Seafarers Log: Vol. 84 No. 10 (2022-10-01)

OCTOBER 2022 VOLUME 84, NO. 10

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

Seafarers Recognized for Rescues
Page 3

Remembering Adm. Herberger
Page 6

Building for the Future
SIUNA Conducts Quinquennial Convention

Delegates and guests met online Sept. 14 for the Seafarers International Union of North America (SIUNA) conven-
tion, which takes place every five years. The convention theme – Building for the Future – was reflected throughout
the proceedings. SIUNA President Michael Sacco is pictured at top right. AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler (immediate
right) delivered keynote remarks via a video that had been recorded a day earlier. The convention was engineered
from the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland; SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (right in photo
directly above) and Legal Counsel Leslie Tarantola (left) are pictured on the campus. Pages 4-5.

The SIU on Sept. 2 joined in celebrating the christening of the new Pasha Ha-
waii vessel George III (pictured at right). A ceremony took place in Long Beach,
California. Pictured from left in the photo above are Ed Washburn, Senior VP
of Fleet Operations for Pasha Hawaii; SIU Asst. VP Joe Vincenzo; and SIU
Wilmington Port Agent Gerret Jarman. Extensive details about the ship were
reported in the September LOG and are available on the SIU website.

Pasha Ship Christened

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2 Seafarers LOG October 2022

The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the
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2022 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights
Reserved.

Volume 84 Number 10 October 2022
The SIU online: www.seafarers.org

The Seafarers International
Union engaged an environ-
mentally friendly printer
for the production of this
newspaper.

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

Support for Cargo Preference

President’s Report

A recent hearing in the U.S. House of Representatives made it crystal clear
that our country is best-served by maintaining strong cargo preference laws.

Through joint testimony submitted on behalf of several maritime unions,
the SIU took part in the Sept. 14 hearing, conducted by the House Transporta-

tion and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Coast
Guard and Maritime Transportation. Two days
earlier, the Government Accountability Office
(GAO) released a report identifying ways to better
enforce cargo preference compliance.

As you may know, cargo preference has been
under attack this year, via House and Senate reso-
lutions that attempt to leverage the war in Ukraine
to justify a waiver. As the unions said in our joint
testimony, these resolutions not only ignore the
impact such a waiver would have on America’s
commercial sealift readiness capability, but totally
disregard the impact it would have on the jobs
of American merchant mariners. If these resolu-
tions were enacted, the federal government would
give up control of the carriage of U.S.-taxpayer
financed food aid cargoes to foreign-flag, foreign-
crewed ships.

We also pointed out that, contrary to what the sponsors of these resolutions
would have us believe, existing U.S.-flag cargo preference shipping require-
ments are not hindering our government’s efforts to export food aid. If the
United States Agency for International Development (USAID) uses the fund-
ing made available by Congress to respond to the worldwide food crisis and
either the volume of food aid cargo exceeds available American-flag tonnage
or U.S.- flag vessels aren’t available at “fair and reasonable” rates, existing
law already allows for the waiver of the cargo preference “Ship American”
requirements. Put simply, the resolutions are completely unnecessary.

I was especially encouraged by remarks from U.S. Rep. Peter DeFazio
(D-Oregon), who chairs the full House Transportation and Infrastructure
Committee, and from U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-California), chairman of
the subcommittee.

DeFazio said in part, “The U.S. depends on a robust merchant fleet not
only for economic purposes but also for national security. This past year,
we’ve seen the negative effects of an industry dominated by foreign compa-
nies and interests wreaking havoc on our supply chain. It is counter to U.S.
interests to increase reliance on foreign-flagged vessels. For decades we’ve
seen the U.S.-flag fleet shrink… The flags-of-convenience system has exacer-seen the U.S.-flag fleet shrink… The flags-of-convenience system has exacer-seen the U.S.-flag fleet shrink… The flags-of-convenience system has exacer
bated this issue, allowing companies to flag their vessels under countries that
lack labor, safety, and environmental standards. Cargo preference provides a
backbone to support the dwindling internationally sailing U.S.-flag fleet, espe-
cially when coupled with other incentive programs like the Maritime Security
Program.”

He added, “There’s an old saying: cargo is king. By providing a baseline
of cargo for U.S.-flagged ships, we incentivize more vessels to join the fleet.
Without guaranteeing cargo for U.S. vessels, we lose demand for U.S.-owned
and -crewed ships.”

DeFazio also voiced concern about agencies that have skirted cargo prefer-DeFazio also voiced concern about agencies that have skirted cargo prefer-DeFazio also voiced concern about agencies that have skirted cargo prefer
ence requirements.

Carbajal put it this way: “Compliance with cargo preference law is closely
tied to the sustainment of American jobs and national security. It requires that
government-impelled cargo be shipped overseas using U.S. flagged vessels –
in other words, vessels crewed by U.S. mariners, owned by Americans, and
abiding by U.S. laws. Guaranteeing a steady supply of cargo through cargo
preference programs equates to job security for these hardworking citizens.
Along with the Maritime Security Program and the Jones Act, cargo prefer-Along with the Maritime Security Program and the Jones Act, cargo prefer-Along with the Maritime Security Program and the Jones Act, cargo prefer
ence ensures that the U.S. seagoing maritime industry does not disappear
completely...”

There were many other encouraging statements throughout the hearing,
which featured multiple panels and representatives from labor, business,
government and the administration. Their respective conclusions are con-
sistent with what we’ve known all along: America’s national, economic and
homeland security depend on a strong U.S. Merchant Marine, and the U.S.
Merchant Marine relies in part on maintaining and enforcing cargo preference
laws.

Michael Sacco

Comprehensive Study Underscores
How Puerto Rico Benefits from Jones Act
U.S.-Flag Vessels Reliably, Efficiently Serve Territory

A new study finds that Puerto Rico benefits from
reliable service by Jones Act carriers.

The Transportation Institute on Aug. 23 an-
nounced the findings of research by Ernst & Young
(EY). The report evaluated the Jones Act and its
implications on freight rates, container availabil-
ity, port congestion, and carrier performance in
the Caribbean Region relative to global averages.
The analysis considered the timeframe between
January 2019 and December 2021 and captured the
heightened volatility of freight movement during
the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, and showed
that global shipping rates increased 27 times more
and delays were eight times higher than with Jones
Act carriers.

“Across multiple metrics, shippers overwhelm-
ingly associated better carrier performance with
Jones Act carriers than non-Jones Act ones,” ac-
cording to the study. It also concluded that “in addi-
tion to providing stability and security in the region,
the Jones Act shipping industry continues to pro-
vide substantial economic benefits to Puerto Rico.”

“Jones Act carriers are dedicated to Puerto Rico
and help local businesses make goods more afford-
able and the supply chain more reliable compared
to our global competitors,” said Transportation
Institute Chairman and President James L. Henry.

“While the entire global supply chain was disrupted
during the pandemic, our Jones Act carriers proved
to be 27 times more affordable and eight times
more reliable than non-Jones Act carriers.”

EY engaged in primary data collection through
a survey of 49 companies that ship to and from
the continental United States and the Caribbean.
The survey gathered information from shippers on
advantages or impediments that they experienced
while shipping via Jones Act and non-Jones Act
carriers with respect to freight and shipping cost,
the availability of containers, and the resiliency and
adaptability in carrier customer service models to
meet the COVID-19 pandemic and supply chain
challenges. The study also evaluated the economic
contribution of the Jones Act shipping industry in
Puerto Rico based on direct, indirect and induced
contributions.

Among the study’s key findings:
n Global shipping rates increased 27 times more

than rates in the Caribbean Region
n Global shipping vessel delays were eight times

more than in the Caribbean Region
n Jones Act economic impact on Puerto Rico

is as follows: created or helped maintain more than
2,000 jobs; contributed $96 million in wages and was
responsible for $221 million in economic output.

The Major League Baseball Players Association
(MLBPA) on Sept. 7 announced that it is formally
affiliating with the AFL-CIO, with a goal of sup-
porting the efforts and strengthening the voice of
the national labor movement.

The SIU also is an AFL-CIO affiliate. SIU Presi-
dent Michael Sacco is the longest-serving vice pres-
ident on the federation’s executive council.

“The MLBPA has a proud, 56-year history
of success rooted in unity and a highly engaged
membership,” Executive Director Tony Clark
said. “We look forward to bringing that history
and experience to bear as a more formal part of
the movement.”

The announcement was made during an appear-
ance by AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler and Clark at
the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.

“The MLBPA and every single one of its 1,200
players have a home in our movement because
this union understands and lives the meaning of
the word solidarity by leveraging the power of
sports and helping others,” said Shuler. “Together,

with our 12.5 million members, we will bring our
strength to their fights, including working to orga-
nize 5,400 minor league players.”

The AFL-CIO and many of its member unions
offered consistent support that helped the MLBPA
withstand a 99-day lockout by Major League Base-
ball to achieve significant improvements in a five-
year collective bargaining agreement reached on
March 10.

The MLBPA will play an active role in the AFL-
CIO’s Sports Council, a working group of unions
representing professional athletes founded to align
interests in areas of common concern with service,
hospitality and other workers who support the pro-
fessional sports industries.

The Sports Council founding unions include the
NFL Players Association, the National Women’s
Soccer League Players Association, the United
Soccer League Players Association-CWA, the U.S.
Women’s National Team Players Association and
the newly organized United Football Players Asso-
ciation-USW.

Major League Baseball Union Affiliates with AFL-CIO

The U.S. Defense Department in mid-August announced that SIU-contracted Ocean Shipholdings,
Inc. will operate the USNS Victorious, USNS Able (above), USNS Effective, USNS Loyal, USNS
Impeccable and USNS Howard O. Lorenzen for up to five years (through October 2027). The SIU
represents the unlicensed crews of those vessels with the incumbent operator and will continue doing
so with Ocean Shipholdings. (U.S. Navy file photo)

SIU Jobs Secure Aboard T-AGOS Vessels



October 2022 Seafarers LOG 3

SIU members sailing aboard the Maersk
Tennessee, the APL-operated Herodote, the NY
Waterway ferry Abraham Lincoln and the Cen-
terline Logistics-operated tugboats Richardson
Sea and Chabria Sea were all involved in res-
cues this year.

On July 22, the SIU crew of the Maersk
Tennessee spotted a man in need of help, 40
nautical miles off the coast of Florida. The man
was piloting a jet ski, which had run out of fuel,
and had drifted out to sea. The crew worked to-

gether to get the man onboard with the port pilot
ladder and slant combination, with a rescue boat
on standby but ultimately not needed.

The SIU members aboard the Tennessee at
the time included Bosun Keller Gilyard, ABs
Koksal Demir, Delroy Fernandez Fernan-
dez, Michael Kanga, Nathaniel Lynch and
Troy Mack, QE4 John Jaremchuk, QEE Ann
Mensch, GUDE Amer Ahmed, Steward Baker
Susan Emmons, Chief Cook Velicia Williams
and SA Emy Smith.

Once onboard, the rescued man informed
the crew that he had been stranded for nearly
five days. He was later transferred to a U.S.
Coast Guard vessel which linked up with the
Tennessee.

On August 10, the crew of the Herodote –
which includes SIU members working in the
steward department – was presented with an
award from a rescue that took place on March
21.

As detailed by the Coast Guard Certificate
of Merit: “On March 21, 2022, while underway
on a voyage from Saipan, CNMI, to Hakata,
Japan, your crew observed smoke and flames on
the horizon from a fishing vessel approximately
eight nautical miles from your vessel’s position
and 107 nautical miles from Tanegashima Is-
land, Japan. You immediately diverted towards
the observed fire and discovered the Japanese
fishing vessel YUUJIN MARU No. 51 was com-
pletely engulfed in flames from the superstruc-
ture to the waterline with no visible name or
designating marks, and no visible signs of survi-
vors. The crew of the CMA CGM HERODOTE
took immediate action to search for survivors,
made radio broadcasts for assistance from ves-
sels in the area, contacted USCG District 14
Command Center Honolulu and further coordi-
nated SAR efforts with the Japan Coast Guard.
You remained on scene and provided invaluable
real-time information to SAR experts. The CMA
CGM HERODOTE was joined by the Greece-
flagged tanker WOODSIDE ROGERS to assist
with the response and soon located three per-

sons in the water, who were then recovered by
the WOODSIDE ROGERS. It was discovered
that a total of eight crewmembers were onboard
the YUUJIN MARU No. 51, comprised of six
Indonesian and two Japanese nationals. CMA
CGM HERODOTE continued to search for sur-
vivors until relieved by Japanese Coast Guard
air and surface assets approximately seven
hours after the initial sighting.”

The SIU crew onboard the vessel in-
cluded Recertified Steward Karl Meyer,
Chief Cook Wardell Paze and ACU Jose
Ayon-Ayon.

Not even a week later, a crew of SIU mem-
bers working aboard the NY Waterway-oper-
ated ferry Abraham Lincoln responded to two
kayakers in distress on August 16.

According to Captain Anthony Ryan, “It

was a real busy time of day, as far as boat traf-
fic. I’m just happy nobody got hurt, and we
were able to save them.”

Ryan and his crew brought the kayakers
aboard and safely transported them to Pier 11.
No injuries were reported.

Finally, an award ceremony took place Aug.
24 for the crews of the Richardson Sea and
Chabria Sea, who were involved in a rescue
that saved the life of a jet skier in New York
Harbor on June 25 – the International Day of
the Seafarer.

The award ceremony recognized the efforts
of SIU members Ryan Bradley, Corey Harris
and John Huggins, who were involved in the
rescue. The details of the rescue were previ-
ously reported in the August issue of the Sea-
farers LOG.

The International Transport Workers’ Fed-
eration (ITF) continues making a major, positive
impact on the lives of mariners around the world.

The latest evidence for that sentiment sur-
faced in mid-August, when the federation
revealed that its inspectors recovered $37.6 mil-
lion in unpaid wages to foreign crews across the
globe.

According to a report, “The ITF’s 125 in-
spectors and coordinators completed 7,265
inspections in 2021 to support thousands of
seafarers with wage claims and repatriation
cases, despite COVID-19 restrictions prevent-
ing inspectors’ ability to board ships for much
of the year.”

The SIU is an ITF affiliate. SIU Secretary-
Treasurer David Heindel chairs the organiza-
tion’s Seafarers’ Section.

“ITF Inspectors get their name because they
board and ‘inspect’ ships,” the federation said
in announcing the back-pay figures. “They
educate seafarers about their rights and support
crew to enforce these rights. The officials cover
more than 100 ports across 50 countries.

“Inspectors are trained to look for exploita-
tion, overwork – even for signs of forced labor
and modern slavery,” the ITF continued. “On
many vessels, inspectors have the right to ex-

amine wage accounts, employment contracts,
and to review recorded hours of work and rest.”

“It’s not uncommon for crew to be paid at
the wrong rate by a shipowner, or less than the
rate set out in the employment agreement cov-
ering the ship,” said ITF Inspectorate Coordina-
tor Steve Trowsdale. “Crew can generally work
out when they’re being underpaid. And that’s
when they contact us. ITF inspectors help sea-
farers recover what’s owed to them.”

Trowsdale said the makeup of seafarers’
wage claims was changing: “Concerningly,
we’re seeing a rise in the number of seafarers
reporting non-payment of wages for periods
of two months or longer, which actually meets
the ILO’s definition of abandonment. Seafar-
ers might think it’s normal to go unpaid for a
couple of months, waiting for a shipowner to
sort out financing, but they need to be aware
that non-payment can also be a sign that a ship-
owner is about to cut them loose and leave them
abandoned.”

The ITF reported 85 cases of abandon-
ment to the International Labor Organiza-
tion (ILO) last year, an historic high. In
many of those cases, abandoned crew had
already been waiting on several weeks’ or
months’ of unpaid wages – including those

aboard the storm-hit MV Lidia.
An ITF inspector based in Hong Kong,

Jason Lam, helped eight Burmese seafarers who
were crewing the MV Lidia recover almost USD
$30,000 in unpaid wages after they ran aground
in October 2021, thanks to a typhoon that left
them close to shipwrecked. The shipowner re-
fused to pay the two months’ wages he owed
them, abandoning them and ruling out any as-
sistance to get them home.

Weeks of campaigning by Lam on behalf of
the seafarers had an impact, and on November
2, 2021, the crew flew home – full wages in
hand.

Moreover, inspectors also helped thousands
of mariners return home at the height of the
crew-change crisis.

Trowsdale added that inspectors adapted
and found new ways of working during the
pandemic.

“I’m extremely proud of the work our in-
spectors have done to support seafarers in the
last year, often working in the face of incred-
ibly difficult circumstances,” he said. “It’s al-
ways been important for our team to be able to
physically get to seafarers – to board ships and
educate crew on their rights. So, when COVID-
19 restrictions presented a challenge to inspec-

tors to board vessels, there was a real question:
‘What will happen to the seafarers who need
us?’”

As the crew-change crisis worsened in early
2021, a flood of requests filled the ITF’s in-
boxes from mariners desperate to sign off and
get home. COVID-related border restrictions
were the underlying reason for the dilemma,
which impacted an estimated 400,000 seafar-
ers at the worst point of the crisis. But on some
ships, other more sinister factors were at play
in keeping crew from their families, according
to the federation.

“There is evidence that some shipowners
were using COVID-19 as an excuse to keep sea-
farers working beyond their initial contracts and
in complete violation of those seafarers’ human
and labor rights,” said Trowsdale. “Thankfully,
our team was wise to what was going on and
despite everything we got thousands of seafar-
ers home.

“Keeping crew on board while pretending
their hands were tied may have saved those em-
ployers a few dollars in flight fares, but in to-
day’s society that kind of conduct gets noticed,”
he concluded. “There are no shadows to hide in
anymore when it comes to global supply chain
accountability.”

ITF Recovers $37.6 Million in Unpaid Wages

Seafarers Receive Recognition for Rescues at Sea

A photo taken from the Maersk Tennessee
during the rescue of a stranded jet skier.
(Photo courtesy USMMA)

The crew of the NY Waterway ferry Abraham Lincoln, pictured with the two rescued kayak-
ers (left and second from left). (Photo courtesy NY Waterway)

Not Everyday Cargo
The SIU-crewed USNS Mendonca
(U.S. Marine Management) in mid-
August picked up an F/A-18E Super
Hornet in Sicily, Italy. The aircraft had
been recovered from the Mediterra-
nean Sea after being blown off the air-
craft carrier USS Harry Truman during
heavy weather. AB Michal Penkwitz is
pictured in front of the plane in photo
at the immediate right, while the image
at the far right, courtesy of the U.S.
Navy, shows the aircraft being lowered
onto the Mendonca’s deck.

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4 Seafarers LOG October 2022

Convention Focus: Workplaces of Future
SIUNA Embraces New Tech, Says Workers Must Have a Voice

The Seafarers International Union of
North America (SIUNA) conducted its 2022
Quinquennial Convention online, under the
theme “Building for the Future.”

Hosted in Piney Point, Maryland, the
event took place Sept. 14 and included ap-
proximately 60 delegates and guests who
connected online from across the U.S. and
Canada. AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler de-
livered the keynote address via a video that
had been recorded the previous day (see
separate story).

Delegates elected the following officers
for five-year terms in office: President Mi-
chael Sacco, Secretary-Treasurer David
Heindel, and Vice Presidents Paul Doell, Jeff
Richards, Nicole Walsh, Anthony Poplawski,
Dave Connolly, Tom Orzechowski, Nick Ce-
lona, Dean Corgey, Nick Marrone, Joseph
Soresi, Augie Tellez, George Tricker, Pat
Vandegrift, Jim Given, Marcus Woodring,
Monte Burgett, Karen Horton-Gennette and
Laura Lopez.

They also passed resolutions address-
ing automation and the future of work; the
supply chain; grassroots political action and
voter turnout; the Jones Act; crew changes;
the PRO Act; opposing a proposed second
register in the U.S. Virgin Islands; wind
energy; Union Plus; cargo preference laws;
support for our troops and veterans; apprecia-
tion for the Biden Administration’s backing
of unions and the maritime industry; support
for Shuler and AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer
Fred Redmond; and a remembrance of many
who’ve passed away since the prior conven-
tion.

The proceedings also featured reports
from individual SIUNA affiliates and from
the various committees (who also met online
the previous day).

In his opening remarks, Sacco stated,
“Our convention theme is ‘Building for the
Future,’ and that’s exactly what we’re doing.
It’s probably most obvious in the wind-en-
ergy sector, which I believe will be a major
source of jobs for many of our affiliates.
We’ve been laying the groundwork for those
opportunities for quite a while, and the jobs
aren’t too far off on the horizon.”

He continued, “Our efforts definitely go
beyond wind energy, of course. The SIUNA
and our affiliates continue to work with our
contracted companies, our allies throughout
the labor movement and our political repre-
sentatives to stand up for our members. That
means doing everything possible to make
sure they have good contracts; the training
they need; a voice in the workplace; job se-
curity; and a bright future.”

He then encouraged the affiliates to boost

voter turnout and to “support candidates
who’ll support working families, regardless
of political party.”

Throughout the convention, the COVID-
19 global pandemic was part of every report.
Sacco pointed out that the pandemic “has af-
fected all of our affiliates, and definitely not
always in the same ways. For some, there are
jobs that disappeared and still haven’t come
back. For others, the term ‘essential work-
ers’ took on new meaning and often meant
extended hours and extended tours. For the
most part, I think we’ve all done an excel-
lent job weathering the storm, delivering the
goods and standing up for our members.”

He touched on the state of organized
labor, noting a number of recent high-profile
organizing victories and an unprecedented
level of public support for unions.

Regarding the maritime industry, Sacco
said he believes it is “heading in the right

direction, but we all know the battles never
end. We’re currently in a very serious fight
about cargo preference laws, and we’re doing
everything possible to educate Congress and
preserve American maritime jobs. We had
manpower challenges even before the pan-
demic, and as many of you know, those have
only grown.

“Otherwise, we’ve made significant
gains by securing the new Tanker Security
Program, an American-flag cable fleet, and
full funding for the Maritime Security Pro-
gram,” he added. “And, as mentioned, we’re
also getting in on the ground floor to secure
good union jobs in the wind-energy sector.
I think we’re in good shape overall. We’ve
got a very worker-friendly administration
and we’ve got plenty of opportunities to get
things done.”

While much of the convention focused
on pandemic-related challenges along with

workplaces of the future, the SIUNA Inter-
national Affairs Committee pointed out the
ongoing issue of crew abandonment.

“Historically, this is an under-reported
issue, and yet we know of more than 70
such cases in 2021 alone, almost always
involving so-called flag-of-convenience or
runway-flag ships,” the committee wrote.
“According to the International Maritime
Organization, the total number of cases that
were recorded from 2004 to 2020 was nearly
500 and involved almost 6,000 seafarers. As
noted by the IMO, ‘Seafarer abandonment
is a serious problem that can blight the lives
of those caught up in it. It must be tackled
and it needs continual cooperation, not just
between the IMO and ILO and non-govern-
mental organizations devoted to seamen’s
welfare, but with flag states, port states and
other industry groups, too. We all have a duty
to protect seafarers.’”

AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler commended the work
of Seafarers and encouraged officials and rank-and-file
members to support pro-labor candidates in the midterm
elections.

Shuler submitted a video message for the SIUNA
convention, which took place online Sept. 14.

“I just have to start by recognizing your president,
Mike Sacco, who is not only an incredible leader of
your union, but a true leader within our federation,” said
Shuler. “Serving on our executive council, and as presi-
dent of the AFL-CIO’s Maritime Trades Department, and
even conducting the elections for Fred (Redmond) and I
at the AFL-CIO convention last June. Thank you, Mike,
and to (SIU Executive Vice President) Augie Tellez,
(SIU Secretary-Treasurer) Dave Heindel and all the ex-
ecutive board leaders and activists, we are so grateful for
your dedication to our labor movement.”

She continued, “And that’s what the Seafarers do: You
show up whenever you’re needed, and you deliver the
goods. That’s especially true in times of crisis. It was Sea-
farers who delivered supplies to Allied troops in World
War II, and helped evacuate people from Manhattan after

9/11. And there’s no question that you all have stepped
up to address the challenges the pandemic has posed to
our economy and our supply chain. That’s what unions
do. We show up for each other, and we use our collective
power to fight for a better future for our communities.
And people are recognizing this. Not only is the public
support for unions at 71 percent, but we’re seeing incred-
ible momentum building around organizing.”

She spoke on some of the new technologies that
will shape the future of the SIUNA: “New industries
are emerging all around us. And we need to make sure
that those jobs are good, union jobs from day one. And

by being the source for the most highly skilled, highly
trained, most productive workers on the planet, that’s
how we get a foothold. And we are seeing that in indus-
tries like offshore wind….

“But now we want to expand that, and make sure every
aspect of the industry is union, wall to wall,” Shuler con-
tinued. “And this, of course, includes all the work in the
maritime trades. From construction, to the 20-plus years
of maintenance work on barges and supply ships, wind
turbine installation vessels, crewing transports, operations
and maintenance vessels.… We are going to fight for all
of that to be union work. And I am personally committed
to this fight, because this is about the future.”

Lastly, Shuler described the importance of voting.
“We all know that the course of our future, it will

depend on who’s writing the laws and making the rules,”
she said. “And that’s why I know all of you will show
up in these critical midterm elections. Our Labor 2022
plan is built on the organizing power of unions, and our
ability to talk to one another about the issues that af-
fect our daily lives. When we have those one on one,
face to face conversations with our members about the
issues, we can break through the polarization, and the
echo chamber. We can be those trusted messengers on
the job, on the phones, listening to our members about
what’s important to them. And then connecting it to the
pro-workers candidates who share our values, and who
will show up for us. That’s how we’re going to win in
this election.”

AFL-CIO President
Applauds SIUNA

Some of the delegates and guests are shown participating in the convention via Zoom (photo above).

73686_SEAFARERS_LOG_October_2022_X.indd 4 9/21/22 3:16 PM



October 2022 Seafarers LOG 5

The following is a brief summary of
the resolutions passed by convention del-
egates, not including the In Memoriam
statement.

Resolution 1: Automation and the Future of
Work

The SIUNA and its affiliates stand
ready to embrace new technology and the
advancements that come with them, as
long as such developments are made with
workers in mind and with workers having a
seat at the table to negotiate their use.

Resolution 2: Supply Chain
While the global supply chain quickly

slowed down at the height of the pandemic,
getting it back to where it was remains a
concern. The U.S.-flag and Canadian-flag
maritime unions are working to help pro-
vide solutions.

Resolution 3: Get Out the Vote
Exercising one’s right to vote goes be-

yond presidential and congressional elec-
tions. Union families must vote the whole
ballot, from state legislatures to city halls
to local school boards. The SIUNA and its
affiliates will mobilize on every level to
ensure utmost union member participation
in the upcoming 2022 elections and those
that follow, because labor’s interests are at
stake.

Resolution 4: Jones Act Support
The SIUNA will continue its critical

fight for jobs created within the scope of
the Jones Act. This law supports America’s
mariners and shipyard workers along with
other shoreside personnel. It has proven its
value to the economy and national security
for more than a century.

Resolution 5: Crew Changes
Perhaps no pandemic-induced chal-

lenge for the world’s mariners has loomed
larger than achieving crew changes. While
significant progress has been made when
it comes to getting mariners to and from
work, the sheer scope and complexity of
the crisis are noteworthy.

The International Chamber of Shipping
at one point stated the following: “The
continuing inability of ship operators to
conduct crew changes has been the single
greatest operational challenge confronting
the global shipping industry since the Sec-
ond World War.”

The SIUNA applauds the work of every
organization that has stood up for seafar-
ers throughout the pandemic. We recognize
both the tremendous progress and the work
that remains.

Resolution 6: Opposing the Proposed USVI
Open Register

The SIUNA and its affiliates call upon
the Biden Administration, the Congress,
the Department of Defense and the Mari-
time Administration to reject any effort
that would have U.S. Virgin Islands-flag
vessels be treated as if they are the same as
U.S.-flag, U.S.-crewed ships for any pur-
pose or for any program. An open register
in the U.S. Virgin Islands would take cargo
from U.S.-flag vessels, crewed by Ameri-
can citizens, and place it on vessels that do
not use American crews, do not pay Ameri-
can taxes and do not meet American safety
and labor standards.

Resolution 7: The PRO Act
It is time for the United States to bring

its labor laws into the 21st century. It is
time for the Senate to pass, and the nation
to enact the PRO Act, organized labor’s
top legislative priority. This legislation,
already approved twice by the House of
Representatives, would help ensure that
workers have a right to vote to form a
union in an atmosphere defined by free
speech and open communication, and
without fear of retaliation for standing up
for their rights.

Resolution 8: Wind Energy
The SIUNA and its affiliates will con-

tinue working with other brothers and
sisters throughout the labor movement to
plan, build and maintain North America’s
energy-producing offshore windfarms. We
will maintain our vigil on the cabotage
laws of the United States and Canada to
make sure these renewable energy jobs go
to highly trained, qualified American and
Canadian union workers.

Resolution 9: Union Plus
The SIUNA remains enthusiastically

committed to fully supporting and par-
ticipating in Union Plus programs and in
helping ensure that rank-and-file mem-
bers of our affiliate unions receive the
most current information about those
programs.

Resolution 10: Cargo Preference
Cargo-preference laws are good for

America, good for the U.S. maritime in-
dustry – and good for the foreign citizens
who benefit from many of the cargoes
themselves. The SIUNA thanks the Biden
administration for supporting these laws,
which should be maintained and strength-
ened.

Resolution 11: Appreciation for the Biden
Administration

The Biden Administration is well
on its way to being the most pro-union

administration ever. Not only that, the
president himself has been an outspoken
supporter of American maritime, starting
in his first week in office. We are grateful
for the support and will continue back-
ing politicians and administrations who
understand and respect the importance of
organized labor.

Resolution 12: Support Our Troops and
Veterans

The SIUNA has a rich tradition of sup-
porting our men and women in uniform
– both active duty and retired – and their
families. We will continue our efforts to
help ensure that every veteran in search
of employment finds it in short order. We
hold our troops and veterans in the very
highest regard, and we thank them for their
service.

Resolution 13: Support for Liz Shuler
and Fred Redmond

The SIUNA offers its unyielding sup-
port to Liz Shuler and Fred Redmond.
Delegates to the AFL-CIO Convention on
June 12 elected the duo to serve as presi-
dent and secretary-treasurer, respectively,
of the nation’s largest labor federation.
The SIUNA looks forward to working with
both of them and supporting their ongoing
fight for economic justice for working peo-
ple across the country.

SIUNA Convention 2022 – Summary of Resolutions
Participants listen to a report (above, left), while the image at right features the convention artwork

Pictured from left in photo at left are
Legal Counsel Leslie Tarantola and SIU
Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. SIU
President Michael Sacco is shown in the
screenshot directly above.

73686_SEAFARERS_LOG_October_2022_X.indd 5 9/21/22 3:16 PM



6 Seafarers LOG October 2022

The U.S.-flag maritime industry lost a
true and devoted friend when retired Vice
Adm. Albert Herberger (USN) passed
away Aug. 26. He was 91 years old.

“Admiral Herberger was more than a
friend,” recalled SIU President Michael
Sacco. “He was a merchant mariner. He
was a Navy man. He understood logistics
and transportation. He knew us.”

Following a 32-year career in the
Navy, Herberger served as the U.S. Mar-
itime Administrator from 1993 to 1997.
During that time, he was the point man
for the Clinton administration to secure
passage of the “maritime revitalization”
program.

Proposed in 1992 by the George H.W.
Bush administration to rebuild and refor-
tify the U.S.-flag merchant fleet in the
wake of the 1991 Kuwaiti war, maritime
revitalization finally passed the Congress
and was signed into law by President
Clinton in 1996 as the (still-operating
today and highly successful) Maritime
Security Program.

Herberger was a regular presence at

Maritime Trades Department functions,
speaking at the department’s 1995 con-
vention as well as at the 1994 and 1995
executive board meetings. The New
York/New Jersey Maritime Port Coun-
cil presented him with its Government
Man of the Year Award in 1996. (That
same year, he received the Admiral of
the Ocean Seas Award from the United
Seamen’s Service.) He also delivered
the keynote speech at the SIU-affiliated
school in Piney Point, Maryland, when
the facility opened an exhibit of World
War II U.S. Merchant Marine posters in
1995.

The Albany, New York, native graduated
from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
in 1955. After sailing as a merchant mari-
ner for three years, he joined the Navy. He
commanded war ships and held shore-side
posts in the Navy. In his last assignment, he
was the first deputy commander-in-chief of
the U.S. Transportation Command, where
he worked directly with Sacco and other
maritime union officers while helping
launch the command.

Among his military and civilian recog-
nitions are the Navy Distinguished Ser-
vice Medal, the Bronze Star, the Legion of
Merit, the Department of Defense Medal
for Distinguished Public Service, and the
National Defense Transportation Associa-
tion Distinguished Service Award.

During his tenure at the Maritime Ad-
ministration, Herberger was known as
being greatly admired, determined and
friendly. Upon his retirement, the staff
presented him with a life-size photo
from when he threw out a first pitch at a
minor league baseball game. Years later,
he told others he had that photo as well
as all his awards in his den, but his young
grandchildren were more interested in his
pitching form than his record of service.

Upon his passing, the Maritime Ad-
ministration issued a statement that reads
in part, “Our sincerest condolences go to
his family and loved ones during this
time…. He was a stalwart merchant mar-
iner…. We will forever remain inspired
by his leadership and his impact on the
maritime community.”

Vice Adm. Herberger Passes Away at 91

Vice Adm. Al Herberger

A major maritime coalition re-
cently saluted U.S. Rep. Mike Gal-
lagher (R-Wisconsin) for his strong
support of the industry.

The Great Lakes Maritime Task
Force (GLMTF), to which the SIU is
affiliated, presented Gallagher with
the organization’s 2022 Legislator
of the Year Award, during a late-July
ceremony in Green Bay.

In announcing the recognition, the
GLMTF said, “Congressman Galla-
gher has spearheaded legislation that
invests in shipbuilding on the Great
Lakes, improves the maritime supply
chain during the winter, and ensures
the Great Lakes Navigation System
remains viable for years to come.”

“At a time when China is com-
missioning three ships in a single day,
we desperately need to strengthen
the American shipbuilding industrial
base to expand, support, and service
the fleet,” said Gallagher.

“Congressman Gallagher’s sup-
port for U.S. Merchant Mariners,
Wisconsin ports, and Wisconsin
shipbuilding drives economic sta-
bility in the Great Lakes region and
in the nation. Simply put, he helps
to create family-sustaining jobs
for thousands,” stated Mark Ruge,
president of the Wisconsin Domestic
Maritime Coalition.

John Baker, an official with the
International Longshoremen’s As-
sociation and vice president of the
task force, added, “Mike Gallagher
invests in the American worker pro-
tecting sailors from damaging ice
floes, advancing U.S. shipbuilding,
and keeping the maritime supply
chain moving on the nation’s Fourth
Sea Coast.”

GLMTF President Jim Weakley
stated, “The work done by Congress-
man Gallagher to correct years of ne-
glect to the Great Lakes Navigation
System during the winter months is
monumental. The Great Lakes Win-
ter Commerce Act is a great step in
the right direction. In addition, the
support Congressman Gallagher
provided to get the Great Lakes des-
ignated as a navigation system with a
guaranteed allocation of money from
the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund
will undoubtedly serve the Great

Lakes region for decades to come
and that is why he is our Legislator
of the Year.”

Gallagher noted, “The impor-
tance of the Great Lakes cannot be
overstated. Here in Northeast Wis-
consin, these lakes are crucial to not
just our economy, but to our way of
life, and it’s critical we do everything
we can to preserve these national
treasures for generations to come.
It’s an honor to be named the 2022
Legislator of the Year by the Great
Lakes Maritime Task Force, and I
look forward to continuing my work
to both protect the Great Lakes and
expand opportunities for the busi-
nesses that rely on them.”

The award presentation took
place at the U.S. Venture, Inc. facil-
ity in Green Bay. President and CEO
of U.S. Venture John Schmidt stated,
“The Port of Green Bay serves as a
critical link in the supply chain for
gasoline, diesel, and renewable en-
ergy products supplied to Northeast-
ern Wisconsin. We appreciate and
commend Congressman Gallagher
for his continued support of the Port
and the Great Lakes.”

The GLMTF has 74 member or-
ganizations. According to the coali-
tion, “The Great Lakes commercial
maritime industry supports more
than 147,000 American jobs in eight
Great Lakes states and generates
more than $25 billion in economic
activity.”

Great Lakes Coalition
Honors Rep. Gallagher

U.S. Rep. Mike Gallagher
(R-Wisconsin)

Editor’s note: Following is the text of this
year’s Labor Day statement from President
Biden. It was issued September 2, the Friday
before the holiday.

American workers have built our communi-
ties, laid the foundation for our democracy,
and powered the engine of our prosperity.
From the factory hands who forged an Arsenal
of Democracy and helped beat back fascism
during World War II, to the immigrants who
assembled the transcontinental railroad that
connected America’s coasts, to the health care
professionals and first responders who mobi-
lized selflessly during the pandemic to save
countless lives, American workers have guided
us through our most difficult moments and de-
livered some of our Nation’s greatest triumphs.

Unions have been the voice of American
workers, guiding their path to power as a major
force in our society. Unions fought for higher
wages and family-supporting benefits, estab-
lished vital health and safety standards, secured
an 8-hour work day, eradicated child labor,
guarded against discrimination and harassment,
and bargained for every worker’s fair share
of economic prosperity. They give workers a
say in critical decisions affecting their lives
and livelihoods and play a transformative role
in shaping the future of our democracy. The
middle class built America, and unions built the
middle class. When organized labor wins, fami-
lies win. We all win.

I said from the start that I would be the most
pro-worker and pro-union President in Ameri-
can history, and I am keeping that promise.
When I took office, I put money in the pockets
of hardworking Americans with the American
Rescue Plan, offering families much-needed
breathing room. I have now enacted a bold,
long-term economic agenda that will lead to
historic investments in our Nation and our
workers: the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,
the CHIPS and Science Act, and the Inflation
Reduction Act. My economic agenda is a once-
in-a-generation blueprint to rebuild America,
out-compete every other economy in the world,
and create thousands of good-paying and clean-
manufacturing jobs. We are putting plumbers,
pipefitters, electrical workers, steel workers,
and so many others to work on a range of
projects – from rebuilding our infrastructure
to manufacturing semiconductors, electric ve-
hicles, wind turbines, and solar panels. Many of
these jobs will be union jobs.

This is just the beginning. To give work-
ers more power and raise wages, I signed an
Executive Order calling for a ban on unfair
non-compete agreements that hinder people
from building on their experience to take
new jobs in their industries. I created a White
House Task Force on Worker Organizing and
Empowerment with the aim of identifying new
ways the executive branch can facilitate the

organizing of workers. I also appointed a for-
mer union president and card-carrying union
member to serve this country as the Secretary
of Labor.

Still, there is more we can do. I believe
every worker should have a free and fair choice
to organize and bargain collectively with their
employer without coercion or intimidation.
That is why I called on the Congress to finally
pass the Richard L. Trumka Protecting the
Right to Organize Act and the Public Service
Freedom to Negotiate Act, which will make it
easier for private-sector, State, and local gov-
ernment workers to join a union and bargain
collectively.

As our economy recovers and rebuilds, we
must build it from the bottom up and the mid-
dle out – not the top down – so everyone ben-
efits. Our Nation continues to fall short of its
promise to deliver equal opportunity to workers
of color and women, among others, and we can
do more to ensure that good-paying jobs are
accessible to everyone. Only when all workers
have a strong voice in their wages, benefits,
and job treatment can we start to change how
we value their labor. Only then can we begin to
reward work and not just wealth.

I have had the honor of meeting workers of
every stripe. I have visited longshore workers
in California, firefighters in Colorado, transit
workers in New Jersey, welders in Wisconsin,
and teachers in Virginia, among many others.
I also welcomed frontline worker-organizers
into the Oval Office. Whenever I meet mem-
bers of America’s labor community – dedicated
women and men who derive purpose from their
work – I am reminded of something my father
used to tell me: “A job is about more than a
paycheck – it is about dignity and respect.”

This Labor Day, let us honor those trailblaz-
ers who have fought for the rights of working
people. Let us stand in solidarity with all work-
ers and strengthen their ability to organize and
bargain with employers. Let us give thanks to
all of America’s workers who build this Nation
and pave our future.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN
JR., President of the United States of America,
by virtue of the authority vested in me by the
Constitution and the laws of the United States,
do hereby proclaim September 5, 2022, as
Labor Day. I call upon all public officials and
people of the United States to observe this day
with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and ac-
tivities that honor the energy and innovation of
working Americans.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto
set my hand this second day of September,
in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-
two, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and forty-
seventh.

JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

White House Issues Labor Day Proclamation

Revered U.S.-Flag Stalwart Served at TRANSCOM, MARAD

73686_SEAFARERS_LOG_October_2022.indd 6 9/21/22 1:27 AM



October 2022 Seafarers LOG 7

A popular course at the SIU-affil-
iated Paul Hall Center for Maritime
Training and Education (PHC) has
updated its curriculum and added new
equipment that utilizes the latest tech-

nology in the reefer container industry.
These changes signal major im-

provements to the school’s advanced
refrigerated container maintenance
(ARCM) class, a two-week offering at
the Piney Point, Maryland, campus.

Mike Fay, a longtime Seafarer and
electrician who occasionally teaches
at the PHC, developed the ARCM
class and serves as its lead instructor.
He explained that the recently added
state-of-the-art units can handle a wide
range of cargo – some of which is both
expensive and delicate.

“It’s not uncommon to see $1 mil-
lion worth of pharmaceuticals in one
container, and that content has to be
maintained at exact temperature, hu-
midity and oxygen level,” Fay said.
“This requires the person working
on the equipment to have an in-depth
knowledge of capacity controls and op-
erating systems.”

One way for students to gain or
enhance such knowledge is by train-
ing with top-end equipment, and the
PHC boasts such gear. The school re-
cently added Carrier PrimeLINE unit
that allows students to learn “on the
next generation of units equipped with

electronic expansion valves and digi-
tal control valves,” Fay noted. “These
components give the unit the capabil-
ity to keep a 40-foot loaded container
within one-half of one degree of set-
point, thereby helping ensure the cus-
tomer’s product integrity.”

Fay also mentioned that students in
the July ARCM class took on the task
of refitting a vintage, out-of-service
Star Cool reefer unit with new, up-
to-date components, including a 2.0
frequency converter, a variable-speed
compressor and the latest digital con-
troller. By the time the students com-
pleted their work on that unit, it was
fully operational.

One highlight of the July course was
a visit and some guest instruction from
field subject-matter expert Benjamin
Hernandez, service manager of the
Americas for Star Cool/Maersk Con-
tainer Industry.

“It was an honor to have Benjamin
share his knowledge with the class,”
Fay said. “He was so impressed with
the whole Paul Hall Center training fa-
cilities that he offered the support of
the Star Cool factory in Denmark to
supply training aids and tech support.

The school has always partnered with
SIU-contracted companies for donat-
ing actual reefer units from their fleets
for training, but this is the first time a
major manufacturer has offered factory
support. This ensures that the PHC will
continually have the capability to train
students with the latest technology
well into the future.”

ARCM Class Raises Bar for Technology Skills
Updated Course Features Cutting-Edge Equipment

Students enhance their skills on a Star Cool unit. Upgrader Derek Chestnut programs software on a new PrimeLINE unit.

Instructor Mike Fay (right) and Seafarer
Devin Sem Guest Instructor Benjamin Hernandez

SIU members employed by Ex-
press Marine are sailing under pro-
visions of a new three-year contract
featuring numerous gains.

The recently ratified agreement
contains signing and safety bonuses,
yearly wage boosts, and increases to
mileage reimbursements and contri-
butions to the Seafarers Money Pur-
chase Pension Plan.

Negotiating for the SIU were Cap-
tain Riley Johnson and AB Scottie
Duncan, alongside Vice President At-
lantic Coast Joseph Soresi and Phila-
delphia Port Agent Joe Baselice.

Baselice said of the pact: “It’s a
good contract. We worked hard to
reach a new deal with Express Ma-
rine that addressed all the concerns of
the membership including wage and
related increases, while maintaining
two-for-one pension and Core Plus
level (medical) benefits.”

Johnson stated, “With regard to

the present economic environment in
which we are operating, and the ever-
changing maritime industry, I believe
we have a contract that will allow
management and labor to continue
moving forward into a prosperous
future. We all look forward to work-
ing with the new management here at
Express Marine, and together meeting
the challenges that will arise.”

The new contract –which runs from
June 16, 2022 until June 15, 2025 –
covers approximately 25 members.

According to its website, Express
Marine, Inc. “has provided safe, reli-
able tug and barge transportation for
dry bulk and liquid cargos along the
Atlantic and Gulf coasts, Caribbean
and associated bays, harbors and riv-
ers for more than 100 years.” SIU
members sail aboard the company’s
fleet of tugs and barges, which range
from smaller inland units to larger off-
shore ones.

SIU, Express Marine
Sign 3-Year Agreement

An Express Marine crew (photo above)
poses for a snapshot after contract ratifi-
cation. From left to right are Mate Robert
Arble, AB Bruce Wilkinson and Captain
Eddie Garner. In the photo at right, Mate
Robert Arble counts the ballots.

73686_SEAFARERS_LOG_October_2022.indd 7 9/21/22 1:27 AM



8 Seafarers LOG October 2022

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

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

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

requested. The proper address for this is:

Augustin Tellez, Chairman
Seafarers Appeals Board

5201 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 contracts
are available in all SIU halls. These contracts
specify the wages and conditions under which
an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship
or boat. Members should know their contract
rights, as well as their obligations, such as fil-
ing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and
in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member
believes that an SIU patrolman or other union
official fails to protect their contractual rights
properly, he or she should contact the nearest
SIU port agent.

EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEA-
FARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionSeafarers LOG traditionSeafarers LOG -
ally has refrained from publishing any article
serving the political purposes of any individual
in the union, officer or member. It also has re-
frained from publishing articles deemed harm-
ful to the union or its collective membership.
This established policy has been reaffirmed
by membership action at the September 1960
meetings in all constitutional ports. The respon-
sibility for Sea farers LOG policy is vested in an LOG policy is vested in an LOG
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 SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY
DONATION (SPAD).DONATION (SPAD).DONATION (SPAD).DONATION (SPAD).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

Digest of Shipboard
Union 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-Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requir-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.

MAGOTHY (Argent Marine
Operations), May 8 – Chairman
Frank Hedge, Secretary Tristan
Cordero, Educational Director
Tracy Mitchell, Deck Delegate
Abdullah Ansah, Engine Delegate
Samuel Ayers, Steward Delegate
Nagi Ali. Chairman thanked crew
for a safe voyage and for keeping
garbage separated. He reminded
members to upgrade at the Paul
Hall Center for Maritime Training
and Education, located in Piney
Point, Maryland, and to keep
documents up to date. No beefs or
disputed OT reported. New mat-
tresses have been ordered. Galley
still needs dishwasher and grill.
Members proposed one physical
examination requirement per year.
Crew requested raise in pension
benefits, additional vacation bene-
fits, increased dental coverage, and
better Wi-Fi aboard ship. Steward
department was thanked for a job
well done. Next port: Portland,
Oregon.

USNS EFFECTIVE (Crow-
ley), July 29 – Chairman Edgar
Elegino, Secretary Delia Peters,
Educational Director Emiliano
Guevara, Engine Delegate Rob-
ert Murphy, Steward Delegate
Cameron Keating. Members
offered suggestions pertaining to
crew change relief procedures.
Crew suggested searching for a
relief a month in advance, post-
ing jobs to all ports immediately,
providing incentive programs for
members who extend their con-
tracts and conducting job fairs to
advertise the maritime industry
and job vacancies. Treasurer listed
some purchases recently made for
various parts of vessel. Steward
delegate commented on stores.

AMERICAN PHOENIX (Phoe-
nix Crew Management, LLC),

July 31 – Chairman Charles Hill,
Secretary Edward Gavagan, Edu-
cational Director Bobby Conner,
Steward Delegate Gamal Asaad.
Chairman discussed personnel
change while vessel was in Tampa,
Florida shipyard. Secretary re-
minded crew to check and renew
papers early. Educational direc-
tor urged members to upgrade at
the union-affiliated Piney Point
school. No beefs or disputed OT
reported. Steward department was
thanked for providing good food.

HUDSON EXPRESS (Marine
Personnel & Provisioning), July
31 – Chairman Zeki Karaah-
met, Secretary Shari Hardman,
Educational Director Alton Hick-
man, Deck Delegate Jonathan
Eitz, Engine Delegate Matthew
Wright, Steward Delegate Alexus
Guillory. Crew revisited ongo-
ing issues with dryer, dishwasher
and air conditioning in galley.
Chairman reported a smooth
voyage. Special thanks given to
the steward department for good
meals. Educational director en-
couraged members to upgrade at
the Paul Hall Center for Maritime
Training and Education. Engine
delegate issued request pertaining
to overtime rates. Crew discussed
new contract and reiterated the
importance of shipboard meet-
ings. Members were reminded to
keep prescription medication up to
date. Next port: Charleston, South
Carolina.

ALLIANCE NORFOLK (Maersk
Line, Limited), Aug. 1 – Chairman
Eugene Perez, Secretary Timothy
Dowd, Educational Director Fred-
erick Williams, Deck Delegate
Marcos Santos Gamboa, Engine
Delegate Dennis Pangan. Chair-
man talked about new contract
and difference in pay. Secretary

advised crew to renew documents
early since they are taking longer
than usual to process. No beefs or
disputed OT reported. Members
asked for clarification for B-book
seniority and asked how long
jobs can be held in rotation. Crew
discussed shipping rule enforce-
ment by halls and asked ques-
tions about relief and rotary jobs.

AMERICAN PRIDE (Intrepid
Personnel & Provisioning),
August 3 – Chairman Felsher
Beasley, Secretary Sharray
Turner, Educational Direc-
tor Moses Mickens, Engine
Delegate Steve Tate, Steward
Delegate Lea Ramos. Crew
discussed contract and agreed to
send for ratification. Chairman
thanked everyone for keeping
ship clean and discussed up-
coming shipyard stay. Educa-
tional director encouraged crew
to upgrade at the Paul Hall Cen-
ter in southern Maryland and to
stay on top of documents. No
beefs or disputed OT reported.
Next port: Beaumont, Texas.

EMPIRE STATE (Intrepid Per-
sonnel & Provisioning), August
5 – Chairman Abdulkarim
Mohamed, Secretary Jayson
Velez-Cruz, Educational Direc-
tor Mohsen Mohamed, En-
gine Delegate Mark Canada,
Steward Delegate Kirk Fisher.
Crew discussed cargo preference
laws, which are vital to the U.S.
Merchant Marine and which ben-
efit U.S. national, economic and
homeland security. Educational
director advised members to up-
grade in Piney Point and keep up
with documents. Crew received
computer with internet access as
well as copies of new freightship
and tanker agreements. Members
requested an extra vacation day

per month or extra pay in lieu of
day off. Crew suggested items
to include in next contract such
as penalty pay for the use of any
rust removal chemical and flex-
ible rotation for permanent crew.
Members were encouraged to do-
nate to SPAD (Seafarers Political
Activities Donation, the union’s
voluntary political action fund).
Vote of thanks was given to stew-
ard department.

POHANG PIONEER (U.S. Ma-
rine Management), August 21
– Chairman Ahmed Ghaleb, Sec-
retary Rudy Lopez, Engine Del-
egate Edward Galbis, Steward

Delegate Steven Johnson. Crew
asked for a slop chest on ship and
for TVs and DVD players. Re-
quested items are to come upon
arrival at dock. Crew commented
on improvement with stores.
Members suggested extending
vacation for permanent positions
from 60 to 75 days to allow more
time to handle personal business.
Gym equipment was moved to fan
room, which is reportedly loud
and uncomfortable for members.
Crew discussed restriction to ship
while in Korea. Still no notice
reportedly provided by Korean
government, so no shore leave
available.

Recertified Bosun Brian Guiry submitted this photo of ABs Raul
Colon Matos (left) and John Diaz Hernandez. The duo works
aboard the Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning vessel, which
sails in the Jones Act trade.

Aboard El Coqui



October 2022 Seafarers LOG 9

At Sea and Ashore with the SIU
PROMOTING WORKERS’ RIGHTS – The SIU was well-represented at this year’s New York State AFL-CIO convention, which took place in August. Serving as delegates (photo at left,
from left) were SIU Safety Director Osvaldo Ramos, UIW Rep. Jordan Esopa, SIU Port Agent Ray Henderson, SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi and SIU Patrolman Jose Argueta.

TALKING MARITIME WITH CANDIDATE – SIU Port
Agents John Hoskins (left) and Mario Torrey (right) meet
with Maryland gubernatorial candidate Wes Moore ear-
lier this year at a gathering in Baltimore. They discussed
workers’ rights and the maritime industry.

ON THE JOB IN TEXAS – SIU-crewed G&H Towing boats are shown in the foreground while the SIU-crewed ARC De-
fender (TOTE) is in the background.

WELCOME ABOARD – SIU Houston Safety Director
Kevin Sykes (standing) assists with a recent orientation
at Seafarers-contracted G&H Towing in Galveston, Texas.

ABOARD GREEN LAKE – Pictured from left in the group photo at right are Bosun Augustus Udan, Chief Cook Gil Serrano, SIU Wilmington Port Agent Gerret Jarman and SA Ber-
nardo Celi.The photo at left shows a piece of cargo on the Waterman-operated vessel.

INITIATIVE IN PACIFIC NORTHWEST – AB Raul Molina
(above) in early August did some repairs to the flag stand that
has been at the center of the counter in the Tacoma hall for
the last 12 years. He built the stand all those years ago and
(without being asked) showed up recently with his tool belt on.

73686_SEAFARERS_LOG_October_2022.indd 9 9/21/22 1:27 AM



10 Seafarers LOG October 2022

At Sea and Ashore with the SIU
ABOARD EL COQUI – Recertified Bosun Brian Guiry submitted these photos from the Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning
vessel, which sails in the Jones Act trade.

Oiler Blake Washington Chief Cook Maurice Henry Jr. AB Timothy Paul

AB Victor Velez, Recertified Bosun Brian Guiry, AB Joe Dupre AB Erick Toledo, AB Jerry Maya, QEE Edwin Velez

A-BOOK IN OAKLAND – AB Alan Boiser (center) receives his A-seniority book at the hiring hall in late
August. He’s pictured with SIU Port Agent J.B. Niday (right) and SIU Patrolman Dylan Rivera.

A-BOOK IN WILMINGTON – AB Christopher Torres (left) displays his newly
acquired A-seniority book at the hiring hall in southern California. SIU Port
Agent Gerret Jarman is at right.

73686_SEAFARERS_LOG_October_2022.indd 10 9/21/22 1:27 AM



October 2022 Seafarers LOG 11

At Sea and Ashore with the SIU

WITH SEAFARERS IN SAN JUAN – These snapshots were taken at the hiring hall in Puerto Rico. In photo at left, AB Jonamie Encarnacion (left) holds his newly acquired A-seniority
book and first A-book registration. SIU Asst. VP Amancio Crespo is at right. In photo at right, AB Sergio Valentin (right) displays his recently obtained A-seniority book (Crespo is at
left). The remaining photo includes QMED Kabir Garcia Santiago (left), who definitely embraces the opportunities for upgrading at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point. This year
alone, he has successfully completed more than a half-dozen different courses, including tank ship familiarization, government vessels, helo firefighting, advanced reefer container
maintenance, marine electrician and more. He’s displaying the diplomas with help from Crespo.

WITH SEAFARERS IN JACKSON-
VILLE – Pictured at the hall following
the membership meeting on Aug. 11
are (group photo, from left) AB Donald
Desir, Chief Cook Tamara Russ, SIU
Port Agent Ashley Nelson, AB Lafonte
McWhite and SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean
Corgey. In the other photo, also taken
at the hall earlier that week, Nelson
(left) gives the union oath to AB Andrew
Malidore, who received his full B-book. FULL BOOK IN PHILLY – AB Keith Field (left) receives

his full B-book at the Philadelphia hall. He’s pictured with
SIU Port Agent Joe Baselice.

WITH SEAFARERS IN LAUDERDALE – Two members recently hit milestones at the hiring hall in Florida. Chief Steward
Isoline Major (left in photo at left) picked up her first pension check, following an SIU career that started in 1998. And, AB
Andrew Graham (left in photo at right) received his A-seniority book. Both Seafarers are pictured with SIU Asst. VP Kris
Hopkins.

A-BOOK IN JERSEY – QEE Nicholas Panagakos (right)
receives his A-seniority book at the hiring hall in Jersey
City, New Jersey. He’s pictured with SIU Port Agent Ray
Henderson.

73686_SEAFARERS_LOG_October_2022.indd 11 9/21/22 1:27 AM



12 Seafarers LOG October 2022

The Van Pelt family embodies the long tradition of multiple
generations sailing with the SIU. In total, seven members of the
extended Van Pelt family have joined the SIU since 1978, often
with each other’s encouragement.

The first Van Pelt to join, retired Chief Engineer Timo-
thy Van Pelt, recently took an instructional position at the
Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and
Education. His son, Junior Engineer Tim Van Pelt II, has also
started a part-time teaching position at the school, while con-
tinuing to periodically work aboard an SIU-crewed vessel.

Van Pelt II said that his three cousins – AB Kathleen
Moxey, AB Holly Scheper and Bosun Patricia “Trish” Haus-
ner – had more of a direct influence in getting him to join the
Brotherhood of the Sea.

“When my father graduated high school, it was, ‘go to col-
lege, join the military, or work at the steel mill’,” Van Pelt II
said. “But he never steered his sons to join the SIU.… That
said, my brothers and I inevitably joined the union.” Tim’s
brothers, Electrician Brett Van Pelt and 3rd Engineer Justin
Van Pelt, were the most recent additions to their union family,
which also includes their grandfathers who worked as Steel-
workers.

Tim Sr. said, “I don’t think I pushed any of them at all.
Kathleen was just hanging out at my house, and I threw out
the idea of joining. She took off and ran with it, and ended up
doing over 10 years on the LNG ships. Tim, he was in college,
working at a bank in a suit and tie. One day, he told me, ‘I don’t
want to go back to college, I want to do what you do and go
work on ships.’ And Brett, he got into Piney Point before he
was 18, with a letter from me, and became a chief electrician
by 20.”

Moxey said of her decision to join the SIU, “We had gone
over to a party at [the Van Pelt’s] house. I had just graduated
college with a degree in kinesiology, and I knew that ‘Big Tim’
had sailed. It has always interested me, so I asked him about
it, and he encouraged me to learn more. I knew I wanted to do
something for three to five years, and then I ended up sailing
for 12.”

“I came through as a trainee a year after high school, and
it’s been a life-changing decision for me,” said Tim. Sr. “I don’t
know where I’d be without it. I spent 14 years on the LNG
ships, and when I was home, they would call me all the time
to fill in, for Moran Towing or the cable ships, even the Ready
Reserve Ships when I was in town.”

“Growing up, we lived in a nice home and never went with-
out,” said Van Pelt II. “I saw the life my father was able to pro-
vide, and I’m very grateful for everything sailing has brought me.
I met my wife working, and have made sailing my life’s work.”

Tim Sr., who has spent the bulk of his time working aboard
steam-powered vessels, reflected on his career, saying, “I sailed
for 42 years, and my whole family was part of my career at

one point or another. I sailed with each of my boys, including
two trips – once on the Antares with Tim and Brett, and once to
Cuba with Tim and Justin. Three Van Pelts on one ship, that’s
pretty unheard of!”

He continued, “Back in the day, the joke was that my wife
was nicknamed ‘Central Command,’ because when (the) man-
power (office) needed some emergency staffing, they would
contact her first, not even me or my boys, and ask if any of us
were available to take a job. When a Van Pelt was called on, we
never turned down a job. We’re very reliable that way.”

During his career, he spent a considerable amount of time at
the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland: “I took
full advantage of the school down here. I took every course I
could, and just the way they make you feel down here, with
all the camaraderie, I loved coming to the school. I’d bring my
family every chance I got, too.” He came ashore briefly, and
worked as a union official for a time before returning to sea.
“I just missed it,” he recalled. “I worked my way up to chief
engineer, and I just had to get back out there. And I think the
officials understood.”

A part-time physical trainer now, Moxey said, “Sailing was
quite the experience. I really enjoyed seeing the world, travel-
ling to Indonesia and Korea … and the freedom to work when
you want, and leave when you want, is a real perk.”

When asked if she would encourage her younger relatives
to join the SIU, she said, “If they wanted to travel and see the
world, I would. I know it’s pretty different now, as far as the ad-
vanced training and all that. And to all mariners, but especially
female members, I would encourage them to make a friend, and
try to sail with them as often as you can. It really helps with any
feelings of loneliness.”

Tim Van Pelt II came ashore in 2020 for a contracting job,
but saw an opportunity to give back to the SIU through teach-
ing. “I saw that the school needed instructors, and Piney Point
is a part of me and a part of my family,” he said. “I have many
fond memories of this place, and I’ll keep coming down here to
work for as long as they’ll have me.”

He concluded, “During my sailing career, it was rewarding
in both experiences and financially, and I was able to work with
my family members on many occasions. Now, I get to help
teach the next generation of mariners.”

Van Pelt Sr. concluded by talking about coming ashore:
“When I retired after 42 years, I told the guys, ‘I’m not trying
to break any Babe Ruth or Hank Aaron records here.’ And now
I’ve answered the call again to teach younger mariners at Piney
Point. Teaching is sharing your knowledge, and all my knowl-
edge came from the school in the first place. But now I can pull
from that and my experiences at sea, and it’s heaven-sent. I
never thought I would be doing this, but I love it. I love teach-
ing electricians, QMEDs and trainees, because I know it will
change their lives for the better.”

Van Pelt Family: A Legacy of Seafaring
Union Provides Gateway
To Rewarding Profession

Brett and Tim Van Pelt Sr. (photo above) meet in Piney Point in 2010. Pictured from left in the
photo at right are Tim Van Pelt II, Tim Van Pelt Sr. and Justin Van Pelt.

Kathleen Moxey (photo above) said she initially planned to sail for
a few years but stuck around for 12. In the photo at right, Moxey
works aboard an LNG ship in a 1990s-era photo.

73686_SEAFARERS_LOG_October_2022_X.indd 12 9/21/22 3:16 PM

October 2022 Seafarers LOG 13

Van Pelt Family: A Legacy of Seafaring

Brett and Tim Van Pelt Sr. (photo above) meet in Piney Point in 2010. Pictured from left in the
photo at right are Tim Van Pelt II, Tim Van Pelt Sr. and Justin Van Pelt.

Brett and Tim Van Pelt Sr. (photo at left) are pictured aboard the
RRF vessel Wright. Tim Van Pelt II (above) is pictured earlier this
year while teaching aboard the Freedom Star in Piney Point.

73686_SEAFARERS_LOG_October_2022.indd 13 9/21/22 1:27 AM



14 Seafarers LOG October 2022

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Savings

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Discounts

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& Live Events

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unionplus.org

Everyday savings just for you
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affordable with wireless savings, cash back shopping, discounts at
restaurants and on movie tickets and live events, and much more.



October 2022 Seafarers LOG 15

“Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” data is cumulative from August 15 - September 15. “Registered on the Beach” data is as of September 15. “Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” data is cumulative from August 15 - September 15. “Registered on the Beach” data is as of September 15. “Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” data is cumulative from August 15 - September 15. “Registered on the Beach” data is as of September 15.
Total Registered Total Shipped Registered on Beach
All Groups All Groups Trip All Groups

Port A B C A B C A A B C Reliefs A B C Reliefs A A B C A B C A

Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea

Piney Point...............................Monday: October 3, November 7
Algonac....................Friday: October 7, *Monday: November 14
Baltimore....................Thursday: October 6, November10
Guam..................Thursday: October 20, *Friday: November 25
Honolulu.............................Friday: October 14, November 18
Houston...............*Tuesday: October 11, Monday: November 14
Jacksonville.......................Thursday: October 6, November 10
Joliet..................................Thursday: October 13, November 17
Mobile.........................Wednesday: October 12, November 16
New Orleans........................Tuesday: October 11, November 15
Jersey City............................Tuesday: October 4, November 8
Norfolk..................Friday: October 7, *Monday: November 14
Oakland..............................Thursday: October 13, November 17
Philadelphia......................Wednesday: October 5, November 9
Port Everglades...............Thursday: October 13, November 17
San Juan............................Thursday: October 6, November 10
St. Louis...............................Friday: October 14, November 18
Tacoma...............................Friday: October 21, November 25
Wilmington....................Monday: October 17, November 21

* Houston change in October due to Columbus Day observance.
* Algonac and Norfolk changes in November due to Vet-
eran’s Day observance
* Guam change in November due to Thanksgiving Day obser-* Guam change in November due to Thanksgiving Day obser-* Guam change in November due to Thanksgiving Day obser
vance

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

October & November
Membership Meetings

TSA Offers Online TWIC Renewal
Editor’s note The following

news item was issued by the
Transportation Security Ad-Transportation Security Ad-Transportation Security Ad
ministration on August 10.

The Transportation Se-
curity Administration (TSA)
enhanced the renewal pro-
cess for the Transportation
Worker Identification Creden-
tial (TWIC®) to help support
critical transportation workers.
Starting August 11, 2022, TSA
enabled the ability for cur-
rent TWIC holders to renew
their credentials online, which
eliminates the need to go to an
enrollment center and makes
the five-year renewal process
more convenient.

TWIC is required by the
Maritime Transportation Secu-
rity Act for mariners and work-
ers who need access to secure
areas of the nation’s maritime
facilities and vessels. Jointly
administered by TSA and the
U.S. Coast Guard, TSA con-
ducts a background check to
determine a person’s eligibility
and issues the credential. The
Coast Guard regulates the use
of TWIC in the maritime envi-
ronment. U.S. citizens, lawful
permanent residents, natural-
ized citizens, asylum seekers,
refugees, and nonimmigrants

in lawful status may apply for
the TWIC credential.

Nearly 60 percent of TWIC
holders renew their card every
five years. Renewing online
eliminates the need to go to
an enrollment center, supports
U.S. critical infrastructure and
supply chain workers, and
saves travel time and expenses
associated with being away
from work. Most eligible ap-
plicants receive their TWIC
card in less than 10 days.
Those applicants with more
complex cases may require 60
days or longer for processing.
Applicants may check their
TWIC status online at any
time.

Most applicants, including
U.S. citizens, nationals, and
lawful permanent residents,
will be able to renew online
without the need to visit an
enrollment center. Please visit
TSA’s enrollment provider
website for information on
TWIC enrollments and renew-
als. If applicants encounter dif-als. If applicants encounter dif-als. If applicants encounter dif
ficulty renewing online, they
may contact customer service
at (855) 347-8371. For more
information on the TWIC
program, visit the TSA TWIC
website or the Coast Guard
TWIC website.

In order to ensure that par-In order to ensure that par-In order to ensure that par
ticipants have access to the latest
and most efficient insulin moni-
toring and delivery systems, ef-toring and delivery systems, ef-toring and delivery systems, ef
fective June 1, 2022 the Trustees
approved covering new insulin
delivery systems as a part of the
prescription benefits under the
Seafarers Health and Benefits
Plan (SHBP). These devices
differ from traditional insulin
pumps because they incorporate
insulin directly into the device.

They simplify insulin monitor-They simplify insulin monitor-They simplify insulin monitor
ing and more accurately treat
diabetes. Examples of these
devices include: V-Go products
and Omnipod.

Eligible participants should
provide their OptumRx card at
the pharmacy when filling this
prescription. If you are unsure
about whether your device is
covered under this improved
benefit, please contact the SHBP
at (800) 252-4674.

Notice: Improvement to
SHBP Prescription Benefits



16 Seafarers LOG October 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
111 Mill Creek Parkway, Suite 100, Chesapeake, VA 23323

(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
Union Directory Inquiring Seafarer

This month’s question was answered by graduates of the most recent recertified steward class.

Question: Why did you join the SIU and why have you remained with the union?

Marlon Brown
Recertified Steward

I’ve been part of the SIU since
2000, and ever since then, the union
has always been an important part of
my life, for me and my loved ones. I
can’t thank the union enough for all it
has done for the members.

Bruce Johnson
Recertified Steward

I joined as an escape route. My
father was hounding me to make a
(career) decision, and I overheard
someone say they were going into
the merchant marine. My father
got the paperwork for Piney Point;
it turned out to be one of the most
rewarding things I’ve done.

Sajid Foster
Recertified Steward

I joined the union because my
family were union members. I
started my career with the SIU at
age 18 and have remained involved
because we are a strong part of the
American labor movement. The
union gave me many opportunities
and is still giving me opportunities.

Abraham Mills
Recertified Steward

I had always wanted to sail
and go overseas. I thank the SIU
for giving me a good job, mak-
ing good money so I can provide
a quality life for my family. Being
a steward is a great career, and the
union is an important part of my
life.

Alexander Cordero
Recertified Steward

Since I joined in 2003, I’ve had
many great experiences and I have
learned a lot. I definitely appreciate
our contracts and our medical and
pension benefits. I would encourage
everyone to never give up and never
quit learning.

Bryan Alvarez
Recertified Steward

I joined the union because my fa-
ther is also a union member. I got on a
ship with him as a teenager and did a
trip to Europe on the car carrier Cour-
age. After the voyage, I realized that I
wanted to become a merchant mariner
and see the world. The SIU changed
my life and I’m still very passionate
about it.

The Seafarers-crewed Massmar is pictured in 1952. Vessel operator Calmar Line was a subsidiary of Bethlehem Steel.Massmar is pictured in 1952. Vessel operator Calmar Line was a subsidiary of Bethlehem Steel.Massmar

Pic From The Past

If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the
Seafarers LOG, 5201 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



October 2022 Seafarers LOG 17

DEEP SEA

JAIME AUSTRIA
Brother Jaime Austria, 67, started his
career with the union in 1992 when
he shipped on the
Independence. A
steward depart-
ment member, he
upgraded at the
Paul Hall Center
on several occa-
sions. Brother
Austria most
recently sailed on
the Horizon En-
terprise. He makes his home in Las
Vegas.

GODOFREDO BANATAO
Brother Godofredo Banatao, 66,
signed on with the Seafarers in 2012.

He sailed in the
engine department
and upgraded at
the Piney Point
school on numer-
ous occasions.
Brother Banatao’s
first and last ship
was the Pride
of America. He
makes his home in

Waipahu, Hawaii.

SAMUEL CALDER
Brother Samuel Calder, 65, joined
the SIU in 1997, when he sailed
aboard the Sumner.
He upgraded at the
Paul Hall Center
on multiple occa-
sions and shipped
in the steward
department.
Brother Calder
last shipped on
the USNS Henson.
He is a resident of
Virginia Beach, Virginia.

JOSE CALONG CALONG
Brother Jose Calong Calong, 62,
began sailing with the union in 1999,

initially shipping
on the Alaska.
He worked in the
deck department
and upgraded at
the union-affili-
ated Piney Point
school in 2001.
Brother Calong
Calong most re-
cently sailed on

the Alaskan Legend. He lives in La
Mirada, California.

SERVANDO CANALES
Brother Servando Canales, 57,
signed on with the SIU in 1991
when he sailed
aboard the Matej
Kocak. He
shipped in the
engine department
and upgraded at
the Paul Hall Cen-
ter on multiple
occasions. Brother
Canales last sailed
on the Jean Anne.
He resides in Lomita, California.

RAY CHAPMAN
Brother Ray Chapman, 62, became

a member of the
Seafarers Inter-
national Union in
1981. He sailed
in both the deck
and engine de-
partments and
upgraded on nu-
merous occasions
at the Piney Point
school. Brother
Chapman’s first vessel was the
USNS Potomac; his last, the Beaver
State. He resides in Gig Harbor,
Washington.

NOEL CORALDE
Brother Noel Coralde, 67, embarked
on his career with the Seafarers in

2007 and initially
sailed on the
Pride of Aloha.
He was a mem-
ber of the deck
department and
upgraded often
at the Paul Hall
Center. Brother
Coralde most
recently shipped

on the Chemical Pioneer and lives in Chemical Pioneer and lives in Chemical Pioneer
Toms River, New Jersey.

CHARLES FRANKS
Brother Charles Franks, 65, began
sailing with the
union in 1991
when he shipped
on the Ranger.
He was a mem-
ber of the deck
department and
upgraded at
the Piney Point
school on several
occasions. Brother
Franks last sailed on the Ohio. He
lives in Mobile, Alabama.

GREGORY GURVITS
Brother Gregory Gurvits, 65, signed
on with the Seafarers in 2001. A

deck depart-
ment member, he
upgraded at the
Paul Hall Center
within his first
year of member-
ship. Brother
Gurvits first
sailed aboard the
Maersk Maine.
He most recently

shipped on the Maersk Ohio and
settled in North Fort Myers, Florida.

CATHERINE HAYS
Sister Catherine Hays, 61, joined the
SIU in 1988 and
first sailed on the
Independence. A
steward depart-
ment member, she
upgraded at the
Paul Hall Center
on numerous oc-
casions. Sister
Hays concluded
her career on the
Brownsville and
makes her home in Humble, Texas.

MICHAEL HILL
Brother Michael Hill, 65, started his
career with the SIU in 2002 when
he shipped on the Paul Buck. He

upgraded at the
Piney Point school
on several occa-
sions and primar-
ily sailed in the
engine department.
Brother Hill’s final
vessel was the
Garden State. He
lives in Jackson-
ville, Florida.

BRANDON MAEDA
Brother Brandon Maeda, 66, signed

on with the union
in 1983. He first
sailed aboard the
Independence
and worked in the
steward depart-
ment. Brother
Maeda upgraded
often at the Piney
Point school. He
last shipped on

the USNS Maury and is a resident of
Hilo, Hawaii.

ROMUALDO MEDINA ARRIOLA
Brother Romualdo Medina Arriola,
71, began sailing with the Seafarers
in 1994, initially
shipping aboard
the Independence.
He sailed in the
deck department
and upgraded
at the Paul Hall
Center on several
occasions. Brother
Medina Ar-
riola last shipped
aboard the Over-
seas Tampa. He lives in Richmond,
Texas.

PAMELA MONACO
Sister Pamela Monaco, 65, donned
the SIU colors in 1978 when she

sailed aboard
the McLean.
She was a deck
department
member and
also worked on
shore gangs.
Sister Monaco
upgraded at
the Piney Point
school on

multiple occasions. She last was
employed by American Service
Technology and is a resident of
Mount Shasta, California.

THOMAS ODEM
Brother Thomas Odem, 65, began
his career with
the SIU in 1995.
He sailed in
both the stew-
ard and engine
departments and
upgraded at the
Paul Hall Center
on multiple oc-
casions. Brother
Odem’s first ves-
sel was the Independence; his last,
the Groton. He resides in Pahoa,
Hawaii.

JESSE TURNER
Brother Jesse Turner, 66, started his
career with the union in 2001. He
first shipped on the Consumer and Consumer and Consumer

was an engine de-
partment member.
Brother Turner
upgraded often at
the Piney Point
school. He most
recently sailed
on the Marjorie
C and makes C and makes C
his home in Las
Vegas.

MEDARDO VALERIO
Brother Medardo Valerio, 67, signed
on with the SIU in 2004. He first

shipped on the
Pride of Aloha
and worked in the
engine depart-
ment. Brother
Valerio’s final
vessel was the
USNS Denebola.
He calls Jack-
sonville, Florida,
home.

CLEVELAND WEST
Brother Cleveland West, 67, began
sailing with the Seafarers Interna-
tional Union in
1991. He sailed in
the deck depart-
ment and first
shipped on the
Constellation.
Brother West up-
graded his skills
at the Piney Point
school on multiple
occasions. He
most recently sailed on the USNS
Algol and lives in Mobile, Alabama.Algol and lives in Mobile, Alabama.Algol

MARK WILLIAMS
Brother Mark Williams, 65, joined
the SIU in 1975 when he sailed
aboard the Mohawk. He upgraded at
the Paul Hall Center within his first
year of membership and shipped in
both the deck and engine depart-
ments. Brother Williams last shipped
aboard the Long Lines. He is a resi-
dent of Newark, Delaware.

GREAT LAKES

LARRY HALL
Brother Larry Hall, 65, signed on
with the Seafarers in 1990 when he
shipped on the Kinsman Indepen-
dent. He sailed in both the deck and
engine departments. Brother Hall last
shipped on the Walter J. McCarthy
and resides in Ansted, West Virginia.

INLAND

GERARD BLACK
Brother Gerard Black, 70, joined the
union in 1990. He sailed in the deck
department and upgraded at the Piney
Point school on multiple occasions.
Brother Black worked for OSG Ship
Management for most of his career.
He is a Pittsburgh resident.

ROBERT BURNS
Brother Robert Burns, 62, began
shipping with the SIU in 1978, ini-
tially working with American Barge
Lines. He was a deck department
member and upgraded on multiple
occasions at the Paul Hall Center.
Brother Burns was last employed by

Interstate Oil. He resides in Yardley,
Pennsylvania.

SHERRIE FULLER
Sister Sher-
rie Fuller, 62,
donned the SIU
colors in 1998.
She sailed with
OSG Ship Man-
agement for the
duration of her
career. Sister
Fuller lives in
Bay St. Louis, Mississippi.

WILLIE GARDNER
Brother Willie Gardner, 70, joined
the SIU in 1992, first sailing with
Moran Towing of Texas. He shipped
in the engine department and last
worked with Crowley Towing and
Transportation. Brother Gardner
calls Summit, Mississippi, home.

LAWRENCE LEDET
Brother Lawrence Ledet, 65, em-
barked on his career with the Seafar-

ers in 1994 when
he shipped with
Westbank Riv-
erboat Services.
He was a member
of the engine
department and
upgraded at
the Piney Point
school on mul-
tiple occasions.

Brother Ledet most recently worked
with Penn Maritime and makes his
home in Gretna, Louisiana.

MIGUEL MARTINEZ
Brother Miguel
Martinez, 62,
signed on with
the union in 1989.
He initially sailed
with G&H Tow-
ing and was a
deck department
member. Brother
Martinez was last
employed with
Tugz Company. He lives in Mont-
gomery, Texas.

CLIFTON POTTER
Brother Clifton Potter, 62, started
sailing with the Seafarers Interna-

tional Union in
2007. He shipped
in the deck de-
partment and
upgraded at the
Paul Hall Center
on multiple oc-
casions. Brother
Potter was em-
ployed with Ex-
press Marine for

the duration of his career. He calls
New Bern, North Carolina, home.

MARVIN WHITE
Brother Marvin White, 62, became
a member of the SIU in 1979. He
upgraded at the Piney Point school
within his first year of membership
and sailed in both the deck and engine
departments. Brother White worked
with McAllister Towing of Virginia
for his entire career. He lives in
Knott’s Island, North Carolina.

Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted
their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland water-
ways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members
who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those
members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days
ahead.

Welcome Ashore



18 Seafarers LOG October 2022

DEEP SEA

RICHARD HARMON
Brother Richard Harmon, 106,
died July 30. A Texas native, he
joined the SIU in 1955. Brother
Harmon was a steward depart-
ment member. He last sailed on the
President Tyler and made his home President Tyler and made his home President Tyler
in San Francisco.

DONALD HUFFMAN
Pensioner Donald Huffman,
68, passed away August 22. He
signed on with the Seafarers In-
ternational Union
in 1978, initially
sailing aboard the
Pisces. Brother
Huffman was a
steward depart-
ment member
and last shipped
aboard the Green
Lake in 2012. He
went on pension
in 2019 and settled in Jackson-
ville, Florida.

ERIK JENSEN
Pensioner Erik Jensen, 96, died
August 30. He joined the union

in 1948 and
first sailed with
Sprogue Steam-
ship Company.
Brother Jensen
was a deck
department
member. He
concluded his
career aboard the
Endurance and

retired in 1999. Brother Jensen
was a resident of Orangevale,
California.

COLLIE LOPER
Pensioner Collie Loper, 92,
passed away August 15. He
donned the SIU
colors in 1956
when he sailed
with Water-
man Steamship.
Brother Loper
sailed in the
steward depart-
ment. He last
shipped on the
Cape Intrepid
before becoming a pensioner in
1991. Brother Loper lived in Mo-
bile, Alabama.

PIERANGELO POLETTI
Pensioner Pierangelo Poletti, 80,
died September 10. He began
sailing with the union in 1967, ini-
tially shipping aboard the Western
Planet. Brother Poletti was a deck
department member and last sailed
on the Performance in 1992. He
went on pension in 2006 and was a
resident of Humble, Texas.

MARIO RUIZ
Brother Mario Ruiz, 50, passed
away July 2. He began his career
with the Seafarers in 1994 when
he shipped on the Independence.

Brother Ruiz
primarily sailed
in the deck de-
partment and also
worked on shore
gangs. He most
recently shipped
on the Resolve
and lived in
Houston.

CHARLES SANDINO
Pensioner Charles Sandino, 68,
died August 18. He became a
member of the
SIU in 1975,
initially sail-
ing with G&H
Towing. Brother
Sandino worked
in both the deck
and engine de-
partments and
concluded his
career aboard the Developer in
2004. He began collecting his
pension in 2019 and called Texas
City, Texas, home.

STEPHEN SENTENEY
Pensioner Stephen Senteney, 90,

passed away
August 4. He
embarked on
his career with
the union in
1966 when he
sailed on the
Alice Brown.
An engine de-
partment mem-
ber, Brother

Senteney last shipped on the
Westward Venture. He retired in
2003 and lived in Marysville,
Washington.

WILLIAM STONE
Pensioner Wil-
liam Stone, 75,
died May 11. He
started sailing
with the Seafar-
ers International
Union in 1969.
He shipped in the
deck department.
Brother Stone’s
first vessel was
the Andrew Jackson; his last, the
Patriot. He became a pensioner in
2005 and resided in Grants Pass,
Oregon.

INLAND

CHARLES COLLINGS
Pensioner
Charles Collings,
83, passed away
August 1. He
became an SIU
member in 1960
and initially
sailed on the
Captain Sitina.
Brother Collings
shipped in both

the deck and engine depart-
ments. He was last employed with
Crowley before retiring in 2007.

Brother Collings lived in Grape-
vine, Texas.

CHARLES GAUTIER
Pensioner Charles Gautier, 85,
died August 30. He donned the
union colors in 1965, initially
sailing with Gulf Atlantic Trans-
port. Brother Gautier worked in
the deck department. He was last
employed by Mariner Towing
and began collecting his pension
in 1999. Brother Gautier called
Mount Olive, North Carolina,
home.

PAUL HART
Pensioner Paul Hart, 64, passed
away August 19. He joined the
SIU in 1996 and was a deck de-
partment member. Brother Hart
was employed by Crowley for
the duration of his career. He re-
tired in 2018 and made his home
in Boothwyn, Pennsylvania.

DONICE LAWSON
Pensioner Donice Lawson, 83,
died August 20.
He signed on
with the Seafar-
ers International
Union in 1992.
Sailing in the
deck department,
Brother Lawson
worked for Penn
Maritime for his
entire career. He
became a pensioner in 2001 and
resided in Virgilina, Virginia.

RONALD LEBLANC
Pensioner Ronald LeBlanc, 89,
passed away August 31. A deck
department member, he began
his career with the Seafarers in
1994. Brother LeBlanc worked for
Westbank Riverboat Services for
the duration of his career. He went
on pension in 2004 and settled in
New Orleans.

NMU

In addition to the foregoing in-
dividuals, the following union
members have also passed away.
Insufficient information was avail-
able to develop summaries of their
respective careers.

NAME AGE DOD

Calo, Andres 91 09/06/2022
Garza, Juan 94 08/27/2022
Henry, Ernest 98 08/12/2022
Nolan, Thomas 92 08/30/2022
Rivera, Oscar 88 08/12/2022
St Mary, Alfred 92 08/22/2022St Mary, Alfred 92 08/22/2022St Mary, Alfred

Final
Departures

Have You Missed
An Issue of the

Seafarers Log?

PDF versions of nearly every edi-
tion are available at seafarerslog.org

You can also scan this QR code to
go directly to the website



October 2022 Seafarers LOG 19

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 COURSE 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 ques-
tions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reim-
bursable. Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training 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.
10/22

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 Title of Title of Start Start Start Date of
Course Date Completion

Deck Department Upgrading Courses

Able Seafarer-Deck Able Seafarer-Deck Able Seafarer-Deck October 17 November 4
November 28 December 16


Radar/ARPA Radar/ARPA Radar/ARPA October 10 October 21

Lifeboat/Water Survival October 24 November 4
November 21 December 2

Engine Department Upgrading Courses

RFPEW RFPEW RFPEW November 14 December 9

FOWT October 24 November 18

Marine Electrician October 31 December 2

Welding October 31 November 18

Steward Department Upgrading Courses

Certified Chief Cook Certified Chief Cook Certified Chief Cook October 31 December 2
December 5 January 5

ServSafe Management ServSafe Management ServSafe Management October 24 October 28
November 28 December 2

Advanced Galley Operations October 10 November 4

Chief Steward Chief Steward Chief Steward November 14 December 9

Safety/Open Upgrading Courses

Basic Training Revalidation October 21 October 21
November 14 November 14
December 2 December 2

Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation December 12 December 16

Government Vessels October 17 October 21
October 24 October 28
November 7 November 10
December 5 December 9

Tank Ship-DL (PIC) October 24 October 28

Tank Ship Familiarization DL Tank Ship Familiarization DL Tank Ship Familiarization DL October 24 October 28


Title of Title of Title of Start Start Start Date of
Course Date Completion

Safety/Open Upgrading Courses

Tank Ship Familiarization LG October 31 November 4

Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Dates

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 rea-
son - that they can’t attend, should inform the
admissions department immediately so arrange-
ments can be made to have other students take
their places



20 Seafarers LOG October 2022

Paul Hall Center Classes

Apprentice Water Survival Class #885 – Graduated August 12 (above, in alphabetical order): Lana Cooper, Daquan Moreland, Anthony Ramos Villafane, Matthew Rathbun, Derek
Smaw Jr., and Robert Stockbridge.

Deck Operations (Phase III) – Graduated August 26 (above, in alphabetical order): Paul Ackerman III, Spencer Bailey, Jordan Banks, Mark Dixon, Destini Dunlap, Robert Freer III,
Levi Gorokhovsky, Eachen Hoffrichter, Paul Luis Jimenez, Mikael Lassiter, Justin McClellan, Zion Oliphant, Darius Parker and Errol Wade-Cephas.



October 2022 Seafarers LOG 21

Paul Hall Center Classes

RFPNW (Upgrader) – GVA Ronald Burris (above) recently com-
pleted his requirements in the course. He graduated August 19.

Government Vessels –
Graduated August 19 (photo
at right, in alphabetical
order): Bernard Butts, Monta-
vis Harold, Sean Init Hernan-
dez, Adam Laliberte, Travis
Lunsford, William Monroe,
Carmus Peet, Michael Rob-
inson, Ekedra Turner and
Derrick Vaughan.

Students who have
registered for classes
at the Paul Hall
Center for Maritime
Training and Educa-
tion, but later dis-
cover - for whatever
reason - that they
can’t attend, should
inform the admissions
department immedi-
ately so arrangements
can be made to have
other students take
their places

Important Notice
To All Students

RFPEW (Phase III) – Gradu-
ated August 26 (photo at left,
in alphabetical order): Micko
Lawrenze Angeles Cercado,
Maria Escobar, Ricardo Gon-
zalez Jr., Danielle Gore, Aus-
tin Smith, Sean Wilson and
Mizukami Aulaumea Youn.
John Wiegman III, their in-
structor, is at the far right.
Upon the completion of their
training, each plans to work
in the engine departments
aboard SIU-crewed vessels.

RFPEW (Upgraders) – Graduated August 26 (above, in alphabetical order): Adrian Bartholomew, Dominic Jones, RFPEW (Upgraders) – Graduated August 26 (above, in alphabetical order): Adrian Bartholomew, Dominic Jones, RFPEW (Upgraders) –
Robert Teiko and Daniel Ursitti.



22 Seafarers LOG October 2022

Paul Hall Center Classes

Government Vessels – Graduated August 5 (above, in alphabetical order): Kevin Brown Jr., Carmelo Calderon Santini, Ronald Embody, Kabir Garcia Santiago, Michael Murphy,
Robert Nixon Jr., and Yan Paing.

Government Vessels (Phase I) – Graduated August 5 (above, in alphabetical order): Gianni
Ellis, Shelly Ford, Nicholas Gianna and Karrington Plummer Jr.

Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – Graduated August 11 (above, in alphabetical
order): Joshua Burnett, Anthony Green Jr., Yan Paing and Aaron Searcy.

Tank Ship Familiarization LG – Graduated August 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Joseph Bowen, Todd Curry, Ronald Embody, Kabir Garcia Santiago, Dominique Glover, Ray-
mond Green, Laurence Jamal Lafavor, Carlos Mohler Vega, Raul Padama Molina, Salah Ahmed Muthana, Khaled Qasim Shamman, Leanne Smith and Raul Cabrera Ventanilla.
(Note: Not all are pictured.)



October 2022 Seafarers LOG 23

Students who have registered for classes at the
Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Edu-
cation, but later discover - for whatever reason
- that they can’t attend, should inform the admis-
sions department immediately so arrangements
can be made to have other students take their
places

Important Notice
To All Students

Chief Steward – A pair of steward department upgraders
recently finished their requirements in this course. Graduat-
ing August 12 were Luke Vandegrift (above, left) and Elijah
Boson.

MLC Cook – Graduated July 15 (above, in alphabetical order): Irena Janson, David Nor-
ris and Edward Pinnace.

Certified Chief Cook (Module 4) – Graduated August 5 (above, in alphabetical order): Isreal Caldwell, Kobe Cisero, Quinsha Davis, Jafet Misla-Mendez , Khalid Mohamed, Sonia
Pabon Barreto, Gustavo J. Romero Estrella and Carl Royster. (Note: Not all are pictured.)

Fast Rescue Boat – Graduated August 26 (above, in alphabetical order): Joseph Bowen, Dominique Glover and
Charles Hinkle. Class instructor Thomas Truitt is at the far right.

Chief Cook Assessment Program – Graduated August 26 (above, in alphabetical order):
Joshua Burnett, Andre Dade and Aaron Searcy.

73686_SEAFARERS_LOG_October_2022.indd 23 9/21/22 1:27 AM



24 Seafarers LOG October 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

OCTOBER 2022 VOLUME 84, NO. 10

Paul Hall Center
Class Photos
Pages 20-23

Tacoma Reignites Annual BBQ
Congressman Addresses

Seafarers at Monthly Meeting

Members listen as U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer (standing at far right) talks about the importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine.

After being shelved for a couple of years due to the pandemic, the
annual barbeque at the hiring hall in Tacoma, Washington, re-
started August 26 following the monthly membership meeting.

The feast and fellowship weren’t the day’s only highlights. Seafarers
also heard from U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer (D-Washington), who spoke
about the importance of workers’ rights and the U.S. Merchant Marine.

“The cookout is a longtime tradition here, so it felt good to continue
returning to normal,” said SIU Port Agent Warren Asp. “Everyone in
attendance also seemed to appreciate Congressman Kilmer’s remarks.
He’s definitely in our corner.”

The photos on this page were taken at the hall during and after the
meeting. SIU Port Agent Warren Asp, Recertified Bosun LBJ Tanoa, Congressman Derek Kilmer, QEE Phil Green-

well

Members and guests help themselves to lunch. (Editor’s note: In the background at far right,
those are in fact the beginnings of this year’s Santa’s Castle donations.)

AB Ayen Cabasag, Retired Recertified
Steward Tommy Belvin QEE M’barek Nouhairi

AB Robert Calvo
SIU Patrolman George Owen, SIU
Safety Director Duane Akers

Retired SA Leroy Jenkins, Chief Cook
Leslie McGirt

Steward/Baker Clark Williams, Retired Recertified Steward
Scott Opsahl

73686_SEAFARERS_LOG_October_2022.indd 24 9/21/22 1:27 AM