Seafarers Log: Vol. 87 No. 10 (2025-10-01)

SEAFARERS LOG
OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION — ATLANTIC, GULF, LAKES AND INLAND WATERS, AFL-CIO

OCTOBER 2025 VOLUME 87, NO. 10

SIU Helps Welcome New U.S.-SIU Helps Welcome New U.S.-
Flag TonnageFlag Tonnage

CS Anthem Joins Tanker Security Program
Seafarers recently crewed up the tanker CS Anthem, a new addition to the union fleet. The vessel, part of the U.S. Tanker
Security Program, is being operated by Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning via Crowley Stena Marine Solutions. Page 3
(Photo courtesy Crowley)

SIU officials were part of the
festivities Aug. 26 at Hanwha Philly
Shipyard, where the national security
multi-mission vessel State of Maine
was christened. Pictured prior to
the ceremony are (from left) SIU VP
Joseph Soresi, former DOT and DOL
Secretary Elaine L. Chao (the vessel’s
godmother), SIU VP George Tricker,
and SIU President David Heindel.
Page 4.

O N L I N E D U E S P O R TA L L A U N C H E D • PA G E S 2 , 8 / / PA U L H A L L C E N T E R C L A S S P H O T O S • PA G E S 1 7 - 1 9

Seafarers Show Solidarity
At Labor Day Gatherings
The union had strong turnouts at various Labor Day events across the country, including
the annual parade sponsored by the Los Angeles/Long Beach Harbor Labor Coalition.
Seafarers are pictured below during that event, including (foreground, right to left) SIU VP
Joe Vincenzo and SIU Port Agent Gerret Jarman. Page 5.

CS Anthem Joins Tanker Security ProgramCS Anthem Joins Tanker Security Program



Seafarers now have the option to pay their union
dues online.

The new dues portal, launched in late September,
can be accessed several different ways. There is a
clickable “Dues Portal” graphic on the SIU home page;
a standalone drop-down menu item under “My Portal”;
and a QR code. Members also can go directly to the web
address https://payment-portal.seafarers.org/login

“The portal’s functionality is very straightforward
and user-friendly,” said SIU Secretary-Treasurer Tom
Orzechowski. “Members absolutely can continue to
pay their dues without using the portal, but I’m opti-
mistic about the online option, which I have already
personally utilized.”

Seafarers can log in with or without a book num-
ber, and may opt to set
up “AutoPay.” Receipts
can be printed directly
from the portal; duplicate
receipts can be printed at
the hiring halls.

Once they’re logged
in, Seafarers also have
the option of donating
to the Maritime Defense
League.

In mid-September,
posters announcing the

portal’s launch (and including the QR code) were sent
to all hiring halls for display.

President’s Report

In many ways, it doesn’t seem possible that so
much time has passed, but October 1 marks the tenth
anniversary of the El Faro tragedy.

As of this writing in mid-September, we are
planning to hold a memorial observance on Tuesday,
September 30, at the El Faro monument located at
our Jacksonville hiring hall. The vessel operator,
TOTE, is also planning a service on October 1 at their
memorial, likewise in Jacksonville. Naturally, we will
participate in both events.

For those newer to the SIU or unfamiliar with the
history, the El Faro was lost to Hurricane Joaquin
near the Bahamas in 2015. All 33 crew members
perished, including 17 SIU members.

Our November 2015 edition of the Seafarers LOG contains comprehensive
coverage of the tragedy. That issue is available on our website and in the bound
volumes located at our halls.

As always, we continue to honor and remember those shipmates, and we
extend our solidarity to their families and loved ones. May our brothers and
sisters from the El Faro forever rest in peace.
Uplifting Ceremony

As reported elsewhere in this edition, I recently joined SIU Vice Presidents
George Tricker and Joe Soresi at the christening of the State of Maine, the third
of five National Security Multi-Mission Vessels (NSMVs) being built at Hanwha
Philadelphia Shipyard.

The NSMVs primarily serve as training ships but can also be activated in
times of national need – and when that happens, SIU members will crew the
vessels.

Our longtime friend Elaine Chao served as godmother of the State of Maine.
True to form, she was gracious in her remarks and went out of her way to
recognize the SIU. For those newer to our ranks, Secretary Chao has long been a
champion of maritime, particularly during her tenure as U.S. Secretary of Labor
under President George W. Bush and as Transportation Secretary during the
first Trump administration. She played a decisive role in protecting the Jones
Act and strengthening the Maritime Administration in 2017.

The christening was a grand occasion, with notable participants including
pro-maritime U.S. Senator Todd Young (R) of Indiana, Pennsylvania Governor
Josh Shapiro (D), and even the President of South Korea. South Korea’s massive
investment in the Philadelphia shipyard is expected to boost American
shipbuilding, and should help advance critical provisions of the SHIPS for
America Act.

It was an inspiring day that underscored the growing momentum around
U.S. shipbuilding. With billions in new investment, we may be witnessing the
launch of a new era for our industry.
A Message to Apprentices

Finally, I want to take a moment to speak directly to everyone in the
apprentice program at our affiliated school, the Paul Hall Center for Maritime
Training and Education. You’ve chosen a great time to enter the maritime
industry. Demand for skilled mariners has never been stronger, and the
opportunities ahead are significant.

Whether you’re training for the deck, engine, or steward department,
the skills you’re learning now will serve you for a lifetime. New programs
and scholarships – like the Michael Sacco Scholarship and our AB-to-Mate
and QMED-to-Third Engineer initiatives – are opening even more doors for
advancement (for all Seafarers).

Stay focused, stay committed, and know that you are joining a proud
Brotherhood and Sisterhood of the Sea. You are the future of our union, and
we’re counting on you to carry forward the tradition of strength, solidarity, and
service.

2 • SEAFARERS LOG OCTOBER 2025

David Heindel

Remembering El Faro Mariners

Online Dues Portal Available

The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers
International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters, AFL-
CIO; 5201 Capital Gateway Drive; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone
(301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-
9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG,
5201 Capital Gateway Drive, Camp Springs, MD 20746.

Communications Director: Jordan Biscardo
Assistant Communications Director: Nick Merrill
Assistant Editor: Aja Neal
Administrative Support: Jenny Stokes

Copyright © 2025 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved.

The SIU engaged an
environmentally
friendly printer for
the production of this
newspaper.

The SIU online: www.seafarers.org
Volume 87 Number 10 October 2025Seafarers LOG

As reflected by these screenshots, members can log in with or without a book number.

This code is linked to the new
online dues portal.

Affiliates Convene in Piney Point

The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education recently hosted separate conventions for two Seafarers-affiliated unions:
the United Industrial Workers (Sept. 4-5) and the Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union (Sept. 10-11). SIU President David
Heindel is at left in photo above, left, with SIU Secretary-Treasurer Tom Orzechowski during the UIW convention. SIU Exec. VP Augie
Tellez is pictured above, middle, at the SEATU convention. SIU Political and Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman (remaining photo)
addressed both gatherings and encouraged union members to remain involved in grassroots activities. Heindel and Orzechowski
were re-elected to their respective positions (president, secretary-treasurer) in each union, while Tellez was re-elected as a SEATU
VP (he is not a UIW officer).



SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 3SEAFARERS LOG • 3OCTOBER 2025

CS Anthem Joins SIU Fleet

S IU members are sailing aboard the CS
Anthem, a new addition to the Seafar-
ers-contracted fleet.

Built in 2017 in South Korea, the tanker is
being operated by Intrepid Personnel and Provi-
sioning via Crowley Stena Marine Solutions, the
joint venture between Crowley and Stena Bulk.
The CS Anthem is entering the U.S. Tanker Secu-
rity Program (TSP) as a replacement for the Stena
Immaculate.

Formerly named the STI Bosphorus, the CS
Anthem is 600 feet long and has a breadth of 105 feet.

Recertified Bosun Richard Blackman, corre-
sponding with the LOG when the ship arrived in
Piraeus, Greece, on Sept. 19 stated, “Everyone on
board is doing well and is excited about this ref-
lag. Also of note, we have some people who are
making their first trip across the pond.”

“The addition of the CS Anthem demonstrates
our commitment to strengthening U.S. mari-
time security and providing reliable, U.S.-crewed
tanker capacity in support of national defense,”
said Tucker Gilliam, vice president of fleet oper-
ations for Crowley Shipping. “Together with
Stena Bulk, we are proud to continue advancing
solutions that serve both commercial and gov-
ernment energy transportation needs.”

Among the first SIU members to sail aboard
the vessel were Bosun Blackman, ABs Kervin
Guevara, Steven McKelvey, Orvin Mejia, Owen
Lehman and Blake Seele, QMEDs Jennifer Diola,
Luis Sepulveda and Ahmed Sennain, Wiper
Mario Amaya, Steward/Baker Michael Page,
Chief Cook Francis Solmirano and SA Myriam
Sepulveda.

As noted by the U.S. Maritime Administra


tion, “The Tanker Security Program will ensure
that a core fleet of U.S.-based product tankers
can operate competitively in international trade
and enhance U.S. supply chain resiliency for
liquid fuel products. The TSP will provide the
Department of Defense with assured access to …
U.S.-registered product tank vessels that may be
used to supply the armed forces with fuel during
times of armed conflict or national emergency.”

On March 10, the Madeira-flag containership
Solong hit the Crowley-operated Stena Immacu-
late even though the U.S.-flag tanker had been
anchored off Britain’s east coast for at least 15
hours. Both ships caught fire; all 23 mariners
from the Crowley vessel successfully launched
and boarded their lifeboat, and made it ashore
unharmed. The crew credited their safety train-
ing as vital to their positive outcome.

Pictured aboard the newly reflagged vessel are (from left) ABW Owen Lehman, Pumpman Luis Sepulveda, ABW Steven McKelvey, ABW Blake Seele, Recertified Bosun Richard Blackman, ABM Orvin Mejia,
and ABM Kervin Guevara.

These photos show the generator fire on shore and the immediate aftermath of the firefighting efforts led by SIU and AMO members.

For the SIU-crewed National Glory, arriving at
Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on Sept. 1 should have been
unremarkable.

Instead, SIU and AMO members aboard the
Pasha ship were startled to witness an acciden-
tal shoreside fire near their berth that could have
proven disastrous if not for their prompt, profes-
sional actions.

Vessel master Capt. Darl Langford reported,
“A diesel-powered generator caught fire. Diesel
fuel storage tanks and neighboring reefer boxes
were in close proximity to the fire. All shoreside
resources had been expended, and fire continued

to burn out of control. Earth-moving equipment
was used to try to smother the fire with sand, but
the fire was burning with such intensity that it
was not possible to snuff the flames with sand.”

He continued, “After we were all fast at the
berth, the National Glory rigged two long lead
fire hoses from the ship to the fire scene and pro-
vided firefighting water to eventually extinguish

the fire. Two other nearby containers were at risk
of igniting and the fire fighters were successful
in cooling the neighboring boxes and the diesel
storage tank to prevent collateral damage using
our fire hoses. Throughout the evening of Sept. 1,
the heat caused several flashbacks, and we would
restart the fire pumps and supply water to extin-
guish the reflash fires. If we were not at the dock,
I don’t know how they would have contained the
fire.”

Bosun Victor Eligio, one of several SIU mem-
bers who battled the blaze, stated, “The people on

shore didn’t have enough equipment to fight the
fire. It’s always a good experience to help other
people, and I’m glad we were able to assist. It
probably took two or three hours” not counting
the evening recurrences.

Eligio added, “I appreciate our captain involv-
ing us. It wasn’t our problem, but we were glad to
help, and I think we did a good job.”

SIU members aboard the National Glory
during the operation included Eligio, ABs Ran-
dolph Cash, Alberto Lasso, and Erik Ruiz, STOSs
Aniyah Napier and Darren Joseph, QEE Boyko
Kovatchev, Oilers Michael Taylor and Shamar
Rhoden, Recertified Steward Lionel Packnett,
and Chief Cook Herminio Gutierrez Jr.

National Shipping Agencies President Torey
Presti said, “Frankly, if the National Glory were
not present, this could have been disastrous for
the port. Full marks to both the AMO/SIU crew!
Great job!”

National Glory Plays
Key Role in Averting
Shoreside Disaster



SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 44 • SEAFARERS LOG OCTOBER 2025

S IU officials were part of the celebration Aug. 26
as Hanwha Philly Shipyard hosted the chris-
tening of the State of Maine, the third of five

cutting-edge national security multi-mission vessels
(NSMV). SIU President David Heindel and Vice Pres-
idents George Tricker and Joseph Soresi joined other
guests for the late-afternoon gathering.

Hanwha Philly Shipyard is a union facility.
Built for Maine Maritime Academy, the State

of Maine primarily will serve as a training ship,
but also will be available for humanitarian and
security missions. The SIU will provide unlicensed
manpower whenever an NSMV is activated; the
union also crewed up the first three such vessels
for sea trials.

Former Secretary of Transportation and
Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao served as the State
of Maine’s godmother.

In announcing the ceremony, the U.S.
Department of Transportation (DOT) pointed out
that the NSMV program “directly supports nearly
1,500 skilled jobs in Philadelphia and boosts
American competitiveness at sea and ashore.”

President Lee Jae Myung of the Republic of Korea,

and Acting Maritime Administrator Sang Yi were
among those who spoke during the ceremony.

“This vessel marks a new era for American
maritime power,” said Yi. “MARAD’s mission to
modernize sealift and empower the U.S. Merchant
Marine hinges on relentless innovation and
partnership. Together, we can build the fleet
America needs to secure our future and dominate
the seas.”

“This vessel represents a major step forward in
our mission to train the world’s finest mariners,”
said Maine Maritime Academy President Craig
Johnson. “As our first purpose-built training ship,
the State of Maine will provide world-class learning
experiences for cadets pursuing unlimited tonnage
licenses. It’s a game-changer for our mission and
a powerful reflection of what’s possible through
strong partnerships and shared vision.”

In a news release, DOT Secretary Sean Duffy said,
“State of Maine is more than a ship – it’s a strategic
investment in the people and infrastructure that
keep America’s maritime economy strong. Our
cadets deserve cutting-edge tools and training to
become the industry leaders who will keep our

nation strong and ready when it matters most.”
Stretching 525 feet long and able to sail at 18

knots, a single NSMV can accommodate 600 cadets
and up to 1,000 people in times of humanitarian
need. These vessels boast eight classrooms, cutting-
edge labs, a training bridge, auditorium, helicopter
pad, advanced medical facilities, and roll-on/roll-off
and container capacity.

The State of Maine joins the Empire State and
Patriot State already in service, with two more
NSMVs under construction at Hanwha Philly
Shipyard, destined for Texas and California
maritime schools.

One day before the christening, HD Hyundai
launched a multi-billion-dollar investment program
to revitalize the U.S. shipbuilding industry. The
company signed a memorandum of understanding
with Cerberus Capital and the Korea Development
Bank in Washington, D.C., to establish a U.S.-Korea
maritime joint investment program. Presiding
over the signing were U.S. Secretary of Commerce
Howard Lutnick and Korea’s Minister of Trade,
Industry and Energy Kim Jung-kwan.

Third National Third National
Security Multi-Security Multi-
Mission Vessel Mission Vessel
ChristenedChristened

The State of Maine docks at the site of its construction: Hanwha Philly Shipyard, a union shop.

Attending the ceremony are (from left) MEBA President Adam Vocak, AMO President
Willie Barrere, and SIU President David Heindel. Behind the confetti, The Hon. Elaine L. Chao christens the new vessel in Philadelphia.



SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 5SEAFARERS LOG • 5OCTOBER 2025

Seafarers Turn Out for Labor Day Rallies
SIU personnel helped account for strong turnouts

at Labor Day events across the country, including
at gatherings in California, Texas, South Dakota,
Louisiana and elsewhere.

For this year, the AFL-CIO promoted the holiday as
Workers’ Labor Day – a high point on the federation’s
nationwide “It’s Better in a Union: Fighting for
Freedom, Fairness and Security” bus tour.

Several days before Workers’ Labor Day, AFL-CIO
President Liz Shuler delivered her annual “State of
the Unions” address. A longtime friend of the SIU,
Shuler described Labor Day 2025 as being unlike
any other “in the history of our movement and our
country.” She said that during the bus tour, workers
consistently asked her, in their own words, “Why is
my future being ripped away?”

Her answer is that billionaires and corporations
now control the government, and they’re not
stopping there. The labor movement is the biggest
force standing in their way, Shuler said.

“We’ve seen greedy CEOs and billionaires before,
but we’ve never seen CEOs and billionaires in full
control of our lives,” she stated. “Four are running
government agencies…. The state of working people
is under attack.”

Labor has fought back, especially against
corporate control of the government. “We filed
lawsuits, we demonstrated and we organized,”

Shuler said. “And we’re one step away from passing
the Support America’s Workers Act,” designed to
reverse executive orders that have taken away
collective bargaining rights in much of the federal
sector. “That ability to take on power is what unions
do…. It’s why we can unite people around values we
all agree on.”

Shuler didn’t spare either major political party
for responsibility for many current challenges. It’s
been festering for decades, as both Democrats and
Republicans are co-opted by the corporations and
the rich, she said.

“This didn’t start with Donald Trump,” she said.
“This is a system that has hurt people for more than
40 years. And if we push people to the edge, we can’t
be surprised if working Americans turn against the
system.”

Backing up that sentiment, the Pew Research
Center reported this summer that its annual survey
of satisfaction with democracy showed opinion in
the U.S. was 62% negative, 37% positive.

“Politics alone won’t fix this,” Shuler pointed out.
“There are members of both sides” of the political
party aisle “who would happily let you get automated
out of a job if they get a campaign check from your
CEO.”

She also noted that public support for unions is at
a modern high – though her remarks came against

a backdrop of the administration’s extermination
of more than 30 union contracts covering a million
federal workers.

“It doesn’t have to be this way,” Shuler concluded.
“Things can be different if we build real, sustained
power that shows up every day – not just once every
four years. Republicans aren’t going to save us.
Democrats aren’t going to save us. Working people
are going to save ourselves.”

AFL-CIO President: ‘Working People are Going to Save Ourselves’

HOUSTON AREA ‒ The SIU had a strong turnout during the Texas AFL-CIO’s Labor Day weekend observances, including the kickoff event in Crosby: a BBQ cookoff benefiting the Harris County
Labor Assembly Scholarship Fund. In the group photo with the tent in the background are SIU Port Agent J.B. Niday, SA Mary Rochez, Recertified Bosun Zeki Karaahmet, SIU Asst. VP Joe Zavala, SIU
VP Dean Corgey, SA Keydi Montes and Capt. Mark Kazin. The other snapshot includes a few of the aforementioned folks and some future Seafarers.

WEST COAST ‒ The Wilmington hiring hall was the gathering spot for the Los Angeles/Long Beach Harbor Labor Coalition’s 46th Annual Labor Solidarity Parade and Picnic Rally. The event’s
theme: Fighting for The Future of Labor! Pictured from left in the smaller group photo are SEIU California President David Huerta, AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, SIU VP Joe Vincenzo, SIU Port Agent
Gerret Jarman (tucked away is future Seafarer Brielle, Gerret’s daughter), and MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Brittanie Potter. Most of the SIU contingent is shown in the other posed photo.

NEW ORLEANS ‒ In photo above, left, two generations of Seafarers chat during the Greater New Orleans AFL-CIO Labor Day picnic: retired inland Capt.
Timmy Doyle and his son, Recertified Bosun Kelly Doyle. In the remaining photo, SIU Asst. VP Chris Westbrook (right) greets State Rep. Rodney Lyons (D).

SOUTH DAKOTA ‒ AB Tim
Behnke joined the union rally in
Sioux Falls to show support for
America’s working families.



SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 66 • SEAFARERS LOG OCTOBER 2025

Dozens of active and retired
Seafarers, family members and friends
turned out Aug. 22 for the yearly
barbeque at the hiring hall in Tacoma,
Washington.

This year’s event, while quite
upbeat, also contained a tinge of
melancholy. The gathering is in part
a thank you to the SIU members who
volunteer for the annual philanthropic
outreach program known as Paint
Tacoma-Pierce Beautiful – and the
union has learned that next year may
well be the last.

Nevertheless, the cookout was a hit,
and it attracted more than 40 members
plus retirees and others.

SIU Tacoma Port Agent Danielle
Woodward noted, “The continuity
between the previous and the present
generation of Seafarers serves as
a reminder that we stand on the
shoulders and hard work of others who
have gone before in putting to sea and
waving the SIU banner in a manner
that we can all be proud of. This year we
give a vote of thanks to our volunteers
who made the barbeque possible. So, a
heartfelt thank you to Steward Clark
Williams, SREC Erwin Renon, SREC
Chris Amigable and GUDE Joey Lata
for firing up and manning the grills, as
well as the serving line. Our stewards
did a wonderful job preparing some
splendid fare for all.”

Woodward added that, as in years
past, the barbeque also marked the
beginning of the SIU’s participation
in the annual toy drive in partnership
with Santa’s Castle, benefiting U.S.
military families.

“It is no surprise that Tacoma
Seafarers are off to a good start,
bringing in new toys or reaching into
their own pockets to put money into
the kitty for the families,” she said.

Tacoma-Area Seafarers Celebrate Community Service, Camaraderie

SA Robert Seals QMED Charles Bishop SREC Erwin Renon

Retired BREC Dana Cella, SIU VP Joseph Vincenzo CC Saleh Ahmed, retired SREC Tommy Belvin, SB Clark Williams

SIU Port Agent Danielle Woodward,
CC Marylouise Maddox

QMED Charles Bishop, ABM David Taff,
retired SREC Tommy Belvin

SIU Asst. VP Warren Asp, SREC Michael Meany,
SREC Ingra Maddox, CC Marylouise Maddox

BREC Alfie Cicat (right) and son

Recertified Bosun Sanjay Gupta (right) is accompanied by his wife and
daughter, greeted by SIU VP Joe Vincenzo (left) and recently retired

SIU VP Nick Marrone.AB Leonard Soriano, AB Samuel Schwimmer

GUDE Joey Lata

SREC Christopher Amigable



SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 7SEAFARERS LOG • 7OCTOBER 2025

CC Saleh Ahmed, retired SREC Tommy Belvin, SB Clark Williams

Pic from the Past

SIU Asst. VP George Ripoll (third from left), a colorful character from SIU history, conducts a meeting aboard Waterman’s William Cooper in 1982.
Joining him are SIU Representative Joe Air and Seafarers Richard Parrish, James Carter Jr., Jack Bluitt and Julius Thrasher. Ripoll, a decorated military
combat veteran, served the union in various capacities for 37 years before retiring in 1991. He passed away in 2012, at age 78. He held a sixth-degree
black belt in karate, was the 1961 world jujitsu champion and earned a gold medal in a 1965 international competition against the Soviet Union.

Inquiring SeafarerDavid Heindel, President
Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President

Tom Orzechowski, Secretary-Treasurer
George Tricker, Vice President Contracts
Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast

Joe Vincenzo, Vice President West Coast
Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast

Sam Spain, Vice President Government Services
Bryan Powell,

Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters
Pat Vandegrift, Vice President
Hazel Galbiso, Vice President

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20674
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(310) 549-4000

SIU DirectorySIU Directory

This month’s question was answered by members at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for
Maritime Training, located in Piney Point, Maryland.

Question: What are some things that you like about this school?

Pauline Crespo Guillen
Chief Steward

The school gives you the structure
that you need. My favorite part of
the school is that you get to meet
people from different stages of life,
and you learn how to work together
with them, especially when you
work in the galley. You meet peo-
ple of different ages and different
cultures, all united to serve one
mission.

Brianna Ashley
FOWT

I would say my favorite part has
been upgrading, and the people
and the instructors at the school
are really nice.

Ray Winter
STOS

My favorite thing about the school
is the atmosphere. All of the in-
structors that I’ve had were super
cool and very helpful. The staff and
everyone else have been super
kind to me since I started out two
years ago.

Antonio Zorrilla
Steward Assistant

I like the classes that they offer
here in Piney Point because I
enjoy cooking and I also enjoy
learning more about it.

Latoria Fairley
GUDE

The school really prepares you for
sailing and gives you a good idea
of the things that you’ll face while
you’re out at sea.

Francisco Amada
Steward Assistant

I like cooking in the galley, fishing,
and exploring the campus.



8 SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 88 • SEAFARERS LOG OCTOBER 2025

Deck Department
Algonac 21 10 4 13 5 1 2 27 13 4
Anchorage 2 1 0 1 0 1 1 4 4 1
Baltimore 6 4 1 2 7 1 5 6 0 1
Fort Lauderdale 18 7 4 17 6 2 7 27 11 7
Guam 5 1 0 1 2 0 1 8 2 2
Harvey 9 9 6 5 5 2 2 11 7 10
Honolulu 3 2 0 1 2 0 1 3 2 0
Houston 30 22 6 28 13 5 16 49 25 11
Jacksonville 35 32 14 24 15 6 11 49 38 20
Jersey City 19 6 6 14 4 3 5 36 10 6
Joliet 2 4 1 1 1 0 0 1 4 3
Mobile 10 6 4 4 4 2 2 11 4 6
Norfolk 27 20 6 14 11 4 4 32 27 13
Oakland 10 0 0 8 4 0 3 13 1 1
Philadelphia 4 1 0 2 0 0 0 6 1 2
Piney Point 5 4 0 3 2 0 1 3 4 0
Puerto Rico 4 3 0 5 5 0 3 9 1 0
St. Louis 1 1 2 2 0 0 0 2 3 2
Tacoma 27 7 2 22 4 4 12 25 7 3
Wilmington 24 9 7 21 12 2 10 42 10 4

TOTAL 262 149 63 188 102 33 86 364 174 96

Engine Department
Algonac 7 2 0 5 0 1 2 7 4 0
Anchorage 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0
Baltimore 6 4 0 5 2 0 2 4 3 0
Fort Lauderdale 9 6 2 9 10 1 3 11 6 2
Guam 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 1
Harvey 5 6 0 5 4 0 0 4 4 2
Honolulu 5 0 1 3 2 2 1 11 0 1
Houston 6 6 3 2 3 2 3 11 9 9
Jacksonville 27 11 5 22 10 5 6 27 21 8
Jersey City 8 3 0 6 4 0 5 12 6 0
Joliet 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 2 0 0
Mobile 5 2 1 3 1 0 1 4 3 1
Norfolk 19 12 4 13 18 4 4 14 11 5
Oakland 8 2 0 5 2 0 0 5 7 1
Philadelphia 2 1 0 3 0 0 0 1 3 1
Piney Point 2 1 0 2 1 0 0 1 0 0
Puerto Rico 3 2 1 4 2 1 2 4 2 1
St. Louis 3 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 1 0
Tacoma 3 5 1 3 2 0 0 16 7 1
Wilmington 10 3 3 12 4 2 3 19 5 4
TOTAL 130 67 22 104 67 18 32 159 93 37

Steward Department
Algonac 2 1 0 3 2 1 1 5 2 0
Anchorage 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 4 1
Baltimore 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0
Fort Lauderdale 3 5 0 5 3 0 1 8 6 1
Guam 1 3 1 0 0 1 0 2 3 0
Harvey 1 4 0 2 2 0 1 3 6 0
Honolulu 3 2 1 6 2 0 1 8 2 1
Houston 11 8 2 4 7 0 5 17 16 4
Jacksonville 16 17 3 17 19 2 11 32 28 7
Jersey City 6 6 0 4 4 0 1 12 8 0
Joliet 0 2 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 0
Mobile 5 1 0 0 1 0 0 6 1 0
Norfolk 17 8 5 11 9 5 7 17 14 6
Oakland 8 1 0 9 0 0 2 9 4 0
Philadelphia 3 1 1 4 1 0 4 3 0 2
Piney Point 5 5 1 1 3 2 1 6 1 0
Puerto Rico 2 8 1 4 4 1 0 5 9 0
St. Louis 1 2 0 1 1 0 1 1 1 0
Tacoma 9 4 1 8 2 0 1 13 5 2
Wilmington 23 6 4 18 5 1 6 30 9 3
TOTAL 116 86 20 95 66 14 39 177 122 26

Entry Department
Algonac 1 10 14 0 4 1 2 1 10 22
Anchorage 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 5
Baltimore 0 0 0 0 2 2 1 0 1 0
Fort Lauderdale 2 6 19 1 6 7 3 2 5 18
Guam 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 5
Harvey 3 5 5 1 2 2 1 3 3 6
Honolulu 0 0 10 0 1 4 0 0 3 9
Houston 0 20 12 4 12 4 2 8 29 27
Jacksonville 1 30 59 1 21 15 4 0 39 99
Jersey City 1 15 10 0 6 7 3 2 23 19
Joliet 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1
Mobile 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 2
Norfolk 0 12 32 1 10 17 1 0 10 62
Oakland 0 8 16 0 7 13 1 0 8 27
Philadelphia 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 1
Piney Point 0 2 1 0 2 1 4 0 1 2
Puerto Rico 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1
St. Louis 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Tacoma 8 9 6 3 5 4 2 4 9 10
Wilmington 0 10 16 0 8 9 2 0 11 37

TOTAL 16 129 208 11 87 87 26 20 156 353

GRAND TOTAL 524 431 313 398 322 152 183 720 545 512

“Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” data is cumulative from August 15 - September 16, 2025.
“Registered on the Beach” data is as of September 16, 2025.

Meeting date changes due to holidays


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

Total Registered
All Groups

A B C

Trip
Reliefs

Total Shipped
All Groups

A B C

Registered on Beach
All Groups

A B CPort

Piney Point Monday: Oct. 6, Nov. 3
Algonac Thursday: Oct. 16, Nov. 13
Baltimore Thursday: Oct. 9, Nov. 6
Guam Thursday: Oct. 23, Nov. 20
Honolulu Friday: Oct. 17, Nov. 14
Houston Tuesday: Oct. 14, Monday: Nov. 10
Jacksonville Thursday: Oct. 9, Nov. 6
Joliet Thursday: Oct. 16, Nov. 13
Mobile Wednesday: Oct. 15, Nov. 12
New Orleans Tuesday: Oct. 14, Wednesday: Nov. 12
Jersey City Tuesday: Oct. 7, Nov. 4
Norfolk Friday: Oct. 10, Nov. 7
Oakland Thursday: Oct. 16, Nov. 13
Philadelphia Wednesday: Oct. 8, Nov. 5
Port Everglades Thursday: Oct. 16, Nov. 13
San Juan Thursday: Oct. 9, Nov. 6
St. Louis Friday: Oct. 17, Nov. 14
Tacoma Friday: Oct. 24, Nov. 21
Wilmington Monday: Oct. 20, Nov. 17

Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea

October & November
Membership Meetings



SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 9SEAFARERS LOG • 9OCTOBER 2025

At Sea & Ashore with the SIU

SUPPORTING OUR TROOPS ‒ The Seafarers-crewed Cape Hudson (Patriot), part of the U.S. Ready Reserve Force,
recently supported exercise Super Garuda Shield 2025, a multinational exercise “featuring combined training across
multiple domains, which showcases the ability of U.S. and allied forces to work together in the Indo-Pacific,” the U.S.
Department of Defense reported. “Cape Hudson [played] an essential role in port operations by delivering equipment
and supplies that [kept] the exercise moving,” said U.S. Navy Capt. David L. Reyes, commodore, MSC Far East. “This
offload [demonstrated] how critical maritime logistics are to sustaining the mission and ensuring our joint forces can
operate at full strength.” The ship, pictured in Indonesia, is part of the U.S. Ready Reserve Force. (Full vessel photo by
Grady T. Fontana, cargo photo courtesy DVIDS)

ABOARD AMERICAN ENERGY ‒ AB Wilson Ruiz (right) and Safety Director
Ricky Rivera are pictured Sept. 2 aboard the Intrepid-operated LNG carrier in
Puerto Rico.

MEETING WITH CAPE T CREWS ‒ Seafarers from the Cape Texas and Cape Trinity meet aboard the
latter ship last month in Beaumont, Texas. Patrolman Kirk Pegan (second from right) serviced the vessels
as they are transferred to TOTE. Pictured from left are GUDE Rogelio Jamora, OS Claude Baule, OMU
Chantanique Reid, Electrician Mark Campbell, GUDE Cotisha Long Green, Bosun Walter Bonifacio, Pegan,
and Bosun Chris Nagle.

ABOARD M/T FLORIDA ‒ Pictured in late August aboard the Intrepid ship in Tacoma, Washington, are (from left) Chief Cook Crystal Cobbs
and Recertified Bosun Samuel Duah.

RIP BROTHER GRAHAM ‒ The union is mourning the unexpected passing of Jr. Engineer
Dale Graham. He passed away in his sleep July 26 aboard the Alliance St. Louis (Maersk
Line, Limited). A shipboard memorial service took place, and his shipmates also put together
an impromptu tribute area aboard the vessel, as pictured here. Brother Graham was held in
high regard and is missed.

SHIPBOARD SERVICING IMMINENT ‒ The SIU-crewed Midnight Sun (TOTE) docks in the
Pacific Northwest in late August.

TALKING UNION IN FLORIDA ‒ SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins
(right) chats with pro-worker U.S. Rep. Darren Soto (D-Florida)
during the Florida AFL-CIO convention in Orlando. The
congressman is a strong supporter of America’s working families.

TALKING UNION IN THE
COMMONWEALTH ‒ SIU VP Sam Spain
(left) and Safety Director Anthony Houston
(right) meet with Jay Jones, candidate for
Virginia Attorney General, during the Virginia
AFL-CIO’s 27th Biennial State Conference
& 2025 Political Convention in Williamsburg.



10 SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 202310 • SEAFARERS LOG OCTOBER 2025

At Sea & Ashore with the SIU

ABOARD GREEN DELTA ‒ Many thanks to Recertified Bosun Greg Jackson for these recent snapshots from the
Waterman ship, taken as the vessel left Japan and headed for the Pacific Northwest. From left to right in the galley are
AB Ruby Jones and Chief Cook Tekeisha Brown. Brown is also in the solo pic, displaying her well-received pineapple
upside down cake. The remaining photo includes GUDE Mohsen Abdullah (left) and an officer during a shipboard
cornhole tournament. Jackson, a Seafarer since the late 1970s, credited the chief cook for being “a very dedicated
union member.”

FELLOWSHIP IN PUERTO RICO ‒ Taken at the hall in San
Juan, this Seafaring Selfie includes (from left) QMED Jose Alicea,
Electrician Angel Cintron, AB Victor Velez, and SIU Asst. VP Amancio
Crespo, right on the verge of what looks like a good meal.

WITH SEAFARERS AT HOUSTON HALL ‒ In photo above, right, ABG Irving Carlos Rueda (second from right), who started sailing with the SIU in 2002, picks up his first pension check.
Congratulating him are (from left) Patrolman Kirk Pegan, Port Agent J.B. Niday, and Asst. VP Joe Zavala. In photo above, left, Recertified Bosun LBJ Tanoa (center) and Electrician Phillip Greenwell
(right) file for vacation and tour the facility. Niday is at left. In the remaining snapshot, Steward/Baker Matthew Carroll (right) doesn’t have a firm schedule, but aims to eventually visit every hiring hall
– and he recently checked Houston off the list. At left is SIU Patrolman Anthony Jacobson.

ABOARD CAPT DAVID LYON ‒ Engine department mariners are pictured aboard the ship in South Korea,
wearing shirts that commemorate vessel operator Sealift Inc.’s 50th anniversary. From left are Paul Hall
Center Apprentice Steven Eustaquio, OMU Myckal Sands, OMU Omar Espinosa, Paul Hall Center Apprentice
David Clark, 2E Richard Jones, 1E John Nelson, CE Gregory Brooke, OMU Grant Loveless, and 3E Ethan
Dorval.

ABOARD MATSON TACOMA ‒ Chief Cook Rewell Encina (left) and SA Khaldoon Shamman serve
lunch aboard the ship in (appropriately) Tacoma, Washington, in late August.

ABOARD USNS DAHL ‒ The galley gang aboard the Patriot vessel put out a Labor
Day feast for their shipmates. Pictured from left are SA Tiburico Garcia, SA Mahmood
Monassar, Recertified Steward Michael Ingram, and Chief Cook Nikita Johnson.

PROMOTING WORKERS’ RIGHTS ‒ Union representatives met with Puerto
Rico’s newly appointed Secretary of Labor in mid-August to discuss various
issues pertaining to the local workforce. Pictured from left are Benjamin Marsh
of the territory’s NLRB, Hector Reyes from the IBEW, SIU Asst. VP Amancio
Crespo, Puerto Rico Labor Secretary Maria Del Pilar Velez, Nadry Martinez
from the Federation of Workers of Puerto Rico (FTPR, affiliated with the AFL-
CIO), Luis Estrella from IATSE, Yaphet Torres from the Steelworkers, and
Reynaldo Santiago Gonzalez from the Labor Secretary’s office. “We thanked
The Honorable Maria Del Pilar Velez for her open-door policy and reiterated our
commitment to working for a prosperous Puerto Rico,” Crespo noted.



SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 11SEAFARERS LOG • 11OCTOBER 2025

At Sea & Ashore with the SIU

ABOARD PRESIDENT MONROE ‒ As seen during Taco Tuesday aboard the APL ship. Pictured from left in the Seafaring Selfie are Steward/Baker James Watson, Chief Cook Perry Asuncion, and
SIU Oakland Port Agent Duane Akers. Asuncion and Watson are in the other photos as well.

RECRUITING MILITARY PERSONNEL ‒ SIU Asst. VP Chris Westbrook (right in both photos) and Patrolman Jack McElveen IV (left in both) took part in the Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base
New Orleans 2025 Job Fair that happened on base in Belle Chasse on Sept. 4. Westbrook stated, “The event was a great success, and we were able to connect with multiple servicemen that qualify
for our program. It’s a privilege to be able to offer the opportunity of a seafaring career to the men and women serving our country.”

HONORING WWII MARINERS ‒ The U.S. Merchant Marine very much was part of the Sept.
2 ceremony in our nation’s capital marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.
Coordinated by the Friends of the National World War II Memorial and the National Park Service,
the solemn gathering took place at the National World War II Memorial. Dave Yoho, a World War
II mariner, was a featured speaker, and one of the wreaths honored the U.S. Merchant Marine.
World War II veterans placed wreaths at the Freedom Wall, paying tribute to their fallen brothers
and sisters. Many thanks to retired SIU Recertified Bosun Dan Marcus for the wreath photo
shown here.

ABOARD JANET MARIE ‒ QEE Richard Huffman, a Seafarer since 1999, is pictured aboard
the Sunrise Operations/Pasha vessel.

Members Ratify New Three-Year Agreement

On August 4, 2025, members sailing with Express Marine ratified a new
three-year agreement, which calls for annual wage increases and other
gains.

“Our members can be proud of this Agreement,” said Philadelphia Port
Agent Joe Baselice, who served on the negotiations committee. “We were
able to secure significant annual wage increases, along with other bonuses
and contributions from the company that deliver major gains for the
membership."

Other members of the negotiating team included Atlantic Coast Vice
President Joseph Soresi, and members Captain Jason Dameron and Mate
Ervin Sadler.

The new contract also includes safety bonuses and other incentives,
as well as overtime pay and two new holidays. In addition, the agreement
will include an increase in contributions to the Seafarers Money Purchase
Plan, while maintaining medical benefits at the Core Plus level and 2-for-1
pension accrual.

Pictured above is the negotiating team (from left to right) Captain Jason Dameron, Philadelphia
Port Agent Joe Baselice, Atlantic Coast Vice President Joseph Soresi and Mate Ervin Sadler.



12 SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 202312 • SEAFARERS LOG OCTOBER 2025

We pay tribute to our brothers and sisters of the SIU who
have recently retired. THANK YOU for a job well done and
we wish you fair winds and following seas.Welcome Ashore!

DEEP SEA
NASSER ALOMARI
Brother Nasser Alomari, 65, joined
the union in 1993, initially sail-
ing aboard the Independence. He
worked in the steward department
and upgraded at the Piney Point
school on multiple occasions.
Brother Alomari last shipped on
the Overseas Los Angeles and lives
in Dearborn, Michigan.

MICHAEL BAUTISTA
Brother Michael Bautista, 62,
started sailing with the SIU in
1987 and first worked on the USNS
Assertive. He shipped in the engine
department and upgraded at
the Paul Hall Center on multiple
occasions. Brother Bautista most
recently sailed on the Pride of
America. He resides in Kapolei, Hawaii.

DAVID BLACK
Brother David Black, 66, became
a member of the union in 2002
when he sailed aboard the USNS
Pathfinder. A deck department
member, he upgraded at the Piney
Point school on multiple occa-
sions. Brother Black’s last vessel
was the USNS Henson. He makes
his home in Miami.

MONTE BECK
Brother Monte Beck, 66, signed on with the SIU in
1978. He first sailed aboard the Brooks Range and
worked in the engine department. Brother Beck
upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occa-
sions. He last shipped on the Nedlloyd Holland and is
a resident of St. Augustine, Florida.

RAFAEL BORJA
Brother Rafael Borja, 70, joined
the Seafarers International Union
in 2001 and first sailed aboard the
William Baugh. He upgraded at
the Piney Point school on several
occasions and sailed in the stew-
ard department. Brother Borja
most recently shipped aboard the
Maersk Chesapeake and settled in East Elmhurst,
New York.

STEPHEN BRADFUTE
Brother Stephen Bradfute, 66,
embarked on his career with
the SIU in 2000 when he sailed
on the Steven L. Bennett. He
shipped in the engine department
and upgraded at the Paul Hall
Center on multiple occasions.
Brother Bradfute concluded his
career aboard the Charger and lives in Maple Falls,
Washington.

RUSSELL BRAVO
Brother Russell Bravo, 66, signed
on with the union in 2010, ini-
tially sailing aboard the Ocean
Crescent. He worked in the engine
department and upgraded often
at the union-affiliated Piney
Point school. Brother Bravo most
recently shipped on the USNS Cur-
tiss and is a resident of Chico, California.

RANDY CLARK
Brother Randy Clark, 65, started
sailing with the SIU in 1980 when
he shipped with Delta Queen
Steamboat Company. He sailed pri-
marily in the engine department
and upgraded at the Paul Hall Cen-
ter on multiple occasions. Brother
Clark’s final vessel was the SBX. He
makes his home in Brookhaven, Mississippi.

THEODORE COOKE
Brother Theodore Cooke, 65, began
his career with the Seafarers
International Union in 1999. An
engine department member, he
first sailed aboard the USNS Bob
Hope. Brother Cooke upgraded at
the Paul Hall Center on multiple
occasions and last shipped on
the USNS Pomeroy. He is a resident of Carrollton,
Mississippi.

EDSEL DEARCE
Brother Edsel Dearce, 65, began sailing with the Sea-
farers in 2001 and first worked aboard the Denali. He
upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point
school and shipped in the deck department. Brother
Dearce most recently sailed on the Alaskan Explorer
and makes his home in Torrance, California.

GEORGE DIEFENBACH
Brother George Diefenbach, 69, began sailing with
the Seafarers in 1981. He was a deck department
member and first shipped on the Overseas Boston.
Brother Diefenbach upgraded his skills at the Piney
Point school on multiple occasions. He last sailed on
the Quality and lives in Wareham, Massachusetts.

PAUL DILBECK
Brother Paul Dilbeck, 73, joined the union in 2001 and
first sailed aboard the Prince William Sound. Brother
Dilbeck was a member of the deck department and
most recently shipped on the Horizon Pacific. He
resides in Pacifica, California.

PAUL DOOLEY
Brother Paul Dooley, 65, donned
the SIU colors in 1998 when he
sailed with Higman Barge Lines.
He upgraded on multiple occa-
sions at the Piney Point school and
worked in the deck department.
Brother Dooley concluded his
career aboard the National Glory.
He resides in New Caney, Texas.

JOSEPH EVANS
Brother Joseph Evans, 74, became
an SIU member in 2012. He was
a deck department member and
upgraded on several occasions
at the Paul Hall Center. Brother
Evans’s first vessel was the
Mokihana; his last, the Pride of
America. He makes his home in
Honolulu.

CARLOS FERREIRA
Brother Carlos Ferreira, 64, joined
the union in 1984. He first shipped
on the Independence and sailed in
the steward department. Brother
Ferreira upgraded at the union-af-
filiated Piney Point school on
multiple occasions and last sailed
aboard the Jack Lummus. Brother
Ferreira resides in Pompano Beach, Florida.

JESSE FLEMING
Brother Jesse Fleming, 68, started sailing with the
union in 1977, initially working aboard the Aquila.
He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at
the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother
Fleming concluded his career aboard the Guayama.
He lives in Tafton, Pennsylvania.

EMELENE GARCIA
Sister Emelene Garcia, 66,
embarked on her career with the
Seafarers in 2010 when she sailed
aboard the Pride of America.
She upgraded at the Piney Point
school on numerous occasions
and worked in the steward depart-
ment. Sister Garcia’s final vessel
was the Stena Imperative. She makes her home in Las
Vegas.

ROBERT GOLDSON
Brother Robert Goldson, 68, signed
on with the SIU in 2004 when he
sailed on the Calvin P. Titus. He
shipped in the deck department
and upgraded at the Paul Hall Cen-
ter on multiple occasions. Brother
Goldson’s final vessel was the
SLNC York. He resides in Oakland,
California.

JOLANTA JANKOWSKI
Sister Jolanta Jankowski, 70, began sailing with the
Seafarers in 2016. A steward department member,
she first sailed aboard the Shughart. Sister Jankowski
upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occa-
sions. She concluded her career aboard the Brittin
and settled in Tacoma, Washington.

RHONDA KOSKI
Sister Rhonda Koski, 70, donned
the SIU colors in 1980 when she
sailed aboard the Southdown Chal-
lenger. She upgraded on several
occasions at the Paul Hall Center
and worked in the engine depart-
ment. Sister Koski concluded her
career aboard the Horizon Reli-
ance. She resides in Kent, Washington.



SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 13SEAFARERS LOG • 13OCTOBER 2025

Welcome Ashore!
JONATHON MEADOW
Brother Jonathon Meadow, 70, started sailing with
the union in 1975, initially working aboard the
Connecticut. He sailed in the deck department and
upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school in 1987.
Brother Meadow last shipped on the USNS Altair and
makes his home in Eugene, Oregon.

ANTONIO NORMAN
Brother Antonio Norman, 67,
joined the SIU in 1990 and first
shipped on the Samuel L. Cobb. He
worked in all three departments
and last shipped on the Lawrence
Gianella. Brother Norman resides
in Richmond, California.

LARRY PASCUA
Brother Larry Pascua, 65,
embarked on his career with
the Seafarers in 1999. An engine
department member, he first
sailed aboard the Long Lines.
Brother Pascua upgraded at the
Piney Point school on several
occasions and concluded his
career aboard the Midnight Sun. He lives in Waipahu,
Hawaii.

JOSEPH PINO
Brother Joseph Pino, 65, became a member of the
union in 2012. He worked in the deck department and
upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occa-
sions. Brother Pino sailed on the Pride of America
for the duration of his career. He makes his home in
Honolulu.

LAKHBIR POONI
Brother Lakhbir Pooni, 66, joined
the Seafarers International Union
in 2004 and first sailed aboard
the Innovator. He worked in the
engine department and concluded
his career aboard the Keystone
State. Brother Pooni resides in
Tracy, California.

LAWRENCE RICHARDSON
Brother Lawrence Richardson, 65,
donned the SIU colors in 1999. He
first sailed aboard the USNS Path-
finder and was a deck department
member. Brother Richardson
upgraded his skills at the Piney
Point school on multiple occasions
and last shipped aboard the Flor-
ida. He lives in Jacksonville, Florida.

HECTOR SANCHEZ
Brother Hector Sanchez, 80, signed
on with the union in 2001 and ini-
tially sailed aboard the Argonaut.
He worked in the deck department
and upgraded on multiple occa-
sions at the union-affiliated Piney
Point school. Brother Sanchez
most recently shipped on the Eagle
and is a resident of Rio Blanco, Puerto Rico.

ASKER SHAIBI
Brother Asker Shaibi, 70, started
sailing with the SIU in 1979 when
he shipped on the OMI Leader.
A deck department member,
Brother Shaibi concluded his
career aboard the North Star. He
makes his home in Rochester,
New York.

ERNEST SMITH
Brother Ernest Smith, 65, joined
the union in 2000 and first worked
aboard the USNS Capable. He
upgraded on several occasions
at the Piney Point school and
shipped in the engine depart-
ment. Brother Smith most
recently sailed on the USNS Victo-
rious and makes his home in New Orleans.

VINCENT TURNER
Brother Vincent Turner, 65,
embarked on his career with the
Seafarers in 2001. He sailed in both
the deck and engine departments
and first shipped with Marine
Personnel & Provisioning. Brother
Turner upgraded his skills at the
Piney Point school on multiple
occasions. He last sailed on the Prestige New York
and lives in Summerville, South Carolina.

WILLIS WELCH
Brother Willis Welch, 65, became a member of the
Seafarers International Union in 2003. Brother Welch
worked on shore gangs and was employed by GFC
Crane consultants for the duration of his career. He
resides in Lauderhill, Florida.

KEVIN WRAY
Brother Kevin Wray, 65, donned
the SIU colors in 1988. An engine
department member, he upgraded
his skills at the Paul Hall Center
on multiple occasions. Brother
Wray’s first vessel was the USNS
Wyman; his last, the Overseas
Washington. He makes his home
in Gig Harbor, Washington.

INLAND
JON BEARD
Brother Jon Beard, 65, signed on
with the union in 1983. He sailed
in the engine department, initially
working on the Taurus. Brother
Beard upgraded his skills often
at the Piney Point school. He
concluded his career working for
Moran Towing of Maryland and
settled in Baldwin, Maryland.

HARVEY COLON
Brother Harvey Colon, 63, donned
the SIU colors in 2001 when he
shipped on the Manhattan. He
was a deck department member
and was most recently employed
with Port Imperial Ferry. Brother
Colon is a resident of Roselle Park,
New Jersey.

MARK DETLEFSEN
Brother Mark Detlesfen, 65, began sailing with the
Seafarers International Union in 1992. He worked in
the deck department and upgraded at the Paul Hall
Center on multiple occasions. Brother Detlefsen
worked with Crowley Towing & Transportation for
the duration of his career. He lives in Milton, Florida.

CARL MOORE
Brother Carl Moore, 63, joined the
SIU in 2017, first sailing aboard
the Rocketship. Brother Moore
sailed in the steward department
and upgraded at the Piney Point
school on multiple occasions. He
last sailed with Crowley Towing
& Transportation and resides in
Mobile, Alabama.

JAMES RICE
Brother James Rice, 63, embarked on his career with
the Seafarers in 1988. He sailed in the deck depart-
ment and was employed with OLS Transport for
his entire career. Brother Rice lives in New Lenox,
Illinois.

DAVID RICH
Brother David Rich, 64, signed on with the union in
1979 when he worked with Inland Tugs. He sailed in
the deck department and was last employed by Mar-
iner Towing. Brother Rich makes his home in Dade
City, Florida.

WILLIAM SNYDER
Brother William Snyder, 65, signed
on with the SIU in 1997. He sailed in
the deck department and upgraded
his skills on multiple occasions
at the Paul Hall Center. Brother
Snyder was employed with Port
Imperial Ferry for the duration of
his career. He resides in Matawan,
New Jersey.

JAMES THOMAS
Brother James Thomas, 64, became a member of the
union in 1982, initially shipping with STC Peggy S.
Company. Brother Thomas worked in both the deck
and engine departments. He was last employed with
Piney Point Transportation and settled in Crisfield,
Maryland.

GREAT LAKES
PAUL SMETANA
Brother Paul Smetana, 65, began
his career with the Seafarers
International Union in 1995. He
first sailed aboard the Presque
Isle and worked in both the deck
and engine departments. Brother
Smetana upgraded at the Paul Hall
Center on several occasions and
last shipped on the Walter J. McCarthy. He is a resi-
dent of Foxboro, Wisconsin.

NMU
MICHAEL FINNIE
Brother Michael Finnie, 70, signed on with the union
during the 2001 SIU/NMU merger. He shipped in the
deck department and concluded his career aboard
the Chestnut Hill. Brother Finnie lives in San Antonio,
Texas.



SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 1414 • SEAFARERS LOG OCTOBER 2025

LIBERTY PEACE (Liberty Maritime Cor-
poration), May 18 – Chairman Timothy
Kauble, Secretary Steve Concepcion,
Educational Director Tony Washing-
ton, Engine Delegate Tyrice Peterson,
Steward Delegate Laura Katschman.
Members reviewed old business in-
cluding requests for transformers and
gym equipment. Chairman encouraged
crew to continue working well together
and gave a special thanks to steward de-
partment. Educational director advised
members to upgrade at the Paul Hall
Center for Maritime Training and Edu-
cation, located in Piney Point, Maryland.
Beef reported in engine department re-
garding overtime work. Members asked
for better communication between
office and ship, better Wi-Fi and for im-
provements to dental and vision cov-
erage. Next port: Corpus Christi, Texas.

GEORGE III (Sunrise Operations, LLC),
June 22 – Chairman Kissinfor Taylor,
Secretary Todd Curry, Educational Di-
rector Thomas Flynn, Steward Delegate
Jorrell Davis. Chairman urged crew to
update paperwork right away to avoid
possible processing time delays. Sec-
retary and educational director reit-
erated the importance of upgrading at
the Piney Point school. New ping pong
table and new sauna aboard. Crew re-
quested new TVs in all crew quarters
and for vacation to be increased to 25
for 30. Next port: Oakland, California.

SLNC YORK (Argent Marine Opera-
tions), July 6 – Chairman Frank Hedge,
Secretary Terrelyn Wallace, Deck Del-
egate Clifford Carroll, Engine Delegate
Rocky Tano, Steward Delegate Alexan-
der Greco. Chairman praised crew for
keeping a clean and organized ship, espe-
cially after leaving shipyard. He encour-
aged everyone to stay aware of expiration
dates on documents. Steward depart-

ment was recognized by crew for a job
well done. Secretary thanked everyone
for pitching in and separating garbage.
Educational director reminded everyone
to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center. Deck
delegate asked members to avoid making
loud noises when in companion ways/
berthing areas. No beefs or disputed OT
reported. Members suggested making all
contracts standard (fleetwide) and mak-
ing it easier for C-cards to ship out from
local halls. Crew asked for chiropractic
coverage in medical benefits, improve-
ments to dental benefits, one required
physical per year and for 30 for 30 vaca-
tion. Members requested new washers
and dryers and new refrigerators for
galley and mess hall. New salad bar also
needed. Next port: Okinawa, Japan.

FLORIDA (Intrepid Personnel & Pro-
visioning), July 13 – Chairman Jovan
Williams, Secretary Toney Morris, Ed-
ucational Director Elhassene Elkori.
Members discussed old business includ-
ing union dues increase. Crew would like
penalty pay for stores to be included in
contract and for vacation pay to increase.
Chairman asked for members’ continued
patience while waiting for reliefs. He re-
minded everyone to be considerate of
those sleeping when closing doors and
to make sure rooms are clean before
departure. Chairman thanked steward
department for making sure crew eats
well every day. Educational director en-
couraged members to renew documents
as soon as possible. No beefs or disputed
OT reported. Crew requested printer for
lounge, hammocks and fans for rooms
and memory foam mattresses. Members
would like an increased food budget,
matched 401k contributions and lower
sea time requirements for pension eli-
gibility.

OHIO (Fairwater Crew Management,
LLC), July 13 – Chairman Mohamed
Mosed, Secretary Rene Guity, Edu-
cational Director Damien Bautista.
Chairman reiterated the importance of
keeping up with dues and updating doc-
uments six months prior to expiration.
Educational director advised crew to up-
grade at the Piney Point school. No beefs
or disputed OT reported. New satellite
box connected to crew TV. Members re-
quested increases in vacation time and
retirement pay.

USNS PATHFINDER (Ocean Ships, Inc.),
July 20 – Chairman Tyler Peyton, Sec-
retary Alphonzo Berry, Deck Delegate
Edgar Parong. Crew talked about lack of
communication on board with internet
and phone lines. Educational director
urged members to take advantage of the
upgrading opportunities offered at the
Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT
reported. New fans received. Next port:
Cape Canaveral, Florida.

GEORGE III (Sunrise Operations, LLC),
July 27 – Chairman Gerardo Arroyo, Sec-
retary Todd Curry, Educational Direc-
tor Henry Cacal, Deck Delegate Yamira
Colon Del Moral, Engine Delegate Den-
nis Blake II, Steward Delegate Rogelio
Nunez. Chairman went over shipboard
affairs and union bulletin. Secretary ad-
vised members to donate to SPAD (Sea-
farers Political Activities Donation) to
help protect union jobs. Educational di-
rector recommended members upgrade
at the Piney Point school. No beefs or
disputed OT reported. Crew would like
vacation to be changed to 30 for 30. Next
port: Oakland, California.

LIBERTY GLORY (Liberty Maritime),
August 3 – Chairman Adolfo Figueroa,
Secretary Angel Bernardez, Deck Dele-
gate Juan Bermudez, Engine Delegate

Teodocio Guerrero Ruiz. Chairman ad-
vised crew to keep track of document
expiration dates. Completed tour of duty
must be 150 days to receive extra bonus
for no injury, per secretary’s report. No
beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew dis-
cussed union contract and motioned to
increase standard vacation days to 20
for 30. Members requested smart TVs
for crew mess, TVs for rooms and a dart
board.

FLORIDA (Intrepid Personnel & Provi-
sioning), August 14 – Chairman Jovan
Williams, Secretary Toney Morris, Ed-
ucational Director Elhassene Elkori.
Printer needed in crew lounge. Chair-
man reviewed upcoming crew changes.
He reminded crew to keep endorsements
current and to look at contracts first be-
fore taking jobs. Educational director
encouraged members to upgrade at the
Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed
OT reported. Members were reminded
to be considerate of sleeping shipmates
while exercising in the gym. Crew re-
quested fans, TVs for every room, new
mattresses, pillows and sheets and for
increases in food budget.

LONE STAR STATE (Intrepid Personnel
& Provisioning), August 17 – Chairman
Lionel Rivas, Secretary Cayetano To-
ledo, Educational Director Jonathan
Collier, Deck Delegate Larry Byrd, En-
gine Delegate Mario Levy, Steward Del-
egate Alexis Williams. Chairman urged
crew to stay hydrated and take breaks
when needed. Secretary thanked crew
for good housekeeping and reminded
them to send dirty shower curtains to
laundry. Educational director recom-
mended members upgrade at the Piney
Point school and to check credentials. No
beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward
department was thanked for a job well
done. Next port: Lake Charles, Louisiana.

Know Your Rights

Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings
The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space
limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring
attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the
Seafarers LOG for publication.

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

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

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

receipt requested. The proper address for
this is:

George Tricker, Chairman
Seafarers Appeals Board

5201 Capital Gateway Drive
Camp Spr ings, MD 20746

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

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

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

PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies
are to be paid to anyone in any official ca-
pacity in the SIU unless an official union
receipt is given for same. Under no cir-
cumstances should any member pay any
money for any reason unless he is given
such receipt. In the event anyone attempts
to require any such payment be made
without supplying a receipt, or if a mem-
ber is required to make a payment and is
given an official receipt, but feels that he
or she should not have been required to
make such payment, this should immedi-
ately be reported to union headquarters.

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

EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are
guaranteed equal rights in employment
and as members of the SIU. These rights
are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitu-
tion and in the contracts which the union
has negotiated with the employers. Conse
quently, no member may be discriminated
against because of race, creed, color, sex,
national or geographic origin.

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

SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY
DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate
segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to
further its objects and purposes includ-
ing, but not limited to, furthering the po-
litical, social and economic interests of
maritime workers, the preservation and
furthering of the American merchant
marine with improved employment op-
portunities for seamen and boatmen and
the advancement of trade union concepts.
In connection with such objects, SPAD
supports and contributes to political
candidates for elective office. All contri-
butions are voluntary. No contribution
may be solicited or received because of
force, job discrimination, financial re-
prisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a
condition of membership in the union or
of employment. If a contribution is made
by reason of the above improper conduct,
the member should notify the Seafarers
International Union or SPAD by certified
mail within 30 days of the contribution for
investigation and appropriate action and
refund, if involuntary. A member should
support SPAD to protect and further his
or her economic, political and social inter-
ests, and American trade union concepts.

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

David Heindel, President
Seafarers International Union

5201 Capital Gateway Drive
Camp Springs, MD 20746



SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 15SEAFARERS LOG • 15OCTOBER 2025

Final Departures In solemn remembrance, we honor the legacies of these union
members who have crossed the final bar. May they rest in peace.

DEEP SEA
SOLOMON BENJAMIN
Pensioner Solomon Benjamin,
83, died February 26. He began his
career with the Seafarers in 1970,
initially sailing aboard the Seatrain
Louisiana. Brother Benjamin
worked in all three departments.
He last sailed on the Austral Light-
ning before going on pension in
2006. Brother Benjamin was a resident of Harvey,
Louisiana.

RIGOBERTO BOGGEANO
Brother Rigoberto Boggeano, 46,
passed away March 30. Signing
on with the SIU in 2003, he first
shipped on the Overseas New Orle-
ans. Brother Boggeano worked in
the deck department. He last sailed
aboard the Green Ridge and made
his home in Hialeah, Florida.

DONALD DABBS
Brother Donald Dabbs, 62, died
July 7. He embarked on his career
with the Seafarers in 2009, initially
sailing aboard the USNS Victorious.
Brother Dabbs sailed in the steward
department, most recently aboard
the USNS Impeccable. He lived in
the Philippines.

MICHAEL ELLERBE
Brother Michael Ellerbe, 64, passed
away June 27. He joined the Sea-
farers International Union in 2002
and first sailed aboard the Atlantic
Guardian. Brother Ellerbe worked
in the deck department and last
sailed on the Freedom. He resided
in Petersburg, Virginia.

LAMONT LOVICK
Pensioner Lamont Lovick, 69, died July 13. He
donned the SIU colors in 1981. A deck department
member, Brother Lovick first shipped on the Inger.
He concluded his career aboard the Virginian and
became a pensioner in 2007. Brother Lovick made his
home in Newport News, Virginia.

ROY MATTESON
Brother Roy Matteson, 66, passed away March 21.
He became a member of the SIU in 1986. Brother
Matteson initially sailed with Orgulf Transport. He
worked in the engine department and last shipped
aboard the USNS Assertive. Brother Matteson resided
in St. Ann, Missouri.

MOHAMED MOFLEHI
Pensioner Mohamed Moflehi, 83,
died May 9. He donned the SIU
colors in 1980, initially sailing
aboard the Santa Lucia. He was a
steward department member and
concluded his career aboard the
President Truman. Brother Moflehi
went on pension in 2007 and made
his home in Monroe, Louisiana.

WILFREDO RAMIREZ
Pensioner Wilfredo Ramirez, 91,
passed away March 12. He signed
on with the union in 1970, initially
working with Interocean Amer-
ican Shipping. Brother Ramirez
worked in both the deck and engine
departments. He last sailed aboard
the William Baugh in 1998 before
retiring the following year. Brother Ramirez resided
in the Bronx, New York.

BRYAN SMITH
Brother Bryan Smith, 67, died May
1. Sailing first aboard the Indepen-
dence, he donned the SIU colors
in 1989. Brother Smith worked in
the steward department and last
shipped on the USNS Denebola. He
resided in Twin Falls, Idaho.

JOHN SOKOLIK
Pensioner John Sokolik, 82, died
June 16. He became a member of
the union in 1986 when he sailed
aboard the USNS Silas Bent. Brother
Sokolik worked in the deck depart-
ment. He last sailed aboard the
Lightning before going on pension
in 2008. Brother Sokolik lived in
Boise, Idaho.

GREAT LAKES
VERNON GIMPEL
Pensioner Vernon Gimpel, 92,
passed away July 8. He joined the
SIU in 1961, initially sailing with
Zenith Dredge. Brother Gimpel
worked in the deck department. He
was last employed by Great Lakes
Towing and retired in 1997. Brother
Gimpel made his home in Duluth,
Minnesota.

HAROLD RODRIGUEZ
Pensioner Harold Rodriguez, 74, died July 15. He
signed on with the union in 2001. Brother Rodriguez
was employed with Great Lakes Towing for almost
his entire career. He went on pension in 2013 and
called Tampa, Florida, home.

TIMOTHY ZIEMKE
Pensioner Timothy Ziemke, 74, passed away July
1. He joined the Seafarers in 1972 and first worked
aboard the J.R. Emery. Brother Ziemke sailed in the
engine department and was employed by Erie Nav-
igation for the duration of his career. He became a
pensioner in 2020 and settled in Sandusky, Ohio.

INLAND
KENNETH AMEY
Pensioner Kenneth Amey, 79, died
July 15. He signed on with the SIU
in 1968, initially sailing with Meyle
Towing Company. Brother Amey
shipped in the deck department.
He was last employed with Moran
Towing of Philadelphia and became
a pensioner in 2007. Brother Amey
lived in West Deptford, New Jersey.

JAMES BYRD
Pensioner James Byrd, 73, passed
away July 13. He embarked on his
career with the union in 1990. A
deck department member, Brother
Byrd was employed by Orgulf
Transport for the duration of his
career. He began collecting his pen-
sion in 2014 and called Mayfield,
Kentucky, home.

MICHAEL DEMETRO
Pensioner Michael Demetro, 81,
died June 13. He joined the SIU
in 1977 when he sailed with G&H
Towing. Brother Demetro shipped
in both the deck and engine depart-
ments. He was last employed with
Moran Towing of Texas before retir-
ing in 2001. Brother Demetro made
his home in Spring, Texas.

WALTON MCHORNEY
Pensioner Walton McHorney, 86,
passed away July 31. He joined the
union in 1967, initially sailing with
Allied Transportation. Brother
McHorney primarily sailed in
the steward department. He last
shipped with Express Marine and
went on pension in 2001. Brother
McHorney resided in Raleigh, North Carolina.

RICHARD SIMON
Pensioner Richard Simon, 84, died April 28. He
embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1977.
Brother Simon was a deck department member. He
worked with Moran Towing of Virginia for the major-
ity of his career. Brother Simon began collecting his
pension in 2005 and settled in Urbanna, Virginia.

NMU
PETER BROCK
Pensioner Peter Brock, 94, passed away December 11.
Brother Brock was a steward department member.
He last sailed aboard the Jean Lykes before going
on pension in 1995. Brother Brock was a resident of
Mobile, Alabama.

L.B. FINLY
Pensioner L.B. Finly, 101, died December 11. He began
sailing in 1950, initially aboard the Joshua Thomas.
Brother Finly worked in the engine department. He
last shipped on the Texaco Florida and became a
pensioner in 1987. Brother Finly was a New Orleans
resident.

JOAO LIMA
Pensioner Joao Lima, 92, passed
away December 20. Brother Lima
worked as a steward department
member. He last shipped on the
Potomac before becoming a pen-
sioner in 1998. Brother Lima lived
in Seekonk, Massachusetts.



Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Dates

UPGRADING APPLICATION
Name_ _________________________________________________________________________
Address_ _______________________________________________________________________
Telephone (Home)______________________________ (Cell)____________________________
Date of Birth_ ___________________________________________________________________
 Deep Sea Member   Lakes Member   Inland Waters Member 

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

Social Security #_________________________________ Book #_________________________
Seniority_______________________________________ Department_ ___________________
Home Port______________________________________________________________________
E-mail _ ________________________________________________________________________
Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_ ____________________________________________
Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program?  Yes   No 
If yes, class # and dates attended___________________________________________________
Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses?  Yes   No 
_______________________________________________________________________________

With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime
for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qual-
ifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date.

I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the
supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the
purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me.

COURSE START DATE OF
DATE COMPLETION
____________________________ __________________ ____________________________

____________________________ __________________ ____________________________

____________________________ __________________ ____________________________

____________________________ __________________ ____________________________

____________________________ __________________ ____________________________

____________________________ __________________ ____________________________

LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: _ _______________________

Date On: _______________________________________ Date Off:_ _______________________

Signature: ______________________________________________ Date:___________________


NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present origi-
nal receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent
before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable. Return completed application to:
Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, Email:upgrading@seafar-
ers.org Mail: 45353 St. George’s Ave., Piney Point, MD 20674 Fax: 301-994-2189.

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

Printed below are dates for courses scheduled to take place at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime
Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. The QR code connects to a web page with the latest course
dates (they may differ from what’s printed here, though in most cases the only changes are additions that haven’t yet
made it into the LOG). Seafarers are welcome to contact the admissions office with questions about upgrading courses:
(301) 899-0657, admissions@seafarers.org

Latest Course Dates

Title of Start Date of
Course Date Completion

DECK DEPARTMENT UPGRADING COURSES

RFPNW Oct. 13 Oct. 31

Able Seafarer - Deck Oct. 13 Oct. 31
Nov. 3 Nov. 21
Dec. 1 Dec. 19

ENGINE DEPARTMENT UPGRADING COURSES

FOWT Nov. 17 Dec. 12

RFPEW Oct. 13 Nov. 7
Nov. 10 Dec. 5

ARCM Dec. 1 Dec. 12

STEWARD DEPARTMENT UPGRADING COURSES

Certified Chief Cook Nov. 24 Jan. 30, 2026

Galley Operations Oct. 13 Nov. 7
Nov. 10 Dec. 5
Dec. 1 Dec. 26

ServSafe Management Nov. 17 Nov. 21

Advanced Galley Operations Nov. 10 Dec. 5

Chief Steward Oct. 13 Nov. 7
Dec. 8 Jan. 2, 2026

OPEN/SAFETY UPGRADING COURSES

Basic Training Revalidation Oct. 20 Oct. 20
Nov. 3 Nov. 3
Nov. 7 Nov. 7
Dec. 8 Dec. 8
Dec. 12 Dec. 12

Government Vessels Oct. 20 Oct. 24
Nov. 17 Nov. 21
Dec. 8 Dec. 12

Tank Ship Fam. - DL Oct. 20 Oct. 24


Tank Ship Fam./LG Oct. 27 Oct. 31

16 • SEAFARERS LOG OCTOBER 2025



SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 1717 SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 SEAFARERS LOG • 17OCTOBER 2025

Paul Hall Center Class Photos

APPRENTICE WATER SURVIVAL CLASS #923 – Recently graduated: Owen Carpenter, David Clark, Corey Covington Jr., Sirvod Davis, Linzi Dyer, David Escobar, Stevenjohn Eustaquio, Bradley
Franti, Cole Hofstrand, Mathew Holloman, Jerionna Joyner, Amahd Manigault, Bryan Marty Barrera, Kevin Marty Barrera, Angel Ojeda-Galindo, Sava Rodriguez, James Slue, Jonas Smith, Moncho Soriano
Martinez, Cody Tenney, Laurel Treguboff and Mariah Worsley.

TANK SHIP FAMILIARIZATION (DL) – Graduated recently (not all are pictured): Samuel Abrams, Jordan
Alejo, Hyjalun Burch, Diamond Chism Sr., Erik Dankwardt, Victor Dixon, Scott Furtney, Corneshia Harris, Lincoln
Jensen, John Karafanda, Luke Langston, Johnasha Manning, Kevin Martinez, Michael McLaughlin, Joelle
Quenga, Gianfranco Rodriguez Torres, Jesse Sanchez, Wynton Smith, Michaela Townsend and Tiana White.

GOVERNMENT VESSELS – Graduated July 11 (not all are pictured): Michael
Akers, John Baltazar, Jonathan Caballero Jr., Isaiah Chase, Seth Daniel, Traynard
Davis, Dickson Ellington Jr., Mike Estrada, Teneka Farris, Samuel Hawley, Garrett
Jackson, Bryant Jenkins, Joshua Jones, Jeanette Kaldawi, Tyler Kissick, Keywan
Law, Jacqueline Patterson, James Petrick, Richard Price, Charles Ramos, Richard
Richmond Jr., Harrison Wistock and Damita Wooten.

RFPNW – Graduated August 1: Latoria Fairley, Mathew Holloman, Clarence Johnson III
and Ross Williams.

GALLEY OPS – Graduated August 8: Francisco Amada, Tara Lee, Robert Seals III, Brittani White
and Antonio Zorrilla.

ADV. GALLEY OPS – Pictured above: Bernardo Celi, Walter Lewis Jr., Pedro Maysonet Gonzalez, Travis
Rogers and La'Quay Shack.

VESSELS OPS – Graduated recently: Owen Carpenter, David Clark, Corey Covington
Jr., Sirvod Davis, David Escobar, Stevenjohn Eustaquio, Bradley Franti, Cole Hofstrand,
Mathew Holloman, Jerionna Joyner, Amahd Manigault, Bryan Marty Barrera, Kevin
Marty Barrera, Angel Ojeda-Galindo, James Slue, Jonas Smith, Moncho Soriano
Martinez and Cody Tenney.



18 SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 202318 • SEAFARERS LOG OCTOBER 2025

Paul Hall Center Class Photos

APPRENTICE WATER SURVIVAL CLASS #924 – Recently graduated (not all are pictured): Michael Akers, John Baltazar, Jonathan Caballero Jr., Isaiah Chase, Seth Daniel, Traynard Davis, Dickson
Ellington Jr., Mike Estrada, Teneka Farris, Samuel Hawley, Garrett Jackson, Bryant Jenkins, Joshua Jones, Jeanette Kaldawi, Tyler Kissick, Keywan Law, Jacqueline Patterson, James Petrick, Richard
Price, Charles Ramos, Richard Richmond Jr., Harrison Wistock and Damita Wooten.

TERRESTRIAL & COASTAL NAVIGATION – Pictured above: Sean Jones, Arron Millar,
Daniel Moran, Dwuan Reed, Venise Spears, Arielle White and Mackenzie Wincelowicz.

GOVERNMENT VESSELS – Graduated August 15: Jamari Allen, Frederick Clark II, Christopher
Eason, Elvis Eay, Joel Eay, Latoria Fairley, Darian Fedd, Frederick Gathers, Michael Gordon Jr.,
William Humphrey, Joseph Ilao, Weilard Ilao, Clarence Johnson III, Randy Jones, Jamila King,
Antoine Rainey, Terrance Sasnett, Corrie Stockton, Costadeano Tsantilas and Velicia Williams.

SERVE SAFE – Graduated August 15: John Baltazar and Elijah Wailehua.
WELDING – Graduated August 1: Jovita Carino, Grant Lee, Sandy Quezada and Dennis Smith Jr.
Instructor Chris Raley is at the far right.

CERTIFIED CHIEF COOK – Graduated August 15 (not all are pictured): Angel Berrios Jr., Lorraine Champagne, Gennaro DiMatteo, Mario Fletcher, Nathaniel Gasparini, Susan Kennedy, Levi Moore, Herbie
Soliveres, Nathan Tissaw and Mohamed Zain.



SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 19SEAFARERS LOG • 19OCTOBER 2025

Paul Hall Center Class Photos

WATER SURVIVAL – Graduated July 11: Mustafa Ahmed, Russell Cacho Sabio, Denzel Dennis,
Verna Dotson, Jacob Garatti, Mark Griffin, Joshua King, Grant Lee, Jaden Radcliff, Ammr Rageh
Ali, Fradarius Smith, Luis Smith, Travis Smith, Elvershon Williams Jr. and Mahari Winslow.

BASIC SAFETY – Graduated July 11: Samuel Abrams, Jordan Alejo, Hyjalun Burch, Diamond
Chism, Erik Dankwardt, Victor Dixon, Rashad Fussell, Corneshia Harris, Lincoln Jensen, John
Karafanda, Luke Langston, Johnasha Manning, Kevin Martinez, Michael McLaughlin, Dereyon
Myrick, Joelle Quenga, Gianfranco Rodriguez Torres, Jesse Sanchez, Wynton Smith, Michaela
Townsend and Tiana White.

TANK SHIP FAMILIARIZATION (LG) – Graduated August 22: Jocecil Lugo Rivera and
Edgardo Martinez Espada.

TANK SHIP FAMILIARIZATION (LG) – Graduated recently (not all are pictured): Eddie
Almodovar, Marcus Carrasquillo, Pauline Crespo Guillen, Michael Elmore Jr., Dorothea
Fabrizius, Joel Gonzalez, Cedric Griffin, Cleave Hope, Ronda Jackson, Nash Lariosa, Grant
Lee, Kia Major, Jessie Merced Jr., Chauncey Mitchell, Rudy Puerto Sr., Blair Royal, Anquette
Smith, Brya Sparks, Aldo Thomas, Sheneisha Thompson, Jessica Valentin, Victor Velez Perez,
Michele Woodley and Mukhtar Yahia.GALLEY OPS – Graduated August 29: Kajaun Gamble and Caprese Osorio.

VESSEL FAMILIARIZATION – Graduated August 8: Lorenzo Allen Jr., Abdul Bah, David
Cipriano, Bianca Clark, Oscar Diviny, Rubert Johnson Jr., Corey Keys, Louis Levasseur, Vincent
Levin Jr., Hilton McCants, Douglas McHale, Lawrence Neloms, Misael Orlando Pizarro, Richard
Peek, Jezhra Santos, Kadeem Swenson, Arielle Taylor, Alexi Vasquez, Andres Vasquez and
Jadelyn Watling.

RFPNW – Graduated recently: Michael Akers, Jonathan Caballero Jr., Isaiah Chase, Seth Daniel,
Mike Estrada, Samuel Hawley, Garrett Jackson, Joshua Jones, Jeanette Kaldawi, Tyler Kissick,
James Petrick, Richard Price, Charles Ramos, Richard Richmond Jr. and Harrison Wistock.

JUNIOR ENGINEER (PLANT MAINTENANCE) – Graduated August 29: Brianna Ashley,
Keondre Bell, Abubakar Bockarie, Micko Cercado, Dominic Jones, Nesta Pafford, Timothy
Resultan, Deroyce Roquemore, Seth Schrader, Ian Tarwater and Ronald Von Kaenel. Also
pictured above is instructor Kevin Wilson.



OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION — ATLANTIC, GULF, LAKES AND INLAND WATERS, AFL-CIO

SEAFARERS LOG
OCTOBER 2025 VOLUME 87, NO. 10

Editor’s note: This article was written by
Chief Mate Thomas Knizewski, a member of the
Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers
(AMO). SIU and AMO members sailed aboard
the M/T Shenandoah Trader (U.S. Marine
Management) during the consolidated cargo
(CONSOL) operations described in the following
paragraphs. Members of the SIU Government
Services Division sail aboard the USNS Arctic,
also mentioned in the article.

The M/T Shenandoah Trader successfully
completed a four-month tour earlier this year
as the CONSOL tanker in support of the Truman
Carrier Strike Group during Operations Rough
Rider and Prosperity Guardian in the Red Sea.

Throughout this engagement, the vessel
delivered more than 432,000 barrels of DFM
and JP-5 to the USNS Arctic during CONSOL
operations. These critical fuel deliveries
enabled the strike group to remain fully
mission-capable and continuously engaged in
sustained operations against Houthi forces in
Yemen.

Operating under the Tanker Security
Program (TSP), the Shenandoah Trader bolsters
the U.S. Navy’s ability to project power globally
through assured and reliable tanker support.
Notably, the vessel was the first TSP tanker to
achieve full CONSOL qualification as well as
the first to conduct CONSOLs on an operational
level.

Shenandoah Trader Completes Four-Month Mission in Red Sea

The Seafarers-crewed Shenandoah Trader (left) refuels a U.S. military vessel at sea.

Chief Mate Thomas Knizewski, Second Mate Keegan Flynn, Bosun Christian Haber

Crew members on the Shenandoah Trader (left) heave hoses across the span wire. (Photo by Capt. Al Warmbier)

The crew of the Shenandoah Trader during Red Sea operations included (from left) SA Deinor Bernardez Batiz, AB Jerry
Aquino, Pumpman Elhassene Elkori, AB Mohamed Mosed, Wiper Ethan Bertke, Bosun Christian Haber, Chief Mate Thomas
Knizewski, QMED Michael Joel and Second Mate Keegan Flynn.

Mariners are pictured aboard the U.S. Marine Management-operated vessel
during operations in the Red Sea, including AB John Scofield, Capt. Al Warmbier,
AB Atm Reza, and Third Mate W. Fruehauf.