Media
Issue Date
2022-04-01
Volume
84
Issue Number
4
Plaintext
APRIL 2022 VOLUME 84, NO. 4
O F F I C I A L P U B L I C A T I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N A T I O N A L U N I O N A T L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W A T E R S , A F L - C I O
AFL-CIO Slams Proposed Open Register
Page 2
SIU members are sailing aboard the newly reflagged Stena Polaris (above), an outright addition to the Crowley fleet. The company was awarded a Defense Department contract for
time charter of an “ice class” tanker that is expected to last for nearly five years. The Stena Polaris reflagged last month in Jacksonville, Florida. Built in 2010, the ship is 600 feet long.
Crowley Adds Tanker Stena Polaris
President Biden on March 5 hosted a labor roundtable in Wilmington, Delaware, during which he listened to union officials and reiterated his strong backing of the labor movement.
He also reaffirmed his support of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Biden is pictured in front, second from left. AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler is kneeling at far left. SIU Executive VP Augie
Tellez is in the second row (sixth from right), behind the president’s left shoulder. Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh, who also addressed the group, is standing at far left. Page 3.
Administration Underscores Support for UnionsAdministration Underscores Support for Unions
Unions Ready to Mobilize
Page 3
2 Seafarers LOG April 2022
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 & Managing Editor/
Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Nick Merrill;
Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes. Copyright ©
2022 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights
Reserved.
Volume 82 Number 4 April 2022
The SIU online: www.seafarers.org
The Seafarers International
Union engaged an environ-
mentally friendly printer
for the production of this
newspaper.
Reversed to White
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O F F I C I A L P U B L I C A T I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N A T I O N A L U N I O N A T L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W A T E R S , A F L - C I O
Ready to Deliver
President’s ReportPresident’s Report
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine remains the dominant story worldwide, and
it definitely affects not just the maritime industry from a business standpoint
but also, more importantly, the people who work in it. Through our affiliation
with the International Transport Workers’ Federation, the SIU is doing what-
ever we can to ensure the wellbeing of Ukrainian
civilian mariners – and Russian civilian mariners,
too.
We also stand ready to mobilize if needed, as
America’s fourth arm of defense. Understandably,
we’re cautious in what is reported at certain times.
Suffice it to say, we’ve always delivered and we
always will.
If the global pandemic caused many of us to
view our lives at least a little differently and more
appreciatively, the Russian invasion has done so
in a most appalling way. The SIU joins with the
AFL-CIO in condemning the violent invasion.
We stand in solidarity with the workers and their
families who are impacted by the devastation, and
offer our condolences for lives that have been lost.
We also join the global labor movement and
our other allies in calling for an immediate end
to Vladimir Putin’s military aggression, and we support extensive economic
sanctions imposed by the United States and the European Union, particularly
those focused on Putin and his protectors.
Ukrainian unions have struggled for decades to guarantee the interna-
tionally recognized right to organize and bargain collectively. Unions have
courageously fought corruption that is widespread in the Ukrainian economy.
All these brave efforts by Ukraine’s unions are now threatened by the Russian
military invasion, which is destroying the basic democratic rights of freedom
of association, assembly and speech that are necessary for all effective trade
union action.
The Russian government’s invasion of Ukraine flagrantly violates inter-
national law and undermines the right of Ukraine and of all nations to self-
determination free from the threat of violence. The consequences of the attack
on Ukraine are vast – tens of thousands of lives may be lost, while millions
of people already have been displaced. Countries will need to house, feed and
support the many refugees fleeing the violence. Putin’s war jeopardizes inter-
national peace and global economic recovery. Workers and their families are
still struggling with the COVID-19 pandemic, and can ill afford the higher oil
and food prices and further disruption to the supply chains this war is causing.
The SIU will do everything within our power to support our brothers and
sisters in Ukraine.
Wins for Maritime
As reported elsewhere in this edition, the newly passed government
spending bill contained several important victories for the U.S. maritime
industry. These wins don’t happen without a sustained effort to elect and edu-
cate pro-maritime legislators and pro-maritime administrations. That is why
the SIU remains politically active and why we ask our rank-and-file members
to support SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund.
Funding for the Maritime Security Program, Tanker Security Program,
and Cable Security Fleet is a collective dose of great news not just for the
SIU but for the entire country. These programs are important to U.S. national,
economic and homeland security. I applaud the efforts and votes of everyone
who supports them.
Jones Act
Whenever I believe that Jones Act critics have hit a new low, they slither
even lower. That’s been the case recently when a few absolutely nonsensi-
cal articles were posted with the claims that America’s freight cabotage law
somehow is driving up gasoline prices. Those preposterous pundits also sug-
gest that waiving the Jones Act would be in order.
Let’s get a couple of things crystal clear. There is plenty of U.S.-flag ves-
sel capacity to handle any voyages transporting oil within the United States.
And – here’s the real news – a waiver of the Jones Act for gasoline would
only benefit oil traders.
The Jones Act has protected our nation for more than a century and it re-
mains one of the soundest policies on the books.
Michael Sacco
Editor’s note: This letter was posted on the
SIU website on Feb. 21, 2022, and it has been
circulated on Capitol Hill. It was written in re-
sponse to the governor’s public support for a pro-
posed second register. Visit the SIU website and/
or check last month’s LOG for additional cover-
age of the proposed second register.
Dear Governor Bryan:
On behalf of the Seafarers International Union
(SIU), which has maintained a strong presence
in the U.S. Virgin Islands for more than a half-
century, we are perplexed by your recently an-
nounced partnership with a for-profit maritime
school that charges $22,000 per year for tuition.
The SIU – which represents thousands of
USVI residents via our affiliated United Indus-
trial Workers – has an associated school in Mary-
land offering U.S. Coast Guard-approved courses
for entry-level mariners and for experienced
seafarers. The school – the Paul Hall Center for
Maritime Training and Education – is highly re-
garded throughout the industry and it does not
charge tuition.
We provide viable career paths, and we also
have immediate job openings for credentialed
mariners. Our union has contracts with the vast
majority of American-flag deep-sea vessel opera-
tors, plus collective bargaining agreements with
several major inland tugboat companies. Those
contracts, typically including excellent pay and
benefits, mean ample job opportunities for Sea-
farers.
Additionally, graduates of our apprentice pro-
gram (which is certified by the U.S. Department
of Labor) are guaranteed a first job aboard a U.S.-
flag vessel.
This would seem to offer a far more attrac-
tive opportunity for USVI residents than the one
you publicly committed to. Our training facilities
and curriculums are second to none; our school
doesn’t charge tuition; and we’ve got plenty of
jobs for our members.
We welcome the chance to work with you to
explore training and career opportunities for our
fellow citizens from the USVI.
Sincerely,
Michael Sacco
President, Seafarers International Union
SIU President Pens Open Letter
To Governor of U.S. Virgin Islands
Industry Secures Full Funding
For Tankers, MSP, Cable Ships
The maritime industry fared well in the recently
approved federal spending bill.
Congress in early March passed the Consoli-
dated Appropriations Act of 2022. The $1.5 trillion
omnibus package includes full funding for the new
U.S. Tanker Security Program (TSP), the U.S. Mar-
itime Security Program (MSP), and for two U.S.-
flag cable ships.
Originally approved near the end of the year
2020, the TSP calls for an initial fleet of 10 U.S.-
flag tankers. The program, strongly backed by U.S.
military leaders, will decrease reliance on foreign-
flag ships and foreign crews.
The MSP, enacted in 1996 and extended several
times since then, provides stipends for a fleet of 60
civilian-crewed, militarily useful vessels available
to the Defense Department as needed.
The spending bill, which was signed into law
March 15 by President Biden, moved along at what
one pundit called “the congressional version of
warp speed.” It passed in the House less than 24
hours after introduction and then cleared the Senate
a day later, on March 11.
However, passage also followed months of
delay and three continuing resolutions that al-
lowed the government to operate. A shutdown
would have occurred March 11 at midnight with-
out either another continuing resolution or passage
of the bill.
The bill reportedly contains $730 billion in
non-Defense spending and $782 billion in Defense
spending. It further includes a separate $13.6 billion
in aid for Ukraine. It provides government funding
through September 2022.
AFL-CIO Opposes Open Register
The AFL-CIO Executive Council on March 15
unanimously adopted a statement opposing a proposed
open register in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
SIU President Michael Sacco, the council’s lon-
gest-serving member, provided background on the
situation to other board members (see related story,
this page).
In part, the statement reads, “American merchant
mariners are the gold standard for the world in terms
of safety and training. From iron ore for steel mills
along the Great Lakes to food aid to hungry citizens
in Africa, from materiel for American armed forces
stationed around the world to vital household goods at
domestic ports, they deliver.
“For generations, foreign interests and their allies
have tried to find ways to circumvent the nation’s
labor and tax laws to take good jobs away from hard-
working Americans,” the statement continues. “The
latest effort, announced last month, calls for the cre-
ation of a so-called open registry for the U.S. Virgin
Islands. As outlined, this initiative would take cargo
from U.S.-flag vessels, crewed by American citizens,
and place it on vessels that do not use American crews,
do not pay American taxes and do not meet Ameri-
can safety and labor standards. This attempt to create
a flag of convenience using the U.S. Virgin Islands is
wrong and harmful to American workers.”
The statement concludes, “The AFL-CIO joins
with the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO; the
Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO; and the
Metal Trades Department, AFL-CIO in calling upon
the Biden Administration, the Congress, the Depart-
ment of Defense and the Maritime Administration to
reject any effort that U.S. Virgin Islands-flag vessels
be treated as if they are the same as U.S.-flag, U.S.-
crewed for any purpose or for any program. At the
same time, we reiterate our commitment to work with
the Biden Administration and the Congress to achieve
a more robust, commercially viable U.S.-flag, U.S.-
crewed fleet that will continue to protect America’s
economic, military and homeland security.”
Previously, a joint statement from shipboard mari-
time unions including the SIU pointed out, “The pro-
posed U.S. Virgin Islands flag of convenience open
registry will not benefit the United States nor Ameri-
ca’s maritime industry, any more than any other sec-
ond or open registry benefits a national flag country.
In fact, the establishment and growth of second reg-
istries by other industrialized nations has done little
more than decimate their national flag fleets to the
point that they are no longer able to provide the req-
uisite military security and logistical support to their
flag nations.”
Executive Council Adopts Statement Denouncing Plan
AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler (left) and SIU Presi-
dent Michael Sacco
April 2022 Seafarers LOG 3
Maritime Labor Backs President Biden
On Ukraine, Sanctions Against Russia
The presidents of six American mari-
time unions, including SIU President Mi-
chael Sacco, sent a letter to President Biden
underscoring their support for his handling
of the war in Ukraine and reaffirming the
availability of the U.S. Merchant Marine.
Dated March 9, the letter conveys the
unions’ “strong support for the actions you
are taking to combat the horrific and un-
justified attack by Russia against Ukraine.
This unprovoked attack not only threat-
ens the right of freedom-loving people in
Ukraine to continue to live in a democracy
but poses the most serious threat to our
friends and allies in Europe since World
War II.”
The union presidents pointed out that
U.S. mariners always answer the nation’s
call, and will do so again if needed.
“As they did during World War II and in
every conflict and international emergency
before and since, the men and women of
the United States-flag merchant marine
stand ready to do what we can to support
the strongest possible economic responses
necessary to bring this conflict to a quick
and successful conclusion,” the letter
noted. “To this end, we strongly endorse
your decision to end all oil and natural gas
imports from Russia as well as the imposi-
tion of additional rigorous trade sanctions
against Russia as deemed appropriate.
“We understand and appreciate that
these actions will likely have a negative
economic impact on many of our fellow
citizens and many of our members who are
still struggling to recover from the impact
of the COVID-19 pandemic,” the labor
leaders continued. “However, the men and
women of the United States-flag merchant
marine also understand that such a sacri-
fice is once again necessary in order for
our country to provide the leadership the
rest of the free world has come to expect
and rely upon.”
They concluded, “As our nation’s fourth
arm of defense, the United States-flag mer-
chant marine and its cadre of American
merchant mariners have a unique role and
proud tradition of service to our country in
time of war or other emergency. We again
stand ready to work with you and your
Administration to provide the support and
service our country needs.”
Signing the letter were Sacco; Sailors’
Union of the Pacific President Dave Con-
nolly; American Maritime Officers Presi-
dent Paul Doell; International Organization
of Masters, Mates & Pilots President Don
Marcus; Marine Firemen’s Union Presi-
dent Anthony Poplawski; and Marine En-
gineers’ Beneficial Association President
Adam Vokac.
Meanwhile, the Joint Negotiating
Group (JNG) and the International Trans-
port Workers’ Federation (ITF) have des-
ignated areas in the Black Sea and the Sea
of Azov as “Warlike Operations Areas,”
triggering an increased security level and
other entitlements for foreign mariners in
the war zone.
The designation was agreed at an emer-
gency in early March. Discussions focused
on repatriation, payment of wages, safe
transit and respect of individual seafarers’
rights, particularly for mariners from the
region.
The JNG and ITF negotiate and ensure
application of the International Bargain-
ing Forum (IBF) agreement, which is the
only international collective bargaining
agreement covering terms and conditions
for seafarers in international trade on more
than 9,000 ships.
“The escalation in hostilities and con-
flict in Ukraine has put enormous pressure
on seafarers of all nations and an industry
already laboring under the demands and
challenges of the pandemic,” the organiza-
tions said in a joint statement. “The parties
agreed that the welfare of seafarers and the
protection of their rights in this unprec-
edented situation was paramount to the
spirit and intent of the IBF agreement.”
They added, “The facilitation of support
from governments worldwide for potential
refugee arrangements for Ukrainian sea-
farers and their families was also consid-
ered. The social partners agreed to increase
pressure on governments to waive visas for
Ukrainian seafarers to ease their repatria-
tion.”
The JNG consists of the International
Maritime Employers’ Council (IMEC),
the International Mariners Management
Association of Japan (IMMAJ), the Ko-
rean Shipowners Association (KSA), and
Taiwan-based company Evergreen.
The ITF, to which the SIU is affili-
ated, has member organizations around
the world who collectively represent more
than 20 million transport workers.
A major maritime coalition recently sent a let-
ter to President Biden to address misconceptions
about the Jones Act. Specifically, the letter ad-
dressed the transportation of crude oil and other
energy cargoes in the United States in light of the
Russian invasion of Ukraine.
It was sent by the American Maritime Partner-
ship (AMP), to which the SIU is affiliated.
“We appreciate your support and the over-
whelming, bipartisan support in Congress for the
Jones Act,” the letter began. “Ukraine is a lesson
that America must provide for its self-defense
and economy, and that the 650,000 U.S. men and
women of American Maritime will continue to
move what our nation needs, including energy.”
The coalition further pointed out the following:
n There is more than adequate American ves-
sel capacity to address any requirements to trans-
port oil within the United States.
nA waiver of the Jones Act for gasoline would
only benefit oil traders. U.S. consumers would
not benefit.
n The recent dramatic increase in gas prices
has overwhelmingly been driven by the increase
in crude oil prices, which have risen by nearly
57% in just over two months.
n Congress has expressed its concern about en-
suring that American vessels are used to move oil
from the strategic petroleum reserve (SPR) before
considering the possibility of Jones Act waivers.
n Jones Act waivers outsource U.S. jobs and
undermine American security.
AMP followed the last point by stating, “Now
is certainly not the time to issue waivers that
replace American companies and mariners with
vessel operators and mariners from other nations.
The domestic maritime industry has kept our na-
tion supplied during the pandemic and the result-
ing supply chain crisis with consistent, reliable
service. It would be both ironic and insulting to
take jobs away from these Americans now, at a
time of rising inflation and global uncertainty. It
is particularly egregious that some have called
for Jones Act waivers as a result of the Russian
invasion of Ukraine, a situation that underscores
the importance of ensuring our nation’s ability to
protect our economic and homeland security at
home and to support our national security inter-
ests around the world. The Jones Act ensures that
we have a domestic shipbuilding base as well as
a pool of mariners to draw upon during cases of
national emergency.”
The entire letter is available on the SIU web-
site.
AMP Sets Record
Straight On Jones
Act, Energy Prices
President Biden, meeting with the
AFL-CIO leadership and principal
officers of international unions on
March 5, said once again he will not
waiver in his longtime support for the
Jones Act, the nation’s freight cabo-
tage law.
The president was responding to a
statement from SIU Executive Vice
President Augie Tellez during the
gathering in Wilmington, Delaware.
Tellez, who attended with MEBA
Secretary-Treasurer Roland Rexha
and MM&P President Don Marcus,
thanked the president for standing
with American mariners throughout
his career as a senator and vice presi-
dent. He alerted Biden to new attacks
being directed at the Jones Act in
the wake of rising petroleum prices
because of the Russian invasion of
Ukraine. The maritime contingent
noted recent news columns preposter-
ously trying to claim the Jones Act as
anti-American.
Tellez also informed the president
about the February announcement
proposing an open registry in the U.S.
Virgin Islands that would take away
cargo from U.S.-flag ships and jobs
from American mariners.
Biden told Tellez, Rexha, Marcus
and the other labor leaders he will
continue to fight for American mari-
ners and workers.
Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh
also met with the union officials,
numbering 39 in all and including
AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler.
Biden thanked the labor of-
ficials for their support and out-
lined steps the administration has
taken to help union members in
the first year of the administration.
Walsh spoke of the need to work col-
laboratively to empower American
workers and underscored the presi-
dent’s support for strong unions as
key to the middle class.
The group further discussed the
unprecedented economic growth ex-
perienced in the U.S. and the addition
of 678,000 jobs in February, along
with a 3.8% drop in the unemploy-
ment rate. A total of 7.4 million jobs
have been added since the start of the
administration.
Additionally, attendees touched
on the administration’s wide range
of accomplishments thus far when it
comes to creating union jobs and pro-
tecting Davis-Bacon provisions, in-
cluding the Bipartisan Infrastructure
Law and the American Rescue Plan.
The group echoed its thanks to the
president, the secretary and adminis-
tration officials for the historic invest-
ment the administration has made in
American workers.
Biden Reaffirms Jones Act Support
President Biden (second from left) pauses for a snapshot with maritime union officials. Pictured from left are MM&P Presi-
dent Don Marcus, President Biden, SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez and MEBA Sec.-Treas. Roland Rexha.
4 Seafarers LOG April 2022
As previously reported, Comprehensive Health Services (CHS) earlier this
year informed the SIU and the Seafarers Plans that the company “was the target
of a cyber intrusion” that may have involved current and former SIU members’
personal information.
CHS in February mailed a letter to all potentially affected Seafarers. Recipi-
ents are asked to note that, although the letter specifies May 31 as the cutoff for
enrolling in free credit monitoring and identity protection, individuals are able
to elect those services even if they miss the deadline. People may still call the
number listed in the letter after May 31, or contact CHS directly to elect credit
monitoring and identity protection, at no charge.
If members have any difficulty with this process, contact the SIU member-
ship assistance office at (800) 252-4674, Option 2.
As noted in the letter, there is no evidence that anyone’s personal informa-
tion has been used inappropriately.
More information is available on the SIU website, in the March edition of
the Seafarers LOG and in the letter from CHS.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention (CDC) on Feb. 25 signifi-
cantly loosened its mask recommendations
as part of updated guidance for coping with
COVID-19.
Under the new guidelines, more than 70
percent of the U.S. population resides in
areas with “low” or “medium” COVID-19
community levels, meaning masks are not
recommended for the general public.
In areas with a “high” level, which at
press time included about 30 percent of the
U.S. population, masks would still be rec-
ommended in public indoor settings. Under
the “medium” level, people at higher risk
are encouraged to talk to their doctor about
wearing a mask.
A map which outlines current COVID-
19 Community levels nationwide is avail-
able on the CDC website (https://www.cdc.
gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/
covid-by-county.html0).
Following the CDC’s lead, the SIU on
March 9 amended its COVID-19 policies
to remove mask-wearing requirements
at headquarters, the hiring halls and the
Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training
and Education in Piney Point, Maryland.
The change applies to all employees and
visitors who are fully vaccinated and have
received booster shots (if they are eligible
to get a booster shot). Visitors who have
vaccine exemptions or who, even though
eligible to receive a booster shot, have cho-
sen not to receive a booster, must present a
recent negative test result and wear a mask
when entering all of the former locations.
Masking in schools has been an area of
heated debate around the country. Under
the new CDC guidelines, universal mask-
ing in schools is now only recommended in
areas with a “high” level.
“Our new framework was rigorously
evaluated, both with current data and ret-
rospectively during the Alpha, Delta and
Omicron waves, and these new metrics
have demonstrative predictive capacity
for weeks into the future,” CDC Director
Dr. Rochelle Wilensky said during a media
briefing on the new recommendations.
“This new framework will provide the
best way for us to judge what level of pre-
ventive measures may be needed in our
communities,” she added. “If or when new
variants emerge or the virus surges, we
have more ways to control the virus and
protect ourselves and our communities
than ever before.”
In a related development, the Transpor-
tation Security Administration (TSA) on
March 9 extended the mandate for mask
use on public transportation and in trans-
portation hubs through April 18. The man-
date had been set to expire on March 18.
According to TSA officials, the ex-
tension is based on a recommendation
from the CDC. In a March 10 statement,
the agency said the CDC will work on a
“revised policy framework for when, and
under what circumstances, masks should
be required in the public transportation
corridor.”
CDC Updates Guidelines for Masks
Seafarers May Sign Up
For Free Credit Monitoring,
ID Protection Past May 31
State of the Union
SIU President Michael Sacco addresses Seafarers and guests at the
March membership meeting in Piney Point, Maryland. He covered numer-
ous topics, including the union’s efforts to encourage faster document pro-
cessing by the National Maritime Center; manpower obligations; maritime
jobs in the wind-energy sector; the loosening of some pandemic restric-
tions; ongoing professionalism of SIU members; and more.
Editor’s note: The following article, lightly
edited for local style, was written by Mark Gru-
enberg of the Press Associates Union News
Service. The SIU and the Maritime Trades De-
partment have endorsed the project; representa-
tives from both organizations took part in the
conference, hosted by the National Press Club.
Sponsors of a plan to build submarine repair
bases in Northeastern Ohio, at Lordstown and
Lorain, predict that when they’re up and fully
running, they’ll create 4,000-5,000 full-time
union jobs.
And their prediction, at a panel discussion
in Washington, D.C., announcing the proposed
Bartlett Maritime Plan, doesn’t count up to 2,000
union construction jobs needed to build the bases,
nor the spinoff of an estimated 41,000 ancillary
jobs once those big shops are up and running.
All the construction jobs, “including sub-
contracting jobs, will be 100% union labor,”
pledged Edward Bartlett, a retired merchant
marine captain and CEO of Bartlett Maritime
Construction. His firm put together the plan.
Groundbreaking on the planned American
Naval Shipyard complex, split between the two
cities, is expected in six months, after planning,
plus hiring the first 30 apprentice trainees. Con-
struction would take three to four years, in order
to satisfy environmental rules. The two bases
will be built with union-made steel and cement,
Bartlett added.
Bartlett’s firm decided on Northeastern Ohio
due to its excellent transportation connections
– expressways, railroads, Cleveland’s interna-
tional airport, and especially Lake Erie – and
surplus of available highly skilled metal trades
workers, he explained.
“The UAW trained them well,” before Gen-
eral Motors closed its Lordstown auto assembly
plant in 2019, he elaborated. Ever since word
of this project leaked “my email inbox has been
full” with skilled workers asking when and
where to apply.
Speakers also emphasized that the new sub-
marine repair bases are needed for national
security. Repairs are far behind on the current
47-boat fleet, including some submarines more
than 30 years old.
Moreover, the Navy wants to expand the
fleet by 50%, to 70 submarines. China and Rus-
sia notice how long and how many U.S. subs are
laid up, one speaker added.
“We have been the world’s dominant mari-
time power for years,” explained AFL-CIO
Metal Trades Department President James Hart.
“But America’s manufacturing base is diminish-
ing,” and its current shipyards are 80% devoted
to Navy construction and 20% to Jones Act
ships needed for domestic trade.
“We’ll need to build another shipyard to take
care of this problem” of repairing and rehab-
bing submarines,” Hard said. “We can’t sit on
our hands. China is building two shipyards right
now. We can have all the ships in the world, but
it matters how many you have that can go to
sea.”
Building the yards and staffing them with
skilled craftspeople “gives those workers a
hand up, not a hand out. We’re looking to put
them to work,” added Lance Heasley, president
of the Akron-based International Chemical
Workers Union Council, a sector of the United
Food and Commercial Workers.
SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez
reinforced backing from the union and the MTD
(where he also serves as an official).
“Our attack subs and aircraft carriers are the
most potent force projection weapons we have,”
added retired Navy Rear Adm. Robert Frick.
The two yards “will provide the most rapid
effective solution” to repair problems, once
they’re built, he explained.
Repair drydocks aren’t cheap, said Bechtel
Business Development Manager Rich Capi-
tan, who spoke from the audience and, after
the press conference, provided the construction
and 41,000 ancillary job estimates. He added
planned rehabilitation of one big sub drydock at
Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, alone will take five years
and cost $20 million.
The Pearl Harbor project illustrates another
point: a construction worker shortage. Hawaiian
building trades workers are working on Pearl
Harbor, building a light rail system in Hono-
lulu, and either rehabbing old city hotels there
or building new ones, all at once. The state’s
unions and contractors are discussing transfer-
ring union workers from the mainland U.S.
One part of the submarine complex will be
a Lordstown depot, employing 1,000 unionists.
It’ll use part of the site of the old GM plant.
Workers will maintain submarines’ weapons
and equipment. The other will be the actual
American Naval Shipyard in Lorain, employ-
ing at least 3,000 unionists.
“It’ll be completely enclosed, all in a single
building, to take weather issues out” of the
equation, a consideration given winters along
the southern shore of Lake Erie, said Bartlett.
The American Naval Shipyard project will
not cost the federal government any money,
since financing will come from a public-private
partnership. Ohio will provide funds from in-
dustrial development bonds and Goldman-Sachs
will raise the cash for the Bartlett Maritime
Corp., which put the deal together. At the end
of a 30-year lease, the feds get the two yards.
The American Naval Shipyard project will
cost “multi-billions” of dollars, said panelist
Bill Daley of Goldman-Sachs. It’ll be built by
a public-private partnership with the state of
Ohio using money from industrial development
bonds while his firm raises the private funds.
But the project still needs to show political
backing. Sponsors rolled out a joint supportive
letter from U.S. Sens. Rob Portman (D-Ohio)
and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) and three other
Ohio lawmakers, all Democrats. One, Tim
Ryan, a longtime union backer, as is Brown,
seeks the Senate seat Portman is retiring from
this year.
The firm’s information packet includes a
unanimous endorsement from the Lorain City
Council. Lordstown Mayor Arno Hill, who also
spoke, said that after GM left, “Everybody had
the perfect project for us” to replace it, “but no-
body had any money. This one does.”
Sponsors: Submarine Repair Bases
Will Create Thousands of Union Jobs
April 2022 Seafarers LOG 5
Forum Speakers Underscore Their
Compelling Support for Jones Act
America’s freight cabotage law – a
vital source of U.S. maritime jobs – en-
joys ongoing, strong support from the ad-
ministration and from all components of
the industry.
That conclusion was a main takeaway
following the 2022 Capital Link Jones Act
and U.S.-Flag Shipping Forum, an online
conference that took place Feb. 24-25.
Acting U.S. Maritime Administra-
tor Lucinda Lessley gave the keynote
speech on the forum’s first day. Panel-
ists throughout the event included repre-
sentatives from domestic shipyards, law
firms, and Seafarers-contracted compa-
nies including Crowley Maritime; Mat-
son; TOTE; Pasha; Overseas Shipholding
Group; Seabulk; Great Lakes Dredge &
Dock; American President Lines; Liberty
Maritime; and Maersk Line, Limited.
Lessley assured attendees that the ad-
ministration’s support of American mari-
time is unwavering.
“The Biden-Harris Administration
is working on every front to support a
strong U.S. Merchant Marine,” she said.
“The administration is crystal clear that
the U.S.-flagged fleet, including of course
our Jones Act fleet, plays an essential role
in both our national and our economic se-
curity.
That is why, shortly after taking office,
President Biden issued an executive order
laying out his Made in America agenda.
The order reaffirms what we have always
known: The Jones Act is truly a ‘make it
in America’ policy on our waterways.”
She continued, “As you know, the
Jones Act guarantees that cargoes moved
between U.S. ports travel on vessels that
are built, owned, and crewed by Ameri-
cans. Because of the Jones Act, today,
more than 40,000 vessels of all types, all
built in the United States, ply our nation’s
waterways, reliably delivering domestic
passengers and goods to the places they
need to be using the most fuel-efficient
mode of transportation available.”
The Jones Act, which has helped safe-
guard the nation for more than a century,
“also ensures that we have strong do-
mestic shipbuilding capability,” Lessley
pointed out. “Our Jones Act fleet in turn
supports more than 150 active shipyards
that, according to a 2021 MARAD study,
support nearly 400,000 jobs and generate
$28.1 billion of annual labor income as
well as more than $42 billion in GDP.
“The Jones Act also supports a domes-
tic merchant fleet of 96 ocean-going ves-
sels crewed by thousands of highly skilled,
unionized merchant mariners qualified to
operate sealift assets for national defense
needs,” she added. “The Jones Act is truly
a cornerstone of our U.S. maritime indus-
try and the Biden-Harris Administration is
working hard to strengthen this industry
by building on this essential foundation.
And with new opportunity on the horizon,
such as the emergence of offshore wind as
a renewable energy source, the Jones Act
remains poised to remain the cornerstone
of our nation’s maritime industry into the
foreseeable future.”
She also discussed the America’s
Marine Highways Program; investment
in ports across the country; steps being
taken to improve maritime workplace
safety; and a formal Mariner Workforce
Development Plan, which “will bolster
safety, and support for both credentialed
and prospective U.S. mariners based on
several key goals, including supporting
existing mariner workforce development
programs, mariner education, and training
institutions, and improving mariner work-
force diversity and workplace safety,”
Lessley stated. “This will be intended to
nurture and grow a strong U.S. Merchant
Marine, which is integral to the contigu-
ous, non-contiguous, and international
trade.”
Newly elected American Maritime Part-
nership (AMP) President Ku’uhaku Park
also addressed the forum. (The SIU is an
AMP affiliate.)
“I’m happy to report that overall sup-
port for the Jones Act in Congress and the
administration has never been higher than
it is today,” he said. “An overwhelming
majority of the Members of Congress in
both parties and in both chambers sup-
port the Jones Act. In addition to the Con-
gress, this administration is extremely
supportive of the Jones Act. President
Biden strongly supported the Jones Act
during the campaign and then reiterated
his strong support publicly almost imme-
diately upon taking office.”
He underscored the Jones Act’s impor-
tance: “The Jones Act is the fundamen-
tal law of our business, underpinning an
industry that supports nearly 650,000
family-wage jobs and provides more than
$150 billion in economic value every
year. Labor income for the exceptional
mariners and other workers in this in-
dustry totals about $40 billion annually.
There are about 40,000 vessels in the U.S.
domestic fleet – one of the largest domes-
tic fleets in the world.”
Park said the rationale for backing the
law remains quite sound.
“Historically, the Jones Act has en-
joyed support for three reasons: national
security, homeland security and economic
security,” he said. “Senior military offi-
cials and senior homeland officials have
consistently talked about the importance
of the Jones Act to the security of our na-
tion…. It is not lost on our elected leaders
that repealing the Jones Act would be out-
sourcing our nation’s jobs and security.”
He said an additional reason “for the
strong support today is the supply chain
crisis, which has reminded us all in
vivid ways that reliable transportation is
not an academic point. The recent sup-
ply chain crisis has really underscored
the importance of a reliable domestic
maritime industry, particularly in the
U.S. non-contiguous trades. Today, as
you all know, America faces one of its
worst supply chain disruptions ever for
containerized cargoes…. It is a dismal
picture with one bright spot: the per-
formance of the U.S. domestic mari-
time industry…. Additionally, when the
COVID-19 pandemic began, interna-
tional carriers canceled more than 500
trans-Pacific sailings. In contrast, Jones
Act carriers have provided uninterrupted
service and maintained a lifeline to many
states and communities.”
“The Biden-Harris Administration is working on every
front to support a strong U.S. Merchant Marine.” – Acting U.S.
Maritime Administrator Lucinda Lessley
U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-Lou-
isiana) recently introduced the American
Offshore Worker Fairness Act. This bill,
cosponsored in the House by Reps. Gar-
ret Graves (R-Louisiana) and John Ga-
ramendi (D-California), provides a level
playing field between U.S.-flagged ves-
sels and foreign-flagged vessels working
in offshore energy activities in U.S. wa-
ters, according to its proponents.
“U.S. and Louisiana mariners and
maritime companies lose when foreign
vessels, which do not pay U.S. taxes,
business taxes or payroll taxes, take ad-
vantage of loopholes to hire foreign work-
ers for half the cost,” said Cassidy. “This
bill … gives the American worker a fair
shot.”
The proposed changes also improve
the oversight of foreign-flag vessels and
the mariners who work on them.
“Our bipartisan bill closes an egre-
gious Jones Act loophole so that for-
eign-flagged vessels are held to the
same high standards as U.S.-flagged
vessels developing our nation’s offshore
energy resources, including for offshore
wind projects,” said Garamendi. “As the
former Ranking Member of the House
Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Mar-
itime Transportation, I know that Amer-
ican workers and U.S.-flagged vessels
are ready, willing, and able to do this
work.”
Graves stated, “Louisiana has a great
opportunity with this bipartisan legisla-
tion to bring more jobs to the Gulf region
and make sure there are good job oppor-
tunities in Louisiana. Other countries are
taking advantage of using foreign vessels
and workers operating in U.S. waters. This
is not a level playing field, not putting
America first, and we need to close this
loophole. This bill takes us a step closer
to bringing parity to the market. I look
forward to working with my colleagues
in ensuring an American workforce pro-
duces America’s energy and promotes our
way of life in south Louisiana.”
“The Shipbuilders Council of America
and the 400,000 men and women in our
domestic shipbuilding workforce strongly
support the American Offshore Worker
Fairness Act,” said Matthew Paxton, pres-
ident of the council. “This commonsense,
bipartisan legislation closes a loophole
that has long been exploited by foreign
competitors to undercut America’s mari-
time workforce. We applaud the efforts of
Senator Cassidy, Representative Graves,
and Representative Garamendi in show-
ing leadership by standing up for the men
and women of America’s maritime indus-
try.”
“On a level playing field, U.S. vessels
and U.S. merchant mariners can compete
with any anyone on the planet. However,
we cannot compete with mariners making
far less than what any U.S. citizen would
or should accept,” said Offshore Marine
Service Association President Aaron
Smith. “The American Offshore Worker
Fairness Act closes this loophole and en-
sures that when foreign vessels operate in
U.S. waters, they play by our rules and
pay U.S.-level wages. As such, we whole-
heartedly endorse this legislation and ap-
plaud Dr. Cassidy for all he is doing to
help Louisiana mariners.”
As stated in the “Frequently Asked
Questions” that was issued by Cassidy’s
office alongside the bill, “U.S. mariners
are already serving on U.S.-owned/U.S.-
flagged and U.S.-owned/foreign-flagged,
and even in some very rare cases foreign-
owned/foreign-flagged subsea construc-
tion vessels. This class of vessels perform
very technical and demanding work
within the offshore industry so know
U.S. mariners can do this work. Further,
the U.S. merchant marine is highly skilled
and qualified, and the U.S. has some of
the best maritime training schools in the
world, thus, there is no reason to think
that additional U.S. mariners cannot be
trained to conduct this work.”
The American Offshore Worker Fair-
ness Act would:
n Require the U.S. Coast Guard to
inspect these vessels annually to ensure
compliance with this law and that the
crew members on these vessels secure
TWIC cards from the U.S. Department of
Homeland Security.
nRequire mariners on foreign-flagged
vessels be either U.S. citizens or citizens
of the nation where the vessel is flagged.
n Limit the number of visas that could
be issued to crew of each foreign vessel
to 2.5 times the number of crewmembers
on that vessel. This would allow for regu-
lar crew shift changes.
n Require foreign vessels prove their
ownership on an annual basis.
The full text of the bill is available
online.
Louisiana Senator Introduces
Bipartisan American Offshore
Worker Fairness Legislation
Sen. Bill Cassidy
(R) Louisiana
Rep. Garret Graves
(R) Louisiana
Rep. John Garamendi
(D) California
6 Seafarers LOG April 2022
Spotlight on Mariner HealthSpotlight on Mariner Health
Healthy Recipe
Editor’s note: This article is provided
by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan
Medical Department.
High cholesterol can be a result of diet,
lifestyle (including smoking), and/or ge-
netics. Without testing, it is difficult to
determine if a person has high cholesterol,
because there are no symptoms.
However, having elevated cholesterol
levels may increase an individual’s risk
of heart attack, stroke and other complica-
tions.
Cholesterol is a fatty molecule needed
by cells in order to function. It is produced
by the liver but also may be acquired from
the foods a person eats.
The term “high cholesterol” refers to the
amount of cholesterol circulating through
the blood at any given time. High choles-
terol usually is diagnosed by a blood test.
A doctor will order a lipid panel to measure
low-density lipoprotein (LDL), triglycer-
ides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and
cholesterol levels. If results are high, the
doctor will decide whether to recommend
medications. Lifestyle changes also may be
in order.
According to the U.S. Centers for Dis-
ease Control and Prevention (CDC), LDL,
sometimes called “bad” cholesterol, makes
up most of your body’s cholesterol. High
levels of LDL cholesterol raise your risk
for heart disease and stroke. HDL, or
“good” cholesterol, absorbs cholesterol
and carries it back to the liver. The liver
then flushes it from the body. High levels
of HDL cholesterol can lower your risk for
heart disease and stroke.
The American Heart Association rec-
ommends that routine cholesterol screen-
ings for adults after age 20 be conducted
yearly or more often if results continue to
be high.
High cholesterol can cause fatty depos-
its or plaque to build up inside of the ar-
teries, especially in the brain, kidneys and
heart. When this happens, blood flow is di-
minished or it may stop completely, lead-
ing to any number of complications.
Maintaining a healthful diet rich in
fiber, vegetables, limited red meat and
processed foods can help keep cholesterol
levels in check. So can exercising, drinking
more water and fewer sodas and alcohol.
Medications can be helpful for those
with high cholesterol. They include statins;
cholesterol absorption inhibitors; bempe-
doic acid (Nexletol); bile-acid-binding res-
ins; and others.
Statins, perhaps the most commonly
known medication for high cholesterol,
block a substance the liver needs to make
cholesterol. This causes the liver to remove
cholesterol from a person’s blood. Accord-
ing to the Mayo Clinic, choices include
atorvastatin (Lipitor), fluvastatin (Lescol),
lovastatin (Altoprev), pitavastatin (Livalo),
pravastatin (Pravachol), rosuvastatin (Cre-
stor) and simvastatin (Zocor).
Preventing, Treating
High Cholesterol Servings: 24
Ingredients
6 1/2 pounds chicken
breast without skin
2 tablespoons Mrs. Dash
seasoning
6 teaspoons kosher salt
12 cups roma tomato,
diced
1 1/2 cups fresh basil
leaf, thinly sliced
3 cups sweet onion, diced
12 teaspoons garlic,
minced
18 tablespoons extra vir-
gin olive oil
6 tablespoons balsamic
vinegar, salad dressing
Preparation
Preheat grill to 350 F.
Combine tomatoes, onion,
basil, garlic, olive oil, and
balsamic vinegar dressing. Season with sea salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to
marinate for at least 15 minutes. Can be refrigerated while chicken is cooking.
Season the chicken with salt and Mrs. Dash, and grill or pan-fry until well done
(internal temp of 165 F).
Cut chicken into slices and top with bruschetta mixture in 2” hotel pan. Serve hot.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 227 Calories; 12g Fat (46.3% calories
from fat): 24g Protein; 7g Carbohydrate; 1g Dietary Fiber; 57mg Cholesterol;
543mg Sodium. Exchanges: 3 Lean Meat: 1 Vegetable; 0 Fruit; 2 Fat.
Provided by the Paul Hall Center’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship
Chicken Bruschetta
A recent trustee action
lengthens the opportunity for
some SIU pensioners to resume
sailing.
Seafarers Pension Plan
(SPP) Trustees, in an effort to
recruit qualified mariners, an-
nounced in 2021 that pension-
ers who had retired within the
last five years could to return
to work with an SIU-contracted
employer without having their
pension benefits suspended.
This development required re-
laxing some formal regulations
of the SPP through the end of
last year.
Now, those regulations
won’t be enforced at least
through June 30, 2022 –
which means eligible pension-
ers may resume (or continue)
sailing.
According to a memo from
an SPP subcommittee, “This
waiver of the suspension rules
only applies to those pensioners
who have retired within the last
five years. Deep-sea seamen
can return to covered employ-
ment for an unlimited period of
time during this period. Inland
boatman can return to covered
employment for a period of
90 days per calendar year. All
pensioners returning to covered
employment must sail above
entry level and comply with all
the requisites of the Shipping
Rules, if applicable, or any con-
tractual provisions contained in
a collective bargaining agree-
ment.”
Pensioners returning to
work under these provisions
will maintain the seniority level
they enjoyed at the time of their
retirement.
In the initial communication
from last year (which still holds
true), the trustees noted, “This
trustee action allows eligible
pensioners to continue collect-
ing their full monthly pension
benefits, earn the wage rates
specified in the applicable col-
lective bargaining agreement
and, if you are receiving a
wage related pension benefit,
you could also earn additional
$15 increments for every 120
days of covered employment
for which you work. In addi-
tion, if you resume employ-
ment and work for 90 days, you
will become eligible for active
seafarer benefits from the Sea-
farers Health and Benefit Plan
and your claims would be pro-
cessed in accordance with those
rules.”
Interested pensioners are
asked to contact their local port
agent for more information.
Some Pensioners Remain
Eligible to Resume Sailing
Recruiting in the Beaver State
SIU Tacoma Port Agent Warren Asp (front, second from left) is pictured with students at the Tongue Point
(Oregon) Job Corps Center, visiting with aspiring mariners in mid-March. In recent years, some of the
graduates have joined the SIU and shipped out. “These young mariners have represented our port well,
and we continue to recruit from this program,” Asp said.
Deadline Extended
April 2022 Seafarers LOG 7
Deck Department
Algonac 19 6 0 14 4 0 4 32 7 2
Anchorage 4 3 1 0 1 1 2 5 5 0
Baltimore 1 3 0 2 2 0 1 4 3 0
Fort Lauderdale 18 5 2 20 5 0 9 36 15 8
Guam 5 1 0 0 0 0 0 6 1 0
Harvey 9 6 0 5 5 0 2 20 8 1
Honolulu 3 1 0 1 0 0 0 7 4 0
Houston 33 15 5 29 13 4 9 52 26 11
Jacksonville 32 18 2 25 17 1 19 59 34 10
Jersey City 29 4 4 15 7 5 9 55 15 3
Joliet 2 2 0 2 0 0 0 1 3 0
Mobile 6 4 0 5 0 1 1 9 8 1
Norfolk 17 9 4 9 12 3 5 31 13 7
Oakland 16 2 1 9 3 1 2 26 4 1
Philadelphia 1 4 0 2 4 0 2 1 3 1
Piney Point 1 1 0 1 1 0 2 1 1 1
Puerto Rico 2 4 0 6 1 0 0 8 3 0
Tacoma 20 3 2 11 4 0 7 26 5 5
St. Louis 4 0 0 5 0 1 0 1 2 0
Wilmington 28 12 1 13 10 2 10 46 15 2
TOTALS 250 103 22 174 89 19 84 426 175 53
Engine Department
Algonac 4 1 2 3 2 1 1 6 1 1
Anchorage 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 1
Baltimore 3 0 0 2 1 0 2 3 0 0
Fort Lauderdale 10 3 1 5 1 0 1 12 5 1
Guam 1 2 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 0
Harvey 3 2 0 0 3 0 2 5 2 1
Honolulu 5 4 0 2 2 0 2 12 5 1
Houston 4 4 1 6 9 0 3 19 10 1
Jacksonville 20 13 4 13 13 2 9 28 19 5
Jersey City 8 3 0 4 2 0 2 12 8 1
Joliet 1 1 1 0 0 1 0 3 1 1
Mobile 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 6 2 0
Norfolk 10 10 4 7 11 4 6 10 11 5
Oakland 4 1 0 3 3 0 1 9 7 2
Philadelphia 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 2 3 0
Piney Point 3 3 1 2 1 1 0 1 4 0
Puerto Rico 4 2 0 3 3 0 2 8 2 0
Tacoma 12 2 2 5 2 1 2 17 5 1
St. Louis 0 1 0 2 0 0 1 4 2 0
Wilmington 15 2 1 14 2 0 6 21 11 2
TOTALS 110 57 18 74 56 10 40 178 100 23
Steward Department
Algonac 2 5 0 2 1 0 0 4 6 0
Anchorage 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0
Baltimore 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0
Fort Lauderdale 10 4 0 2 4 0 1 17 7 1
Guam 1 1 2 2 1 1 0 1 1 2
Harvey 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 3 0 0
Honolulu 5 1 0 5 2 0 1 6 2 0
Houston 15 9 1 8 3 0 5 20 11 1
Jacksonville 23 13 5 15 10 4 10 28 22 2
Jersey City 5 0 1 6 0 0 0 16 5 0
Joliet 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 3 0 0
Mobile 0 5 0 3 1 0 1 6 6 0
Norfolk 14 15 1 11 6 0 6 20 15 1
Oakland 11 6 2 7 1 1 3 22 9 2
Philadelphia 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 1
Piney Point 2 2 5 1 1 2 3 4 2 4
Puerto Rico 2 6 0 2 4 0 1 3 5 0
Tacoma 7 3 1 4 2 1 3 14 4 1
St. Louis 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0
Wilmington 20 5 0 15 7 0 9 26 10 1
TOTALS 121 77 19 85 43 10 43 196 108 16
Entry Department
Algonac 0 10 5 0 10 2 1 0 13 6
Anchorage 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 5 1
Baltimore 0 2 1 0 2 1 0 0 0 0
Fort Lauderdale 1 2 1 0 2 2 2 1 3 2
Guam 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0
Harvey 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 4 1
Honolulu 0 2 1 0 0 1 0 0 6 3
Houston 3 11 13 0 9 5 1 7 8 18
Jacksonville 2 22 50 0 13 26 11 4 38 91
Jersey City 2 9 16 0 4 7 1 2 18 25
Joliet 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 2
Mobile 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2
Norfolk 0 12 30 0 7 17 2 0 16 29
Oakland 1 2 7 0 2 2 0 0 8 7
Philadelphia 0 1 3 0 0 3 0 0 1 0
Piney Point 0 3 9 0 2 5 3 0 2 11
Puerto Rico 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0
Tacoma 2 10 8 1 7 5 4 6 15 14
St. Louis 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Wilmington 3 9 3 2 7 5 1 2 13 10
TOTALS 15 97 149 4 68 83 27 23 152 222
GRAND TOTAL: 496 334 208 337 256 122 194 823 535 314
“Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” data is cumulative from Feb. 14 - March15. “Registered on the Beach” data is as of March 15.
Total Registered Total Shipped Registered on Beach
All Groups All Groups Trip All Groups
Port A B C A B C Reliefs A B C
Dispatchers’ Report for Deep SeaDispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea
Piney Point..........................................Monday: April 4, May 2
Algonac..............................................Friday: April 8, May 6
Baltimore.....................................Thursday: April 7, May 5
Guam..........................................Thursday: April 21, May 19
Honolulu...........................................Friday: April 15, May 13
Houston.........................................Monday: April 11, May 9
Jacksonville........................................Thursday: April 7, May 5
Joliet............................................Thursday: April 14, May12
Mobile..........................................Wednesday: April 13, May 11
New Orleans......................................Tuesday: April 12, May 10
Jersey City.........................................Tuesday: April 5, May 3
Norfolk...............................................Friday: April 8, May 6
Oakland...........................................Thursday: April 14, May 12
Philadelphia.................................Wednesday: April 6, May 4
Port Everglades..............................Thursday: April 14, May 12
San Juan...........................................Thursday: April 7, May 5
St. Louis................................................Friday: April 15, May 13
Tacoma...............................................Friday: April 22, May 20
Wilmington.......................................Monday: April 18, May 16
Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m
April & MayApril & May
Membership MeetingsMembership Meetings
Beginning April 28, 2022,
individuals who have signed
up for SIU text alerts will re-
ceive messages from a new
number: (412) 899-8989.
(The prior number is 97779.)
No action is required to
maintain an existing sub-
scription. The change is due
to new industry regulations
that essentially are mandat-
ing a move to a “10-digit
long code” (abbreviated as
10DLC) for organizations
that send text messages.
In accordance with legal
requirements, subscribers
will receive a “goodbye”
message from 97779 (which
will read, “The SIU is chang-
ing numbers. You’ll hear
from 4128998989 after this.
No action required by you to
remain subscribed.”). Then,
they’ll get a “hello” message
from the new number, which
will read: “SIU: Welcome
to our new number. Thanks
for being part of our mobile
news network.”
All of our opt-in keywords
will remain unchanged.
To sign up for alerts, text
the word “join” to 97779 be-
fore April 28, or text “join” to
(412) 899-8989 after April 28.
Update on SIU Text Alerts
Training with the Troops
The Seafarers-crewed USNS Dahl (pictured above)
teamed up with members of the U.S. Air Force 33rd
Recue Squadron in Kadena, Japan, to conduct deck
landing qualifications aboard the Patriot-operated ves-
sel in the Philippine Sea in early February as part of
Exercise Cope North 22. The operation is a humanitar-
ian assistance and disaster relief exercise that includes
Australian, Japanese and U.S. forces, according to the
U.S. Navy. The Dahl is part of Maritime Prepositioning
Ships Squadron 3; it strategically “places containerized
and palletized cargo throughout the Indo-Pacific Region
for all U.S. Armed Services, including the Air Force,” the
Navy reports. (Photo by Second Mate Garrett Flottman)
8 Seafarers LOG April 2022
Michael Sacco, President
Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President
David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer
George Tricker, Vice President Contracts
Tom Orzechowski,
Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters
Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast
Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast
Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast
Nicholas Celona, Vice President Government
Services
HEADQUARTERS
5201 Capital Gateway Drive
Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675
ALGONAC
520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001
(810) 794-4988
ANCHORAGE
721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503
(907) 561-4988
BALTIMORE
2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224
(410) 327-4900
GUAM
P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932
Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B
422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910
(671) 477-1350
HONOLULU
606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819
(808) 845-5222
HOUSTON
625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003
(713) 659-5152
JACKSONVILLE
5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256
(904) 281-2622
JERSEY CITY
104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306
(201) 434-6000
JOLIET
10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432
(815) 723-8002
MOBILE
1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605
(251) 478-0916
NEW ORLEANS
3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058
(504) 328-7545
NORFOLK
115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510
(757) 622-1892
OAKLAND
1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607
(510) 444-2360
PHILADELPHIA
2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148
(215) 336-3818
PINEY POINT
45353 St. George’s Avenue, Piney Point, MD
20674
(301) 994-0010
PORT EVERGLADES
1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316
(954) 522-7984
SAN JUAN
659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills
San Juan, PR 00920
(787) 721-4033
ST. LOUIS/ALTON
4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116
(314) 752-6500
TACOMA
3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409
(253) 272-7774
WILMINGTON
510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744
(310) 549-4001/4002
Seafarers International Seafarers International
Union DirectoryUnion Directory Inquiring SeafarerInquiring Seafarer
This month’s question was answered by upgraders at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Train-
ing and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland.
Question: What are some things you like about this school?
If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the
Seafarers LOG, 5201 Capital Gateway Drive, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital
images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org
Charlene Briggs
Chief Cook
I like the sense of community – the
feeling that the school belongs to all of
us. It’s a great place to upgrade. There
are good chefs and good instructors
here.
Kristyn White
Chief Cook
You’re learning as you go. What
you do here is what you’re going to
do on the ship. This is my first time
here; everybody is so respectful,
and they give positive feedback.
It’s going really well.
Wordell Prescott
QMED
The instructors are awesome,
including the welding instructor,
Chris Raley. I feel like I’m a better
welder since I’ve taken his class.
This is my third time here. All of
the practical training we get is very
useful for shipboard life.
Daniel Leon
QMED
The courses are very informa-
tive and they really help us out.
Welding is a good example; I used
to weld, but I wasn’t that good.
After taking the class, I improved.
I’ve been here four times.
Ahmed Hussain
GVA
Everything is good at the school.
There’s a lot of support here; anything
we need, we get it. This is my second
time here. My experience here has
been very good.
Mery Koch
Chief Cook
I like the knowledge of the chief
cooks here and the teacher, Paul (Gel-
rud). He’s amazing. The passion he
puts into the class is great. We’re en-
couraged to do our best and keep learn-
ing.
Pic From The Past Pic From The Past
The Sea-Land Defender joined the SIU-crewed fleet in 1980, when this snapshot was taken. Constructed in Japan, the diesel-
powered vessel was 745 feet long and had a service speed of 22 knots.
April 2022 Seafarers LOG 9
At Sea and Ashore with the SIU
PRESIDENT TOUTS INFRASTRUCTURE BILL – SIU Port Agent Todd Brdak represented the union Feb. 17 dur-
ing a visit by President Biden to Lorain, Ohio. Biden highlighted the numerous expected benefits of the bipartisan
infrastructure bill that passed last year. The group photo at left includes (from left) Brdak, U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur
(D-Ohio) and Leonard DiCosimo, President, Cleveland Federation of Musicians Local 4. Brdak is in the foreground
of the selfie, while the president is at the podium.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALASKANS – The SIU has a long history of providing maritime career opportunities for citizens
from the Last Frontier, and that tradition is alive and well. Pictured at the Anchorage hall (photo at left) are future mariner
Faith Wood, who recently began the apprentice program in Piney Point, Maryland, and (photo at right) Clayton Laulainen.
At press time, Laulainen was awaiting his start date for the apprentice program.
WELCOME ASHORE IN JACKSONVILLE – Recertified
Bosun Marc Marcus (right), pictured with SIU Safety Di-
rector Joseph Koncul at the hiring hall, receives his first
pension check. Marcus started sailing with the SIU in 1971.
A-BOOK IN JACKSONVILLE – Chief Cook Olive Stewart-Paul (center) picks up her A-book.
She’s pictured at the hiring hall with SIU Patrolmen Eddie Pittman (left) and Adam Bucalo.
WELCOME ASHORE IN HOUSTON – AB Virgilio Fucanan (center) visits the hiring
hall to pick up his first pension check. His wife, Fermilia, is at left, while SIU Patrol-
man Kelly Krick is at right.
10 Seafarers LOG April 2022
At Sea and Ashore with the SIU
WELCOME ASHORE IN OAKLAND – Chief Cook John Bennett (second from right) is
pictured at the hiring hall while receiving his first pension check. He started sailing with
the SIU in 1978. Standing with him are (from left) Administrative Assistant Dylan Rivera,
Patrolman Kathy Chester and Port Agent J.B. Niday.
TALKING MARITIME WITH REP. CRIST – The hiring hall in Jacksonville,
Florida, hosted a labor “meet and greet” Feb. 16 for U.S. Rep. Charlie Crist
(D-Florida), who’s running for governor of Florida. Also in attendance was
Dr. Tracye Polson, who’s running for an at-large seat on the Jacksonville
City Council. In photo above, Crist (left) poses with SIU Port Agent Ashley
Nelson. The congressman also is in the remaining photos – greeting Chief
Storekeeper Lisa Curtis (far right) and AB Timothy Brock (immediate right).
B-BOOK IN ALGONAC – OS Matthew Conley (left) receives his full B-book at the hiring
hall. SIU Port Agent Todd Brdak is at right.
HONORED BY PORT COUNCIL – SIU VP Government Services Nicholas Celona (sec-
ond from left) has been active with the San Francisco Bay Area and Vicinity Port Maritime
Council (part of the Maritime Trades Department) since 1990. At a meeting March 9 in San
Francisco, the council saluted him with a plaque and best wishes as he transfers to New
Orleans. Pictured from left are SUP President Dave Connolly (who also serves as port
council president), Celona, MFOW President Anthony Poplawski (port council VP), and SIU
VP West Coast Nick Marrone.
SUPPORTING OUR TROOPS – The USNS John Lenthall (left) sails next to the aircraft
carrier USS George H.W. Bush during an underway replenishment March 4 in the Atlantic
Ocean. The Lenthall’s crew includes CIVMARS from the SIU Government Services Division.
(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Bryan Valek)
April 2022 Seafarers LOG 11
WITH SEAFARERS IN SAN JUAN – SIU Asst. VP Amancio Crespo submitted these photos, taken at the hiring hall. ABW Alexis Figueroa is
pictured in photo at left, displaying his first SIU discharge following completion of a 120-day tour aboard the USNS Invincible (Crowley). (He previ-
ously sailed with the Military Sealift Command.) In photo at center, QEE/3rd Asst. Engineer Jose Encarnacion (left) stops by the hall with his wife
and their daughter following the Seafarer’s full tour aboard the USNS Montford Point (Ocean Shipholdings). Chief Steward Kevin Valentin is at
left in photo directly above, with Crespo. Valentin is holding the shipping card for his first steward relief job, aboard the USNS Soderman (Patriot).
The photo at right includes ABW Angel Pagan (right) and Crespo. Pagan, a four-year member who’d just finished a long tour aboard the SLNC
Goodwill (Chesapeake Crewing), noted, “The SIU has been a life-changing experience for me, my wife and my two daughters.”
At Sea and Ashore with the SIU
ABOARD ATB COURAGE – Pictured aboard the Crowley
vessel are (from left) Second Mate Ernesto Rios Pratt and
AB/Tankerman Sean Leeson.
ABOARD OVERSEAS CHINOOK – SIU Houston Port Agent Joe Zavala (right in photo at left) submitted these snap-
shots from the OSG vessel. He’s pictured with AB/Tankerman Carlos Avila. The other photo at right includes Avila and
SA Mujahed Mosa.
GETTING OUT THE VOTE – Seafarers team up with other trade unionists in Houston to “block walk” for pro-labor candidates ahead of recent elections.
12 Seafarers LOG April 2022
DEEP SEA
LOUIE ACERIDANO
Brother Louie Aceridano, 71,
started his ca-
reer with the
union in 2006
when he shipped
on the Green
Ridge. A stew-
ard department
member, he
most recently
sailed on the
Resolve. Brother
Aceridano makes his home in
Burien, Washington.
BENJAMIN ADVINCULA
Brother Benjamin Advincula, 65,
signed on with the Seafarers in
1991, initially
sailing on the
Independence.
He sailed in
the steward
department
and upgraded
at the Piney
Point school on
numerous oc-
casions. Brother Advincula most
recently sailed on the Buffalo. He
makes his home in Port Jefferson
Station, New York.
FAUSTO ARANDA
Brother Fausto Aranda, 66,
joined the SIU in 1994, when he
sailed aboard the Independence.
He upgraded
at the Paul
Hall Center on
multiple oc-
casions and
shipped in the
steward depart-
ment. Brother
Aranda’s final
vessel was the
Bay State. He is a resident of
Richmond, Texas.
JAMES ATWELL
Brother James Atwell, 52, began
sailing with the union in 1994.
An engine
department
member, he first
sailed aboard
the Humacao.
Brother At-
well upgraded
at the Piney
Point school on
multiple occa-
sions and most
recently sailed on the Cape Rise.
He lives in Elizabeth City, North
Carolina.
CHRISTOPHER BEATON
Brother Christopher Beaton,
68, signed on with the SIU in
1979, first sail-
ing aboard the
Tam Guilden.
He shipped
in the engine
department and
upgraded at the
Paul Hall Cen-
ter on several
occasions. Brother Beaton last
sailed on the USNS Gordon. He
resides in Palm Bay, Florida.
REX BOLIN
Brother Rex Bolin, 61, became a
member of the
Seafarers Inter-
national Union
in 1977 when he
shipped on the
Charleston. He
sailed in the en-
gine department
and upgraded
on numerous
occasions at
the union-affiliated Piney Point
school. Brother Bolin’s final ves-
sel was the Cape Diamond. He
resides in Port Charlotte, Florida.
CURTIS BURKS
Brother Curtis Burks, 65, em-
barked on his
career with
the Seafarers
in 1986, ini-
tially sailing
on the USNS
Chauvenet. He
was a member
of the deck de-
partment and
upgraded at the
Paul Hall Center in 2016. Brother
Burks most recently shipped on
the USNS Seay and lives in Hous-
ton.
FLORENTINO CABALLERO
Brother Florentino Caballero, 72,
began sailing
with the union
in 1998 when he
worked aboard
the USNS Yano.
He was a mem-
ber of the stew-
ard department
and upgraded
at the Piney
Point school on
numerous occasions. Brother Ca-
ballero last sailed on the Agate.
He lives in the Bronx, New York.
THOMAS CASEY
Brother Thomas Casey, 68,
joined the SIU in 1974 when
he sailed with
Inland Tugs.
He sailed in the
deck department
and upgraded
at the Paul Hall
Center on mul-
tiple occasions.
Brother Casey
concluded his
career on the
Northerly Island and makes his
home in St. Louis.
DENIS COSSIO
Brother Denis
Cossio, 71,
signed on with
the union in
1996. He first
sailed aboard
the Liberty
Spirit and
worked in both the deck and
steward departments. Brother
Cossio upgraded at the Piney
Point school on numerous oc-
casions. He last shipped on the
Maersk Saratoga and is a resi-
dent of Port Washington, New
York.
LAWRENCE CROFT
Brother Lawrence Croft, 60,
began sailing with the Seafarers
in 1981, initially
shipping with
G&H Tow-
ing. He sailed
in the engine
department and
upgraded at the
Paul Hall Center
on multiple oc-
casions. Brother
Croft last shipped aboard the
USNS Pollux. He lives in Dickin-
son, Texas.
WILLIAM GROW
Brother William Grow, 61,
donned the SIU colors in 1998.
He first sailed
aboard the
USNS Prevail,
and worked
in the steward
department.
Brother Grow
upgraded at
the Piney Point
school on
numerous occasions. He most
recently sailed on the Manulani
and is a resident of Fallbrook,
California.
JEROME JORDAN
Brother Jerome Jordan, 63, began
his career with the SIU in 1981.
A steward de-
partment mem-
ber, he initially
sailed aboard
the Indepen-
dence. Brother
Jordan upgraded
at the Paul
Hall Center on
numerous occa-
sions. He most recently shipped
aboard the American Liberty and
resides in Jacksonville, Florida.
MIKE KIFLE
Brother Mike Kifle, 66, started
sailing with the union in 1989,
initially ship-
ping on the
Independence.
He sailed in the
engine depart-
ment and up-
graded often at
the Piney Point
school. Brother
Kifle concluded
his career aboard the USNS
Fisher and settled in Houston.
KENNETH KOONTZ
Brother Kenneth Koontz, 61, joined
the union in 1997 and first sailed
aboard the McDonnell. He was a
member of the engine department
and last shipped aboard the Sumner
in 2003. Brother Koontz lives in
Lemoore, California.
FRANK MARTIN
Brother Frank Martin, 68, em-
barked on his career with the
Seafarers in
1987. He up-
graded often at
the Paul Hall
Center and
sailed in the
steward depart-
ment. Brother
Martin’s first
vessel was the
Kauai; his last,
the John U.D. Page. He makes
his home in Jacksonville, Ten-
nessee.
JAMES MCCORMICK
Brother James McCormick, 69,
became a member of the Seafar-
ers International
Union in 1975,
initially sailing
aboard the Sea-
Land Market. He
worked in the
deck department
and upgraded at
the Piney Point
school on sev-
eral occasions.
Brother McCormick’s final vessel
was the Oregon. He resides in
Kirtland, Ohio.
AHMED MIHAKEL
Brother Ahmed Mihakel, 64,
signed on with the SIU in 1978.
He initially
shipped on
the Point Julie
and was a
deck depart-
ment member.
Brother Mihakel
upgraded at
the Paul Hall
Center on mul-
tiple occasions.
He most recently sailed on the
American Endurance and resides
in Costa Mesa, California.
DAVID MOE
Brother David Moe, 68, started
his career with the Seafarers in
2003 and first sailed aboard the
Green Mountain State. A deck
department member, Brother
Moe last shipped on the Ob-
servation Island. He makes his
home in Toledo, Oregon.
MELVIN NELSON
Brother Melvin Nelson, 63,
signed on with the union in 1995.
He initially sailed with Delta
Queen Steamboat Company and
worked in the engine department.
Brother Nelson upgraded on
numerous occasions at the Paul
Hall Center. He last shipped on
the Honor and is a resident of
Cypress, Texas.
DANA PARADISE
Brother Dana Paradise, 62,
joined the SIU in 1979 and first
sailed on the
El Paso Cove
Point. He up-
graded at the
Piney Point
school on mul-
tiple occasions
and shipped
in the steward
department.
Brother Paradise most recently
sailed on the Overseas Santo-
rini and makes his home in Fall
River, Massachusetts.
JOHN PARKHURST
Brother John Parkhurst, 69,
signed on with the Seafarers
International
Union in 1988.
He first shipped
on the Rover
and sailed in the
engine depart-
ment. Brother
Parkhurst up-
graded often at
the Paul Hall
Center. He concluded his career
aboard the Resolve and calls Gar-
land, Texas, home.
MICHAEL RUETER
Brother Michael Rueter, 56,
began sailing with the SIU in
1991. He sailed
in the engine
department and
first shipped
on the Sealift
Arctic. Brother
Rueter upgraded
his skills at the
Piney Point
school on mul-
tiple occasions. He most recently
sailed on the SBX and lives in
Athens, Texas.
HERNAN SANGA
Brother Her-
nan Sanga, 65,
signed on with
the SIU in 2001,
first sailing
aboard the Moki-
hana. He was a
steward depart-
ment member
and last shipped
on the Meteor. Brother Sanga re-
sides in Carson, California.
SAIDU SESAY
Brother Saidu Sesay, 68, joined
the union in 2001. He was a deck
department member and upgraded
on multiple occasions at the Piney
Point school. Brother Sesay’s first
vessel was the Gem State; his last,
the Maersk Kinloss. He makes his
home in Houston.
NATIVIDAD SUAZO
Brother Na-
tividad Suazo,
67, started sail-
ing with the
Seafarers in
2003 when he
worked on the
Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted
their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland water-
ways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members
who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those
members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days
ahead.
Welcome AshoreWelcome Ashore
Continued on next page
April 2022 Seafarers LOG 13
Sulphur Enterprise. A deck de-
partment member, Brother Suazo
concluded his career on the
Magnolia State. He lives in New
Orleans.
JACK WALKER
Brother Jack Walker, 65, em-
barked on his career with the
Seafarers in
1989, initially
sailing with
OLS Transport.
He was a deck
department
member and
upgraded at the
union-affiliated
Piney Point
school on multiple occasions.
Brother Walker last shipped
aboard the Liberator and resides
in San Clemente, California.
WALLACE WILLIAM
Brother Wallace William, 57,
signed on with the union in
1995. He first
sailed aboard
the USNS Able
and worked in
the deck depart-
ment. Brother
William up-
graded at the
Paul Hall Center
on numerous
occasions. He most recently
shipped on the Green Bay and is
a resident of Tampa, Florida.
BEVERLY WILLIAMS
Sister Beverly Williams, 70,
embarked on her career with the
SIU in 2000,
initially sail-
ing aboard the
USNS Assertive.
She upgraded
on multiple oc-
casions at the
Piney Point
school and pri-
marily shipped
in the deck department. Sister
Williams last sailed on the Ev-
ergreen State. She calls Crystal
River, Florida, home.
KEVIN WIMBLEY
Brother Kevin Wimbley, 65,
joined the Seafarers International
Union in 2006
when he sailed
on the Black
Eagle. He sailed
in the deck de-
partment and
upgraded on
numerous occa-
sions at the Paul
Hall Center.
Brother Wimb-
ley most recently shipped on the
Liberty and makes his home in
Rexford, Montana.
ELIJAH X
Brother Elijah X, 65, signed on
with the union in 1991, initially
sailing aboard the Sealift Pacific.
He sailed in the deck department
and concluded his career aboard
the USNS Gilliland. Brother X
lives in Fairfield, Alabama.
GREAT LAKES
JAMES FISHER
Brother James Fisher, 71, em-
barked on his career with the
Seafarers in
1974. He ini-
tially sailed on
the Southdown
Challenger and
was a deck de-
partment mem-
ber. Brother
Fisher last
shipped aboard
the St. Clair and resides in Har-
bor Springs, Michigan.
RICHARD METCALF
Brother Richard Metcalf, 65,
joined the union in 1979 and
first sailed on
the Monticello.
He worked in
the engine de-
partment and
upgraded at
the Piney Point
school on mul-
tiple occasions.
Brother Metcalf
last sailed on
the American Republic. He set-
tled in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
JOHN WAGNER
Brother John Wagner, 67, started
his career with the Seafarers in
1979 when he
shipped on the
Paul Thayer.
He sailed in
both the deck
and steward
departments
and upgraded at
the Piney Point
school within
his first year of membership.
Brother Wagner’s final vessel
was the William Roesch. He
makes his home in Girard, Penn-
sylvania.
INLAND
MICHAEL ALLEN
Brother Michael Allen, 65,
donned the SIU colors in 1995.
An engine department member,
he was employed by Westbank
Riverboat Services for most of
his career. Brother Allen is a resi-
dent of Meraux, Louisiana.
FULGENCIO ANAVIATATE
SANTIAGO
Brother Fulgencio Anaviatate
Santiago, 67, embarked on his
career with the Seafarers in 1977
when he shipped with Crowley
Puerto Rico Services. He was a
member of the deck department
and upgraded at the Piney Point
school in 1989. Brother Anavi-
atate Santiago was last employed
by Crowley Towing and Trans-
portation. He makes his home in
Puerto Rico.
SIDNEI BARBOZA
Brother Sidnei Barboza, 62,
signed on with the union in 2002,
initially sailing
aboard the USNS
Brittin. He sailed
in the engine
department and
upgraded at the
Paul Hall Cen-
ter on numer-
ous occasions.
Brother Barboza
last sailed aboard the Vision and
settled in Miami.
ROBERT CHAPMAN
Brother Robert Chapman, 65,
joined the Seafarers International
Union in 2007. He was a mem-
ber of the deck department and
upgraded at the Paul Hall Center
within his first year of member-
ship. Brother Chapman was em-
ployed by Allied Transportation
for the duration of his career. He
lives in Currituck, North Carolina.
RONALD DORTCH
Brother Ronald Dortch, 70,
started sailing with the Seafarers
in 1973. He was a deck depart-
ment member and worked for
Dravo Basic Materials for his
entire career. Brother Dortch re-
sides in East Brewton, Alabama.
FRANK GILL
Brother Frank Gill, 67, signed on
with the union in 1979. He first
sailed aboard the
Santa Maria and
was a member of
the deck depart-
ment. Brother
Gill upgraded
at the Paul Hall
Center in 2003.
He was last
employed by
Crowley Towing
and Transportation and makes his
home in Long Beach, California.
WILLIAM KELCH
Brother William Kelch, 66, joined
the SIU in 1977. He was first em-
ployed by G&H Towing and sailed
in the deck department. Brother
Kelch upgraded at the union-
affiliated Piney Point school on
multiple occasions. He concluded
his career with Crowley Towing
and Transportation and resides in
Coatesville, Pennsylvania.
STEVEN KONJOIAN
Brother Steven
Konjoian, 66,
donned the SIU
colors in 2003.
A deck depart-
ment member,
he upgraded on
multiple occa-
sions at the Paul
Hall Center. Brother Konjoian
worked for Crowley Towing and
Transportation for the duration of
his career. He is a resident of Port
Charlotte, Florida.
ERNEST LEE
Brother Ernest Lee, 67, em-
barked on his career with the SIU
in 1991 when
he sailed on the
American Cor-
morant. He was
a member of the
deck department
and upgraded at
the Piney Point
school in 2014.
Brother Lee’s
final vessel was the Legend. He
makes his home in Gretna, Loui-
siana.
MARIO LUIS
Brother Mario Luis, 65, joined
the Seafarers International Union
in 1996 when he sailed with
American Marine Corporation.
He sailed in the deck department
and remained with the same
company for duration of his ca-
reer. Brother Luis lives in Kailua,
Hawaii.
DARRYL NELSON
Brother Darryl Nelson, 62,
started sailing with the Seafar-
ers in 1979. He
first shipped
on the Bea-
ver State and
worked in the
deck depart-
ment. Brother
Nelson up-
graded at the
Paul Hall Cen-
ter on multiple
occasions. He last worked on
the Dodge Island and resides in
Mobile, Alabama.
MARSHALL NOVACK
Brother Marshall Novack, 67,
signed on with
the union in
1976. He sailed
in the deck
department
and initially
worked aboard
the Erna Eliza-
beth. Brother
Novack up-
graded at the Piney Point
school on numerous occasions.
He last worked with Crowley
Towing and Transportation
and makes his home in Laguna
Hills, California.
JACK PEGRAM
Brother Jack Pegram, 59,
joined the SIU in 1987. He was
a deck depart-
ment mem-
ber and first
shipped aboard
the Manhattan
Island. Brother
Pegram up-
graded often at
the Paul Hall
Center. He concluded his ca-
reer with G&H Towing and re-
sides in Corpus Christi, Texas.
JOHN SARES
Brother John Sares, 68, donned
the SIU colors in 1991, initially
sailing on the Cape Charles. An
engine department member, he
last sailed aboard the Missis-
sippi Queen. Brother Sares is a
resident of Skokie, Illinois.
MICHAEL TRAUGHBER
Brother Michael Traughber,
62, embarked on his career
with the SIU
in 1979 when
he shipped on
the Overseas
Washington.
He was a
member of the
deck depart-
ment and was
last employed
by Southbay Barge. Brother
Traughber makes his home in
San Pedro, California.
JOHN WOZUNK
Brother John Wozunk, 62,
joined the Seafarers Interna-
tional Union in 1978 when he
sailed with
American
Towing and
Transportation.
He worked in
both the deck
and engine
departments
and upgraded
at the Piney
Point school in 1979. Brother
Wozunk concluded his career
working for Crowley. He lives
in Blackwood, New Jersey.
PAUL WYLEMSKI
Brother Paul Wylemski, 63,
signed on with the union in
1995. He ini-
tially sailed with
Crowley Tow-
ing and Trans-
portation and
worked in both
the deck and
engine depart-
ments. Brother
Wylemski up-
graded at the Paul Hall Center in
2001. He last worked for Penn
Maritime and makes his home in
Newington, Georgia.
Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted
their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland water-
ways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members
who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those
members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days
ahead.
Welcome AshoreWelcome Ashore
Continued from Page 12
14 Seafarers LOG April 2022
DEEP SEA
MILES BLACK
Pensioner Miles
Black, 77, died
January 3. He
signed on with the
SIU in 1980, ini-
tially sailing aboard
the Manhattan.
Brother Black was
an engine depart-
ment member and
also worked on
shore gangs. He last worked for Car-
gotec Services and went on pension in
2006. Brother Black lived in Mount
Lake Terrace, Washington.
JOSEPH BOURGEOIS
Pensioner Joseph
Bourgeois, 97,
passed away
January 19. He
joined the union
in 1942 and first
sailed aboard the
Henry Baldwin. A
deck department
member, Brother
Bourgeois last
shipped on the Pioneer and retired
in 1985. He made his home in Citrus
Springs, Florida.
GREGORY BROYLES
Brother Gregory
Broyles, 58, died
December 2. Born
in Los Angeles,
he started sail-
ing with the SIU
in 1989. Brother
Broyles was a
steward depart-
ment member and
first shipped on
the Independence. He most recently
sailed aboard the Mahi Mahi and re-
sided in Norman, Oklahoma.
DAVID CLAYPOOL
Brother David Claypool, 60, passed
away December
13. He signed on
with the Seafar-
ers International
Union in 1994,
initially sailing
aboard the USNS
Bellatrix. Brother
Claypool sailed
in the engine de-
partment. He last
shipped on the Advantage in 2006
and called Kingman, Arizona, home.
CARLOS EBANKS
Pensioner Carlos Ebanks, 82, died
December 22. He began his career
with the Seafarers
in 2001. Brother
Ebanks was a deck
department mem-
ber and worked
on the Keystone
Texas for the dura-
tion of his career.
He went on pen-
sion in 2010 and
settled in Marrero,
Louisiana.
SYLVESTER FURTADO
Pensioner Sylvester Furtado, 101,
passed away Janu-
ary 15. He donned
the SIU colors as
a charter member
in 1939. Brother
Furtado was a
member of the
deck department
and first shipped
aboard the Robin
Doncaster. He last
sailed aboard the Del Viento before
retiring in 1982. Brother Furtado re-
sided in Williamsport, Maryland.
HENRY HAYES
Pensioner Henry Hayes, 78, died
January 4. A
steward depart-
ment member,
he started sailing
with the union
in 1990. Brother
Hayes’s first ves-
sel was the USNS
Pollux; his last,
the USNS Loyal.
He went on pen-
sion in 2008 and made his home in
Mobile, Alabama.
ADEL IRANI
Brother Adel Irani, 56, has passed
away. Born in India, he embarked
on his career with
the Seafarers In-
ternational Union
in 1999. Brother
Irani initially
sailed aboard the
Global Sentinel.
He worked in
both the deck and
engine depart-
ments and most
recently sailed on the Maersk Kin-
loss. Brother Irani was a resident of
Torrance, California.
RALPH KIRBY
Pensioner Ralph Kirby, 72, died
January 16. He
joined the SIU
in 1989 when
he sailed on the
John Paul Bobo.
Brother Kirby
shipped in the
deck department
and concluded
his career on the
Freedom. He be-
came a pensioner in 2014 and lived
in Port Charlotte, Florida.
ERIC MANLEY
Pensioner Eric Manley, 58, passed
away February
1. He first sailed
with the SIU in
1987, initially
working on the
Gemini. A stew-
ard department
member, Brother
Manley last
shipped on the
Cape Intrepid. He
retired in 2018 and was a resident of
Shelton, Washington.
KENNETH SMITH
Pensioner Kenneth Smith, 77, passed
away January 4. He joined the SIU
in 1986, initially sailing aboard the
USNS Assurance. Brother Smith was
a member of the deck department
and last sailed aboard the USNS
Heezen. He became a pensioner in
2016 and settled in Honolulu.
WILLIAM SMITH
Pensioner William Smith, 84, died
January 14. He
donned the SIU
colors in 1978. A
steward depart-
ment member,
Brother Smith
first shipped
aboard the Ma-
nukai. After
concluding his
career aboard the
Reliance, he went on pension in
2002. Brother Smith was a Hono-
lulu resident.
SANTOS THOMAS
Pensioner Santos Thomas, 72,
passed away October 1. He signed
on with the union
in 2001 and first
sailed aboard the
Chilbar. Brother
Thomas sailed
in the steward
department and
most recently
shipped aboard
the USNS Wat-
kins. He retired
in 2016 and settled in the Bronx,
New York.
EDDY USMANY
Pensioner Eddy Usmany, 81, died
January 7. He joined the Seafar-
ers International
Union in 1986.
Brother Usmany
initially shipped
aboard the USNS
Bowditch and
worked in the
steward depart-
ment. He became
a pensioner in
2009 after sail-
ing on his final vessel, the Yorktown
Express. Brother Usmany made his
home in Palm Coast, Florida.
EMERSON WALKER
Pensioner Emerson Walker, 92,
passed away February 5. He began
his career with the
SIU in 1965 when
he sailed on the
Iberville. Brother
Walker shipped
in the engine de-
partment and also
worked on shore
gangs. He was last
employed by Seal-
and and retired
in 1994. Brother Walker lived in La
Habra, California.
GREAT LAKES
EDWARD KRAUSE
Pensioner Edward Krause, 96, died
January 9. He joined the Seafarers
International Union in 1946. Brother
Krause was a deck department mem-
ber. He worked for Erie Navigation
for the duration of his career and re-
tired in 1988. Brother Krause called
Sandusky, Ohio, home.
NICKOLAS VERBANAC
Pensioner Nickolas Verbanac, 94,
passed away December 30. He
joined the SIU
in 1961 and first
sailed aboard
the J.A. Kling.
Brother Verbanac
was a member of
the deck depart-
ment. He last
shipped on the
J.A.W. Iglehart
and retired in
1997. Brother Verbanac made his
home in Toledo, Ohio.
INLAND
BRUCE BEAM
Pensioner Bruce Beam, 70, died
January 13. He
signed on with the
Seafarers in 2004.
Sailing in the en-
gine department,
Brother Beam
worked for G&H
Towing for the
duration of his ca-
reer. He went on
pension in 2019
and resided in La Marque, Texas.
IVEY BROWN
Pensioner Ivey Brown, 81, passed
away January 3.
He began sailing
with the union
in 1958, initially
working aboard
the Del Monte. A
deck department
member, Brother
Brown was last
employed by
OSG Ship Man-
agement. He became a pensioner
in 2003 and settled in Youngstown,
Florida.
MARY HOPKINS
Pensioner Mary Hopkins, 78, died
January 8. She embarked on her ca-
reer with the SIU in 1998 when she
worked with Orgulf Transport. Sister
Hopkins was a steward department
member and continued working for
the same company for the duration
of her career. She retired in 2008 and
made her home in Odessa, Missouri.
WILLIAM JUSTI
Pensioner William Justi, 92, passed
away January 30.
A steward depart-
ment member, he
joined the union
in 1975, initially
working for Tug
Management
Corp. Brother
Justi’s final vessel
was the Abby G.
He became a pen-
sioner in 2010 and
lived in Spring Hill, Florida.
TIMOTHY MACRURY
Pensioner Timothy MacRury, 66,
died January 13. He became a mem-
ber of the Seafarers International
Union in 1976 when he sailed with
H&M Lake Transport. Brother Ma-
cRury sailed in both the deck and
steward departments. He last worked
for OLS Transport and began col-
lecting his pension in 2020. Brother
MacRury resided in Port Huron,
Michigan.
KENNETH MCLAMB
Pensioner Kenneth McLamb, 69,
passed away January 22. He donned
the SIU colors in
1980 and initially
sailed on the
Overseas Joyce.
Brother McLamb
was a member of
the deck depart-
ment and most
recently sailed
aboard the Legacy
in 2016. He be-
came a pensioner the following year
and settled in Waynesville, North
Carolina.
DOUGLAS PARKER
Pensioner Douglas Parker, 66, died
November 29. He embarked on
his career with the union in 1974.
Brother Parker sailed in the deck
department and was employed by
Crowley Towing and Transporta-
tion for most of his career. He most
recently sailed in 1986, went on
pension in 2018 and lived in Jack-
sonville, Florida.
DEWEY ROUTH
Pensioner Dewey Routh, 95, passed
away January 28. He began his
career with the Seafarers in 1976,
initially working for Crowley Puerto
Rico Services. Brother Routh was
a deck department member. He last
shipped with Crowley Towing and
Transportation and made his home
in Jacksonville, Florida.
JOHN THOMAS
Pensioner John Thomas, 89, died
December 31. He embarked on his
career with the SIU in 1970 when
he worked with Steuart Transporta-
tion. Brother Thomas was an engine
department member. He was last
employed by STC Peggy S Corpora-
tion and went on pension in 1995.
Brother Thomas made his home in
Tangier, Virginia.
NMU
In addition to the foregoing individ-
uals, the following union members
have also passed away. Insufficient
information was available to de-
velop summaries of their respective
careers.
NAME AGE DOD
Alvarez, Ramon 77 01/24/2022
Bonilla, Pedro 88 01/07/2022
Broussard, Nelson 93 01/26/2022
Camarda, Frank 91 01/14/2022
Johnson, Solister 94 12/28/2021
Laboriel, Jorge 76 12/30/2021
Olan, Gilberto 85 02/02/2022
Powery, Wordsworth 93 01/12/2022
Rosario, Jorge 79 01/22/2022
Scott, Samuel 70 11/29/2021
Final Final
DeparturesDepartures
April 2022 Seafarers LOG 15
FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitu-
tion of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and In-
land Waters District makes specific provision
for safeguarding the membership’s money
and union finances. The constitution requires
a detailed audit by certified public accoun-
tants every year, which is to be submitted to
the membership by the secretary-treasurer.
A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file
members, elected by the membership, each
year examines the finances of the union and
reports fully their findings and recommenda-
tions. Members of this committee may make
dissenting reports, specific recommendations
and separate findings.
TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the
SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters
District are administered in accordance with
the provisions of various trust fund agree-
ments. All these agreements specify that the
trustees in charge of these funds shall equally
consist of union and management representa-
tives and their alternates. All expenditures and
disbursements of trust funds are made only
upon approval by a majority of the trustees.
All trust fund financial records are available
at the headquarters of the various trust funds.
SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s ship-
ping rights and seniority are protected exclu-
sively by contracts between the union and
the employers. Members should get to know
their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts
are posted and available in all union halls. If
members believe there have been violations of
their shipping or seniority rights as contained
in the contracts between the union and the em-
ployers, they should notify the Seafarers Ap-
peals Board by certified mail, return receipt
requested. The proper address for this is:
Augustin Tellez, Chairman
Seafarers Appeals Board
5201 Capital Gateway Drive
Camp Springs, MD 20746
Full copies of contracts as referred to are
available to members at all times, either by
writing directly to the union or to the Seafar-
ers Appeals Board.
CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU con-
tracts are available in all SIU halls. These
contracts specify the wages and conditions
under which an SIU member works and lives
aboard a ship or boat. Members should know
their contract rights, as well as their obliga-
tions, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the
proper sheets and in the proper manner. If,
at any time, a member believes that an SIU
patrolman or other union official fails to pro-
tect their contractual rights properly, he or she
should contact the nearest SIU port agent.
EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEA-
FARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG tradition-
ally has refrained from publishing any article
serving the political purposes of any individual
in the union, officer or member. It also has re-
frained from publishing articles deemed harm-
ful to the union or its collective membership.
This established policy has been reaffirmed
by membership action at the September 1960
meetings in all constitutional ports. The respon-
sibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an
editorial board which consists of the executive
board of the union. The executive board may
delegate, from among its ranks, one individual
to carry out this responsibility.
PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are
to be paid to anyone in any official capacity
in the SIU unless an official union receipt
is given for same. Under no circumstances
should any member pay any money for any
reason unless he is given such receipt. In the
event anyone attempts to require any such
payment be made without supplying a receipt,
or if a member is required to make a payment
and is given an official receipt, but feels that
he or she should not have been required to
make such payment, this should immediately
be reported to union headquarters.
CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND
OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Con-
stitution are available in all union halls. All
members should obtain copies of this consti-
tution so as to familiarize themselves with its
contents. Any time a member feels any other
member or officer is attempting to deprive
him or her of any constitutional right or ob-
ligation by any methods, such as dealing with
charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details,
the member so affected should immediately
notify headquarters.
EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guar-
anteed equal rights in employment and as
members of the SIU. These rights are clearly
set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the
contracts which the union has negotiated
with the employers. Consequently, no mem-
ber may be discriminated against because of
race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic
origin.
If any member feels that he or she is de-
nied the equal rights to which he or she is
entitled, the member should notify union
headquarters.
SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY
DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate
segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to fur-
ther its objects and purposes including, but not
limited to, furthering the political, social and
economic interests of maritime workers, the
preservation and furthering of the American
merchant marine with improved employment
opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the
advancement of trade union concepts. In con-
nection with such objects, SPAD supports and
contributes to political candidates for elective
office. All contributions are voluntary. No con-
tribution may be solicited or received because
of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal,
or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of
membership in the union or of employment. If
a contribution is made by reason of the above
improper conduct, the member should notify
the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by
certified mail within 30 days of the contribu-
tion 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 interests, and
American trade union concepts.
NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any
time a member feels that any of the above
rights have been violated, or that he or she has
been denied the constitutional right of access
to union records or information, the member
should immediately notify SIU President Mi-
chael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail,
return receipt requested. The address is:
Michael Sacco, President
Seafarers International Union
5201 Capital Gateway Drive
Camp Springs, MD 20746
Know Your Rights Know Your Rights
Digest of Shipboard Digest of Shipboard
Union MeetingsUnion Meetings
The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as pos-
sible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted.
Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requir-
ing attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes.
The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication.
LONE STAR STATE (Intrepid
Personnel and Provisioning),
November 21 – Chairman Lio-
nel Rivas, Secretary Martin
Buck, Educational Director
Teon Shelton. Chairman noted
this was first union meet-
ing since re-crewing vessel.
He encouraged everyone to
keep documents updated and
stressed shipboard safety and
mutual respect. He thanked
SIU and Seafarers Plans of-
ficials “for keeping our jobs
safe and our benefits intact.”
Secretary welcomed everyone
aboard. Educational director
encouraged fellow mariners
to upgrade at union-affiliated
school in Piney Point, Mary-
land. No beefs or disputed
OT reported. Crew requested
shipboard Wi-Fi and asked that
this subject be included in next
contract negotiations. Next
port: Lake Charles, Louisiana.
OVERSEAS MYKONOS
(Overseas Ship Management),
January 1 – Chairman John
O’Shaughnessy, Secretary
Juan Vallejo Hernandez,
Educational Director Pat-
rick Montgomery, Steward
Delegate Mohammad Abou
Abdou. Members reviewed old
business including discussions
of increasing pension and vaca-
tion benefits, and Wi-Fi and
computer access aboard ship.
Chairman gave thanks to the
steward department for doing
a great job during the holidays.
He reminded everyone to keep
documents up to date and reit-
erated the importance of safety.
On behalf of crew, secretary
praised SIU Executive Vice
President Augustin Tellez for
his great work at the White
House. He instructed members
to separate garbage and to keep
rooms clean. Educational di-
rector urged crew to upgrade
at the Piney Point school and
to check the SIU website for
upgrading courses. No beefs or
disputed OT reported. Mem-
bers revisited suggestions to
increase pension pay and asked
for a higher food budget.
USNS WATERS (Ocean Shi-
pholdings, Inc.), January 16
– Secretary Charles Sassone,
Educational Director Randy
Slue, Deck Delegate Troy
Glatter. Crew waiting on ar-
rival of new bosun to elect a
chairman. Educational director
encouraged members to take
advantage of the upgrading
opportunities at the Paul Hall
Center, which will increase in-
dividual earning potential. No
beefs or disputed OT reported.
Members requested pay in-
creases, penalty pay for ship
restriction, Wi-Fi access and
a better satellite phone. Crew
asked for new mattresses and
better pillows. Next port: Cape
Canaveral, Florida.
INDEPENDENCE (TOTE
Services), February 2 –
Chairman Edward Wright,
Secretary Gerald Hyman,
Educational Director Marcos
Arriola, Deck Delegate James
Armer, Steward Delegate
Anthony Parks. Chairman
thanked crew for staying
diligent in their duties and
keeping positive attitudes de-
spite delays during trip. He
informed members of upcom-
ing shipyard period that will
extend the normal length of
the trip. Educational director
reminded crew to stay up to
date with required immuniza-
tions, physicals and Coast
Guard documents. No beefs or
disputed OT reported. Secre-
tary announced a higher food
budget, citing the rising prices
of food during COVID-19
pandemic. Ship placed under
MSC charter midway through
voyage. Crew restricted to
ship in Asian ports. Members
would like to see current
agreement replaced with SIU
Standard Freightship Agree-
ment. Members requested
monthly payment increases for
pensioners. Next port: Corpus
Christi, Texas.
HORIZON PACIFIC (Sun-
rise Operations), February 5
– Chairman Josesimo Baler-
ite, Secretary Todd Curry,
Deck Delegate Paul Dilbeck,
Engine Delegate Anthony
Henry, Steward Delegate
Kenneth Huddleston. Chair-
man talked about safety
aboard the vessel and advised
crew to leave clean rooms
for oncoming members. He
emphasized importance of
wearing masks and using
gloves at the serving line.
Secretary recommended crew
go to Piney Point to upgrade.
He also recommended donat-
ing to SPAD, the union’s vol-
untary political action fund.
No beefs or disputed OT
reported. Members discussed
COVID testing and were re-
minded to show up to ship on
time for reliefs. Steward de-
partment was thanked for nice
dinners that were put out for
Christmas and New Year’s.
Union representative was
requested on ship for payoff.
Wi-Fi needs to be fixed for
better connection. Members
expressed their appreciation
for direct deposit. Next port:
Oakland, California.
With Seafarers on Horizon Pacific
Gathering for a union meeting aboard the Sunrise Operations vessel in Oakland, California, are (from
left) Recertified Steward Ronald Davis, SIU Port Agent J.B. Niday, SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone,
Electrician Aaron Ellis and Bosun Josesimo Balerite.
16 Seafarers LOG April 2022
UPGRADING APPLICATION
Name_________________________________________________________________________
Address_______________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________
Date of Birth___________________________________________________________________
Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o
If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed.
Social Security #_______________________ Book #__________________________________
Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________
Home Port____________________________________________________________________
E-mail_______________________________________________________________________
Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No
If yes, class # and dates attended_ __________________________________________________
Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No
_____________________________________________________________________________
With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five
(125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your
department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested.
Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date.
I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this applica-
tion, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application
to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply
for any benefits which might become due to me.
COURSE START DATE OF
DATE COMPLETION
____________________________ _______________ ________________________
____________________________ _______________ ________________________
____________________________ _______________ ________________________
____________________________ _______________ ________________________
____________________________ _______________ ________________________
____________________________ _______________ ________________________
LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________
Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________
SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________
NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if
you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any
questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are
reimbursable. Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Train-
ing and Education Admissions Office, Email:upgrading@seafarers.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 stu-
dents, who are otherwise qualified, or any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with
applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or
activities.
4/22
The following is a list of courses that currently are scheduled to be held at the
Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland
during the next several months. More courses may be added. Course additions and
cancellations are subject to change due to COVID-19 protocols. All programs are
geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American
maritime industry.
Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the
Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010.
Title of Start Date of
Course Date Completion
Gap Closing Courses
MSC Storekeeper Basic May 2 May 20
MSC Ship Clip June 6 June 17
MSC Supply Configuration Management May 23 June 3
Deck Department Upgrading Courses
Able Seafarer-Deck May 23 June 10
August 29 September 16
October 17 November 4
Lifeboat/Water Survival April 11 April 22
May 9 May 20
June 6 June 17
August 1 August 12
August 29 September 9
Fast Rescue Boat June 20 June 24
August 22 August 26
RFPNW April 25 May 13
June 27 July 15
July 25 August 12
Leadership and Management Skills August 8 August 12
Advanced Shiphandling August 22 September 2
Advanced Meteorology September 12 September 16
Advanced Stability September 5 September 9
Engine Department Upgrading Courses
RFPEW April 25 May 20
July 25 August 19
FOWT June 13 July 8
August 29 September 23
Junior Engineer July 11 September 2
Marine Electrician May 16 June 17
Marine Refer Tech September 19 October 28
Advanced Refer Containers July 18 July 29
Title of Start Date of
Course Date Completion
Engine Department Upgrading Courses
Welding April 25 May 13
June 6 June 24
July 11 July 29
Engineroom Resource Management August 1 August 5
Steward Department Upgrading Courses
Certified Chief Cook April 25 May 27
May 30 July 1
July 11 August 12
August 15 September 16
ServSafe Management April 18 April 22
May 23 May 27
July 4 July 8
Advanced Galley Operations June 20 July 15
August 15 September 9
October 10 November 4
Chief Steward May 9 June 3
July 18 August 12
September 12 October 7
Safety/Open Upgrading Courses
Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting September 19 September 23
Medical Care Provider April 11 April 15
Basic Training June 6 June 10
August 8 August 12
Basic Training Revalidation April 22 April 22
May 6 May 6
June 3 June 3
June 10 June 10
Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation August 29 September 2
December 12 December 16
Government Vessels April 11 April 15
April 25 April 29
May 9 May 13
June 13 June 17
June 27 July 1
Tank Ship-DL (PIC) October 24 October 28
Tank Ship Familiarization DL May 2 May 6
June 27 July 1
October 24 October 28
Tank Ship Familiarization LG May 9 May 13
May 23 May 27
August 15 August 19S
Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course DatesPaul Hall Center Upgrading Course Dates
April 2022 Seafarers LOG 17
Important Notice
To all Students
Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever
reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students
take their places.
Paul Hall Center ClassesPaul Hall Center Classes
Apprentice Water Survival Class #878 – Graduated January 28 (above, in alphabetical order): Marcantony Arcila, Tyler Bean, Corey Bellezza, Alexander Bennett, Deyni Steven
Camacho Fernandez, Dashiel Depaulis, Nathan Dixon, Mark Ina Jr., Jordan Jeffries, Matthew Kaufmann, Joseph Lucas, Dahlia Grace Puaokuupuuwai Milsap, Kyara Isabel Nunez,
Riley Russ, Kamron Stripling, Jeremy Stultz, Steven Ware and Kenneth Wilson.
Apprentice Water Survival Class #879 – Graduated February 25 (above, in alphabetical order): Mukhtar Ali, Jarrett Conkey, Alondra Delgado, Matthew Epstein, Parker Hampton,
Kyle Jolivette, Derrel Oliver, De’andre Peden, Markalle Redd, Darryl Shack Jr., and Mark Stookey.
18 Seafarers LOG April 2022
Paul Hall Center ClassesPaul Hall Center Classes
RFPNW (Phase III) – Graduated February 11 (above, in alphabetical order): Joseph Bates, Brandon Coleman, Martin Cox, Johncarlo Garibaldi, Nathaniel Howard, Cordera Looney,
Noah Pittman, Richard Russ Jr., and Emilie Whitlow. Upon the completion of their training, each plans to work in the deck departments aboard SIU-crewed vessels.
Government Vessels – Graduated February 18 (above, in alphabetical order): Rizaldy Manalopilar Ano Jr., Daniel Avery, Julian De Los Santos, Lydia Dye, Herb Gulliford, Lionel Hall,
Leroy Harris, Terry Herndon, Noah Hughes, Heather Lassiter, Tiara MacKlin, Ethan Martell, Dindo Prellagera Reforsado, Edsel Auguis Renegado, Tameka Scott, Adam Felix Soto
and Tyrone Wilson.
Water Survival (Upgraders) – Graduated February 25 (above, from left): Venise Spears
and Ronald Burris.
Advanced Reefer Container Maintenance – Graduated February 18 (above, from left):
M’barek Nouhairi and Gajatri Normatova. Mike Faye, their instructor, is at the far right.
April 2022 Seafarers LOG 19
Paul Hall Center ClassesPaul Hall Center Classes
Students who have reg-
istered for classes at
the Paul Hall Center
for Maritime Training
and Education, but later
discover - for whatever
reason - that they can’t
attend, should inform the
admissions department
immediately so arrange-
ments can be made to
have other students take
their places.
Important Notice
To All Students
Junior Engineer (Plant Main-
tenance) – Graduated February
18 (left, in alphabetical order):
Carlos Marcos Gutierrez, Lu-
zern Hawkins, John Jaremchuk
III, Jorge Yakeny Laboriel Lalin,
Zion Lyons, Kelly Percy, Brandon
Thornton, Neil Laconsay Tupas,
Harry Whitney IV and Fernandez
Lacpta Wilcox Jr.
Advanced Galley Ops – Graduated February 18 (above, in alphabetical order): Jose
Felipe Clotter, Emmanuel De Gracia Matias, Melissa McCartney and Lareesa Warren.
(Note: Not all are pictured.)
Chief Cook Assessment Program – Graduated February 25 (above, in alphabetical
order): Roslyn Anderson, Orin Galvez Godfrey Jr., Rahman Phillip and Brian Alberto Rojas
Perez.
Certified Chief Cook (Mod-
ule 5) – Graduated February
11 (photo at left, in alphabetical
order): Erik Bain, Jessica Davis,
Julian De Los Santos, Eliezer
Estremera, Deon Greenidge,
Hussein Abdul Hussein, Chris-
topher Kluth, Tracey Manuel,
Latara Rengifo and Anthony
Roman.
20 Seafarers LOG April 2022
O F F I C I A L P U B L I C A T I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N A T I O N A L U N I O N A T L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W A T E R S , A F L - C I O
APRIL 2022 VOLUME 84, NO. 4
Paul Hall CenterPaul Hall Center
Class PhotosClass Photos
Pages 17-19Pages 17-19
SIU Safety Directors Meet for Yearly TrainingSIU Safety Directors Meet for Yearly Training
On March 8, SIU safety direc-
tors from across the country met
virtually for a series of training
sessions and presentations designed
to provide the team members with
up-to-date information.
The SIU safety directors who
attended the virtual meeting in-
cluded Amber Akana, Ben Ander-
son, James Brown, Gordon Godel,
Anthony Houston, Gerret Jarman,
Joseph Koncul, Andre MacCray,
Kevin Marchand, Osvaldo Ramos
and Kevin Sykes. Additional meet-
ing participants included SIU
President Michael Sacco, SIU
Executive Vice President Augustin
Tellez, SIU Secretary-Treasurer
David Heindel, SIU Vice President
Contracts George Tricker, Paul
Hall Center Vice President Tom
Orzechowski, Paul Hall Center As-
sistant Vice President Bart Rogers,
Paul Hall Center Vocational Direc-
tor Wayne Johnson Jr., Culinary
Instruction Coordinator John Het-
manski and SIU Piney Point Port
Agent Mario Torrey.
MacCray said, “Regardless of
whether it is in person or via video
conferencing, the safety meeting
is always productive. This last one
shared some useful information
regarding recruiting, shipboard
safety, the future direction of the
union and much more.
Johnson Jr. remarked, “It’s
always good for the different
departments at the school to com-
municate with the safety directors
during these meetings. It gives us
all an opportunity to educate our-
selves on each other’s processes,
discuss industry updates and/or
changes, and review our strengths,
shortcomings and potential solu-
tions.”
Topics covered during the meet-
ing included COVID-19, shipboard
safety trends, sanitation, and the
latest details from the Recruiting
and Contract offices.
Introduced in the House of Representatives at the end of
February, the Safer Seas Act aims to combat sexual assault
and sexual harassment (SASH) in the maritime industry.
It was introduced by Chair of the House Committee on
Transportation and Infrastructure Peter DeFazio (D-Ore-
gon) along with 17 co-sponsors, and the bill has since been
referred to the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime
Transportation.
According to the subcommittee, the bill:
nClarifies the Coast Guard’s ability to deny, suspend,
or revoke a merchant mariner credential to individuals who
have been convicted of sexual harassment or sexual assault;
n Strengthens transparency surrounding companies’
sexual assault policies and procedures;
n Protects victims and witnesses who report SASH in-
cidents from discrimination;
nDirects the Coast Guard to initiate rulemaking to de-
termine safe levels of alcohol consumption by crew mem-
bers aboard vessels;
n Outlines surveillance requirements, which may be
used as evidence in criminal or marine safety investiga-
tions;
nCreates a master key control system to limit the per-
sonnel who have access to private spaces;
n Requires reporting to the Coast Guard by any sea-
farer, master, or vessel owner with knowledge of sexual
harassment or sexual assault;
n Extends the right to civil action for those pursuing
sexual assault and sexual harassment cases;
n Provides the Secretary of Transportation the ability
to waive requirements for U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
students who provide reasonable safety concerns when ob-
taining a merchant mariner license required for graduation;
and
nAdds definitions for sexual assault and harassment.
“We are taking a critical step toward eliminating
sexual violence in the maritime industry,” DeFazio said.
“With this legislation, we can help fight assault and ha-
rassment in maritime transportation through penalties
for perpetrators, new requirements for vessel owners,
expanded legal recourse for victims, and a myriad of
policies to prevent sexual assault and harassment in
the first place. I look forward to working with my col-
leagues to get this legislation signed into law and protect
hard-working seafarers.”
“As chairman of the Maritime Transportation Subcom-
mittee, I’ve heard heartbreaking stories from survivors of
sexual assault, harassment, and abuse from within our mar-
itime industry – and I know that keeping our seas safe is a
mission that will not be complete without eradicating these
threats to our seafarers,” said Carbajal. “The Safer Seas Act
will focus not just on preventing future sexual violence,
but also on supporting survivors and holding perpetrators
accountable.”
The bill is supported by maritime unions, including the
SIU, AMO, MEBA and the Maritime Trades Department,
AFL-CIO.
“We applaud the efforts of the Committee to work with
maritime labor and the industry to create meaningful re-
forms that will ensure safe and equitable workplaces for
mariners now and in the future,” said Greg Regan president
of Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO.
Oregon CongressmanOregon Congressman
Introduces Safer Seas Act Introduces Safer Seas Act
In House of RepresentativesIn House of Representatives
Attendees converse in person (at the Paul Hall Center) and via online connection.
Taking part in the meeting from Piney Point, Maryland, are (from left) SIU Secretary-Treasurer David
Heindel, Paul Hall Center Asst. VP Bart Rogers, Paul Hall Center Vocational Director Wayne Johnson Jr.,
Paul Hall Center VP Tom Orzechowski and SIU President Michael Sacco.
O F F I C I A L P U B L I C A T I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N A T I O N A L U N I O N A T L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W A T E R S , A F L - C I O
AFL-CIO Slams Proposed Open Register
Page 2
SIU members are sailing aboard the newly reflagged Stena Polaris (above), an outright addition to the Crowley fleet. The company was awarded a Defense Department contract for
time charter of an “ice class” tanker that is expected to last for nearly five years. The Stena Polaris reflagged last month in Jacksonville, Florida. Built in 2010, the ship is 600 feet long.
Crowley Adds Tanker Stena Polaris
President Biden on March 5 hosted a labor roundtable in Wilmington, Delaware, during which he listened to union officials and reiterated his strong backing of the labor movement.
He also reaffirmed his support of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Biden is pictured in front, second from left. AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler is kneeling at far left. SIU Executive VP Augie
Tellez is in the second row (sixth from right), behind the president’s left shoulder. Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh, who also addressed the group, is standing at far left. Page 3.
Administration Underscores Support for UnionsAdministration Underscores Support for Unions
Unions Ready to Mobilize
Page 3
2 Seafarers LOG April 2022
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 & Managing Editor/
Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Nick Merrill;
Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes. Copyright ©
2022 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights
Reserved.
Volume 82 Number 4 April 2022
The SIU online: www.seafarers.org
The Seafarers International
Union engaged an environ-
mentally friendly printer
for the production of this
newspaper.
Reversed to White
Reversed to White
O F F I C I A L P U B L I C A T I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N A T I O N A L U N I O N A T L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W A T E R S , A F L - C I O
Ready to Deliver
President’s ReportPresident’s Report
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine remains the dominant story worldwide, and
it definitely affects not just the maritime industry from a business standpoint
but also, more importantly, the people who work in it. Through our affiliation
with the International Transport Workers’ Federation, the SIU is doing what-
ever we can to ensure the wellbeing of Ukrainian
civilian mariners – and Russian civilian mariners,
too.
We also stand ready to mobilize if needed, as
America’s fourth arm of defense. Understandably,
we’re cautious in what is reported at certain times.
Suffice it to say, we’ve always delivered and we
always will.
If the global pandemic caused many of us to
view our lives at least a little differently and more
appreciatively, the Russian invasion has done so
in a most appalling way. The SIU joins with the
AFL-CIO in condemning the violent invasion.
We stand in solidarity with the workers and their
families who are impacted by the devastation, and
offer our condolences for lives that have been lost.
We also join the global labor movement and
our other allies in calling for an immediate end
to Vladimir Putin’s military aggression, and we support extensive economic
sanctions imposed by the United States and the European Union, particularly
those focused on Putin and his protectors.
Ukrainian unions have struggled for decades to guarantee the interna-
tionally recognized right to organize and bargain collectively. Unions have
courageously fought corruption that is widespread in the Ukrainian economy.
All these brave efforts by Ukraine’s unions are now threatened by the Russian
military invasion, which is destroying the basic democratic rights of freedom
of association, assembly and speech that are necessary for all effective trade
union action.
The Russian government’s invasion of Ukraine flagrantly violates inter-
national law and undermines the right of Ukraine and of all nations to self-
determination free from the threat of violence. The consequences of the attack
on Ukraine are vast – tens of thousands of lives may be lost, while millions
of people already have been displaced. Countries will need to house, feed and
support the many refugees fleeing the violence. Putin’s war jeopardizes inter-
national peace and global economic recovery. Workers and their families are
still struggling with the COVID-19 pandemic, and can ill afford the higher oil
and food prices and further disruption to the supply chains this war is causing.
The SIU will do everything within our power to support our brothers and
sisters in Ukraine.
Wins for Maritime
As reported elsewhere in this edition, the newly passed government
spending bill contained several important victories for the U.S. maritime
industry. These wins don’t happen without a sustained effort to elect and edu-
cate pro-maritime legislators and pro-maritime administrations. That is why
the SIU remains politically active and why we ask our rank-and-file members
to support SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund.
Funding for the Maritime Security Program, Tanker Security Program,
and Cable Security Fleet is a collective dose of great news not just for the
SIU but for the entire country. These programs are important to U.S. national,
economic and homeland security. I applaud the efforts and votes of everyone
who supports them.
Jones Act
Whenever I believe that Jones Act critics have hit a new low, they slither
even lower. That’s been the case recently when a few absolutely nonsensi-
cal articles were posted with the claims that America’s freight cabotage law
somehow is driving up gasoline prices. Those preposterous pundits also sug-
gest that waiving the Jones Act would be in order.
Let’s get a couple of things crystal clear. There is plenty of U.S.-flag ves-
sel capacity to handle any voyages transporting oil within the United States.
And – here’s the real news – a waiver of the Jones Act for gasoline would
only benefit oil traders.
The Jones Act has protected our nation for more than a century and it re-
mains one of the soundest policies on the books.
Michael Sacco
Editor’s note: This letter was posted on the
SIU website on Feb. 21, 2022, and it has been
circulated on Capitol Hill. It was written in re-
sponse to the governor’s public support for a pro-
posed second register. Visit the SIU website and/
or check last month’s LOG for additional cover-
age of the proposed second register.
Dear Governor Bryan:
On behalf of the Seafarers International Union
(SIU), which has maintained a strong presence
in the U.S. Virgin Islands for more than a half-
century, we are perplexed by your recently an-
nounced partnership with a for-profit maritime
school that charges $22,000 per year for tuition.
The SIU – which represents thousands of
USVI residents via our affiliated United Indus-
trial Workers – has an associated school in Mary-
land offering U.S. Coast Guard-approved courses
for entry-level mariners and for experienced
seafarers. The school – the Paul Hall Center for
Maritime Training and Education – is highly re-
garded throughout the industry and it does not
charge tuition.
We provide viable career paths, and we also
have immediate job openings for credentialed
mariners. Our union has contracts with the vast
majority of American-flag deep-sea vessel opera-
tors, plus collective bargaining agreements with
several major inland tugboat companies. Those
contracts, typically including excellent pay and
benefits, mean ample job opportunities for Sea-
farers.
Additionally, graduates of our apprentice pro-
gram (which is certified by the U.S. Department
of Labor) are guaranteed a first job aboard a U.S.-
flag vessel.
This would seem to offer a far more attrac-
tive opportunity for USVI residents than the one
you publicly committed to. Our training facilities
and curriculums are second to none; our school
doesn’t charge tuition; and we’ve got plenty of
jobs for our members.
We welcome the chance to work with you to
explore training and career opportunities for our
fellow citizens from the USVI.
Sincerely,
Michael Sacco
President, Seafarers International Union
SIU President Pens Open Letter
To Governor of U.S. Virgin Islands
Industry Secures Full Funding
For Tankers, MSP, Cable Ships
The maritime industry fared well in the recently
approved federal spending bill.
Congress in early March passed the Consoli-
dated Appropriations Act of 2022. The $1.5 trillion
omnibus package includes full funding for the new
U.S. Tanker Security Program (TSP), the U.S. Mar-
itime Security Program (MSP), and for two U.S.-
flag cable ships.
Originally approved near the end of the year
2020, the TSP calls for an initial fleet of 10 U.S.-
flag tankers. The program, strongly backed by U.S.
military leaders, will decrease reliance on foreign-
flag ships and foreign crews.
The MSP, enacted in 1996 and extended several
times since then, provides stipends for a fleet of 60
civilian-crewed, militarily useful vessels available
to the Defense Department as needed.
The spending bill, which was signed into law
March 15 by President Biden, moved along at what
one pundit called “the congressional version of
warp speed.” It passed in the House less than 24
hours after introduction and then cleared the Senate
a day later, on March 11.
However, passage also followed months of
delay and three continuing resolutions that al-
lowed the government to operate. A shutdown
would have occurred March 11 at midnight with-
out either another continuing resolution or passage
of the bill.
The bill reportedly contains $730 billion in
non-Defense spending and $782 billion in Defense
spending. It further includes a separate $13.6 billion
in aid for Ukraine. It provides government funding
through September 2022.
AFL-CIO Opposes Open Register
The AFL-CIO Executive Council on March 15
unanimously adopted a statement opposing a proposed
open register in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
SIU President Michael Sacco, the council’s lon-
gest-serving member, provided background on the
situation to other board members (see related story,
this page).
In part, the statement reads, “American merchant
mariners are the gold standard for the world in terms
of safety and training. From iron ore for steel mills
along the Great Lakes to food aid to hungry citizens
in Africa, from materiel for American armed forces
stationed around the world to vital household goods at
domestic ports, they deliver.
“For generations, foreign interests and their allies
have tried to find ways to circumvent the nation’s
labor and tax laws to take good jobs away from hard-
working Americans,” the statement continues. “The
latest effort, announced last month, calls for the cre-
ation of a so-called open registry for the U.S. Virgin
Islands. As outlined, this initiative would take cargo
from U.S.-flag vessels, crewed by American citizens,
and place it on vessels that do not use American crews,
do not pay American taxes and do not meet Ameri-
can safety and labor standards. This attempt to create
a flag of convenience using the U.S. Virgin Islands is
wrong and harmful to American workers.”
The statement concludes, “The AFL-CIO joins
with the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO; the
Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO; and the
Metal Trades Department, AFL-CIO in calling upon
the Biden Administration, the Congress, the Depart-
ment of Defense and the Maritime Administration to
reject any effort that U.S. Virgin Islands-flag vessels
be treated as if they are the same as U.S.-flag, U.S.-
crewed for any purpose or for any program. At the
same time, we reiterate our commitment to work with
the Biden Administration and the Congress to achieve
a more robust, commercially viable U.S.-flag, U.S.-
crewed fleet that will continue to protect America’s
economic, military and homeland security.”
Previously, a joint statement from shipboard mari-
time unions including the SIU pointed out, “The pro-
posed U.S. Virgin Islands flag of convenience open
registry will not benefit the United States nor Ameri-
ca’s maritime industry, any more than any other sec-
ond or open registry benefits a national flag country.
In fact, the establishment and growth of second reg-
istries by other industrialized nations has done little
more than decimate their national flag fleets to the
point that they are no longer able to provide the req-
uisite military security and logistical support to their
flag nations.”
Executive Council Adopts Statement Denouncing Plan
AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler (left) and SIU Presi-
dent Michael Sacco
April 2022 Seafarers LOG 3
Maritime Labor Backs President Biden
On Ukraine, Sanctions Against Russia
The presidents of six American mari-
time unions, including SIU President Mi-
chael Sacco, sent a letter to President Biden
underscoring their support for his handling
of the war in Ukraine and reaffirming the
availability of the U.S. Merchant Marine.
Dated March 9, the letter conveys the
unions’ “strong support for the actions you
are taking to combat the horrific and un-
justified attack by Russia against Ukraine.
This unprovoked attack not only threat-
ens the right of freedom-loving people in
Ukraine to continue to live in a democracy
but poses the most serious threat to our
friends and allies in Europe since World
War II.”
The union presidents pointed out that
U.S. mariners always answer the nation’s
call, and will do so again if needed.
“As they did during World War II and in
every conflict and international emergency
before and since, the men and women of
the United States-flag merchant marine
stand ready to do what we can to support
the strongest possible economic responses
necessary to bring this conflict to a quick
and successful conclusion,” the letter
noted. “To this end, we strongly endorse
your decision to end all oil and natural gas
imports from Russia as well as the imposi-
tion of additional rigorous trade sanctions
against Russia as deemed appropriate.
“We understand and appreciate that
these actions will likely have a negative
economic impact on many of our fellow
citizens and many of our members who are
still struggling to recover from the impact
of the COVID-19 pandemic,” the labor
leaders continued. “However, the men and
women of the United States-flag merchant
marine also understand that such a sacri-
fice is once again necessary in order for
our country to provide the leadership the
rest of the free world has come to expect
and rely upon.”
They concluded, “As our nation’s fourth
arm of defense, the United States-flag mer-
chant marine and its cadre of American
merchant mariners have a unique role and
proud tradition of service to our country in
time of war or other emergency. We again
stand ready to work with you and your
Administration to provide the support and
service our country needs.”
Signing the letter were Sacco; Sailors’
Union of the Pacific President Dave Con-
nolly; American Maritime Officers Presi-
dent Paul Doell; International Organization
of Masters, Mates & Pilots President Don
Marcus; Marine Firemen’s Union Presi-
dent Anthony Poplawski; and Marine En-
gineers’ Beneficial Association President
Adam Vokac.
Meanwhile, the Joint Negotiating
Group (JNG) and the International Trans-
port Workers’ Federation (ITF) have des-
ignated areas in the Black Sea and the Sea
of Azov as “Warlike Operations Areas,”
triggering an increased security level and
other entitlements for foreign mariners in
the war zone.
The designation was agreed at an emer-
gency in early March. Discussions focused
on repatriation, payment of wages, safe
transit and respect of individual seafarers’
rights, particularly for mariners from the
region.
The JNG and ITF negotiate and ensure
application of the International Bargain-
ing Forum (IBF) agreement, which is the
only international collective bargaining
agreement covering terms and conditions
for seafarers in international trade on more
than 9,000 ships.
“The escalation in hostilities and con-
flict in Ukraine has put enormous pressure
on seafarers of all nations and an industry
already laboring under the demands and
challenges of the pandemic,” the organiza-
tions said in a joint statement. “The parties
agreed that the welfare of seafarers and the
protection of their rights in this unprec-
edented situation was paramount to the
spirit and intent of the IBF agreement.”
They added, “The facilitation of support
from governments worldwide for potential
refugee arrangements for Ukrainian sea-
farers and their families was also consid-
ered. The social partners agreed to increase
pressure on governments to waive visas for
Ukrainian seafarers to ease their repatria-
tion.”
The JNG consists of the International
Maritime Employers’ Council (IMEC),
the International Mariners Management
Association of Japan (IMMAJ), the Ko-
rean Shipowners Association (KSA), and
Taiwan-based company Evergreen.
The ITF, to which the SIU is affili-
ated, has member organizations around
the world who collectively represent more
than 20 million transport workers.
A major maritime coalition recently sent a let-
ter to President Biden to address misconceptions
about the Jones Act. Specifically, the letter ad-
dressed the transportation of crude oil and other
energy cargoes in the United States in light of the
Russian invasion of Ukraine.
It was sent by the American Maritime Partner-
ship (AMP), to which the SIU is affiliated.
“We appreciate your support and the over-
whelming, bipartisan support in Congress for the
Jones Act,” the letter began. “Ukraine is a lesson
that America must provide for its self-defense
and economy, and that the 650,000 U.S. men and
women of American Maritime will continue to
move what our nation needs, including energy.”
The coalition further pointed out the following:
n There is more than adequate American ves-
sel capacity to address any requirements to trans-
port oil within the United States.
nA waiver of the Jones Act for gasoline would
only benefit oil traders. U.S. consumers would
not benefit.
n The recent dramatic increase in gas prices
has overwhelmingly been driven by the increase
in crude oil prices, which have risen by nearly
57% in just over two months.
n Congress has expressed its concern about en-
suring that American vessels are used to move oil
from the strategic petroleum reserve (SPR) before
considering the possibility of Jones Act waivers.
n Jones Act waivers outsource U.S. jobs and
undermine American security.
AMP followed the last point by stating, “Now
is certainly not the time to issue waivers that
replace American companies and mariners with
vessel operators and mariners from other nations.
The domestic maritime industry has kept our na-
tion supplied during the pandemic and the result-
ing supply chain crisis with consistent, reliable
service. It would be both ironic and insulting to
take jobs away from these Americans now, at a
time of rising inflation and global uncertainty. It
is particularly egregious that some have called
for Jones Act waivers as a result of the Russian
invasion of Ukraine, a situation that underscores
the importance of ensuring our nation’s ability to
protect our economic and homeland security at
home and to support our national security inter-
ests around the world. The Jones Act ensures that
we have a domestic shipbuilding base as well as
a pool of mariners to draw upon during cases of
national emergency.”
The entire letter is available on the SIU web-
site.
AMP Sets Record
Straight On Jones
Act, Energy Prices
President Biden, meeting with the
AFL-CIO leadership and principal
officers of international unions on
March 5, said once again he will not
waiver in his longtime support for the
Jones Act, the nation’s freight cabo-
tage law.
The president was responding to a
statement from SIU Executive Vice
President Augie Tellez during the
gathering in Wilmington, Delaware.
Tellez, who attended with MEBA
Secretary-Treasurer Roland Rexha
and MM&P President Don Marcus,
thanked the president for standing
with American mariners throughout
his career as a senator and vice presi-
dent. He alerted Biden to new attacks
being directed at the Jones Act in
the wake of rising petroleum prices
because of the Russian invasion of
Ukraine. The maritime contingent
noted recent news columns preposter-
ously trying to claim the Jones Act as
anti-American.
Tellez also informed the president
about the February announcement
proposing an open registry in the U.S.
Virgin Islands that would take away
cargo from U.S.-flag ships and jobs
from American mariners.
Biden told Tellez, Rexha, Marcus
and the other labor leaders he will
continue to fight for American mari-
ners and workers.
Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh
also met with the union officials,
numbering 39 in all and including
AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler.
Biden thanked the labor of-
ficials for their support and out-
lined steps the administration has
taken to help union members in
the first year of the administration.
Walsh spoke of the need to work col-
laboratively to empower American
workers and underscored the presi-
dent’s support for strong unions as
key to the middle class.
The group further discussed the
unprecedented economic growth ex-
perienced in the U.S. and the addition
of 678,000 jobs in February, along
with a 3.8% drop in the unemploy-
ment rate. A total of 7.4 million jobs
have been added since the start of the
administration.
Additionally, attendees touched
on the administration’s wide range
of accomplishments thus far when it
comes to creating union jobs and pro-
tecting Davis-Bacon provisions, in-
cluding the Bipartisan Infrastructure
Law and the American Rescue Plan.
The group echoed its thanks to the
president, the secretary and adminis-
tration officials for the historic invest-
ment the administration has made in
American workers.
Biden Reaffirms Jones Act Support
President Biden (second from left) pauses for a snapshot with maritime union officials. Pictured from left are MM&P Presi-
dent Don Marcus, President Biden, SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez and MEBA Sec.-Treas. Roland Rexha.
4 Seafarers LOG April 2022
As previously reported, Comprehensive Health Services (CHS) earlier this
year informed the SIU and the Seafarers Plans that the company “was the target
of a cyber intrusion” that may have involved current and former SIU members’
personal information.
CHS in February mailed a letter to all potentially affected Seafarers. Recipi-
ents are asked to note that, although the letter specifies May 31 as the cutoff for
enrolling in free credit monitoring and identity protection, individuals are able
to elect those services even if they miss the deadline. People may still call the
number listed in the letter after May 31, or contact CHS directly to elect credit
monitoring and identity protection, at no charge.
If members have any difficulty with this process, contact the SIU member-
ship assistance office at (800) 252-4674, Option 2.
As noted in the letter, there is no evidence that anyone’s personal informa-
tion has been used inappropriately.
More information is available on the SIU website, in the March edition of
the Seafarers LOG and in the letter from CHS.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention (CDC) on Feb. 25 signifi-
cantly loosened its mask recommendations
as part of updated guidance for coping with
COVID-19.
Under the new guidelines, more than 70
percent of the U.S. population resides in
areas with “low” or “medium” COVID-19
community levels, meaning masks are not
recommended for the general public.
In areas with a “high” level, which at
press time included about 30 percent of the
U.S. population, masks would still be rec-
ommended in public indoor settings. Under
the “medium” level, people at higher risk
are encouraged to talk to their doctor about
wearing a mask.
A map which outlines current COVID-
19 Community levels nationwide is avail-
able on the CDC website (https://www.cdc.
gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/
covid-by-county.html0).
Following the CDC’s lead, the SIU on
March 9 amended its COVID-19 policies
to remove mask-wearing requirements
at headquarters, the hiring halls and the
Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training
and Education in Piney Point, Maryland.
The change applies to all employees and
visitors who are fully vaccinated and have
received booster shots (if they are eligible
to get a booster shot). Visitors who have
vaccine exemptions or who, even though
eligible to receive a booster shot, have cho-
sen not to receive a booster, must present a
recent negative test result and wear a mask
when entering all of the former locations.
Masking in schools has been an area of
heated debate around the country. Under
the new CDC guidelines, universal mask-
ing in schools is now only recommended in
areas with a “high” level.
“Our new framework was rigorously
evaluated, both with current data and ret-
rospectively during the Alpha, Delta and
Omicron waves, and these new metrics
have demonstrative predictive capacity
for weeks into the future,” CDC Director
Dr. Rochelle Wilensky said during a media
briefing on the new recommendations.
“This new framework will provide the
best way for us to judge what level of pre-
ventive measures may be needed in our
communities,” she added. “If or when new
variants emerge or the virus surges, we
have more ways to control the virus and
protect ourselves and our communities
than ever before.”
In a related development, the Transpor-
tation Security Administration (TSA) on
March 9 extended the mandate for mask
use on public transportation and in trans-
portation hubs through April 18. The man-
date had been set to expire on March 18.
According to TSA officials, the ex-
tension is based on a recommendation
from the CDC. In a March 10 statement,
the agency said the CDC will work on a
“revised policy framework for when, and
under what circumstances, masks should
be required in the public transportation
corridor.”
CDC Updates Guidelines for Masks
Seafarers May Sign Up
For Free Credit Monitoring,
ID Protection Past May 31
State of the Union
SIU President Michael Sacco addresses Seafarers and guests at the
March membership meeting in Piney Point, Maryland. He covered numer-
ous topics, including the union’s efforts to encourage faster document pro-
cessing by the National Maritime Center; manpower obligations; maritime
jobs in the wind-energy sector; the loosening of some pandemic restric-
tions; ongoing professionalism of SIU members; and more.
Editor’s note: The following article, lightly
edited for local style, was written by Mark Gru-
enberg of the Press Associates Union News
Service. The SIU and the Maritime Trades De-
partment have endorsed the project; representa-
tives from both organizations took part in the
conference, hosted by the National Press Club.
Sponsors of a plan to build submarine repair
bases in Northeastern Ohio, at Lordstown and
Lorain, predict that when they’re up and fully
running, they’ll create 4,000-5,000 full-time
union jobs.
And their prediction, at a panel discussion
in Washington, D.C., announcing the proposed
Bartlett Maritime Plan, doesn’t count up to 2,000
union construction jobs needed to build the bases,
nor the spinoff of an estimated 41,000 ancillary
jobs once those big shops are up and running.
All the construction jobs, “including sub-
contracting jobs, will be 100% union labor,”
pledged Edward Bartlett, a retired merchant
marine captain and CEO of Bartlett Maritime
Construction. His firm put together the plan.
Groundbreaking on the planned American
Naval Shipyard complex, split between the two
cities, is expected in six months, after planning,
plus hiring the first 30 apprentice trainees. Con-
struction would take three to four years, in order
to satisfy environmental rules. The two bases
will be built with union-made steel and cement,
Bartlett added.
Bartlett’s firm decided on Northeastern Ohio
due to its excellent transportation connections
– expressways, railroads, Cleveland’s interna-
tional airport, and especially Lake Erie – and
surplus of available highly skilled metal trades
workers, he explained.
“The UAW trained them well,” before Gen-
eral Motors closed its Lordstown auto assembly
plant in 2019, he elaborated. Ever since word
of this project leaked “my email inbox has been
full” with skilled workers asking when and
where to apply.
Speakers also emphasized that the new sub-
marine repair bases are needed for national
security. Repairs are far behind on the current
47-boat fleet, including some submarines more
than 30 years old.
Moreover, the Navy wants to expand the
fleet by 50%, to 70 submarines. China and Rus-
sia notice how long and how many U.S. subs are
laid up, one speaker added.
“We have been the world’s dominant mari-
time power for years,” explained AFL-CIO
Metal Trades Department President James Hart.
“But America’s manufacturing base is diminish-
ing,” and its current shipyards are 80% devoted
to Navy construction and 20% to Jones Act
ships needed for domestic trade.
“We’ll need to build another shipyard to take
care of this problem” of repairing and rehab-
bing submarines,” Hard said. “We can’t sit on
our hands. China is building two shipyards right
now. We can have all the ships in the world, but
it matters how many you have that can go to
sea.”
Building the yards and staffing them with
skilled craftspeople “gives those workers a
hand up, not a hand out. We’re looking to put
them to work,” added Lance Heasley, president
of the Akron-based International Chemical
Workers Union Council, a sector of the United
Food and Commercial Workers.
SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez
reinforced backing from the union and the MTD
(where he also serves as an official).
“Our attack subs and aircraft carriers are the
most potent force projection weapons we have,”
added retired Navy Rear Adm. Robert Frick.
The two yards “will provide the most rapid
effective solution” to repair problems, once
they’re built, he explained.
Repair drydocks aren’t cheap, said Bechtel
Business Development Manager Rich Capi-
tan, who spoke from the audience and, after
the press conference, provided the construction
and 41,000 ancillary job estimates. He added
planned rehabilitation of one big sub drydock at
Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, alone will take five years
and cost $20 million.
The Pearl Harbor project illustrates another
point: a construction worker shortage. Hawaiian
building trades workers are working on Pearl
Harbor, building a light rail system in Hono-
lulu, and either rehabbing old city hotels there
or building new ones, all at once. The state’s
unions and contractors are discussing transfer-
ring union workers from the mainland U.S.
One part of the submarine complex will be
a Lordstown depot, employing 1,000 unionists.
It’ll use part of the site of the old GM plant.
Workers will maintain submarines’ weapons
and equipment. The other will be the actual
American Naval Shipyard in Lorain, employ-
ing at least 3,000 unionists.
“It’ll be completely enclosed, all in a single
building, to take weather issues out” of the
equation, a consideration given winters along
the southern shore of Lake Erie, said Bartlett.
The American Naval Shipyard project will
not cost the federal government any money,
since financing will come from a public-private
partnership. Ohio will provide funds from in-
dustrial development bonds and Goldman-Sachs
will raise the cash for the Bartlett Maritime
Corp., which put the deal together. At the end
of a 30-year lease, the feds get the two yards.
The American Naval Shipyard project will
cost “multi-billions” of dollars, said panelist
Bill Daley of Goldman-Sachs. It’ll be built by
a public-private partnership with the state of
Ohio using money from industrial development
bonds while his firm raises the private funds.
But the project still needs to show political
backing. Sponsors rolled out a joint supportive
letter from U.S. Sens. Rob Portman (D-Ohio)
and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) and three other
Ohio lawmakers, all Democrats. One, Tim
Ryan, a longtime union backer, as is Brown,
seeks the Senate seat Portman is retiring from
this year.
The firm’s information packet includes a
unanimous endorsement from the Lorain City
Council. Lordstown Mayor Arno Hill, who also
spoke, said that after GM left, “Everybody had
the perfect project for us” to replace it, “but no-
body had any money. This one does.”
Sponsors: Submarine Repair Bases
Will Create Thousands of Union Jobs
April 2022 Seafarers LOG 5
Forum Speakers Underscore Their
Compelling Support for Jones Act
America’s freight cabotage law – a
vital source of U.S. maritime jobs – en-
joys ongoing, strong support from the ad-
ministration and from all components of
the industry.
That conclusion was a main takeaway
following the 2022 Capital Link Jones Act
and U.S.-Flag Shipping Forum, an online
conference that took place Feb. 24-25.
Acting U.S. Maritime Administra-
tor Lucinda Lessley gave the keynote
speech on the forum’s first day. Panel-
ists throughout the event included repre-
sentatives from domestic shipyards, law
firms, and Seafarers-contracted compa-
nies including Crowley Maritime; Mat-
son; TOTE; Pasha; Overseas Shipholding
Group; Seabulk; Great Lakes Dredge &
Dock; American President Lines; Liberty
Maritime; and Maersk Line, Limited.
Lessley assured attendees that the ad-
ministration’s support of American mari-
time is unwavering.
“The Biden-Harris Administration
is working on every front to support a
strong U.S. Merchant Marine,” she said.
“The administration is crystal clear that
the U.S.-flagged fleet, including of course
our Jones Act fleet, plays an essential role
in both our national and our economic se-
curity.
That is why, shortly after taking office,
President Biden issued an executive order
laying out his Made in America agenda.
The order reaffirms what we have always
known: The Jones Act is truly a ‘make it
in America’ policy on our waterways.”
She continued, “As you know, the
Jones Act guarantees that cargoes moved
between U.S. ports travel on vessels that
are built, owned, and crewed by Ameri-
cans. Because of the Jones Act, today,
more than 40,000 vessels of all types, all
built in the United States, ply our nation’s
waterways, reliably delivering domestic
passengers and goods to the places they
need to be using the most fuel-efficient
mode of transportation available.”
The Jones Act, which has helped safe-
guard the nation for more than a century,
“also ensures that we have strong do-
mestic shipbuilding capability,” Lessley
pointed out. “Our Jones Act fleet in turn
supports more than 150 active shipyards
that, according to a 2021 MARAD study,
support nearly 400,000 jobs and generate
$28.1 billion of annual labor income as
well as more than $42 billion in GDP.
“The Jones Act also supports a domes-
tic merchant fleet of 96 ocean-going ves-
sels crewed by thousands of highly skilled,
unionized merchant mariners qualified to
operate sealift assets for national defense
needs,” she added. “The Jones Act is truly
a cornerstone of our U.S. maritime indus-
try and the Biden-Harris Administration is
working hard to strengthen this industry
by building on this essential foundation.
And with new opportunity on the horizon,
such as the emergence of offshore wind as
a renewable energy source, the Jones Act
remains poised to remain the cornerstone
of our nation’s maritime industry into the
foreseeable future.”
She also discussed the America’s
Marine Highways Program; investment
in ports across the country; steps being
taken to improve maritime workplace
safety; and a formal Mariner Workforce
Development Plan, which “will bolster
safety, and support for both credentialed
and prospective U.S. mariners based on
several key goals, including supporting
existing mariner workforce development
programs, mariner education, and training
institutions, and improving mariner work-
force diversity and workplace safety,”
Lessley stated. “This will be intended to
nurture and grow a strong U.S. Merchant
Marine, which is integral to the contigu-
ous, non-contiguous, and international
trade.”
Newly elected American Maritime Part-
nership (AMP) President Ku’uhaku Park
also addressed the forum. (The SIU is an
AMP affiliate.)
“I’m happy to report that overall sup-
port for the Jones Act in Congress and the
administration has never been higher than
it is today,” he said. “An overwhelming
majority of the Members of Congress in
both parties and in both chambers sup-
port the Jones Act. In addition to the Con-
gress, this administration is extremely
supportive of the Jones Act. President
Biden strongly supported the Jones Act
during the campaign and then reiterated
his strong support publicly almost imme-
diately upon taking office.”
He underscored the Jones Act’s impor-
tance: “The Jones Act is the fundamen-
tal law of our business, underpinning an
industry that supports nearly 650,000
family-wage jobs and provides more than
$150 billion in economic value every
year. Labor income for the exceptional
mariners and other workers in this in-
dustry totals about $40 billion annually.
There are about 40,000 vessels in the U.S.
domestic fleet – one of the largest domes-
tic fleets in the world.”
Park said the rationale for backing the
law remains quite sound.
“Historically, the Jones Act has en-
joyed support for three reasons: national
security, homeland security and economic
security,” he said. “Senior military offi-
cials and senior homeland officials have
consistently talked about the importance
of the Jones Act to the security of our na-
tion…. It is not lost on our elected leaders
that repealing the Jones Act would be out-
sourcing our nation’s jobs and security.”
He said an additional reason “for the
strong support today is the supply chain
crisis, which has reminded us all in
vivid ways that reliable transportation is
not an academic point. The recent sup-
ply chain crisis has really underscored
the importance of a reliable domestic
maritime industry, particularly in the
U.S. non-contiguous trades. Today, as
you all know, America faces one of its
worst supply chain disruptions ever for
containerized cargoes…. It is a dismal
picture with one bright spot: the per-
formance of the U.S. domestic mari-
time industry…. Additionally, when the
COVID-19 pandemic began, interna-
tional carriers canceled more than 500
trans-Pacific sailings. In contrast, Jones
Act carriers have provided uninterrupted
service and maintained a lifeline to many
states and communities.”
“The Biden-Harris Administration is working on every
front to support a strong U.S. Merchant Marine.” – Acting U.S.
Maritime Administrator Lucinda Lessley
U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-Lou-
isiana) recently introduced the American
Offshore Worker Fairness Act. This bill,
cosponsored in the House by Reps. Gar-
ret Graves (R-Louisiana) and John Ga-
ramendi (D-California), provides a level
playing field between U.S.-flagged ves-
sels and foreign-flagged vessels working
in offshore energy activities in U.S. wa-
ters, according to its proponents.
“U.S. and Louisiana mariners and
maritime companies lose when foreign
vessels, which do not pay U.S. taxes,
business taxes or payroll taxes, take ad-
vantage of loopholes to hire foreign work-
ers for half the cost,” said Cassidy. “This
bill … gives the American worker a fair
shot.”
The proposed changes also improve
the oversight of foreign-flag vessels and
the mariners who work on them.
“Our bipartisan bill closes an egre-
gious Jones Act loophole so that for-
eign-flagged vessels are held to the
same high standards as U.S.-flagged
vessels developing our nation’s offshore
energy resources, including for offshore
wind projects,” said Garamendi. “As the
former Ranking Member of the House
Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Mar-
itime Transportation, I know that Amer-
ican workers and U.S.-flagged vessels
are ready, willing, and able to do this
work.”
Graves stated, “Louisiana has a great
opportunity with this bipartisan legisla-
tion to bring more jobs to the Gulf region
and make sure there are good job oppor-
tunities in Louisiana. Other countries are
taking advantage of using foreign vessels
and workers operating in U.S. waters. This
is not a level playing field, not putting
America first, and we need to close this
loophole. This bill takes us a step closer
to bringing parity to the market. I look
forward to working with my colleagues
in ensuring an American workforce pro-
duces America’s energy and promotes our
way of life in south Louisiana.”
“The Shipbuilders Council of America
and the 400,000 men and women in our
domestic shipbuilding workforce strongly
support the American Offshore Worker
Fairness Act,” said Matthew Paxton, pres-
ident of the council. “This commonsense,
bipartisan legislation closes a loophole
that has long been exploited by foreign
competitors to undercut America’s mari-
time workforce. We applaud the efforts of
Senator Cassidy, Representative Graves,
and Representative Garamendi in show-
ing leadership by standing up for the men
and women of America’s maritime indus-
try.”
“On a level playing field, U.S. vessels
and U.S. merchant mariners can compete
with any anyone on the planet. However,
we cannot compete with mariners making
far less than what any U.S. citizen would
or should accept,” said Offshore Marine
Service Association President Aaron
Smith. “The American Offshore Worker
Fairness Act closes this loophole and en-
sures that when foreign vessels operate in
U.S. waters, they play by our rules and
pay U.S.-level wages. As such, we whole-
heartedly endorse this legislation and ap-
plaud Dr. Cassidy for all he is doing to
help Louisiana mariners.”
As stated in the “Frequently Asked
Questions” that was issued by Cassidy’s
office alongside the bill, “U.S. mariners
are already serving on U.S.-owned/U.S.-
flagged and U.S.-owned/foreign-flagged,
and even in some very rare cases foreign-
owned/foreign-flagged subsea construc-
tion vessels. This class of vessels perform
very technical and demanding work
within the offshore industry so know
U.S. mariners can do this work. Further,
the U.S. merchant marine is highly skilled
and qualified, and the U.S. has some of
the best maritime training schools in the
world, thus, there is no reason to think
that additional U.S. mariners cannot be
trained to conduct this work.”
The American Offshore Worker Fair-
ness Act would:
n Require the U.S. Coast Guard to
inspect these vessels annually to ensure
compliance with this law and that the
crew members on these vessels secure
TWIC cards from the U.S. Department of
Homeland Security.
nRequire mariners on foreign-flagged
vessels be either U.S. citizens or citizens
of the nation where the vessel is flagged.
n Limit the number of visas that could
be issued to crew of each foreign vessel
to 2.5 times the number of crewmembers
on that vessel. This would allow for regu-
lar crew shift changes.
n Require foreign vessels prove their
ownership on an annual basis.
The full text of the bill is available
online.
Louisiana Senator Introduces
Bipartisan American Offshore
Worker Fairness Legislation
Sen. Bill Cassidy
(R) Louisiana
Rep. Garret Graves
(R) Louisiana
Rep. John Garamendi
(D) California
6 Seafarers LOG April 2022
Spotlight on Mariner HealthSpotlight on Mariner Health
Healthy Recipe
Editor’s note: This article is provided
by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan
Medical Department.
High cholesterol can be a result of diet,
lifestyle (including smoking), and/or ge-
netics. Without testing, it is difficult to
determine if a person has high cholesterol,
because there are no symptoms.
However, having elevated cholesterol
levels may increase an individual’s risk
of heart attack, stroke and other complica-
tions.
Cholesterol is a fatty molecule needed
by cells in order to function. It is produced
by the liver but also may be acquired from
the foods a person eats.
The term “high cholesterol” refers to the
amount of cholesterol circulating through
the blood at any given time. High choles-
terol usually is diagnosed by a blood test.
A doctor will order a lipid panel to measure
low-density lipoprotein (LDL), triglycer-
ides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and
cholesterol levels. If results are high, the
doctor will decide whether to recommend
medications. Lifestyle changes also may be
in order.
According to the U.S. Centers for Dis-
ease Control and Prevention (CDC), LDL,
sometimes called “bad” cholesterol, makes
up most of your body’s cholesterol. High
levels of LDL cholesterol raise your risk
for heart disease and stroke. HDL, or
“good” cholesterol, absorbs cholesterol
and carries it back to the liver. The liver
then flushes it from the body. High levels
of HDL cholesterol can lower your risk for
heart disease and stroke.
The American Heart Association rec-
ommends that routine cholesterol screen-
ings for adults after age 20 be conducted
yearly or more often if results continue to
be high.
High cholesterol can cause fatty depos-
its or plaque to build up inside of the ar-
teries, especially in the brain, kidneys and
heart. When this happens, blood flow is di-
minished or it may stop completely, lead-
ing to any number of complications.
Maintaining a healthful diet rich in
fiber, vegetables, limited red meat and
processed foods can help keep cholesterol
levels in check. So can exercising, drinking
more water and fewer sodas and alcohol.
Medications can be helpful for those
with high cholesterol. They include statins;
cholesterol absorption inhibitors; bempe-
doic acid (Nexletol); bile-acid-binding res-
ins; and others.
Statins, perhaps the most commonly
known medication for high cholesterol,
block a substance the liver needs to make
cholesterol. This causes the liver to remove
cholesterol from a person’s blood. Accord-
ing to the Mayo Clinic, choices include
atorvastatin (Lipitor), fluvastatin (Lescol),
lovastatin (Altoprev), pitavastatin (Livalo),
pravastatin (Pravachol), rosuvastatin (Cre-
stor) and simvastatin (Zocor).
Preventing, Treating
High Cholesterol Servings: 24
Ingredients
6 1/2 pounds chicken
breast without skin
2 tablespoons Mrs. Dash
seasoning
6 teaspoons kosher salt
12 cups roma tomato,
diced
1 1/2 cups fresh basil
leaf, thinly sliced
3 cups sweet onion, diced
12 teaspoons garlic,
minced
18 tablespoons extra vir-
gin olive oil
6 tablespoons balsamic
vinegar, salad dressing
Preparation
Preheat grill to 350 F.
Combine tomatoes, onion,
basil, garlic, olive oil, and
balsamic vinegar dressing. Season with sea salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to
marinate for at least 15 minutes. Can be refrigerated while chicken is cooking.
Season the chicken with salt and Mrs. Dash, and grill or pan-fry until well done
(internal temp of 165 F).
Cut chicken into slices and top with bruschetta mixture in 2” hotel pan. Serve hot.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 227 Calories; 12g Fat (46.3% calories
from fat): 24g Protein; 7g Carbohydrate; 1g Dietary Fiber; 57mg Cholesterol;
543mg Sodium. Exchanges: 3 Lean Meat: 1 Vegetable; 0 Fruit; 2 Fat.
Provided by the Paul Hall Center’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship
Chicken Bruschetta
A recent trustee action
lengthens the opportunity for
some SIU pensioners to resume
sailing.
Seafarers Pension Plan
(SPP) Trustees, in an effort to
recruit qualified mariners, an-
nounced in 2021 that pension-
ers who had retired within the
last five years could to return
to work with an SIU-contracted
employer without having their
pension benefits suspended.
This development required re-
laxing some formal regulations
of the SPP through the end of
last year.
Now, those regulations
won’t be enforced at least
through June 30, 2022 –
which means eligible pension-
ers may resume (or continue)
sailing.
According to a memo from
an SPP subcommittee, “This
waiver of the suspension rules
only applies to those pensioners
who have retired within the last
five years. Deep-sea seamen
can return to covered employ-
ment for an unlimited period of
time during this period. Inland
boatman can return to covered
employment for a period of
90 days per calendar year. All
pensioners returning to covered
employment must sail above
entry level and comply with all
the requisites of the Shipping
Rules, if applicable, or any con-
tractual provisions contained in
a collective bargaining agree-
ment.”
Pensioners returning to
work under these provisions
will maintain the seniority level
they enjoyed at the time of their
retirement.
In the initial communication
from last year (which still holds
true), the trustees noted, “This
trustee action allows eligible
pensioners to continue collect-
ing their full monthly pension
benefits, earn the wage rates
specified in the applicable col-
lective bargaining agreement
and, if you are receiving a
wage related pension benefit,
you could also earn additional
$15 increments for every 120
days of covered employment
for which you work. In addi-
tion, if you resume employ-
ment and work for 90 days, you
will become eligible for active
seafarer benefits from the Sea-
farers Health and Benefit Plan
and your claims would be pro-
cessed in accordance with those
rules.”
Interested pensioners are
asked to contact their local port
agent for more information.
Some Pensioners Remain
Eligible to Resume Sailing
Recruiting in the Beaver State
SIU Tacoma Port Agent Warren Asp (front, second from left) is pictured with students at the Tongue Point
(Oregon) Job Corps Center, visiting with aspiring mariners in mid-March. In recent years, some of the
graduates have joined the SIU and shipped out. “These young mariners have represented our port well,
and we continue to recruit from this program,” Asp said.
Deadline Extended
April 2022 Seafarers LOG 7
Deck Department
Algonac 19 6 0 14 4 0 4 32 7 2
Anchorage 4 3 1 0 1 1 2 5 5 0
Baltimore 1 3 0 2 2 0 1 4 3 0
Fort Lauderdale 18 5 2 20 5 0 9 36 15 8
Guam 5 1 0 0 0 0 0 6 1 0
Harvey 9 6 0 5 5 0 2 20 8 1
Honolulu 3 1 0 1 0 0 0 7 4 0
Houston 33 15 5 29 13 4 9 52 26 11
Jacksonville 32 18 2 25 17 1 19 59 34 10
Jersey City 29 4 4 15 7 5 9 55 15 3
Joliet 2 2 0 2 0 0 0 1 3 0
Mobile 6 4 0 5 0 1 1 9 8 1
Norfolk 17 9 4 9 12 3 5 31 13 7
Oakland 16 2 1 9 3 1 2 26 4 1
Philadelphia 1 4 0 2 4 0 2 1 3 1
Piney Point 1 1 0 1 1 0 2 1 1 1
Puerto Rico 2 4 0 6 1 0 0 8 3 0
Tacoma 20 3 2 11 4 0 7 26 5 5
St. Louis 4 0 0 5 0 1 0 1 2 0
Wilmington 28 12 1 13 10 2 10 46 15 2
TOTALS 250 103 22 174 89 19 84 426 175 53
Engine Department
Algonac 4 1 2 3 2 1 1 6 1 1
Anchorage 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 1
Baltimore 3 0 0 2 1 0 2 3 0 0
Fort Lauderdale 10 3 1 5 1 0 1 12 5 1
Guam 1 2 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 0
Harvey 3 2 0 0 3 0 2 5 2 1
Honolulu 5 4 0 2 2 0 2 12 5 1
Houston 4 4 1 6 9 0 3 19 10 1
Jacksonville 20 13 4 13 13 2 9 28 19 5
Jersey City 8 3 0 4 2 0 2 12 8 1
Joliet 1 1 1 0 0 1 0 3 1 1
Mobile 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 6 2 0
Norfolk 10 10 4 7 11 4 6 10 11 5
Oakland 4 1 0 3 3 0 1 9 7 2
Philadelphia 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 2 3 0
Piney Point 3 3 1 2 1 1 0 1 4 0
Puerto Rico 4 2 0 3 3 0 2 8 2 0
Tacoma 12 2 2 5 2 1 2 17 5 1
St. Louis 0 1 0 2 0 0 1 4 2 0
Wilmington 15 2 1 14 2 0 6 21 11 2
TOTALS 110 57 18 74 56 10 40 178 100 23
Steward Department
Algonac 2 5 0 2 1 0 0 4 6 0
Anchorage 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0
Baltimore 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0
Fort Lauderdale 10 4 0 2 4 0 1 17 7 1
Guam 1 1 2 2 1 1 0 1 1 2
Harvey 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 3 0 0
Honolulu 5 1 0 5 2 0 1 6 2 0
Houston 15 9 1 8 3 0 5 20 11 1
Jacksonville 23 13 5 15 10 4 10 28 22 2
Jersey City 5 0 1 6 0 0 0 16 5 0
Joliet 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 3 0 0
Mobile 0 5 0 3 1 0 1 6 6 0
Norfolk 14 15 1 11 6 0 6 20 15 1
Oakland 11 6 2 7 1 1 3 22 9 2
Philadelphia 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 1
Piney Point 2 2 5 1 1 2 3 4 2 4
Puerto Rico 2 6 0 2 4 0 1 3 5 0
Tacoma 7 3 1 4 2 1 3 14 4 1
St. Louis 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0
Wilmington 20 5 0 15 7 0 9 26 10 1
TOTALS 121 77 19 85 43 10 43 196 108 16
Entry Department
Algonac 0 10 5 0 10 2 1 0 13 6
Anchorage 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 5 1
Baltimore 0 2 1 0 2 1 0 0 0 0
Fort Lauderdale 1 2 1 0 2 2 2 1 3 2
Guam 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0
Harvey 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 4 1
Honolulu 0 2 1 0 0 1 0 0 6 3
Houston 3 11 13 0 9 5 1 7 8 18
Jacksonville 2 22 50 0 13 26 11 4 38 91
Jersey City 2 9 16 0 4 7 1 2 18 25
Joliet 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 2
Mobile 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2
Norfolk 0 12 30 0 7 17 2 0 16 29
Oakland 1 2 7 0 2 2 0 0 8 7
Philadelphia 0 1 3 0 0 3 0 0 1 0
Piney Point 0 3 9 0 2 5 3 0 2 11
Puerto Rico 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0
Tacoma 2 10 8 1 7 5 4 6 15 14
St. Louis 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Wilmington 3 9 3 2 7 5 1 2 13 10
TOTALS 15 97 149 4 68 83 27 23 152 222
GRAND TOTAL: 496 334 208 337 256 122 194 823 535 314
“Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” data is cumulative from Feb. 14 - March15. “Registered on the Beach” data is as of March 15.
Total Registered Total Shipped Registered on Beach
All Groups All Groups Trip All Groups
Port A B C A B C Reliefs A B C
Dispatchers’ Report for Deep SeaDispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea
Piney Point..........................................Monday: April 4, May 2
Algonac..............................................Friday: April 8, May 6
Baltimore.....................................Thursday: April 7, May 5
Guam..........................................Thursday: April 21, May 19
Honolulu...........................................Friday: April 15, May 13
Houston.........................................Monday: April 11, May 9
Jacksonville........................................Thursday: April 7, May 5
Joliet............................................Thursday: April 14, May12
Mobile..........................................Wednesday: April 13, May 11
New Orleans......................................Tuesday: April 12, May 10
Jersey City.........................................Tuesday: April 5, May 3
Norfolk...............................................Friday: April 8, May 6
Oakland...........................................Thursday: April 14, May 12
Philadelphia.................................Wednesday: April 6, May 4
Port Everglades..............................Thursday: April 14, May 12
San Juan...........................................Thursday: April 7, May 5
St. Louis................................................Friday: April 15, May 13
Tacoma...............................................Friday: April 22, May 20
Wilmington.......................................Monday: April 18, May 16
Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m
April & MayApril & May
Membership MeetingsMembership Meetings
Beginning April 28, 2022,
individuals who have signed
up for SIU text alerts will re-
ceive messages from a new
number: (412) 899-8989.
(The prior number is 97779.)
No action is required to
maintain an existing sub-
scription. The change is due
to new industry regulations
that essentially are mandat-
ing a move to a “10-digit
long code” (abbreviated as
10DLC) for organizations
that send text messages.
In accordance with legal
requirements, subscribers
will receive a “goodbye”
message from 97779 (which
will read, “The SIU is chang-
ing numbers. You’ll hear
from 4128998989 after this.
No action required by you to
remain subscribed.”). Then,
they’ll get a “hello” message
from the new number, which
will read: “SIU: Welcome
to our new number. Thanks
for being part of our mobile
news network.”
All of our opt-in keywords
will remain unchanged.
To sign up for alerts, text
the word “join” to 97779 be-
fore April 28, or text “join” to
(412) 899-8989 after April 28.
Update on SIU Text Alerts
Training with the Troops
The Seafarers-crewed USNS Dahl (pictured above)
teamed up with members of the U.S. Air Force 33rd
Recue Squadron in Kadena, Japan, to conduct deck
landing qualifications aboard the Patriot-operated ves-
sel in the Philippine Sea in early February as part of
Exercise Cope North 22. The operation is a humanitar-
ian assistance and disaster relief exercise that includes
Australian, Japanese and U.S. forces, according to the
U.S. Navy. The Dahl is part of Maritime Prepositioning
Ships Squadron 3; it strategically “places containerized
and palletized cargo throughout the Indo-Pacific Region
for all U.S. Armed Services, including the Air Force,” the
Navy reports. (Photo by Second Mate Garrett Flottman)
8 Seafarers LOG April 2022
Michael Sacco, President
Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President
David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer
George Tricker, Vice President Contracts
Tom Orzechowski,
Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters
Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast
Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast
Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast
Nicholas Celona, Vice President Government
Services
HEADQUARTERS
5201 Capital Gateway Drive
Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675
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20674
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(253) 272-7774
WILMINGTON
510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744
(310) 549-4001/4002
Seafarers International Seafarers International
Union DirectoryUnion Directory Inquiring SeafarerInquiring Seafarer
This month’s question was answered by upgraders at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Train-
ing and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland.
Question: What are some things you like about this school?
If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the
Seafarers LOG, 5201 Capital Gateway Drive, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital
images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org
Charlene Briggs
Chief Cook
I like the sense of community – the
feeling that the school belongs to all of
us. It’s a great place to upgrade. There
are good chefs and good instructors
here.
Kristyn White
Chief Cook
You’re learning as you go. What
you do here is what you’re going to
do on the ship. This is my first time
here; everybody is so respectful,
and they give positive feedback.
It’s going really well.
Wordell Prescott
QMED
The instructors are awesome,
including the welding instructor,
Chris Raley. I feel like I’m a better
welder since I’ve taken his class.
This is my third time here. All of
the practical training we get is very
useful for shipboard life.
Daniel Leon
QMED
The courses are very informa-
tive and they really help us out.
Welding is a good example; I used
to weld, but I wasn’t that good.
After taking the class, I improved.
I’ve been here four times.
Ahmed Hussain
GVA
Everything is good at the school.
There’s a lot of support here; anything
we need, we get it. This is my second
time here. My experience here has
been very good.
Mery Koch
Chief Cook
I like the knowledge of the chief
cooks here and the teacher, Paul (Gel-
rud). He’s amazing. The passion he
puts into the class is great. We’re en-
couraged to do our best and keep learn-
ing.
Pic From The Past Pic From The Past
The Sea-Land Defender joined the SIU-crewed fleet in 1980, when this snapshot was taken. Constructed in Japan, the diesel-
powered vessel was 745 feet long and had a service speed of 22 knots.
April 2022 Seafarers LOG 9
At Sea and Ashore with the SIU
PRESIDENT TOUTS INFRASTRUCTURE BILL – SIU Port Agent Todd Brdak represented the union Feb. 17 dur-
ing a visit by President Biden to Lorain, Ohio. Biden highlighted the numerous expected benefits of the bipartisan
infrastructure bill that passed last year. The group photo at left includes (from left) Brdak, U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur
(D-Ohio) and Leonard DiCosimo, President, Cleveland Federation of Musicians Local 4. Brdak is in the foreground
of the selfie, while the president is at the podium.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALASKANS – The SIU has a long history of providing maritime career opportunities for citizens
from the Last Frontier, and that tradition is alive and well. Pictured at the Anchorage hall (photo at left) are future mariner
Faith Wood, who recently began the apprentice program in Piney Point, Maryland, and (photo at right) Clayton Laulainen.
At press time, Laulainen was awaiting his start date for the apprentice program.
WELCOME ASHORE IN JACKSONVILLE – Recertified
Bosun Marc Marcus (right), pictured with SIU Safety Di-
rector Joseph Koncul at the hiring hall, receives his first
pension check. Marcus started sailing with the SIU in 1971.
A-BOOK IN JACKSONVILLE – Chief Cook Olive Stewart-Paul (center) picks up her A-book.
She’s pictured at the hiring hall with SIU Patrolmen Eddie Pittman (left) and Adam Bucalo.
WELCOME ASHORE IN HOUSTON – AB Virgilio Fucanan (center) visits the hiring
hall to pick up his first pension check. His wife, Fermilia, is at left, while SIU Patrol-
man Kelly Krick is at right.
10 Seafarers LOG April 2022
At Sea and Ashore with the SIU
WELCOME ASHORE IN OAKLAND – Chief Cook John Bennett (second from right) is
pictured at the hiring hall while receiving his first pension check. He started sailing with
the SIU in 1978. Standing with him are (from left) Administrative Assistant Dylan Rivera,
Patrolman Kathy Chester and Port Agent J.B. Niday.
TALKING MARITIME WITH REP. CRIST – The hiring hall in Jacksonville,
Florida, hosted a labor “meet and greet” Feb. 16 for U.S. Rep. Charlie Crist
(D-Florida), who’s running for governor of Florida. Also in attendance was
Dr. Tracye Polson, who’s running for an at-large seat on the Jacksonville
City Council. In photo above, Crist (left) poses with SIU Port Agent Ashley
Nelson. The congressman also is in the remaining photos – greeting Chief
Storekeeper Lisa Curtis (far right) and AB Timothy Brock (immediate right).
B-BOOK IN ALGONAC – OS Matthew Conley (left) receives his full B-book at the hiring
hall. SIU Port Agent Todd Brdak is at right.
HONORED BY PORT COUNCIL – SIU VP Government Services Nicholas Celona (sec-
ond from left) has been active with the San Francisco Bay Area and Vicinity Port Maritime
Council (part of the Maritime Trades Department) since 1990. At a meeting March 9 in San
Francisco, the council saluted him with a plaque and best wishes as he transfers to New
Orleans. Pictured from left are SUP President Dave Connolly (who also serves as port
council president), Celona, MFOW President Anthony Poplawski (port council VP), and SIU
VP West Coast Nick Marrone.
SUPPORTING OUR TROOPS – The USNS John Lenthall (left) sails next to the aircraft
carrier USS George H.W. Bush during an underway replenishment March 4 in the Atlantic
Ocean. The Lenthall’s crew includes CIVMARS from the SIU Government Services Division.
(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Bryan Valek)
April 2022 Seafarers LOG 11
WITH SEAFARERS IN SAN JUAN – SIU Asst. VP Amancio Crespo submitted these photos, taken at the hiring hall. ABW Alexis Figueroa is
pictured in photo at left, displaying his first SIU discharge following completion of a 120-day tour aboard the USNS Invincible (Crowley). (He previ-
ously sailed with the Military Sealift Command.) In photo at center, QEE/3rd Asst. Engineer Jose Encarnacion (left) stops by the hall with his wife
and their daughter following the Seafarer’s full tour aboard the USNS Montford Point (Ocean Shipholdings). Chief Steward Kevin Valentin is at
left in photo directly above, with Crespo. Valentin is holding the shipping card for his first steward relief job, aboard the USNS Soderman (Patriot).
The photo at right includes ABW Angel Pagan (right) and Crespo. Pagan, a four-year member who’d just finished a long tour aboard the SLNC
Goodwill (Chesapeake Crewing), noted, “The SIU has been a life-changing experience for me, my wife and my two daughters.”
At Sea and Ashore with the SIU
ABOARD ATB COURAGE – Pictured aboard the Crowley
vessel are (from left) Second Mate Ernesto Rios Pratt and
AB/Tankerman Sean Leeson.
ABOARD OVERSEAS CHINOOK – SIU Houston Port Agent Joe Zavala (right in photo at left) submitted these snap-
shots from the OSG vessel. He’s pictured with AB/Tankerman Carlos Avila. The other photo at right includes Avila and
SA Mujahed Mosa.
GETTING OUT THE VOTE – Seafarers team up with other trade unionists in Houston to “block walk” for pro-labor candidates ahead of recent elections.
12 Seafarers LOG April 2022
DEEP SEA
LOUIE ACERIDANO
Brother Louie Aceridano, 71,
started his ca-
reer with the
union in 2006
when he shipped
on the Green
Ridge. A stew-
ard department
member, he
most recently
sailed on the
Resolve. Brother
Aceridano makes his home in
Burien, Washington.
BENJAMIN ADVINCULA
Brother Benjamin Advincula, 65,
signed on with the Seafarers in
1991, initially
sailing on the
Independence.
He sailed in
the steward
department
and upgraded
at the Piney
Point school on
numerous oc-
casions. Brother Advincula most
recently sailed on the Buffalo. He
makes his home in Port Jefferson
Station, New York.
FAUSTO ARANDA
Brother Fausto Aranda, 66,
joined the SIU in 1994, when he
sailed aboard the Independence.
He upgraded
at the Paul
Hall Center on
multiple oc-
casions and
shipped in the
steward depart-
ment. Brother
Aranda’s final
vessel was the
Bay State. He is a resident of
Richmond, Texas.
JAMES ATWELL
Brother James Atwell, 52, began
sailing with the union in 1994.
An engine
department
member, he first
sailed aboard
the Humacao.
Brother At-
well upgraded
at the Piney
Point school on
multiple occa-
sions and most
recently sailed on the Cape Rise.
He lives in Elizabeth City, North
Carolina.
CHRISTOPHER BEATON
Brother Christopher Beaton,
68, signed on with the SIU in
1979, first sail-
ing aboard the
Tam Guilden.
He shipped
in the engine
department and
upgraded at the
Paul Hall Cen-
ter on several
occasions. Brother Beaton last
sailed on the USNS Gordon. He
resides in Palm Bay, Florida.
REX BOLIN
Brother Rex Bolin, 61, became a
member of the
Seafarers Inter-
national Union
in 1977 when he
shipped on the
Charleston. He
sailed in the en-
gine department
and upgraded
on numerous
occasions at
the union-affiliated Piney Point
school. Brother Bolin’s final ves-
sel was the Cape Diamond. He
resides in Port Charlotte, Florida.
CURTIS BURKS
Brother Curtis Burks, 65, em-
barked on his
career with
the Seafarers
in 1986, ini-
tially sailing
on the USNS
Chauvenet. He
was a member
of the deck de-
partment and
upgraded at the
Paul Hall Center in 2016. Brother
Burks most recently shipped on
the USNS Seay and lives in Hous-
ton.
FLORENTINO CABALLERO
Brother Florentino Caballero, 72,
began sailing
with the union
in 1998 when he
worked aboard
the USNS Yano.
He was a mem-
ber of the stew-
ard department
and upgraded
at the Piney
Point school on
numerous occasions. Brother Ca-
ballero last sailed on the Agate.
He lives in the Bronx, New York.
THOMAS CASEY
Brother Thomas Casey, 68,
joined the SIU in 1974 when
he sailed with
Inland Tugs.
He sailed in the
deck department
and upgraded
at the Paul Hall
Center on mul-
tiple occasions.
Brother Casey
concluded his
career on the
Northerly Island and makes his
home in St. Louis.
DENIS COSSIO
Brother Denis
Cossio, 71,
signed on with
the union in
1996. He first
sailed aboard
the Liberty
Spirit and
worked in both the deck and
steward departments. Brother
Cossio upgraded at the Piney
Point school on numerous oc-
casions. He last shipped on the
Maersk Saratoga and is a resi-
dent of Port Washington, New
York.
LAWRENCE CROFT
Brother Lawrence Croft, 60,
began sailing with the Seafarers
in 1981, initially
shipping with
G&H Tow-
ing. He sailed
in the engine
department and
upgraded at the
Paul Hall Center
on multiple oc-
casions. Brother
Croft last shipped aboard the
USNS Pollux. He lives in Dickin-
son, Texas.
WILLIAM GROW
Brother William Grow, 61,
donned the SIU colors in 1998.
He first sailed
aboard the
USNS Prevail,
and worked
in the steward
department.
Brother Grow
upgraded at
the Piney Point
school on
numerous occasions. He most
recently sailed on the Manulani
and is a resident of Fallbrook,
California.
JEROME JORDAN
Brother Jerome Jordan, 63, began
his career with the SIU in 1981.
A steward de-
partment mem-
ber, he initially
sailed aboard
the Indepen-
dence. Brother
Jordan upgraded
at the Paul
Hall Center on
numerous occa-
sions. He most recently shipped
aboard the American Liberty and
resides in Jacksonville, Florida.
MIKE KIFLE
Brother Mike Kifle, 66, started
sailing with the union in 1989,
initially ship-
ping on the
Independence.
He sailed in the
engine depart-
ment and up-
graded often at
the Piney Point
school. Brother
Kifle concluded
his career aboard the USNS
Fisher and settled in Houston.
KENNETH KOONTZ
Brother Kenneth Koontz, 61, joined
the union in 1997 and first sailed
aboard the McDonnell. He was a
member of the engine department
and last shipped aboard the Sumner
in 2003. Brother Koontz lives in
Lemoore, California.
FRANK MARTIN
Brother Frank Martin, 68, em-
barked on his career with the
Seafarers in
1987. He up-
graded often at
the Paul Hall
Center and
sailed in the
steward depart-
ment. Brother
Martin’s first
vessel was the
Kauai; his last,
the John U.D. Page. He makes
his home in Jacksonville, Ten-
nessee.
JAMES MCCORMICK
Brother James McCormick, 69,
became a member of the Seafar-
ers International
Union in 1975,
initially sailing
aboard the Sea-
Land Market. He
worked in the
deck department
and upgraded at
the Piney Point
school on sev-
eral occasions.
Brother McCormick’s final vessel
was the Oregon. He resides in
Kirtland, Ohio.
AHMED MIHAKEL
Brother Ahmed Mihakel, 64,
signed on with the SIU in 1978.
He initially
shipped on
the Point Julie
and was a
deck depart-
ment member.
Brother Mihakel
upgraded at
the Paul Hall
Center on mul-
tiple occasions.
He most recently sailed on the
American Endurance and resides
in Costa Mesa, California.
DAVID MOE
Brother David Moe, 68, started
his career with the Seafarers in
2003 and first sailed aboard the
Green Mountain State. A deck
department member, Brother
Moe last shipped on the Ob-
servation Island. He makes his
home in Toledo, Oregon.
MELVIN NELSON
Brother Melvin Nelson, 63,
signed on with the union in 1995.
He initially sailed with Delta
Queen Steamboat Company and
worked in the engine department.
Brother Nelson upgraded on
numerous occasions at the Paul
Hall Center. He last shipped on
the Honor and is a resident of
Cypress, Texas.
DANA PARADISE
Brother Dana Paradise, 62,
joined the SIU in 1979 and first
sailed on the
El Paso Cove
Point. He up-
graded at the
Piney Point
school on mul-
tiple occasions
and shipped
in the steward
department.
Brother Paradise most recently
sailed on the Overseas Santo-
rini and makes his home in Fall
River, Massachusetts.
JOHN PARKHURST
Brother John Parkhurst, 69,
signed on with the Seafarers
International
Union in 1988.
He first shipped
on the Rover
and sailed in the
engine depart-
ment. Brother
Parkhurst up-
graded often at
the Paul Hall
Center. He concluded his career
aboard the Resolve and calls Gar-
land, Texas, home.
MICHAEL RUETER
Brother Michael Rueter, 56,
began sailing with the SIU in
1991. He sailed
in the engine
department and
first shipped
on the Sealift
Arctic. Brother
Rueter upgraded
his skills at the
Piney Point
school on mul-
tiple occasions. He most recently
sailed on the SBX and lives in
Athens, Texas.
HERNAN SANGA
Brother Her-
nan Sanga, 65,
signed on with
the SIU in 2001,
first sailing
aboard the Moki-
hana. He was a
steward depart-
ment member
and last shipped
on the Meteor. Brother Sanga re-
sides in Carson, California.
SAIDU SESAY
Brother Saidu Sesay, 68, joined
the union in 2001. He was a deck
department member and upgraded
on multiple occasions at the Piney
Point school. Brother Sesay’s first
vessel was the Gem State; his last,
the Maersk Kinloss. He makes his
home in Houston.
NATIVIDAD SUAZO
Brother Na-
tividad Suazo,
67, started sail-
ing with the
Seafarers in
2003 when he
worked on the
Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted
their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland water-
ways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members
who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those
members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days
ahead.
Welcome AshoreWelcome Ashore
Continued on next page
April 2022 Seafarers LOG 13
Sulphur Enterprise. A deck de-
partment member, Brother Suazo
concluded his career on the
Magnolia State. He lives in New
Orleans.
JACK WALKER
Brother Jack Walker, 65, em-
barked on his career with the
Seafarers in
1989, initially
sailing with
OLS Transport.
He was a deck
department
member and
upgraded at the
union-affiliated
Piney Point
school on multiple occasions.
Brother Walker last shipped
aboard the Liberator and resides
in San Clemente, California.
WALLACE WILLIAM
Brother Wallace William, 57,
signed on with the union in
1995. He first
sailed aboard
the USNS Able
and worked in
the deck depart-
ment. Brother
William up-
graded at the
Paul Hall Center
on numerous
occasions. He most recently
shipped on the Green Bay and is
a resident of Tampa, Florida.
BEVERLY WILLIAMS
Sister Beverly Williams, 70,
embarked on her career with the
SIU in 2000,
initially sail-
ing aboard the
USNS Assertive.
She upgraded
on multiple oc-
casions at the
Piney Point
school and pri-
marily shipped
in the deck department. Sister
Williams last sailed on the Ev-
ergreen State. She calls Crystal
River, Florida, home.
KEVIN WIMBLEY
Brother Kevin Wimbley, 65,
joined the Seafarers International
Union in 2006
when he sailed
on the Black
Eagle. He sailed
in the deck de-
partment and
upgraded on
numerous occa-
sions at the Paul
Hall Center.
Brother Wimb-
ley most recently shipped on the
Liberty and makes his home in
Rexford, Montana.
ELIJAH X
Brother Elijah X, 65, signed on
with the union in 1991, initially
sailing aboard the Sealift Pacific.
He sailed in the deck department
and concluded his career aboard
the USNS Gilliland. Brother X
lives in Fairfield, Alabama.
GREAT LAKES
JAMES FISHER
Brother James Fisher, 71, em-
barked on his career with the
Seafarers in
1974. He ini-
tially sailed on
the Southdown
Challenger and
was a deck de-
partment mem-
ber. Brother
Fisher last
shipped aboard
the St. Clair and resides in Har-
bor Springs, Michigan.
RICHARD METCALF
Brother Richard Metcalf, 65,
joined the union in 1979 and
first sailed on
the Monticello.
He worked in
the engine de-
partment and
upgraded at
the Piney Point
school on mul-
tiple occasions.
Brother Metcalf
last sailed on
the American Republic. He set-
tled in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
JOHN WAGNER
Brother John Wagner, 67, started
his career with the Seafarers in
1979 when he
shipped on the
Paul Thayer.
He sailed in
both the deck
and steward
departments
and upgraded at
the Piney Point
school within
his first year of membership.
Brother Wagner’s final vessel
was the William Roesch. He
makes his home in Girard, Penn-
sylvania.
INLAND
MICHAEL ALLEN
Brother Michael Allen, 65,
donned the SIU colors in 1995.
An engine department member,
he was employed by Westbank
Riverboat Services for most of
his career. Brother Allen is a resi-
dent of Meraux, Louisiana.
FULGENCIO ANAVIATATE
SANTIAGO
Brother Fulgencio Anaviatate
Santiago, 67, embarked on his
career with the Seafarers in 1977
when he shipped with Crowley
Puerto Rico Services. He was a
member of the deck department
and upgraded at the Piney Point
school in 1989. Brother Anavi-
atate Santiago was last employed
by Crowley Towing and Trans-
portation. He makes his home in
Puerto Rico.
SIDNEI BARBOZA
Brother Sidnei Barboza, 62,
signed on with the union in 2002,
initially sailing
aboard the USNS
Brittin. He sailed
in the engine
department and
upgraded at the
Paul Hall Cen-
ter on numer-
ous occasions.
Brother Barboza
last sailed aboard the Vision and
settled in Miami.
ROBERT CHAPMAN
Brother Robert Chapman, 65,
joined the Seafarers International
Union in 2007. He was a mem-
ber of the deck department and
upgraded at the Paul Hall Center
within his first year of member-
ship. Brother Chapman was em-
ployed by Allied Transportation
for the duration of his career. He
lives in Currituck, North Carolina.
RONALD DORTCH
Brother Ronald Dortch, 70,
started sailing with the Seafarers
in 1973. He was a deck depart-
ment member and worked for
Dravo Basic Materials for his
entire career. Brother Dortch re-
sides in East Brewton, Alabama.
FRANK GILL
Brother Frank Gill, 67, signed on
with the union in 1979. He first
sailed aboard the
Santa Maria and
was a member of
the deck depart-
ment. Brother
Gill upgraded
at the Paul Hall
Center in 2003.
He was last
employed by
Crowley Towing
and Transportation and makes his
home in Long Beach, California.
WILLIAM KELCH
Brother William Kelch, 66, joined
the SIU in 1977. He was first em-
ployed by G&H Towing and sailed
in the deck department. Brother
Kelch upgraded at the union-
affiliated Piney Point school on
multiple occasions. He concluded
his career with Crowley Towing
and Transportation and resides in
Coatesville, Pennsylvania.
STEVEN KONJOIAN
Brother Steven
Konjoian, 66,
donned the SIU
colors in 2003.
A deck depart-
ment member,
he upgraded on
multiple occa-
sions at the Paul
Hall Center. Brother Konjoian
worked for Crowley Towing and
Transportation for the duration of
his career. He is a resident of Port
Charlotte, Florida.
ERNEST LEE
Brother Ernest Lee, 67, em-
barked on his career with the SIU
in 1991 when
he sailed on the
American Cor-
morant. He was
a member of the
deck department
and upgraded at
the Piney Point
school in 2014.
Brother Lee’s
final vessel was the Legend. He
makes his home in Gretna, Loui-
siana.
MARIO LUIS
Brother Mario Luis, 65, joined
the Seafarers International Union
in 1996 when he sailed with
American Marine Corporation.
He sailed in the deck department
and remained with the same
company for duration of his ca-
reer. Brother Luis lives in Kailua,
Hawaii.
DARRYL NELSON
Brother Darryl Nelson, 62,
started sailing with the Seafar-
ers in 1979. He
first shipped
on the Bea-
ver State and
worked in the
deck depart-
ment. Brother
Nelson up-
graded at the
Paul Hall Cen-
ter on multiple
occasions. He last worked on
the Dodge Island and resides in
Mobile, Alabama.
MARSHALL NOVACK
Brother Marshall Novack, 67,
signed on with
the union in
1976. He sailed
in the deck
department
and initially
worked aboard
the Erna Eliza-
beth. Brother
Novack up-
graded at the Piney Point
school on numerous occasions.
He last worked with Crowley
Towing and Transportation
and makes his home in Laguna
Hills, California.
JACK PEGRAM
Brother Jack Pegram, 59,
joined the SIU in 1987. He was
a deck depart-
ment mem-
ber and first
shipped aboard
the Manhattan
Island. Brother
Pegram up-
graded often at
the Paul Hall
Center. He concluded his ca-
reer with G&H Towing and re-
sides in Corpus Christi, Texas.
JOHN SARES
Brother John Sares, 68, donned
the SIU colors in 1991, initially
sailing on the Cape Charles. An
engine department member, he
last sailed aboard the Missis-
sippi Queen. Brother Sares is a
resident of Skokie, Illinois.
MICHAEL TRAUGHBER
Brother Michael Traughber,
62, embarked on his career
with the SIU
in 1979 when
he shipped on
the Overseas
Washington.
He was a
member of the
deck depart-
ment and was
last employed
by Southbay Barge. Brother
Traughber makes his home in
San Pedro, California.
JOHN WOZUNK
Brother John Wozunk, 62,
joined the Seafarers Interna-
tional Union in 1978 when he
sailed with
American
Towing and
Transportation.
He worked in
both the deck
and engine
departments
and upgraded
at the Piney
Point school in 1979. Brother
Wozunk concluded his career
working for Crowley. He lives
in Blackwood, New Jersey.
PAUL WYLEMSKI
Brother Paul Wylemski, 63,
signed on with the union in
1995. He ini-
tially sailed with
Crowley Tow-
ing and Trans-
portation and
worked in both
the deck and
engine depart-
ments. Brother
Wylemski up-
graded at the Paul Hall Center in
2001. He last worked for Penn
Maritime and makes his home in
Newington, Georgia.
Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted
their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland water-
ways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members
who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those
members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days
ahead.
Welcome AshoreWelcome Ashore
Continued from Page 12
14 Seafarers LOG April 2022
DEEP SEA
MILES BLACK
Pensioner Miles
Black, 77, died
January 3. He
signed on with the
SIU in 1980, ini-
tially sailing aboard
the Manhattan.
Brother Black was
an engine depart-
ment member and
also worked on
shore gangs. He last worked for Car-
gotec Services and went on pension in
2006. Brother Black lived in Mount
Lake Terrace, Washington.
JOSEPH BOURGEOIS
Pensioner Joseph
Bourgeois, 97,
passed away
January 19. He
joined the union
in 1942 and first
sailed aboard the
Henry Baldwin. A
deck department
member, Brother
Bourgeois last
shipped on the Pioneer and retired
in 1985. He made his home in Citrus
Springs, Florida.
GREGORY BROYLES
Brother Gregory
Broyles, 58, died
December 2. Born
in Los Angeles,
he started sail-
ing with the SIU
in 1989. Brother
Broyles was a
steward depart-
ment member and
first shipped on
the Independence. He most recently
sailed aboard the Mahi Mahi and re-
sided in Norman, Oklahoma.
DAVID CLAYPOOL
Brother David Claypool, 60, passed
away December
13. He signed on
with the Seafar-
ers International
Union in 1994,
initially sailing
aboard the USNS
Bellatrix. Brother
Claypool sailed
in the engine de-
partment. He last
shipped on the Advantage in 2006
and called Kingman, Arizona, home.
CARLOS EBANKS
Pensioner Carlos Ebanks, 82, died
December 22. He began his career
with the Seafarers
in 2001. Brother
Ebanks was a deck
department mem-
ber and worked
on the Keystone
Texas for the dura-
tion of his career.
He went on pen-
sion in 2010 and
settled in Marrero,
Louisiana.
SYLVESTER FURTADO
Pensioner Sylvester Furtado, 101,
passed away Janu-
ary 15. He donned
the SIU colors as
a charter member
in 1939. Brother
Furtado was a
member of the
deck department
and first shipped
aboard the Robin
Doncaster. He last
sailed aboard the Del Viento before
retiring in 1982. Brother Furtado re-
sided in Williamsport, Maryland.
HENRY HAYES
Pensioner Henry Hayes, 78, died
January 4. A
steward depart-
ment member,
he started sailing
with the union
in 1990. Brother
Hayes’s first ves-
sel was the USNS
Pollux; his last,
the USNS Loyal.
He went on pen-
sion in 2008 and made his home in
Mobile, Alabama.
ADEL IRANI
Brother Adel Irani, 56, has passed
away. Born in India, he embarked
on his career with
the Seafarers In-
ternational Union
in 1999. Brother
Irani initially
sailed aboard the
Global Sentinel.
He worked in
both the deck and
engine depart-
ments and most
recently sailed on the Maersk Kin-
loss. Brother Irani was a resident of
Torrance, California.
RALPH KIRBY
Pensioner Ralph Kirby, 72, died
January 16. He
joined the SIU
in 1989 when
he sailed on the
John Paul Bobo.
Brother Kirby
shipped in the
deck department
and concluded
his career on the
Freedom. He be-
came a pensioner in 2014 and lived
in Port Charlotte, Florida.
ERIC MANLEY
Pensioner Eric Manley, 58, passed
away February
1. He first sailed
with the SIU in
1987, initially
working on the
Gemini. A stew-
ard department
member, Brother
Manley last
shipped on the
Cape Intrepid. He
retired in 2018 and was a resident of
Shelton, Washington.
KENNETH SMITH
Pensioner Kenneth Smith, 77, passed
away January 4. He joined the SIU
in 1986, initially sailing aboard the
USNS Assurance. Brother Smith was
a member of the deck department
and last sailed aboard the USNS
Heezen. He became a pensioner in
2016 and settled in Honolulu.
WILLIAM SMITH
Pensioner William Smith, 84, died
January 14. He
donned the SIU
colors in 1978. A
steward depart-
ment member,
Brother Smith
first shipped
aboard the Ma-
nukai. After
concluding his
career aboard the
Reliance, he went on pension in
2002. Brother Smith was a Hono-
lulu resident.
SANTOS THOMAS
Pensioner Santos Thomas, 72,
passed away October 1. He signed
on with the union
in 2001 and first
sailed aboard the
Chilbar. Brother
Thomas sailed
in the steward
department and
most recently
shipped aboard
the USNS Wat-
kins. He retired
in 2016 and settled in the Bronx,
New York.
EDDY USMANY
Pensioner Eddy Usmany, 81, died
January 7. He joined the Seafar-
ers International
Union in 1986.
Brother Usmany
initially shipped
aboard the USNS
Bowditch and
worked in the
steward depart-
ment. He became
a pensioner in
2009 after sail-
ing on his final vessel, the Yorktown
Express. Brother Usmany made his
home in Palm Coast, Florida.
EMERSON WALKER
Pensioner Emerson Walker, 92,
passed away February 5. He began
his career with the
SIU in 1965 when
he sailed on the
Iberville. Brother
Walker shipped
in the engine de-
partment and also
worked on shore
gangs. He was last
employed by Seal-
and and retired
in 1994. Brother Walker lived in La
Habra, California.
GREAT LAKES
EDWARD KRAUSE
Pensioner Edward Krause, 96, died
January 9. He joined the Seafarers
International Union in 1946. Brother
Krause was a deck department mem-
ber. He worked for Erie Navigation
for the duration of his career and re-
tired in 1988. Brother Krause called
Sandusky, Ohio, home.
NICKOLAS VERBANAC
Pensioner Nickolas Verbanac, 94,
passed away December 30. He
joined the SIU
in 1961 and first
sailed aboard
the J.A. Kling.
Brother Verbanac
was a member of
the deck depart-
ment. He last
shipped on the
J.A.W. Iglehart
and retired in
1997. Brother Verbanac made his
home in Toledo, Ohio.
INLAND
BRUCE BEAM
Pensioner Bruce Beam, 70, died
January 13. He
signed on with the
Seafarers in 2004.
Sailing in the en-
gine department,
Brother Beam
worked for G&H
Towing for the
duration of his ca-
reer. He went on
pension in 2019
and resided in La Marque, Texas.
IVEY BROWN
Pensioner Ivey Brown, 81, passed
away January 3.
He began sailing
with the union
in 1958, initially
working aboard
the Del Monte. A
deck department
member, Brother
Brown was last
employed by
OSG Ship Man-
agement. He became a pensioner
in 2003 and settled in Youngstown,
Florida.
MARY HOPKINS
Pensioner Mary Hopkins, 78, died
January 8. She embarked on her ca-
reer with the SIU in 1998 when she
worked with Orgulf Transport. Sister
Hopkins was a steward department
member and continued working for
the same company for the duration
of her career. She retired in 2008 and
made her home in Odessa, Missouri.
WILLIAM JUSTI
Pensioner William Justi, 92, passed
away January 30.
A steward depart-
ment member, he
joined the union
in 1975, initially
working for Tug
Management
Corp. Brother
Justi’s final vessel
was the Abby G.
He became a pen-
sioner in 2010 and
lived in Spring Hill, Florida.
TIMOTHY MACRURY
Pensioner Timothy MacRury, 66,
died January 13. He became a mem-
ber of the Seafarers International
Union in 1976 when he sailed with
H&M Lake Transport. Brother Ma-
cRury sailed in both the deck and
steward departments. He last worked
for OLS Transport and began col-
lecting his pension in 2020. Brother
MacRury resided in Port Huron,
Michigan.
KENNETH MCLAMB
Pensioner Kenneth McLamb, 69,
passed away January 22. He donned
the SIU colors in
1980 and initially
sailed on the
Overseas Joyce.
Brother McLamb
was a member of
the deck depart-
ment and most
recently sailed
aboard the Legacy
in 2016. He be-
came a pensioner the following year
and settled in Waynesville, North
Carolina.
DOUGLAS PARKER
Pensioner Douglas Parker, 66, died
November 29. He embarked on
his career with the union in 1974.
Brother Parker sailed in the deck
department and was employed by
Crowley Towing and Transporta-
tion for most of his career. He most
recently sailed in 1986, went on
pension in 2018 and lived in Jack-
sonville, Florida.
DEWEY ROUTH
Pensioner Dewey Routh, 95, passed
away January 28. He began his
career with the Seafarers in 1976,
initially working for Crowley Puerto
Rico Services. Brother Routh was
a deck department member. He last
shipped with Crowley Towing and
Transportation and made his home
in Jacksonville, Florida.
JOHN THOMAS
Pensioner John Thomas, 89, died
December 31. He embarked on his
career with the SIU in 1970 when
he worked with Steuart Transporta-
tion. Brother Thomas was an engine
department member. He was last
employed by STC Peggy S Corpora-
tion and went on pension in 1995.
Brother Thomas made his home in
Tangier, Virginia.
NMU
In addition to the foregoing individ-
uals, the following union members
have also passed away. Insufficient
information was available to de-
velop summaries of their respective
careers.
NAME AGE DOD
Alvarez, Ramon 77 01/24/2022
Bonilla, Pedro 88 01/07/2022
Broussard, Nelson 93 01/26/2022
Camarda, Frank 91 01/14/2022
Johnson, Solister 94 12/28/2021
Laboriel, Jorge 76 12/30/2021
Olan, Gilberto 85 02/02/2022
Powery, Wordsworth 93 01/12/2022
Rosario, Jorge 79 01/22/2022
Scott, Samuel 70 11/29/2021
Final Final
DeparturesDepartures
April 2022 Seafarers LOG 15
FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitu-
tion of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and In-
land Waters District makes specific provision
for safeguarding the membership’s money
and union finances. The constitution requires
a detailed audit by certified public accoun-
tants every year, which is to be submitted to
the membership by the secretary-treasurer.
A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file
members, elected by the membership, each
year examines the finances of the union and
reports fully their findings and recommenda-
tions. Members of this committee may make
dissenting reports, specific recommendations
and separate findings.
TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the
SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters
District are administered in accordance with
the provisions of various trust fund agree-
ments. All these agreements specify that the
trustees in charge of these funds shall equally
consist of union and management representa-
tives and their alternates. All expenditures and
disbursements of trust funds are made only
upon approval by a majority of the trustees.
All trust fund financial records are available
at the headquarters of the various trust funds.
SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s ship-
ping rights and seniority are protected exclu-
sively by contracts between the union and
the employers. Members should get to know
their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts
are posted and available in all union halls. If
members believe there have been violations of
their shipping or seniority rights as contained
in the contracts between the union and the em-
ployers, they should notify the Seafarers Ap-
peals Board by certified mail, return receipt
requested. The proper address for this is:
Augustin Tellez, Chairman
Seafarers Appeals Board
5201 Capital Gateway Drive
Camp Springs, MD 20746
Full copies of contracts as referred to are
available to members at all times, either by
writing directly to the union or to the Seafar-
ers Appeals Board.
CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU con-
tracts are available in all SIU halls. These
contracts specify the wages and conditions
under which an SIU member works and lives
aboard a ship or boat. Members should know
their contract rights, as well as their obliga-
tions, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the
proper sheets and in the proper manner. If,
at any time, a member believes that an SIU
patrolman or other union official fails to pro-
tect their contractual rights properly, he or she
should contact the nearest SIU port agent.
EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEA-
FARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG tradition-
ally has refrained from publishing any article
serving the political purposes of any individual
in the union, officer or member. It also has re-
frained from publishing articles deemed harm-
ful to the union or its collective membership.
This established policy has been reaffirmed
by membership action at the September 1960
meetings in all constitutional ports. The respon-
sibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an
editorial board which consists of the executive
board of the union. The executive board may
delegate, from among its ranks, one individual
to carry out this responsibility.
PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are
to be paid to anyone in any official capacity
in the SIU unless an official union receipt
is given for same. Under no circumstances
should any member pay any money for any
reason unless he is given such receipt. In the
event anyone attempts to require any such
payment be made without supplying a receipt,
or if a member is required to make a payment
and is given an official receipt, but feels that
he or she should not have been required to
make such payment, this should immediately
be reported to union headquarters.
CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND
OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Con-
stitution are available in all union halls. All
members should obtain copies of this consti-
tution so as to familiarize themselves with its
contents. Any time a member feels any other
member or officer is attempting to deprive
him or her of any constitutional right or ob-
ligation by any methods, such as dealing with
charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details,
the member so affected should immediately
notify headquarters.
EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guar-
anteed equal rights in employment and as
members of the SIU. These rights are clearly
set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the
contracts which the union has negotiated
with the employers. Consequently, no mem-
ber may be discriminated against because of
race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic
origin.
If any member feels that he or she is de-
nied the equal rights to which he or she is
entitled, the member should notify union
headquarters.
SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY
DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate
segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to fur-
ther its objects and purposes including, but not
limited to, furthering the political, social and
economic interests of maritime workers, the
preservation and furthering of the American
merchant marine with improved employment
opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the
advancement of trade union concepts. In con-
nection with such objects, SPAD supports and
contributes to political candidates for elective
office. All contributions are voluntary. No con-
tribution may be solicited or received because
of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal,
or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of
membership in the union or of employment. If
a contribution is made by reason of the above
improper conduct, the member should notify
the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by
certified mail within 30 days of the contribu-
tion 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 interests, and
American trade union concepts.
NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any
time a member feels that any of the above
rights have been violated, or that he or she has
been denied the constitutional right of access
to union records or information, the member
should immediately notify SIU President Mi-
chael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail,
return receipt requested. The address is:
Michael Sacco, President
Seafarers International Union
5201 Capital Gateway Drive
Camp Springs, MD 20746
Know Your Rights Know Your Rights
Digest of Shipboard Digest of Shipboard
Union MeetingsUnion Meetings
The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as pos-
sible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted.
Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requir-
ing attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes.
The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication.
LONE STAR STATE (Intrepid
Personnel and Provisioning),
November 21 – Chairman Lio-
nel Rivas, Secretary Martin
Buck, Educational Director
Teon Shelton. Chairman noted
this was first union meet-
ing since re-crewing vessel.
He encouraged everyone to
keep documents updated and
stressed shipboard safety and
mutual respect. He thanked
SIU and Seafarers Plans of-
ficials “for keeping our jobs
safe and our benefits intact.”
Secretary welcomed everyone
aboard. Educational director
encouraged fellow mariners
to upgrade at union-affiliated
school in Piney Point, Mary-
land. No beefs or disputed
OT reported. Crew requested
shipboard Wi-Fi and asked that
this subject be included in next
contract negotiations. Next
port: Lake Charles, Louisiana.
OVERSEAS MYKONOS
(Overseas Ship Management),
January 1 – Chairman John
O’Shaughnessy, Secretary
Juan Vallejo Hernandez,
Educational Director Pat-
rick Montgomery, Steward
Delegate Mohammad Abou
Abdou. Members reviewed old
business including discussions
of increasing pension and vaca-
tion benefits, and Wi-Fi and
computer access aboard ship.
Chairman gave thanks to the
steward department for doing
a great job during the holidays.
He reminded everyone to keep
documents up to date and reit-
erated the importance of safety.
On behalf of crew, secretary
praised SIU Executive Vice
President Augustin Tellez for
his great work at the White
House. He instructed members
to separate garbage and to keep
rooms clean. Educational di-
rector urged crew to upgrade
at the Piney Point school and
to check the SIU website for
upgrading courses. No beefs or
disputed OT reported. Mem-
bers revisited suggestions to
increase pension pay and asked
for a higher food budget.
USNS WATERS (Ocean Shi-
pholdings, Inc.), January 16
– Secretary Charles Sassone,
Educational Director Randy
Slue, Deck Delegate Troy
Glatter. Crew waiting on ar-
rival of new bosun to elect a
chairman. Educational director
encouraged members to take
advantage of the upgrading
opportunities at the Paul Hall
Center, which will increase in-
dividual earning potential. No
beefs or disputed OT reported.
Members requested pay in-
creases, penalty pay for ship
restriction, Wi-Fi access and
a better satellite phone. Crew
asked for new mattresses and
better pillows. Next port: Cape
Canaveral, Florida.
INDEPENDENCE (TOTE
Services), February 2 –
Chairman Edward Wright,
Secretary Gerald Hyman,
Educational Director Marcos
Arriola, Deck Delegate James
Armer, Steward Delegate
Anthony Parks. Chairman
thanked crew for staying
diligent in their duties and
keeping positive attitudes de-
spite delays during trip. He
informed members of upcom-
ing shipyard period that will
extend the normal length of
the trip. Educational director
reminded crew to stay up to
date with required immuniza-
tions, physicals and Coast
Guard documents. No beefs or
disputed OT reported. Secre-
tary announced a higher food
budget, citing the rising prices
of food during COVID-19
pandemic. Ship placed under
MSC charter midway through
voyage. Crew restricted to
ship in Asian ports. Members
would like to see current
agreement replaced with SIU
Standard Freightship Agree-
ment. Members requested
monthly payment increases for
pensioners. Next port: Corpus
Christi, Texas.
HORIZON PACIFIC (Sun-
rise Operations), February 5
– Chairman Josesimo Baler-
ite, Secretary Todd Curry,
Deck Delegate Paul Dilbeck,
Engine Delegate Anthony
Henry, Steward Delegate
Kenneth Huddleston. Chair-
man talked about safety
aboard the vessel and advised
crew to leave clean rooms
for oncoming members. He
emphasized importance of
wearing masks and using
gloves at the serving line.
Secretary recommended crew
go to Piney Point to upgrade.
He also recommended donat-
ing to SPAD, the union’s vol-
untary political action fund.
No beefs or disputed OT
reported. Members discussed
COVID testing and were re-
minded to show up to ship on
time for reliefs. Steward de-
partment was thanked for nice
dinners that were put out for
Christmas and New Year’s.
Union representative was
requested on ship for payoff.
Wi-Fi needs to be fixed for
better connection. Members
expressed their appreciation
for direct deposit. Next port:
Oakland, California.
With Seafarers on Horizon Pacific
Gathering for a union meeting aboard the Sunrise Operations vessel in Oakland, California, are (from
left) Recertified Steward Ronald Davis, SIU Port Agent J.B. Niday, SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone,
Electrician Aaron Ellis and Bosun Josesimo Balerite.
16 Seafarers LOG April 2022
UPGRADING APPLICATION
Name_________________________________________________________________________
Address_______________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________
Date of Birth___________________________________________________________________
Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o
If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed.
Social Security #_______________________ Book #__________________________________
Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________
Home Port____________________________________________________________________
E-mail_______________________________________________________________________
Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No
If yes, class # and dates attended_ __________________________________________________
Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No
_____________________________________________________________________________
With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five
(125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your
department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested.
Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date.
I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this applica-
tion, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application
to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply
for any benefits which might become due to me.
COURSE START DATE OF
DATE COMPLETION
____________________________ _______________ ________________________
____________________________ _______________ ________________________
____________________________ _______________ ________________________
____________________________ _______________ ________________________
____________________________ _______________ ________________________
____________________________ _______________ ________________________
LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________
Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________
SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________
NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if
you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any
questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are
reimbursable. Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Train-
ing and Education Admissions Office, Email:upgrading@seafarers.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 stu-
dents, who are otherwise qualified, or any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with
applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or
activities.
4/22
The following is a list of courses that currently are scheduled to be held at the
Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland
during the next several months. More courses may be added. Course additions and
cancellations are subject to change due to COVID-19 protocols. All programs are
geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American
maritime industry.
Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the
Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010.
Title of Start Date of
Course Date Completion
Gap Closing Courses
MSC Storekeeper Basic May 2 May 20
MSC Ship Clip June 6 June 17
MSC Supply Configuration Management May 23 June 3
Deck Department Upgrading Courses
Able Seafarer-Deck May 23 June 10
August 29 September 16
October 17 November 4
Lifeboat/Water Survival April 11 April 22
May 9 May 20
June 6 June 17
August 1 August 12
August 29 September 9
Fast Rescue Boat June 20 June 24
August 22 August 26
RFPNW April 25 May 13
June 27 July 15
July 25 August 12
Leadership and Management Skills August 8 August 12
Advanced Shiphandling August 22 September 2
Advanced Meteorology September 12 September 16
Advanced Stability September 5 September 9
Engine Department Upgrading Courses
RFPEW April 25 May 20
July 25 August 19
FOWT June 13 July 8
August 29 September 23
Junior Engineer July 11 September 2
Marine Electrician May 16 June 17
Marine Refer Tech September 19 October 28
Advanced Refer Containers July 18 July 29
Title of Start Date of
Course Date Completion
Engine Department Upgrading Courses
Welding April 25 May 13
June 6 June 24
July 11 July 29
Engineroom Resource Management August 1 August 5
Steward Department Upgrading Courses
Certified Chief Cook April 25 May 27
May 30 July 1
July 11 August 12
August 15 September 16
ServSafe Management April 18 April 22
May 23 May 27
July 4 July 8
Advanced Galley Operations June 20 July 15
August 15 September 9
October 10 November 4
Chief Steward May 9 June 3
July 18 August 12
September 12 October 7
Safety/Open Upgrading Courses
Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting September 19 September 23
Medical Care Provider April 11 April 15
Basic Training June 6 June 10
August 8 August 12
Basic Training Revalidation April 22 April 22
May 6 May 6
June 3 June 3
June 10 June 10
Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation August 29 September 2
December 12 December 16
Government Vessels April 11 April 15
April 25 April 29
May 9 May 13
June 13 June 17
June 27 July 1
Tank Ship-DL (PIC) October 24 October 28
Tank Ship Familiarization DL May 2 May 6
June 27 July 1
October 24 October 28
Tank Ship Familiarization LG May 9 May 13
May 23 May 27
August 15 August 19S
Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course DatesPaul Hall Center Upgrading Course Dates
April 2022 Seafarers LOG 17
Important Notice
To all Students
Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever
reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students
take their places.
Paul Hall Center ClassesPaul Hall Center Classes
Apprentice Water Survival Class #878 – Graduated January 28 (above, in alphabetical order): Marcantony Arcila, Tyler Bean, Corey Bellezza, Alexander Bennett, Deyni Steven
Camacho Fernandez, Dashiel Depaulis, Nathan Dixon, Mark Ina Jr., Jordan Jeffries, Matthew Kaufmann, Joseph Lucas, Dahlia Grace Puaokuupuuwai Milsap, Kyara Isabel Nunez,
Riley Russ, Kamron Stripling, Jeremy Stultz, Steven Ware and Kenneth Wilson.
Apprentice Water Survival Class #879 – Graduated February 25 (above, in alphabetical order): Mukhtar Ali, Jarrett Conkey, Alondra Delgado, Matthew Epstein, Parker Hampton,
Kyle Jolivette, Derrel Oliver, De’andre Peden, Markalle Redd, Darryl Shack Jr., and Mark Stookey.
18 Seafarers LOG April 2022
Paul Hall Center ClassesPaul Hall Center Classes
RFPNW (Phase III) – Graduated February 11 (above, in alphabetical order): Joseph Bates, Brandon Coleman, Martin Cox, Johncarlo Garibaldi, Nathaniel Howard, Cordera Looney,
Noah Pittman, Richard Russ Jr., and Emilie Whitlow. Upon the completion of their training, each plans to work in the deck departments aboard SIU-crewed vessels.
Government Vessels – Graduated February 18 (above, in alphabetical order): Rizaldy Manalopilar Ano Jr., Daniel Avery, Julian De Los Santos, Lydia Dye, Herb Gulliford, Lionel Hall,
Leroy Harris, Terry Herndon, Noah Hughes, Heather Lassiter, Tiara MacKlin, Ethan Martell, Dindo Prellagera Reforsado, Edsel Auguis Renegado, Tameka Scott, Adam Felix Soto
and Tyrone Wilson.
Water Survival (Upgraders) – Graduated February 25 (above, from left): Venise Spears
and Ronald Burris.
Advanced Reefer Container Maintenance – Graduated February 18 (above, from left):
M’barek Nouhairi and Gajatri Normatova. Mike Faye, their instructor, is at the far right.
April 2022 Seafarers LOG 19
Paul Hall Center ClassesPaul Hall Center Classes
Students who have reg-
istered for classes at
the Paul Hall Center
for Maritime Training
and Education, but later
discover - for whatever
reason - that they can’t
attend, should inform the
admissions department
immediately so arrange-
ments can be made to
have other students take
their places.
Important Notice
To All Students
Junior Engineer (Plant Main-
tenance) – Graduated February
18 (left, in alphabetical order):
Carlos Marcos Gutierrez, Lu-
zern Hawkins, John Jaremchuk
III, Jorge Yakeny Laboriel Lalin,
Zion Lyons, Kelly Percy, Brandon
Thornton, Neil Laconsay Tupas,
Harry Whitney IV and Fernandez
Lacpta Wilcox Jr.
Advanced Galley Ops – Graduated February 18 (above, in alphabetical order): Jose
Felipe Clotter, Emmanuel De Gracia Matias, Melissa McCartney and Lareesa Warren.
(Note: Not all are pictured.)
Chief Cook Assessment Program – Graduated February 25 (above, in alphabetical
order): Roslyn Anderson, Orin Galvez Godfrey Jr., Rahman Phillip and Brian Alberto Rojas
Perez.
Certified Chief Cook (Mod-
ule 5) – Graduated February
11 (photo at left, in alphabetical
order): Erik Bain, Jessica Davis,
Julian De Los Santos, Eliezer
Estremera, Deon Greenidge,
Hussein Abdul Hussein, Chris-
topher Kluth, Tracey Manuel,
Latara Rengifo and Anthony
Roman.
20 Seafarers LOG April 2022
O F F I C I A L P U B L I C A T I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N A T I O N A L U N I O N A T L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W A T E R S , A F L - C I O
APRIL 2022 VOLUME 84, NO. 4
Paul Hall CenterPaul Hall Center
Class PhotosClass Photos
Pages 17-19Pages 17-19
SIU Safety Directors Meet for Yearly TrainingSIU Safety Directors Meet for Yearly Training
On March 8, SIU safety direc-
tors from across the country met
virtually for a series of training
sessions and presentations designed
to provide the team members with
up-to-date information.
The SIU safety directors who
attended the virtual meeting in-
cluded Amber Akana, Ben Ander-
son, James Brown, Gordon Godel,
Anthony Houston, Gerret Jarman,
Joseph Koncul, Andre MacCray,
Kevin Marchand, Osvaldo Ramos
and Kevin Sykes. Additional meet-
ing participants included SIU
President Michael Sacco, SIU
Executive Vice President Augustin
Tellez, SIU Secretary-Treasurer
David Heindel, SIU Vice President
Contracts George Tricker, Paul
Hall Center Vice President Tom
Orzechowski, Paul Hall Center As-
sistant Vice President Bart Rogers,
Paul Hall Center Vocational Direc-
tor Wayne Johnson Jr., Culinary
Instruction Coordinator John Het-
manski and SIU Piney Point Port
Agent Mario Torrey.
MacCray said, “Regardless of
whether it is in person or via video
conferencing, the safety meeting
is always productive. This last one
shared some useful information
regarding recruiting, shipboard
safety, the future direction of the
union and much more.
Johnson Jr. remarked, “It’s
always good for the different
departments at the school to com-
municate with the safety directors
during these meetings. It gives us
all an opportunity to educate our-
selves on each other’s processes,
discuss industry updates and/or
changes, and review our strengths,
shortcomings and potential solu-
tions.”
Topics covered during the meet-
ing included COVID-19, shipboard
safety trends, sanitation, and the
latest details from the Recruiting
and Contract offices.
Introduced in the House of Representatives at the end of
February, the Safer Seas Act aims to combat sexual assault
and sexual harassment (SASH) in the maritime industry.
It was introduced by Chair of the House Committee on
Transportation and Infrastructure Peter DeFazio (D-Ore-
gon) along with 17 co-sponsors, and the bill has since been
referred to the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime
Transportation.
According to the subcommittee, the bill:
nClarifies the Coast Guard’s ability to deny, suspend,
or revoke a merchant mariner credential to individuals who
have been convicted of sexual harassment or sexual assault;
n Strengthens transparency surrounding companies’
sexual assault policies and procedures;
n Protects victims and witnesses who report SASH in-
cidents from discrimination;
nDirects the Coast Guard to initiate rulemaking to de-
termine safe levels of alcohol consumption by crew mem-
bers aboard vessels;
n Outlines surveillance requirements, which may be
used as evidence in criminal or marine safety investiga-
tions;
nCreates a master key control system to limit the per-
sonnel who have access to private spaces;
n Requires reporting to the Coast Guard by any sea-
farer, master, or vessel owner with knowledge of sexual
harassment or sexual assault;
n Extends the right to civil action for those pursuing
sexual assault and sexual harassment cases;
n Provides the Secretary of Transportation the ability
to waive requirements for U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
students who provide reasonable safety concerns when ob-
taining a merchant mariner license required for graduation;
and
nAdds definitions for sexual assault and harassment.
“We are taking a critical step toward eliminating
sexual violence in the maritime industry,” DeFazio said.
“With this legislation, we can help fight assault and ha-
rassment in maritime transportation through penalties
for perpetrators, new requirements for vessel owners,
expanded legal recourse for victims, and a myriad of
policies to prevent sexual assault and harassment in
the first place. I look forward to working with my col-
leagues to get this legislation signed into law and protect
hard-working seafarers.”
“As chairman of the Maritime Transportation Subcom-
mittee, I’ve heard heartbreaking stories from survivors of
sexual assault, harassment, and abuse from within our mar-
itime industry – and I know that keeping our seas safe is a
mission that will not be complete without eradicating these
threats to our seafarers,” said Carbajal. “The Safer Seas Act
will focus not just on preventing future sexual violence,
but also on supporting survivors and holding perpetrators
accountable.”
The bill is supported by maritime unions, including the
SIU, AMO, MEBA and the Maritime Trades Department,
AFL-CIO.
“We applaud the efforts of the Committee to work with
maritime labor and the industry to create meaningful re-
forms that will ensure safe and equitable workplaces for
mariners now and in the future,” said Greg Regan president
of Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO.
Oregon CongressmanOregon Congressman
Introduces Safer Seas Act Introduces Safer Seas Act
In House of RepresentativesIn House of Representatives
Attendees converse in person (at the Paul Hall Center) and via online connection.
Taking part in the meeting from Piney Point, Maryland, are (from left) SIU Secretary-Treasurer David
Heindel, Paul Hall Center Asst. VP Bart Rogers, Paul Hall Center Vocational Director Wayne Johnson Jr.,
Paul Hall Center VP Tom Orzechowski and SIU President Michael Sacco.