchell, R. M 45.34 Morgan, J. W Cleveland 7391 14.52 Nolan, Robert 2.69 CHICAGO 1.78 Muskat, Edward Mitchell, William W 47 Morgan, Obert Julius 24 W. Superior Ave. 6.75 Nolan, William V Superior S17S 2.25 Musselman, C. H, 1.32 Mobcrt, Roy K 5.69 Morgan, Richard H. ........ 1014 E. St. Clair St. 1.48 Noone, Thomas F 74 Muslakas, G 2.97 CLEVELAND Mobley, Maurice M 7.23 Morgan, Robert J Main 0147 9.88 Nordell, James L 4.22 DETROIT 2.58 Musto, Brien A Moe, Wm. K. P 1.37 Morgan, Thomas E 1038 Third St. Cadillac 6857 4.58 Norek, John P 3.56 1.00 Myers Mogan, Stephen J 4.13 Morgan, Walter T DULUTH .... 531 W. Michigan St. 3.94 Noren, Donald R 2.23 .". 45 M^lonas, Peter Mogyorossy, Julius 6.91 Morgan, Wm. T Melrose 4110 20.65 Norman, Anton 3.48 Myers, Raymond C 2.82 CORPUS CHRISTI 1824 N. Mesquito StMoldovan, John 102.96 Morgan, Warren 602 Boughton St. 2.97 Norris, John D 7.09 VICTORIA, B. C Molgard, Louis G 2.25 Morissey, Francis J N VANCOUVER ....144 W. Hastings St. Norton, Francis E 89 2.06 Mole, Raymond A 7.61 Morrison, Israel M 4.97 Novaes, Delmar 4.92 .34 Morley, Charles W 2.23 Naasik, John Moller, J. H. 4.21 Novak, Frank J 2.47 1.78 Nad^, Francisco Moloznik, John 2.25 Morris, Albter A Naes, Sylvian 0 30 Nowlin, Albert E 5.61 Morris, David 1.78 Monaco, Elmer Armand 45 1.16 Nunez, Eugenio 4.98 45 Nagle, J Monahan, Alphonse 1.34 oMrris, David R Nagle, Joseph W 69 Nunez, Gaillerrao 1.77 Morris, J. E 12.87 Mondel, Jacob 1.72 BERNARD LOLL 9.00 Nunez, J 02 1.98 Nagle, Richard Monju, Raymond H 26.74 Morris, L. A 2.06 Nunn, Wellington, C 13.15 2.23 Naimo, James S Your parents wish you to con­ Monnion, John P 5.40 Morris, William J 4.43 Nunnelley, Luther 4.00 tact them immediately. 3.20 Naklicki, Frank Monroe, Henry F 89 Morrisey, John T, 09 8.40 Nalley, Chas B Monroe, J 13.96 Morrison, Vernon M % X X 5.83 9.02 Nash, Frederick J Monteiro, John V 62.16 Morrow, J JOSEPH C. LEAUMONT 8.53 77 Oakes, A 248.16 Nason, Edward Montemarano, Angelo M... 1.78 Morrow, Joseph T Oates, R 10.29 Please contact Sol C. BerenNassar, Mohammed 18.16 11.88 Montes, Rinaldo 5.26 Morrow, Roy N O'Briant, Barry W 3.74 holtz, 1102 Court Square Bldg. Nasukiewicz, Labielaus .... 5.51 2.28 Montgomery, Cecil 3.56 Morse, Antone W. O'Brien, F 11.03 Baltimore 2, Md. Lexington 6867, Natale, Alfredo 1.75 Morse, Howard 15.82 Montgomery, Charles 27.07 O'Brien, Francis O 5.89 as soon as possible. Your testi­ Naugle, John G 35 Morse, P. M 4.16 Montgomery, William E 21.66 O'Brien, J 1.10 mony is very necessary in dAe_—•1 Naylor, Edwin L 7.33 Mortenson, Gus 1.72 Montierro, John V 15.33 5.64 case involving the loss of life of 6.56 O'Brien, J. J 1.21 Neal, Alfred Montrose, Paul J 35 Mosedale R 89.29 Joseph Walton of the SS Pbineas 79 O'Brien, Paul D 27.29 Neal, G Moody, Howard H 51.07 Mosher, William F O'Brien, William G. . 20.62 Banning. This case is scheduled 6.00 28.58 Nealon, J. P Moody, Robert Jr., 5.62 Moskowitz, Myron M O'Brien, William T 3.76 for trial September 25, 1946. Con­ 5.94 89 Neevley, F. T Moon, Eugene 10.82 Moss, Chas. D O'Callaghan, Michael . 24.98 tact above collect. 59 10.74 Nehlhaff, Wilmer Moon, Jessie W. .65 Moss, George D O'Connor, Wm. J .89 Neibauer, Thomas F. 8.26 .63 Mooney, Edward J. 2.32 Motes, tiouis J XXX ... 4.96 2.25 Odgurski, E. P 2.47 Neighbors, L. C Moore, Arthur R. Jr., 13.86 Motler, W L. B. BROWN, Bosun .45 7.12 Odle, Frederick E 10.89 Neveille-Neil, George V. Moore, Benjamin B. ........ 8.53 Mount, Donald L. Contact New Orleans HallOdom, Claude 12.17 Nielson, Charles 5.50 Mouton, O'Rell P 17,14 Moore, Gordon S 1.56 Your wife i.s seriously ill in hos­ Odom, J. L 12.87 16.29 4.90 Neisler, Robert Hoke Moore, Henry E 4.00 Mowen, Chas. C pital—Mary. 121.26 1.98 O'Dowd, Geo. M 82.15 Neitzel, John Geo. Moore, Isaac C 1.34 Moyne, R. H O'Grady, Phil 5.00 ,45 Moore, Monta A 120.41 Mracko. Frank Stephen .... 150.00 Nelson, A. C O'Hara, Earl .04 12.52 Nelson, Charles A. ............ 4.13 Moore, WUfred J 10.32 Mulars, Frank A O'Hare, James J .59 3.00 Mulholland, Robert 4.02 Nelson, C. E 79 Ohlebowski, Stezepan .... 2.23 Mullen, Edward J 1.42 Nelson, Charles F, SS CAPE HATTERAS 5.51 O'Keefe, Joseph James .... 3.06 Mulley, James 11.66 Nelson, Clifton (August 6, 1946) 2.67 .63 Olaguibel, Alfonso Mulligan, Donald F 6.91 Nelson, Eldred E Olbrantz, C. J .75 SS LOUISE 9.00 Mulligan, Leo V 3-28 Nelson, Erie Wipers can collect for Carpen­ Olden, Thomas 8.53 Nelson, Harry G 1.65 14.24 The following former crew- Mullins, Charles ters' work. One Oiler has 1% 2.82 hours due him. 24.48 Oldham, H. J 3.24 Nelson, John A. members are urged to contact Mymford, Henry J. 5.25 5.25 O'Leary, R. R 1.78 Nelson, J. W. their attorney in Baltimore in Munck, Axel S This can be collected at the 94 16.10 Nelson, Robert M. order to collect the money which Munday, David E Company Office—Bull Line, 115 2.25 11.03 Nelson, Wm. A he has received from the U. S. Mundus, Charles Broad St., New York, N. Y. 45 Mundy, Munrow R 3.61 Nemer, John G. District Court; XXX 16.39 8.78 Nesky, Steve Rudolph Alvera, Francis Jones, Munnerlyn, Chas. J MARTIN PEDERSEN 1.48 1.78 Nesser, Wm. F S- J. Ram, John F. Sundstrom, Munoz, Fernando ALCOA TRADER Your original book has been Ness, Leonard P 1.04 George Ackerson, H. L. Fickle, found and is being held for you The six men who were charged Nevling, Ralph P 2.06 Vasily . Bashkiroff, Frank San on the 6th floor of the New York with desertion in Baltimore, Neville, Dennie 1.37 Jose Collado. April 1946, please contact Alcoa Newak, Joseph J 2.97 Hall. » » » XXX SS Co., 17 BatterjT Place, New Newberg, Walter 8.91 Linen beef on the SS William Willie Walker, Chief Steward Holder of Receipt No. 4850 York, to collect your money. If Newland, A. W 9.00 C. Bryant is not payable until on SS Wm. C. Bryant who paid 1.79 Give or send your name to Pa­ there is any question see Pa­ off on August 2, 1946 is requested the Chief Steward gets in touch Newman, Irving 01 trolman H. Guinier so your dues trolman Volpian, 5th floor, New to see J. Algina on the 5th floor- with the N. Y. Hall and Com­ Newton, C York Hall, 51 Beaver St. Newton, Clarence O. 18.82 record may be recorded. pany. of th. N Y. Hall. SlU HALLS PERSONALS Money Due NOTICE! NOTICE! CORRECTION �sixteen T BE SEAFARERS LOG GOOD VISIT IN PHILLY •V- Friday, Augtui 16. 1946 Kathleen Helmes Crew Proves That Seamen Won't Be Slaves (Continued /row Paf-r I) William L. Standard, who is in-, they are concerned, the NMU August 9 issue, states that the] cidentally the General-Counsel has not taken any part in the ac­ charges'against the Cat)tain were j for the NMU. The crew had no tion thus far, and that at the pre­ prepared by the NMU. and that special reason for sending him liminary hearing, held on August an NMU attorney was ready to charges, it was just that his 12, only the SIU took the trouble address was the only one they to send a repre.sentative. pxess charges for the men. The Ship's Committee states that the remembered. This is not the first time that The crew made it plain that the NMU has attempted to ride Pilot story was false from begin­ ning to end, and that the NMU Mr. Standard was to represent the bandwagon of an SIU fight. has never been approached to them as seamen, not as members Seamen everywhere remember fight this case before the Coast of the NMU or any other organi­ that it was the SIU that keynoted zation. Guard. the fight against the WSA Medi­ cal Program, the WSA Compet­ According to the men who sail­ BURNED UP if- ency Cards, and the present fight ed the Holmes, and they should When the Pilot story appeared know, the charges which have the men of the Holmfes were against Coast Guard dictatorship been heard, and those which are justifiably burned up. They auth­ of peacetime merchant seamen. Looks like the crew of the SS Sea Hawk is enjoying the still pending, wei'e prepared in orized a statement that as far as The case of the Kathleen Holmes is no exception. Irip. At least the smiles on the faces of these crewmembers their entirety by the crewmem­ would make you think so. On the far left is Organizer Cal The six and a half month voy­ bers of the Kathleen Holmes. Tanner, and on the far right is Patrolman Blackie Cardullo. age of the Holmes also saw a When the charges were prepar­ Some place in the center is Organizer Bull Sheppard. He should change take place in the make­ ed, they were sent to Attorney up of the crew. When SIU vol­ be easy to find. unteer organizers Bob Larsen WHAT IT COSTS TO JOIN and Irwin Suall first went aboard, THE SIU IF YOU ARE AN the ship was predominately proISTHMIAN SEAMAN NMU. At the conclusion of the Current Month's Dues..$ 2.00 voyage, through the good work of these two, plus the coopera­ Initiation 15.00 tion received from the SIU on their beef, the crew swung over TOTAL $17.00 to about a 50-50 split at the time WHAT IT COSTS ALL of the vote. Larsen and Suall say SEAMEN TO MAINTAIN that the NMU was very free with MEMBERSHIP IN THE SIU their books, giving them out in Shanghai and Honolulu to any­ Yearly Dues @ one who said that he intended $2.00 per month $24.00 to vote NMU. Annual Strike Assessment, Yearly .. 3.00 EDUCATING NMU Annual Hosp. Fund .... 2.00 However, in the face of this sort of phony dealing, the SIU YEARLY TOTAL $29.00 was still able to win over a num­ ber of men who were pledged to WHAT IT COSTS TO JOIN the NMU, and to do a good job SIU IF YOU ARE NOT AN All the comforts of home in the Philadelphia Hall. The men from the Sea Hawlj, and in educating the NMUers to the ISTHMIAN SEAMAN other SIU Brothers wanted a permanent record of their visit to the City of Brotherly Love, point where they know the score so a photographer was called in to do his stuff. Here is the result. Sure a swell looking bunch of Current Month's Dues..$ 2.00 on the commies in their union. fellows—the kind of guys a man is proud to sail shipmates with. Initiation 25.00 The NMU piecards can expect Seafarers Int'l Fund .... 2.00 nothing but trouble from this Building Fund 10.00 gang from now on. Annual Strike Ass'mt... 12.00 The official hearing by the (4 years @ $3.00 per year) The Seafarers Log is your Coast Guard is to be held on Strike & Org'al Fund .. 5.00 August 19. Captain Smith and Union paper. Every member Hospital Fund 2.00 the Isthmian Lines have learned has the right to have it mailed Strike Fund 10.00 that seamen will not stand for to his house, where he and being pushed around like wood­ his family can read it at their The SIU bowled over another men on the Sea Hawk when she TOTAL $68.00 en soldiers. As a result of his leisure. phony stunts. Smith now finds Isthmian ship when the SS Sea tied up in Philadelphia after her If you haven't already done All assessments in the SIU his license in jeopardy, and the BO, send your name and home Hawk, crew cast their votes last five months' trip to the Far East, were passed by a secret vote crew of the Holmes became a address to the Log office.. 51 Friday in favor of the Seafarers requiring a two-thirds ma­ solid bunch of seamen who wiU Beaver Street, New York jority. .as. their collective bargaining be prompt to fight for their City, and have yourself added agent. The Sea Hawk, which rights at any time in the future. to the mailing list. was voted in Philadelphia, regis­ tered approximately an 80 per MARQUETTE VICTORY CREW cent vote for the SIU. Here's The Score Sea Hawk Goes Seafarers By 80 Percent Margin |i'. Itl IK- According to the estimates of the crewmembers aboard the vessel, the Seafarers chalked up 27 votes, with the NMU far down the field witli a scant five votes. One ballot was challenged by the NMU, and one man re­ fused to vote. but, it is reported, they made up their minds when they sighted SHIPS TO VOTE the SIU's new wage scales. With the Sea Hawk coming in­ to the SIU camp, there remains NMU PRESSURE FRUITLESS but five Isthmian vessels to be Crewmembers also reported voted. With the announcement that the NMU had a hard-work­ of the new wage scales which ing volunteer organizer on board the SIU Negotiating Committee the Sea Hawk. But his hard has wrested from the operators work and high pressure tactics with which it has contracts, there tiore no fruit, as the results show. seems to be little doubt that the Seamen have to be shown. still-to-be-voted Isthmian crews The SIU had facts and figures will favor the Union which has —indi.sputable record of achieve­ consistently gained the best wage ment for its membership. Those and working conditions in the facts and figures are hard to beat. maritime industry. That's why men of the Sea Earl Sheppard, Chief Organ­ Hawk, and the long list of Isth­ izer of the SIU, and Cal Tanner, mian crews before them, cast SIU organizer, covered the ship their votes for the Seafarers. for the voting. The NMU sent And that's why the remaining two of their top organizing men five Isthmian ships will cast their on the futile mission. There were a few doubtful votes for the SIU. GET THE LOG Snapped at Greenpoinf, Brooklyn, these Isthmian seamen from the newly acquired Marquette Victory smilingly attest their choice of the SIU. Front row (left to right): Ed Tassin (from Twin Falls Victory), J. Gonzales, G. Reskovac, B. Cheramie, C. Locigno and L. Cain. 2nd row: V. Heamdon, R. Hayse, J. Cheramie, P. Baljasma and W. Bennett. 3rd row: L. Lundgaard, R. Wilton, F. Dam, R. Reed, G. Bane and E. Sommers, V, � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1939-1949 Description An account of the resource Volumes I-XI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource August 16, 1946 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. VIII, No. 33 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Description An account of the resource Headlines: UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE FOR SEAMEN NOW A REALITY SS HELEN CREW PLEASED WITH CASE PROGRESS KATHLEEN HOLMS CREW PROVES THAT SEAMEN WON'T BE SLAVES N.O. AFL COUNCIL OFFERS TO WORK UNNRA SHIP FREE NEW VOTING LAW PERMITS ABSENTEE VOTING BY SEAMEN MORE HOG WASH LET'S LOOK AT THE LAW WAITING PAYS OFF; PATIENT SEAMAN COLLECTS AT LAST AFTER ALL PRAISE SEAMAN IS STILL FORGOTTEN MAN JUST NOTED IN PASSING GALVESTON SIU HALL IS ACTIVITIES CENTER SHIPPING CONTINUES VERY GOOD IN GALVESTON; CARGO MOVEMENT UP ALLEGHENY VICTORY DROPS SIU A LINE FROM PANAMA NEW SIU SHIPPING RULES AS AMENDED SHIPPING GOING AT FAST CLIP IN PHILLY-ALL HANDS ARE INVITED MOST ALL BEEFS AGAINST STEWARDS COULD BE AVOIDED WITH GREAT EASE PRAISE BELONGS WHERE PRAISE IS CERTAINLY DUE--THIS OPERATOR COMES TO AID OF TWO SIU SEAMEN BOSTON IS HAVING ITS TROUBLES WITH COAST GUARD, BUT WHO ISN'T TRUE COLORS OUT: SOVIET SHIP SCABS ON MEXICAN LONGSHOREMEN PORT NEW YORK IS BUSY HANDLING ALL BEEFS WHILE SHIPPING ACTIVITIES PICK UP CONSIDERABLY GOLD COAST TEACHES ANTI-UNION ISTHMIAN SKIPPER MARITIME LAW TEN SIU CREWS HOLD MEETING IN TRINIDAD--BWI MARINE WORKERS ASK SIU FOR AID IN ORGANIZING EARTHQUAKE ROCKS PUERTO RICO, BUT SLOW SHIPPING ONLY YAWNS SEAFARER IS CUT IN ATTACK SENDS THANKS TO BALTIMORE SIU CHIEF COOK IN A STEW OVER NMU, FINDS SIU IS BETTER OF THE TWO CREW SCORES SKIPPER AS UNION HATER BELLYROBBER GETS THE OLD ONE-TWO ON SS PEPPERELL BEEF OUTLOOK GOOD FOR MOBILE AGENT SEA HAWK GOES SEAFARERS BY 80 PERCENT MARGIN Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 8/16/1946 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1946 Periodicals Seafarers Log