Seafarers Log: Vol. 85 No. 4 (2023-04-01)

APRIL 2023 VOLUME 85, NO. 4

O F F I C I A L P U B L I C A T I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N A T I O N A L U N I O N A T L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W A T E R S , A F L - C I O

PRO Act Reintroduced
Page 3

Remembering Chet Wheeler
Page 8

Heindel Pledges Unyielding Heindel Pledges Unyielding
Support of Rank and FileSupport of Rank and File

‘‘Steady AsSteady As
She Goes’She Goes’

SIU President David Heindel (right), appointed to the office in mid-February, is a career Sea-
farer. In his introductory column, he offers some personal background and spells out his vision
for the union which includes building upon the SIU’s sound policies so the union thrives and
grows. The photo at right was taken Feb. 17 in Florida, during a meeting of the Maritime Trades
Department Executive Board. Page 2.

Seafarers aboard the ATB Legacy (Crowley) re-
cently saved eight Cuban migrants who’d been
stranded at sea for nearly a month. The photos at
right show the migrants’ raft under a searchlight pro-
vided by a U.S. Coast Guard aircraft, and a closer
view of the makeshift watercraft as it neared the
ATB after dawn. Page 4.

SIU Crew SIU Crew
Rescues Rescues

8 Migrants8 Migrants

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2 Seafarers LOG April 2023

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

Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo;
Assistant Communications Director & Managing Editor/
Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Nick Merrill;
Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes. Copyright ©
2023 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights
Reserved.

Volume 85 Number 4 April 2023
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

A Winning Team

President’s ReportPresident’s Report

Although I am new to the office of president, the SIU – along with
my family – has been the focal point of my entire adult life, as many
of you know. I started sailing as a teenager, eventually came ashore to
work for the union, and am grateful to have enjoyed the membership’s

support which allowed me to remain part of
this great organization for nearly 50 years.

Following in the footsteps of Mike Sacco
is no easy task. However many accolades
Mike receives for his 35 years at the helm as
our president and his lifetime of service, he
deserves all of those and more. He’s truly one
of a kind and he did a fantastic job.

Longtime Seafarers know what Mike has
meant not just to us but to the broader U.S.-
flag industry. In particular for those of you
who are new to the SIU, be sure to take the
time to read the tributes about Mike in this
issue of the LOG and in last month’s edition.
They’re worth your time and they’ll help
give you some appreciation for his work.

It’s no overstatement to say that Mike stabilized the industry. He
came in at a difficult time and began turning things around right away,
even though it wasn’t easy. Those of us who worked for Mike know
that he was tough but fair. He demanded results, but he was reason-
able.

Mike’s charisma and energy are readily apparent to anyone who’s
met him. He always made himself available to talk with Seafarers.
Something else that has always stood out to me is his foresight. His
vision and determination were the foundations of so many key devel-
opments for the SIU, from being the industry’s spokesperson for the
Maritime Security Program to updating our hiring halls to merging
with the NMU to constantly modernizing Piney Point and so much
more.

While Mike and I have different styles, his policies will continue in
my administration. Mike designed a winning model and put together a
winning team. I’m not about to fix something that isn’t broken. At the
same time, I of course will bring my own vision and my own approach
to the office. And don’t think for a minute that I’m too proud to call
Mike if I need advice. He is the ultimate lifeline, and I’m grateful to
know he’s available.

Throughout my entire time with the SIU, I’ve always believed that
the first priority of every official should be supporting the rank-and-
file members. You have my pledge that I will continue doing so to the
best of my ability – and we will get the job done. We will stay on our
toes and we’ll win the battles so that Seafarers can continue working
on American-flag vessels.

Many of you know about our current challenges. Manpower is at
the top of that list, and of course that’s not just for our union or our
industry but for so many different occupations around the world.
We are formally recruiting all over the country, but word of mouth
is still effective. Please keep an eye out for the next generation of
prospective members. Bring them to the halls and show them what
we’re all about.

Something else we’ve been working on is new job opportunities
in the wind-energy sector. This may sound like a far-off development
but it’s actually here now. I think this sector will be vital for us mov-
ing forward, and that’s why we’ve been involved and we’ll remain
involved.

Brothers and sisters, I am grateful for the opportunity to lead our
union, but I also know that it’ll continue to be a team effort. We are,
as always, stronger together, and at the same time I will work day and
night to keep the SIU strong.

David Heindel

Union Leaders Meet with Lula

The AFL-CIO on Feb. 10 hosted President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil (left) for a discussion with
officials from the federation and its affiliates, including the SIU. He’s pictured with then-SIU Secretary-
Treasurer David Heindel (who has since been appointed as the union’s president). Following the
meeting, AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler stated, “Lula has spent his entire life fighting for the working
class as both a union and political leader…. The significance of today’s meeting is heightened as
a momentous step forward in the longstanding bond between our two movements. Four years ago,
while Lula was wrongfully imprisoned, the late AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka traveled to the
country’s federal police building to demand justice and organize for Lula’s release. We stood by him
then and we will continue to stand alongside Lula, his Workers’ Party and the Brazilian labor move-
ment in their fight to defend democracy and build a better world for working people.”

A recent mission involving the
SIU-crewed USNS Mendonca dem-
onstrated the solid reliability and
vital capability of U.S.-flag sealift
operations.

The Mendonca – a large, me-
dium-speed, roll-on/roll-off vessel
(LMSR) operated by Ocean Duchess
for the U.S. Military Sealift Com-
mand (MSC) – delivered more than
1,200 vehicles and pieces of equip-
ment, including M1 Abrams main
battle tanks, Bradley infantry fighting
vehicles and a range of wheeled ve-
hicles belonging to the 2nd Armored
Brigade Combat Team, 1st Calvary
Division deployed to Europe, at the
port in Vlissingen, Netherlands. The
delivery was part of an ongoing mis-
sion known as Atlantic Resolve.

AB Jeremy Smoot told the LOG,
“It was a long trip, essentially a 60-
day trip. We went from the U.S. to
Europe, then across to the Middle
East, back to Europe and then headed
back home to the U.S. We were able
to visit ports not normally visited by
commercial U.S.-flag ships, such as
Riga, Latvia and Vlissingen, Nether-
lands. We were met with some ad-
versities, including the Wi-Fi being
controlled and only a few members
having access at all times. Despite
the communication issues, all of the
crew members were proud to do our
part in supporting our military, as
well as allied military missions.”

SIU members sailing aboard
the Mendonca during the opera-
tion included: Recertified Bosun
Christopher Janics; Bosun Hector
Cumba Concepcion; ABs Ibra-
him Abubaker, Antonio Donald,
Shawana Mills and Smoot; QE4s
Vincent Freeman, Tommy Mc-
Gahe and Randy Pearson; QEE
Nakesha Miller; GUDEs Ashanty
Castillo, Joseph Hendricks and
Jamil Wright; Oilers Emmanuel
Adeoti, Tracy Mitchell and Em-
manuel Nuez; Wipers Richard
Gould and Donnell Marsh; OSs
Ronnie Brickhouse, Leroy Chat-
man and Tito Mallory; Chief Cook

Korey Jackson; Steward/Baker Ei-
leen Mendiola; Storekeeper Lally
Manalo; SAs Makesa Jones and
Lavon White; and ACU John Reid.

“We appreciate the Netherlands’
strong dedication to enhancing mili-
tary mobility,” said 21st Theater Sus-
tainment Command Commanding
General Maj. Gen. James Smith. “A
strong NATO ally with excellent port
facilities and infrastructure, today’s
operation once again demonstrates
our ability, with host nation support,
to rapidly deploy equipment and per-
sonnel into and across the European
continent.”

According to MSC, “Soldiers
from 21st TSC’s 260th Movement
Control Team, in coordination with
the 598th Transportation Brigade
(Surface Deployment and Distribu-
tion Command), hosted nation sup-
port and commercial organizations,
discharged the vehicles and equip-
ment, efficiently executing its recep-
tion, staging and onward movement
(RSOM).

Additionally, according to 260th
MCT Commander Capt. Karl Bliven,
Vlissingen’s facilities and the Neth-
erlands’ infrastructure make it pos-
sible to rapidly offload an entire
brigade’s worth of equipment and
quickly stage it for transport through-

out the European theater.
“Once the vehicle gets offloaded

from the ship, we as an MCT use
what is called a DRAM (Distribution
Retrograde Adaptive Planning and
Execution Management) tablet to
scan the military shipping labels on
these vehicles,” said Bliven. “This
will ensure that we know all the
information relating to the vehicle
and that it gets on the correct truck,
barge or train to get to the final lo-
cation. It’s important that we do this
smoothly and safely to allow for the
equipment to arrive ready, in terms
of maintenance, and in the most ef-
ficient way possible.”

Dutch Sea Port of Debarkation
Commander, Lt. Col. Peter van
Dorst, said experience working with
the U.S. Army at Vlissingen is pay-
ing dividends, as this is the fourth
time the port has supported an Atlan-
tic Resolve rotation.

“As a representative of the 13th
Light Brigade from the Netherlands,
we enjoy working together,” said van
Dorst. “Cooperation with [598th]
SDDC, 21st TSC and members of
the 2nd Armored Combat Brigade is
going very well. The Dutch military
are already showing their experience
in an operation like this, and it is
going better each time.”

Mendonca Delivery Highlights
U.S.-Flag Sealift Capabilities

U.S. soldiers in the Netherlands scan military vehicles that were part
of a cargo of more than 1,250 items safely transported by the SIU-
crewed Mendonca. (U.S. Army Photo by Staff Sgt. Daniel Yeadon)

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April 2023 Seafarers LOG 3

A bipartisan group of legislators on
Feb. 28 introduced a comprehensive pro-
posal to protect workers’ right to come
together and bargain for higher wages,
better benefits, and safer workplaces.

The bill, dubbed the Richard L.
Trumka Protecting the Right to Organize
(PRO) Act of 2023 (H.R. 20), was intro-
duced in the House of Representatives
by U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott (D-Virginia),
ranking member on the Committee on
Education and the Workforce. Scott was
joined by U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick,
(R-Pennsylvania). The Senate com-
panion bill was proposed by Sen. Ber-
nie Sanders (I-Vermont), who serves as
chair, Committee on Health, Education,
Labor, and Pensions.

“Congress has an urgent responsi-
bility to ensure that workers can join a
union and negotiate for higher pay, bet-
ter benefits, and safer workplaces,” said
Scott.

“Passing the PRO Act is the most
critical step we can take this Congress to
achieve that goal,” he continued. “I urge
my House and Senate colleagues on both
sides of the aisle to join me in advanc-
ing the most significant update for work-
ers’ labor organizing rights in more than
eight decades.”

“At a time of massive income and
wealth inequality, when too many work-
ers are falling further and further behind,
we need to make it easier for workers to
exercise their constitutional right to form
a union and collectively bargain for bet-
ter wages, benefits, and working condi-
tions,” said Sanders.

“We need to hold CEOs accountable for
flagrantly violating labor laws, illegally fir-
ing pro-union workers, and closing down
pro-union shops,” the Vermont senator
continued. “If we are going to reverse the
40-year decline of the middle class, reduce
the widening gap between the billionaire
class and everyone else, and take on the
unprecedented level of corporate greed in
America, we have got to rebuild the trade
union movement. That is what the PRO
Act is all about and I am proud to be intro-
ducing this bill in the Senate.”

“The PRO Act is how we level the
playing field,” AFL-CIO President Liz
Shuler said in a statement. “It is how

we stop the intimidation, the lies. This
is how we let workers, not wealthy cor-
porations, decide for themselves if they
want the power of a union.”

Named after the late labor leader and
longtime friend of the SIU, the Richard
L. Trumka PRO Act, would protect the
basic right to join union. According to
the Economic Policy Institute (EPI), the
bill, if passed into law, would:

Give workers more control
Under the PRO Act, workers and the

National Labor Relations Board, not
employers, control the timing of union
elections and employers can’t force em-
ployees to attend anti-union meetings.

Impose real penalties when employers
break the law

According to the proposed legisla-
tion, employers and corporate executives
would be penalized for illegally retaliat-
ing against workers trying to organize,
and workers would get monetary dam-
ages or other remedies if they are ille-
gally fired or harmed; fired workers must
also be reinstated while their cases are
pending.

Create a roadmap to a first contract
Terms of the new bill state that em-

ployers and workers have a set process to
follow to negotiate a first union contract,
and if they can’t reach an agreement,
they go to binding arbitration.

Strengthen the right of workers to strike
Under the PRO Act, employers are pro-

hibited from permanently replacing work-
ers when they strike, and workers are no
longer banned from engaging in so-called
“secondary” activity, such as boycotts,
seeking leverage in negotiations.

Crack down on worker misclassification
Details of the new bill specify that

workers can’t be wrongly deprived of
their organizing and bargaining rights
by being misclassified as supervisors or
independent contractors.

The move to pass the PRO Act comes
on the heels of a year that was character-
ized by an unprecedented spike in strike
activity by organized labor and historic
public support for unions. A recent Gal-
lup poll showed that more than 70% of
Americans approve of labor unions and
many workers want to have them in their

workplaces. Yet, overall union member-
ship has waned in recent decades.

The decline is due in part to the de-
cades-long, systematic attack on founda-
tional labor laws that has created a hostile
environment for workers seeking to orga-
nize. An EPI analysis found that employ-
ers were charged with violating federal law
in 41.5% of union election campaigns, by
firing, threatening, or otherwise retaliat-
ing against workers who dared to come
together in their workplaces to bargain
collectively. The penalties for violating
current labor law are not sufficient to deter
employers from infringing on workers’
rights under the National Labor Relations
Act. The PRO Act is needed to restore the
basic rights of workers to organize their
workplaces and bargain collectively for
better pay, benefits, and working condi-
tions, advocates say.

The PRO Act passed the House in both
2020 and 2021 but never reached the floor
for a vote in the Senate. In that chamber,
the legislative filibuster requires at least
60 votes to pass most bills. Last year,
Sens. Kyrsten Sinema (I-Arizona), Mark
Kelly (D-Arizona), and Senate Republi-
cans refused to back the bill.

PRO Act Introduced in Congress Again
Legislation Aims to Boost Workers’ Rights

Sen. Bernie Sanders
(I-Vermont)

U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott
(D-Virginia)

U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick
(R-Pennsylvania)

The Seafarers Interna-
tional Union of North America
(SIUNA) Executive Board on
March 7 unanimously approved
several new appointments.

During an online meet-
ing, the board named David
Heindel as the SIUNA’s new
president; Tom Orzechowski as
secretary-treasurer; and Todd
Brdak, Mike Given and Jeff
Richards as vice presidents.
Brdak fills Orzechowski’s old
position, while Given replaces
the recently retired Jim Given.
Richards succeeds the recently
deceased Joe Gremelsbacker.
There are four-and-a-half years
left on their respective terms.

The SIUNA’s autonomous
affiliates include the Seafarers
International Union, Atlantic,
Gulf, Lakes and Inland Wa-

ters; the American Maritime
Officers; the Marine Firemen’s
Union; the Sailors’ Union of the
Pacific; the Seafarers Entertain-
ment and Allied Trades Union;
the Seafarers International
Union of Canada; the United
Industrial Workers; the Sugar
Workers Union; the Industrial,
Professional, Technical Workers
International Union; and others.

In addition to the aforemen-
tioned officers, the SIUNA
board includes the following
vice presidents: Paul Doell, Ni-
cole Walsh, Anthony Poplawski,
Dave Connolly, Nicholas Ce-
lona, Dean Corgey, Nick Mar-
rone, Joseph Soresi, Augie
Tellez, George Tricker, Pat
Vandegrift, Marcus Woodring,
Monte Burgett, Karen Horton-
Gennette and Laura Lopez.

SIUNA Announces
New Appointments

The International Transport Workers’ Federation
(ITF) Seafarers’ Trust has awarded another humani-
tarian grant to Mortrans, part of the Marine Transport
Workers’ Union of Ukraine (MTWTU), “for finan-
cial support for seafarers and their families in need
during the ongoing conflict.”

The ITF Seafarers’ Trust made the announcement
in late February.

“When Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022,
the Trust was swift to send an emergency grant for
essential medical support for seafarers and their
families caught up in the conflict,” the organization
noted in a news release. “We followed up with a
transportation project to enable families to make the
hard decision to escape from danger and have some
breathing space to decide on their future plans. The
collaboration with MTWTU and V-ships allowed
around 500 family members to travel to Romania
and stay for a week in hotel accommodation with
meals and advice provided. The Canada Steamship
Line also contributed funds to this initiative.”

The release added, “Today the conflict continues
creating untold misery for the Ukrainian people as a
whole and specific challenges for seafarers inside the

country, unable to pursue their maritime careers and
earn an income for their families.”

SIU President David Heindel, who also serves as
chair of the ITF Seafarers’ Trust, said, “It is vital to
recognize the sustained economic and psychologi-
cal damage caused by the acts of aggression against
civilians and the country’s infrastructure. We must
do all possible to support the fortitude and morale
of the Ukrainian people. The Trust is on standby to
support MTWTU in its tireless work to protect the
livelihoods and wellbeing of the seafarers and their
families.”

MTWTU Chairman Oleg Grygoriuk said, “We
are proud to be part of an international family that
trusts in us to deliver for our members and for all
Ukrainian maritime workers. We are convinced that
we will succeed in the end and emerge in a stronger
position than ever before. We could not imagine that
we would be at war in the 21st century but the world
has seen the resilience of the Ukrainian people and
we are counting on our friends to go the distance
with us.”

The ITF Seafarers’ Trust is a UK charity estab-
lished in 1981.

ITF Reinforces Support
For Ukrainian Mariners

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4 Seafarers LOG April 2023

AFL-CIO President Emeritus Thomas
R. Donahue, one of the most influential
leaders of the postwar labor movement,
died Feb. 18 in a Washington, D.C., hos-
pital at the age of 94.

Donahue served as secretary-treasurer
of the AFL-CIO under Lane Kirkland,
who led the national labor federation for
16 years. He was AFL-CIO president
from August to October 1995.

“Tom Donahue was a good man and
a strong fighter for all working people,”
stated SIU President Emeritus Michael
Sacco. “Tom was someone you could
count on. You always knew where he
stood and that was on the side of work-
ers.”

The Bronx, New York-born Donahue
began his labor career as a part-time orga-
nizer with the Retail Clerks International
Union in New York City. He joined the
Building Service Employees International
Union in 1960. From 1967 to 1969, he
was Assistant U.S Labor Secretary.

In 1973, then AFL-CIO President
George Meany tapped Donahue to be his
executive assistant. When Meany retired
in 1979, Donahue said, “My hopes for the
labor movement are growth, dynamism,
militancy.”

One of his most often quoted remarks
was “The only effective answer to orga-
nized greed is organized labor.”

AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler and
Secretary-Treasurer Fred Redmond re-
leased the following joint statement on
Donahue’s passing:

“We are deeply saddened by the loss
of former AFL-CIO president Tom Do-
nahue and extend our condolences to his
family, friends and loved ones.

“Tom was an innovator, intellectual
and a visionary labor leader who was
ahead of his time. Long before the future
of work and the impact of technology on
workers became a robust policy debate,
Donahue was creating a blueprint for
unions that encouraged experimentation
with new approaches and technology to
expand worker organizing and increase
the labor movement’s influence.

“That blueprint served as a guide that
still influences union innovation today. He
was a brilliant strategist who had the keen
insight to foreshadow challenges and op-
portunities workers would face well into
the future, and our movement is much
better for it today.

“In a career that spanned six decades
starting as a part-time organizer with the
Retail Clerks International Union in New

York City and rising to secretary-treasurer
and president of the AFL-CIO, Donahue
put every ounce of his being into the labor
movement he loved from the moment he
joined it. A tireless champion of organiz-
ing, he helped create the AFL-CIO Orga-
nizing Institute which opened doors for a
new generation of organizers. Throughout
his distinguished career as an organizer
and labor leader, Donahue always pushed
the labor movement to embrace innova-
tion and change to keep propelling work-
ers forward.

“Donahue’s influence extended well
beyond our nation’s borders. He served as
chairman of an advisory group on labor
and diplomacy with Secretaries of State
Madeline Albright and Colin Powell,
powerfully advancing the cause of de-
mocracy and ensuring the link between
anti-democratic movements and worker
oppression was clear to leaders here and
abroad. He helped lead the labor move-
ment’s support for the independent Polish
trade union Solidarnosc in the 1980s and
was a vocal critic of oppression in any
form, leading a call for unions to boycott
apartheid-era South Africa.

“Throughout his legendary career, he
never forgot his roots in the Bronx. His
father was a union deckhand with the
Staten Island Ferry, giving him an early
education in the movement that would
shape his life. He believed deeply in the
collective power workers wield when
we have a union on the job. Everyone in
the labor movement who knew Donahue
respected both his absolute commitment
to working people and his formidable
intellect. All of us in the labor movement
today in a new age of organizing and tech-
nological change stand on his shoulders.
“Our thoughts are with his wife Rachelle,
daughter and grandchildren during this
difficult time.”

Donahue leaves behind his wife of
nearly 44 years, Rachelle Horowitz; his
daughter, Nancy Donahue (Tom Fogarty),
and six grandchildren: Matt Fogarty,
Kerry Fogarty (Kevin Carrig), Kate Fog-
arty, Erin Donahue, Megan Donahue, and
Mary Clare Donahue, and their mother,
Emily Donahue. He was preceded in
death by his son, Thomas Reilly Donahue
III, in 2018.

Donahue’s funeral mass was held
March 2 at Our Lady Queen of Peace
Catholic Church in Arlington, Virginia.
He was interred March 4 at Gate of
Heaven Cemetery, Hawthorne, New
York.

Labor Movement Mourns
Passing of Tom Donahue

Tom Donahue speaks at a Maritime Trades Department gathering in 1995.

ATB Legacy Crew Rescues
8 Migrants in Gulf Of Mexico

Rescues at sea are nothing new for long-
time SIU member AB Donnie Collins, but that
doesn’t mean he takes them lightly.

That point was reinforced March 1 when
Collins and his fellow Seafarers aboard the
Crowley-operated ATB Legacy saved eight
Cuban migrants who’d been stranded at sea
aboard a makeshift raft for nearly a month.
The rescue took place in the Gulf of Mexico,
approximately 145 miles south of Southwest
Pass, one of the channels at the mouth of the
Mississippi River.

“They said they had left Cuba on Feb. 2,
supposedly to go to Mexico,” recalled Collins,
a 33-year SIU member who’d previously as-
sisted in three other rescues. “They figured it
would take them five days. When we found
them, they thought they had been at sea for 18
days. We told them, no, it’s March 1.”

Taking part in the rescue were Capt. Gus
Cramer, Chief Mate James Steltzlen, Sec-
ond Mate Brett Stepanski, Third Mate Devon
Haffner, AB/Tankermen Collins, Thomas
Tramutola, Jarred Moylan and Dominique
Calvy, Chief Engineer Cle Popperwill, First
Assistant Engineer William Ziadeh, Second
Assistant Engineer Andrew Burns, Third As-
sistant Engineer Joseph Krajnik, and Cook
America Cacho.

“The crew did an excellent job,” Cramer said.
Collins and Stepanski were on watch at

approximately 1:30 a.m. when they spotted a
flashing light.

“I went outside and could hear someone
screaming,” said Collins. “I yelled to them that
we’d be coming back.”

The Legacy approached the raft while con-
tacting the U.S. Coast Guard; the agency then
dispatched an aircraft. Cramer later determined

that the most prudent means of bringing the mi-
grants aboard was to deploy a pilot ladder on
the vessel’s barge.

“The seas were getting bigger, and [the
migrants] weren’t going to make it to the next
night, the way we saw it,” Collins recalled.
“You could tell they were grateful when they
came aboard. They said they’d originally had
an engine on the raft, but lost it.”

“When we got really close to them, we were
going to hand them supplies and food, but it
was obvious to me that the raft was in pretty
bad shape,” Cramer said. “We weren’t going
to leave them out there; we were going to get
them on board.”

Cramer noted that the original estimated
time of arrival for the Coast Guard cutter that
had been dispatched was upwards of 14 hours.

The eight males told the Legacy crew that
they had survived largely by grabbing food
scraps from the water (available perhaps be-
cause of the large number of cruise ships in
those waters). With Cacho and Ziadeh serving
as interpreters, they mentioned that numerous
vessels had passed them.

“They were in pretty bad shape,” Collins
added. “We weren’t sure if they’d have the
strength to climb up the ladder. Once they
were aboard, we fed them, gave them liquids,
and mustered up some old coveralls and rubber
boots. They didn’t have shoes.”

As a safety matter, the Legacy personnel
also searched the migrants for contraband (and
found none).

“You always have to double-check people,”
Collins said. “You don’t know who you’re
dealing with, so you have to be safe.”

Roughly 10 hours after the migrants
boarded the Legacy, they were transferred to
a Coast Guard vessel. The transfer only took
about 45 minutes, Cramer said.

Reflecting on the experience, Collins stated,
“We all felt great about helping. A lot of us
were probably emotional about it, because
people don’t understand that others are desper-
ate to leave that country and its totalitarian sys-
tem…. If the one migrant didn’t have an LED
flashlight, he’d have never been seen.”

A few crew members are pictured with most of the men they helped rescue. AB Thomas
Tramutola is at front left, Chief Mate James Steltzlen at far right, and AB Jarred Moylan in the
back, fourth from left among those standing.

Some of the rescued individuals rest and eat
aboard the ATB.

The SIU-crewed ATB Legacy nears a make-
shift raft carrying eight migrants.

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April 2023 Seafarers LOG 5

The following communication has been issued by the
U.S. Department of State. It also is available on the SIU
website.

Updated Notice to Mariners
With International Voyages

To ensure timely service for mariners, Passport
Services provides the following streamlined passport
renewal provisions. These provisions are subject to
change.

Qualifications
n Be a credentialed merchant mariner;
n Be eligible to apply on a DS-82 application for pass-

port renewal. (Check eligibility at https://travel.state.gov/
content/travel/en/passports/have-passport/renew.html); and
n Have a current passport that is expired or expir-

ing in 7 months or less.

Application and Mailing Instructions
1. Applicants must submit the following:
n DS-82 application completed, signed, and dated.

Please use the online form filler tool to fill out and print
your form: https://pptform.state.gov. This tool produces
a barcode to help us process your application faster;
n Passport photograph taken within the past six months;
n Current passport;
n Copy of Merchant Mariner Credential (MCC), front

and back.
n A check or money order in the amount of $209.53

made payable to U.S. Department of State if applying
for a passport book only. If applying for both the pass-
port book and card, the total fee is $239.53. This amount
includes the passport fee, expedite fee, and 1-2 day
delivery fee (for information regarding passport fees,
please visit travel.state.gov).
n Letter from supervisor on company letterhead or

your U.S. mariner’s union.
2. The supervisor letter should include the following

details:
n Applicant’s full name;
n Printed name and title of applicant’s supervisor

or mariners’ union representative;
n Supervisor’s or union representative’s signature;

and
n Date the letter was issued.
3. Applications must be sent by traceable overnight

delivery service to:
El Paso Passport Agency (PPT/EP)
44132 Mercure Circle, PO Box 1073
Sterling, Virginia 20166 – 1073
Attention: Mariner Program

Service Expectations
Completed passports will be mailed using a 1-2 day

delivery service. Please be sure the application includes
a physical U.S. mailing address and not a P.O. Box.

Every effort will be made to process the passport ap-
plication in about one week of receipt. For instance, ap-
plications received on Monday may be completed and
sent out by Friday of the same week.

Requesting a Second Passport
Mariners may wish to apply for a second limited va-

lidity passport (4 years). Second passports provide greater
flexibility, particularly if mariners need to apply for visas
when traveling domestically and overseas. For more infor-
mation, please see: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/
en/passports/have-passport/second-passport-book.html

Following are the two options for applying for a sec-
ond passport.

Option 1: Requesting a Second Passport when Renew-
ing a Passport

To apply for a second passport, applicants must also
include:
n A second DS-82 application (with photograph)

completed, signed, and dated;
n Signed statement describing the need for a second

passport. (This is required in addition to the company
letter authorizing use of these special procedures); and
n Include payment for both applications in

a single check totaling $419.06 ($209.53 per ap-
plication).

Option 2: Requesting a Second Passport without Sub-
mitting a Current Valid Passport

If mariners need to use their current (10-year) pass-
port while applying for their second passport, they can
apply at a passport acceptance facility using a DS-11
form. They can expect to receive the second passport
within the expedited timeframe posted at travel.state.
gov. To apply at a passport acceptance facility, appli-
cants need:
n Completed (not signed) DS-11 application;
n Passport photograph;
n Photocopy of their 10-year passport data page;
n Signed statement of need for a second passport

as outlined on our website;
n Payment of $209.53 to the U.S. Department of State,

which includes $60 for expedite service and the additional
$19.53 for 1-2-day return delivery; and
n Additional payment of $35 to the passport accep-

tance facility to execute the application.
To locate the nearest passport acceptance facility,

see https://iafdb.travel.state.gov. Please note that many
passport acceptance facilities require customers to
schedule an appointment ahead of their visit.

State Department
Provides Passport

Update for Mariners

President Biden in early March nomi-
nated another pro-union individual to
head up the U.S. Department of Labor
(DOL).

Following the news that Labor Secre-
tary Marty Walsh (a lifelong trade union-
ist) is leaving his post for the top job at the
National Hockey League Players Associa-
tion, Biden nominated Deputy Secretary
Julie Su to succeed him.

During a press conference announcing
the nomination, Biden stated, “Julie knows
in her bones [that] the people who get up

every morning and go to work and bust
their necks just to make an honest living
deserve someone to fight on their side to
give them an even shot…. Julie has spent
her life fighting for that vision, her entire
professional career.

He added that at the DOL, Su has “led
the effort to ensure jobs of high-growth
industries like semiconductor manufactur-
ing, broadband, healthcare, and so much
more – making sure they’re good-paying
jobs, high-quality jobs, and union jobs.
Union jobs.”

Biden stressed that using union labor ul-
timately saves employers money by having
well-qualified workers and less turnover.
He also pointed out that Su, like Walsh,
comes from a union family.

At the same news conference, Su stated,
“I believe in the transformative power of
America, and I know the transformative
power of a good job. I know because it was
the kind of job that my mom got that had
predictable hours, paid sick leave, health
benefits, a secure income, and a pension
when she retired. A union job that gave my
parents a path to the middle class and gave
our family the kind of breathing room that
the president talks about.”

She continued, “We have never had a
president who has made workers, worker
wellbeing, and worker power so central to
his vision of a strong nation and a strong
economy. Mr. President, when you said
you wanted to be the most pro-worker,
pro-union president in history and restore
decency and build the middle class, I said,
‘Sign me up for that.’ I want to help do
that, and it has been my honor to be the
Deputy Secretary. Those shared values
are what I will work to make real every
day.”

At press time, the Senate had not set a
date for Su’s confirmation hearing.

Senate Labor Committee Chairman
Bernie Sanders (I-Vermont) noted, “I’m
confident Julie Su will be an excellent Sec-

retary of Labor. I look forward to work-
ing with her to protect workers’ rights and
build the trade union movement in this
country.”

AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler said,
“From her beginnings protecting immi-
grants and other vulnerable workers, to
fiercely combatting wage theft and abuse
of low-wage workers in California, to her
leadership [at DOL], Su distinguished her-
self as a principled fighter for the basic
rights of every worker, no matter where
we’re from or what kind of work we do.
At this pivotal moment in history, that’s
precisely the leadership America’s work-
ing people need in their next Secretary of
Labor.”

Walsh issued the following statement
before Su’s nomination became official:
“I am grateful to President Biden for an-
nouncing his intent to nominate my dear
friend and colleague, Deputy Secretary

Julie Su, to succeed me as U.S. Secretary
of Labor. Julie has been a true partner in
leading the Department of Labor, and her
drive and vision have been central to ev-
erything we have achieved over the past
two years.

“As Deputy Secretary, Julie’s achieve-
ments – prioritizing rights and protections
for the most vulnerable workers; driv-
ing our equity work; attracting diverse,
world-class talent into public service;
modernizing workforce development and
unemployment insurance systems; and
deepening our engagement with state and
local governments – have been broad and
deep.

“She is a lifelong champion of Ameri-
ca’s workers, and I have the utmost confi-
dence in her ability to sustain the work of
the department and advance the President’s
vision of an economy that puts workers
first and leaves no one behind.”

President Joe Biden Nominates Julie Su
To Become Next U.S. Secretary of Labor

SIU Assistant VP Mike Russo (center) is
pictured earlier this year with U.S. Secre-
tary of Labor Marty Walsh (right) and Dep-
uty Secretary Julie Su during a gathering at
a Houston-area union hall.

President Biden (left) introduces Deputy Secretary of Labor Julie Su at a White House
news conference. (Photo courtesy White House)

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6 Seafarers LOG April 2023

At Sea and Ashore with the SIU

ABOARD USNS BUTTON – Seafarers aboard the Crowley-operated vessel gathered for this shipboard photo in Guam, and they also extended thanks and congratulations to recently
retired SIU President Michael Sacco “for all he’s done with the SIU. We wish him all the best. We would also like to congratulate new SIU President David Heindel.” Pictured are (front,
from left) SA Abdulhamed Musa, SA Lashay Creekmore, Bosun Franz Eder and SIU Port Agent Victor Sahagon. In the back are (from left) AB Noel Gemo, Recertified Steward Edwin
Bonefont, AB Nicholas Selle, AB Rhiannon Buttrum, AB Douglas Vaughn, OS Kaylah Hill, AB Montavis Harold and OS Charles Catunao.

PROMOTING WORKERS’ RIGHTS – SIU Port Agent
Mario Torrey (left) is pictured with AFL-CIO Secretary-
Treasurer Fred Redmond at a Department of Labor (DOL)
event in the nation’s capital. Titled “Making Equity Real:
Black Workers and Good Jobs,” the event took place Feb.
21. According to the DOL, “Black labor leaders and workers
engaged in discussion with U.S. Secretary of Labor Marty
Walsh and Deputy Secretary Julie Su about the importance
of centering equity and job quality in the implementation of
historic federal investments in infrastructure, clean energy,
manufacturing, and technology. Panelists also discussed
the potential of these investments to expand economic op-
portunity and equity, and the historic role of unions and
worker organizing in strengthening and expanding a Black
middle class.”

ABOARD TANKER LOUISIANA – Pictured above in the galley of the Intrepid Per-
sonnel and Provisioning vessel are (photo at left, from left) Chief Steward Matthew
Conyac and Chief Cook Yolanda Martinez. The photo at right includes Bosun Pablo
Borja (left) and SIU Tacoma Safety Director Duane Akers.

ON THE JOB AT WATCO – Crane Operator Saleh Mo-
thana explains the operation to a guest.

AT THE SAN JUAN HALL –
Chief Cook Eliezer Estremera
(right) receives his B-seniority
book at the hiring hall. He is pic-
tured with SIU Asst. VP Amancio
Crespo.

AT THE HONOLULU HALL – AB Ronaldo Ramos (left in photo
at left, with SIU Port Agent Hazel Galbiso) receives his A-seniority
book while GUDE Theodore Cash (left in photo above, with SIU
Safety Director Amber Akana) picks up his full B-book.

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April 2023 Seafarers LOG 7

At Sea and Ashore with the SIU

WELCOME ASHORE IN NEW ORLEANS – Two longtime
Seafarers recently picked up their respective first pension
checks at the hiring hall. Steward/Baker Leslie Davis (right
in photo at left) sailed with the SIU for 40 years, while Bret
Mattei (right in photo above) sailed with Crescent Towing for
42 years, almost exclusively as a captain. Both members
are pictured with SIU Safety Director James Brown.

B-BOOK IN HOUSTON – SA Eric Trinemeyer (left) receives
his full book. He’s pictured at the hiring hall with SIU Patrol-
man Kelly Krick.

WITH MEMBERS IN WILMINGTON – QMED Steven Bena-
vides (right in photo at immediate left) picks up his A-seniority
book at the hiring hall, while AB Noel Engo (left in photo above)
receives his full B-book. Both members are pictured with SIU
Port Agent Gerret Jarman.

TAKING THE OATH IN OAKLAND – AB Jody Owens (left)
receives his full book at the hiring hall in Oakland, California.
He’s pictured with SIU Port Agent J.B. Niday.

ABOARD MAERSK MICHIGAN –
Many thanks to Chief Mate Cullen
Bozza for this snapshot of SIU and
AMO members aboard the ship.
The Seafarers (below, from left) are
Recertified Boson Gregorio Cudal,
ABs Tomas Robinson, Fernando
Haber and Andres Martinez, Chief
Steward Marcelino Pabito, Pump-
man Walden Galacgac, QMEDs
Josh Bonita and Arvin Heras, AB
Vener Pelayo, Chief Cook Cody
Younghans and GVA Abdulrahman
Omar. Behind the name board (also
from left) are Second Assistant En-
gineer Tim Cook, Third Assistant
Engineer Mahlon Glidden, First As-
sistant Engineer Graham Monohan,
Chief Engineer Chris Gill, Captain
Wayne Archer, Bozza, Second
Mate Aaron Lamb and Third Mate
John Dufrene.

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8 Seafarers LOG April 2023

The union is mourning the loss of retired SIU Assistant Vice Presi-
dent Chester “Chet” Wheeler, who passed away March 10 in Califor-
nia at age 77. He had had been battling cancer.

Wheeler retired in 2019, following 22 years of service as an of-
ficial. Previously, he sailed with the union for 32 years, beginning in
the mid-1960s, mostly as a civil service mariner with MSC.

SIU Vice President Government Services Nicholas Celona stated,
“Chet was absolutely tireless in his work on behalf of the member-
ship. He set a high standard and consistently did a great job handling
issues in an often-complex sector of the industry. He will be missed.”

SIU Assistant Vice President Government Services Joe Vincenzo
said Wheeler “was a friend who made a real difference in the lives of
CIVMARS. Whether in the everyday routine of handling premium
pay disputes or sorting through pending disciplinary matters to make
life a little easier for our mariners, his impact can hardly be over-
stated. It was a privilege to observe him up close and personal and to
accompany him servicing ships up at the Navy base in Bremerton,
Washington, and to work with him on issues of consequence both
abroad and right here at home.”

Wheeler came ashore to work for the union in 1997, first as a
representative and soon thereafter as an assistant vice president. Prior
to the SIU’s merger with the National Maritime Union in 2001, he
handled all West Coast representational efforts for MSC and the Su-
isun Bay reserve fleet. In fact, since 1997, Wheeler was involved in
every MSC and Suisun Bay contract negotiation and “instruction and
policy” negotiation until he retired.

Colleagues described him as instrumental in ensuring the safety
and health of mariners by negotiating afloat and ashore habitability
agreements, watch hours, standards for shipboard water potability and
air quality, and shipyard working conditions. He was a guiding force
in the three-year negotiation of Civilian Mariner Personnel Instruc-
tion (CMPI) 610, a key document covering hours of work and over-
time pay. Wheeler also played leading roles in representing mariners
aboard joint high-speed vessels, and in securing significant compen-
satory time for travel for many CIVMARS.

Retired SIU Counsel Deborah Kleinberg, who was a close friend
and worked with Wheeler day-to-day for 22 years, noted, “Chet was
a beloved husband, father and grandfather. Chet’s life was filled with
purpose and the desire to be of service. He was a natural teacher and
shared his vast knowledge freely. In his personal life, and over the
course of his career, he helped many thousands of people. His legacy
will be how he aided people through their most difficult times, his
incredible generosity, integrity, and most of all, loyalty to his family,
friends, and the mariners he represented throughout his lifetime and
the SIU.”

Upon his retirement, Wheeler offered the following advice for
those entering the industry: “Get as much out of it as you can. It’s an
adventure; make this your adventure. The other thing is, learn every-
thing you can. We have a great school (the union-affiliated Paul Hall
Center for Maritime Training and Education). Look out for your fel-
low shipmates. It’s a wonderful occupation and I’m really glad I did
it.”

Donations in Wheeler’s memory may be made to: Hospice Ser-
vices of Lake County, 1862 Parallel Drive, Lakeport, California
95453, Phone (707) 263-6222.

Chet Wheeler

Retired Government Services
Official ‘Chet’ Wheeler Dies at 77

Progress continues with the months-long refurbishment of the hiring hall in Norfolk, Virginia, as reflected
by these photos from early March. The hall tentatively is scheduled to reopen this summer (the union has
been operating in temporary quarters in nearby Chesapeake, Virginia, while construction is happening).

Norfolk Hall Taking Shape

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April 2023 Seafarers LOG 9

Maritime Community Reacts to Sacco Retirement
You were there all 50 years I sailed. Brother, it’s been a

great ride. Enjoy your retirement.

- Retired Bosun John Wells

It was a pleasure meeting you. Your guidance to help sea-
men in our future gave us confidence and was much appreci-
ated. Thank you for allowing us to be part of the Brotherhood
of the Sea. You are appreciated and never will be forgotten.

- Cleavern Brown, former FOWT

Allow me to be on board the ship to send President Sacco
my wishes for a happy retirement. Smooth sailing, sir.

- Antoinette Saucier, former Cook and Baker

I first met Mr. Sacco at a union meeting in Houston in 1982.
Mike and his brother Joey chaired a meeting. The union was
knee-deep in a strike with Dixie Carriers. Mike had a way of
speaking to the membership and has had that gift my whole
career. Even in the early 80s when shipping was tight, Mike
pushed members to fill jobs. And how important it was to keep
the SIU on top of all the contracts under our umbrella.

As a longstanding member (42 years) I’ve always made it
a point to make union meetings at Piney Point to hear Mike’s
and Augie’s reports. I have a permanent job but still make
meetings when I’m off. Even at the last meeting I saw Mike,
he was pushing the membership to fill the jobs. And like every
meeting, Mike let the membership know the importance of the
Jones Act.

Mr. Sacco has been the driving force behind the SIU. I per-
sonally thank Mike for all the years of looking out for us.

- Recertified Bosun James K. Walker

I have been a member of the SIU for 44 years. I have seen
the best and worst of economic times. Mike led us through the
roughest times when others faltered. Mike was steadfast with
keeping the last piece of the puzzle intact, the Jones Act. I wish
Mike well going into retirement.

- John Bilich, Master, M/V Rocketship

From my early days as a trainee until the day Mike retired,
he was a constant inspiration and motivational force in my
development as a Seafarer and eventual official of our great
organization. Everyone needs to be uplifted and encouraged to
become successful, and Mike’s steady hand brought that not
only to me but hundreds, if not thousands of young Seafarers.
Thank you for the years and best wishes for a long and healthy
retirement!

- SIU President David Heindel

As a young man entering a phase in my life where I was
looking for a new career or simply a career, I entered the
trainee program in Piney Point. Back then it was known as
the trainee program and it had not yet graduated to the term
or structure we use today, known as the apprentice program.
Upon arrival there were the normal formalities of haircuts and
uniforms, etc. But the charge really hit me when I attended my
first SIU union meeting. It was then, listening to Mike, that I
knew I had found my home and calling.

After going to sea, I had come ashore to work as a patrol-
man and organizer. Over the years, Mike had always given me
great latitude to make decisions and learn. He is a great com-
municator with a vision to constantly grow our organization
through hard work and influence. After many years of working
for him and many years of “talks” and conversations we have
had over a cup of coffee (and maybe a beer or two), he had be-
come my mentor and friend. Accountability and responsibility
were always part of his daily lesson. His passion and energetic
outlook on the day’s task at hand will continue through those of
us he has trained and mentored.

Mike’s contribution to labor, maritime labor and the SIU are
unsurpassed. In short, his career has been iconic.

-Tom Orzechowski, SIU Secretary-Treasurer

I’ve known Mike Sacco 46 years. He was my union teacher
in 1977 when I was in Piney Point as a trainee, and again when
I came ashore in 1983 and worked as a young patrolman in

New Orleans – working with his brother Joey, who was the
vice president of the Gulf region.

Mike inspired me and gave me insight and knowledge of the
maritime industry as a whole. He was a mentor, and his leader-
ship was from the heart. One of his favorite sayings – and I use
it all the time – is, “Money, marbles and chalk!” Godspeed,
Mike.

- SIU VP Government Services Nicholas Celona

Mike Sacco is the only president that has been at the helm
since I came to work for the Seafarers 30-plus years ago. From
the beginning, he always inspired me to work hard on behalf
of the mariners. His passion for the industry and the men and
women that work in it has always been something I have ad-
mired.

When he spoke at membership meetings or conventions,
I was always willing to be part of the mission, whatever it
might be! You couldn’t help but be moved into action. Mike
has taught me so many lessons over the years, whether it was
to “keep my eye on the bouncing ball” or letting him or others
know when I needed help.

Every time I saw Mike, the first question was, “How’s it
going, kid”? And I felt like he genuinely wanted to know. It
might sound corny but he was a great leader with vision for the
future and he provided me an appreciation for an industry that I
didn’t know about when I first came aboard.

- Maggie Bowen, Seafarers Plans Administrator

I have known Mike and have worked closely with him for
the last 48 years. My introduction to Mike was at Piney Point
when I was a trainee in 1975 and he was vice president of the
school. What impressed me most about Mike at that time was
his aptitude for public speaking. It was amazing to watch him
engage the audience and hold their attention while he spoke,
and I realized then that this was a special talent.

Mike gave me my first opportunity to come work ashore
for the school as a union ed teacher in 1979. My confidence in
teaching that class came from the skills I learned from Mike.
Over the years, I was fortunate to witness many of Mike’s pub-
lic speaking engagements in which he was able to captivate the
audience, engage them at their level, and produce the results
he was aiming for. One of the most memorable moments (and
there have been many) was back in 1990 when I was a lobby-
ist for the SIU. Mike had only been president for two years,
and the congressional budget process had done away with the
operating differential subsidy program. This was a real threat to
the U.S.-flag fleet in the international trades. Through Mike’s
dynamic leadership and relationship skills, he spearheaded an
effort with the American-flag shipping companies, the Mari-
time Administration and the newly created U.S. Transportation
Command to create a new program to maintain the U.S.-flag
presence in the international trades, and to provide the De-
partment of Defense with sealift assets that they desperately
needed.

After many meetings with DOD officials, our congressional
representatives, and our shipping company CEOs and never
giving up on our objectives, we all were successful in the birth
of our current Maritime Security Program, which has stood the
test of time.

Being with Mike during this time and watching him (along
with others) orchestrate this objective was one of the proud-
est memories I have of Mike’s leadership abilities. I wish him
all the best of health and fair, following seas in his retirement
years.

- Nick Marrone, SIU VP West Coast

My first day with the LOG coincided with the June 1991
membership meeting in Piney Point. When Mike spoke at the
end, I had no idea what he was talking about – but I knew I was
ready to run through the proverbial brick wall for him.

I spent a lot of time with Mike behind the scenes, and al-
ways came away impressed. He was totally dedicated to the
membership, and as I observed his tireless commitment year
after year, I couldn’t bear the thought of ever letting him down.
It was a blessing to work for him, and if there were a hall of
fame for bosses, Mike would be a first-ballot inductee.

- Jordan Biscardo, SIU Communications Director

June 1979 was the first time I heard Mike Sacco speak.
It was at my first membership meeting; I was an 18-year-old
trainee in Piney Point. His passion had a way of making me
believe not only in the greatness of the SIU, but the potential
within myself.

Throughout the next 44 years, I spent a lot of time around
Mike, first as a member, then ultimately serving as part of his
executive board. His lifetime devotion to the SIU and dedica-
tion to the men and women has paved the way for so many of
us to live a prosperous life, filled with dignity and purpose.
Thanks to your example we all show up with passion and devo-
tion every day to make our members’ lives better, but no one
will ever measure up to you, sir. Thank you.

- George Tricker, SIU VP Contracts

I have been with the SIU for more than 36 years, al-
most all of it with Mike Sacco at the helm.

Over the years, I have heard three sayings that sum up

Mike.
“Jobs, Jobs, Jobs!” He never forgot what the union is

all about, and he made sure none of us ever did – making
sure our members are working, with good, safe jobs, and
their families are taken care of. I remember how proud
he was in 1990 when new general agreements were rati-
fied with the first raises for members in years. Under his
leadership, the union was able to expand its benefits to
members and gradually extend benefits to families. The
difference between what members had in 1988 to today is
amazing.

“Money, Marbles and Chalk!” Mike made sure that
members and friends knew where the SIU stood. When
he gave this declaration, our friends and allies knew the
Seafarers would be solid. From white caps marching on
a picket line to financial help to members and families
hurt by a natural disaster to solidarity for a worthy cause,
Mike made sure the SIU cared for its members and all
workers.

“Brawn to Brains.” Like the previous saying, this one
has years of history behind it. Mike came to the union at
a time when muscle settled many beefs. Under his leader-
ship, he realized the times had changed. To survive, the
SIU needed brainpower, and he was not afraid to have
people around him who would give him the information
needed to win at the negotiation table. Sure, there were
plenty of headaches with this approach, but aspirin is a
lot cheaper than setting broken arms and legs.

Personally, I was lucky enough to travel with him over
the years when he would visit crews aboard ships. His
whole attitude would lighten up as he climbed the gang-
ways to visit with the members. He loves being around
the members, whether on a vessel or at Piney Point.
Mike, smooth seas and following winds to you, Sophie,
and your entire family.

- Daniel Duncan, Retired MTD Exec. Secretary-Treasurer,
former SIU Communications Director

I worked with Mike Sacco for over 40 years. I have always
been inspired by his dedication to the union and its membership.
I also appreciated his leadership approach, which was always
collaborative in nature. In addition, he never shot the messenger
when I had to indicate that we could not do something legally
that people were proposing and I certainly appreciated that. He
believed in me and my ability to be general counsel at a time
when very few unions were elevating women into that role

- Leslie Tarantola, SIU General Counsel

We owe a huge debt of gratitude to Michael for his great
leadership of the SIU and his work at the forefront of protec-
tion for seafarers all over the world. His advocacy and determi-
nation to defend the Jones Act and constant support in helping
us establish cabotage in Australia and around the world has
never waned.

- Paddy Crumlin, President, ITF

Accolades Attest Accomplishments of SIU President Emeritus

SIU President Emeritus Michael Sacco

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10 Seafarers LOG April 2023

Editor’s note: Following his retirement, SIU President Emeritus Michael Sacco on Feb. 14 did
an interview with the LOG in Florida. Excerpts from the discussion follow. Additional coverage of
his career is available in the March edition of the LOG. Sacco served as SIU president from 1988-
2023.

Q: Why did you decide to retire?

A: I’m 86 years old and I believe it’s time for me to retire. I’m leaving the union in good hands,
that’s the main thing. The people who have been elected are going to do a great job in growing this
union and maintaining its policies.

Q: How did you get involved with the SIU back in the late 1950s? (Sacco served in the U.S.
Air Force from 1954-58.)

A: I really didn’t know what I wanted to do when I was younger. Paul Hall (who was the
union’s president) was the one who actually recruited me. I was one of these kids in Brooklyn
that used to hang around the hall. One day, I ran into him. He said, ‘Why don’t you go inside and
talk to some of the boys? See if you can get your documents, and you can go to work on a ship.’ I
talked to one of the patrolmen, and they gave me a letter. I went down to the Coast Guard and got
my papers. Before you know it, I was washing dishes and pots and pans on a ship running from
New York to Puerto Rico.

I really didn’t have any intention of staying, until I got my first pay. Once I got that first pay-
check, I said, ‘Hey, this is not a bad deal. Let me think about it.’

As time went on, Paul took a special liking to me. He put me on an organizing campaign…. Fi-
nally, after I don’t know how many campaigns, he calls me in the office and says, ‘Why don’t you
come to work for us?’ But even then, I really didn’t know how long I was going to stay.

Q: You served as the vice president of the Lundeberg School in Piney Point during its forma-
tive years. What do you remember about those days, and why do you think the school is still im-
portant for the SIU’s future?

A: In order for us to meet our contractual obligations, and with the way the industry changes,
we have to have a training facility to meet the needs of the (vessel-operating) companies. Piney
Point is the future of the SIU. As new technology comes into the industry and the job requirements
change, we have to have the courses ready and available to teach our people to meet those needs.

What Piney Point really did for me is, it opened my eyes to what the industry is all about.
When you work in a port and that’s all you see, that’s all you understand…. That’s when I realized
that if we didn’t help keep the industry strong and profitable, in time, we’d all be out of a job. I
grew up in Piney Point.

Q: Paul Hall recruited you, but what other officials influenced you?

A: E.B. MacAuley. He was my main man. He was our headquarters representative in Brooklyn.
I used to go on payoffs with him. He used to tell me, write down all the questions you couldn’t
answer. After we get done with the payoff, you and I will sit down and review them. Same thing
with the beefs – write it all down. He made sure I read the constitution and knew it from A to Z.
He used to say, after six months, the questions all repeat, and he was right. Suddenly it comes easy,
and you know the answers.

Q: You have no shortage of accomplishments as president. What’s one you’re especially proud
of?

A: When I was invited to the White House to meet the Queen of England (Elizabeth II, in
2007). That was a highlight of my whole life. My wife (Sophie) and I get there, and we’re waiting
in line to get in. (Congresswoman) Nancy Pelosi sees me, and I know what she’s thinking: ‘What
the heck are you doing here?’ I was the only labor guy. You could see it on her face. (Senator)
Trent Lott yells, ‘Your mother is going to be proud of you.’

But there have been so many experiences. It’s hard for me to believe I did all those things.

Q: What is something you enjoyed about being president?

A: How people looked to me for leadership. I provided hope for a lot of people at that time
(when first taking office). There was a lot of insecurity (years ago). Paul Hall would fire you in a
minute, ship you out. Even E.B. MacAuley had to go to sea for six months because we couldn’t
make payroll. We needed security and stability. I felt it all the time – my job was in jeopardy every
day when I was a patrolman.

Q: What are your plans for retirement?

A: I really don’t know. After a couple of months, I’m thinking of going to my church and see-
ing how I can help and volunteer – on a very limited basis. I don’t want to put myself in a position
where it’s going to be a work day, but I’d like to help as much as I can. Whatever I could do to
help.

But at first, I want at least two or three months to calm down. I’m going to miss everybody. I
don’t know anything but this work.

Q: Looking back on when the NMU merged into the SIU in 2001, what comes to mind?

A: The NMU merger was a turning point. It eliminated the competition on bids for government
contracts. Before the merger, the NMU would bid, we would bid lower, then they would come
back and bid lower. It was crazy. But every promise that I made to the NMU, I kept.

The fact that it worked out so well is an example of timing being on our side –
maybe it’s fate, maybe it’s luck. Maybe because we always try to do the right thing, and

we were so transparent with everybody.

Q: You said you weren’t sure how long you’d stick with the SIU, and that you sailed but also
did other jobs after serving in the Air Force. Ultimately, what made you stay during those initial
years?

A: The money (from sailing) was good, but it wasn’t only the money, it was the people. No one
ever asked where you came from or who you were. As long as you did your job, nobody bothered
you, and that was good enough for me.

Q&A With SIU President Emeritus Michael Sacco

In 2007, SIU President Michael Sacco (left in photo above) and his wife, Sophie (far right), were among the guests invited
to the White House to meet Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II (third from right) and Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh
(second from left). President George W. Bush is second from right, while First Lady Laura Bush is third from left. In photo
below, AFL-CIO President Lane Kirkland (standing) addresses Seafarers in Piney Point, Maryland, as newly appointed SIU
President Michael Sacco (left) listens.

Elaine L. Chao (center), who served as a cabinet secretary in two different ad-
ministrations, always stood up for the U.S. Merchant Marine. She is pictured with
SIU President Michael Sacco (left) and his wife, Sophie, at the SIUNA convention
in Piney Point, Maryland, in 2017.

Prior to signing on with the Seafarers, Michael Sacco (left) served in the U.S. Air Force
from 1954-58.

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April 2023 Seafarers LOG 11

we were so transparent with everybody.

Q: You said you weren’t sure how long you’d stick with the SIU, and that you sailed but also
did other jobs after serving in the Air Force. Ultimately, what made you stay during those initial
years?

A: The money (from sailing) was good, but it wasn’t only the money, it was the people. No one
ever asked where you came from or who you were. As long as you did your job, nobody bothered
you, and that was good enough for me.

Q&A With SIU President Emeritus Michael Sacco

Elaine L. Chao (center), who served as a cabinet secretary in two different ad-
ministrations, always stood up for the U.S. Merchant Marine. She is pictured with
SIU President Michael Sacco (left) and his wife, Sophie, at the SIUNA convention
in Piney Point, Maryland, in 2017.

Prior to signing on with the Seafarers, Michael Sacco (left) served in the U.S. Air Force
from 1954-58.

Michael Sacco (above) calls the most recent Maritime Trades Department Executive Board meeting to order,
earlier this year. Among those pictured in this lifeboat class photo from 1965 (below) are Michael Sacco (second
from right in the second row) and his brother, Joey (far left, second row).

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12 Seafarers LOG April 2023

David Heindel, President

Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President

Tom Orzechowski, Secretary-Treasurer

George Tricker, Vice President Contracts

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

Bryan Powell,
Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters

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 Seafarers International
Union DirectoryUnion Directory Inquiring SeafarerInquiring Seafarer

This month’s question was answered by members at the Jacksonville hall. And for anyone wondering, the Slues
are father (Randy) and son (Donald).

Question: What is your favorite port and why?

Randy Slue
Electrician

Cape Canaveral. It’s close to home
and surrounded by water. Everywhere
you travel, you see water, and – now
and then – you see a launch.

Duane Washington
Chief Cook

Tampa, especially Ybor City.
We would be in port for a day and
a half. You could run around the
city and walk to Ybor City.

James Blitch
Recertified Bosun

Puerto Rico because I was able
to surf and dive on my off time.
And I would be home within a
week to see my family.

Anthony Newbill
Bosun

Australia. It’s nice, fun and en-
joyable. I had a great time.

Dominic Jones
Wiper

Germany and Belgium because of
the love they show. They are respect-
ful – once you show respect, they
give it back.

Donald Slue
Wiper

Germany. There are multiple
things to do there and a lot of fun
activities. You get to go out with your
shipmates.

Pic From Pic From
The Past 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

Jose Norales
Chief Steward

I have a couple – the ports of
Jacksonville, Tampa, Port Ever-
glades and Long Beach because
they are all easy to go ashore and
get personal items.

The SIU-crewed Vantage Hori-
zon is shown in 1974, following
a shipyard period in Newport
News, Virginia. The vessel had
recently become the first U.S.
ship to load wheat in Australia
since World War II. It also had
carried grain from the Gulf of
Mexico to Germany, India and
Iran, among other ports. Ac-
cording to the July 1974 edition
of the Seafarers LOG, “The fully
air-conditioned ship is one of the
50 American ships which carry
grain to the Soviet Union as part
of the trade agreement between
the U.S. and Russia signed in
1972.”

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April 2023 Seafarers LOG 13

Editor’s note: The following
communication was submitted
by the Lilac Preservation Proj-
ect.

This is for SIU members who
trained at the Harry Lundeberg
School of Seamanship between
1972 and 1984.

The ex-Coast Guard Cutter
Lilac is celebrating her 90th year
in 2023 with an exhibit about the
ship’s history. After her decom-
missioning in 1972, she was do-
nated to the Lundeberg school
and used as a dormitory. Little
was changed on this steamship
during her tenure there since
training in her reciprocating
steam propulsion system was no
longer necessary. She was sold
by the school on Oct. 24, 1984
to Atlantic Towing.

We are seeking photos, rem-
iniscences and other memora-
bilia from SIU members who
were familiar with the Lilac
during her days at Piney Point.
We have very little information
about this period in her history

and hope that you can help fill
the blank. If you have material
to share, please contact Mu-
seum Director Mary Habstritt
at mary@lilacpreservationpro-
ject.org.

The Lilac is the last surviv-
ing steam-powered lighthouse
tender in America and the oldest
Coast Guard black hull afloat.
Her significance has been rec-
ognized by her enrollment in the
National Register of Historic
Places.

The Lilac served as a light-
house and buoy tender from
1933 to 1972 and is now owned
and operated by the non-profit
Lilac Preservation Project. The
ship is currently being restored
for maritime education and com-
munity activities and is berthed
from May to October at Hudson
River Park’s Pier 25 in New
York City, where she is open to
the public for tours and other
events. To learn more and view
our schedule of events for 2023,
see www.lilacpreservationpro-
ject.org

“Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” data is cumulative from Feb. 15 - March 15, 2023. “Registered on the Beach” data is as of March 15, 2023.
Total Registered Total Shipped Registered on Beach
All Groups All Groups Trip All Groups

Port A B C A B C Reliefs A B C

Dispatchers’ Report for Deep SeaDispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea

April & MayApril & May
Membership MeetingsMembership Meetings

Piney Point............................................Monday: April 3, May 8
Algonac..................................................Friday: April 7, May 12
Baltimore............................................Thursday: April 6, May 11
Guam.............................................Thursday: April 20, May 25
Honolulu..............................................Friday: April 14, May 19
Houston...............................................Monday: April 10, May 15
Jacksonville......................................Thursday: April 6, May 11
Joliet...............................................Thursday: April 13, May 18
Mobile..........................................Wednesday: April 12, May 17
New Orleans....................................Tuesday: April 11, May 16
Jersey City.........................................Tuesday: April 4, May 9
Norfolk..................................................Friday: April 7, May 12
Oakland...........................................Thursday: April 13, May 18
Philadelphia.................................Wednesday: April 5, May 10
Port Everglades..............................Thursday: April 13, May 18
San Juan.........................................Thursday: April 6, May 11
St. Louis............................................Friday: April 14, May 19
Tacoma.............................................Friday: April 21, May 26
Wilmington........................................Monday: April 17, May 22

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

The Lilac is pictured in 1969. (Photo courtesy U.S. Coast Guard)

Lilac Preservation Project
Execs Solicit Memorabilia

For Historical Exhibition

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14 Seafarers LOG April 2023

Digest of Shipboard Digest of Shipboard
Union MeetingsUnion Meetings

The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as pos-
sible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted.

Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requir-
ing attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes.
The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication.

OCEAN GRAND (Intrepid
Personnel & Provisioning),
September 18 – Chairman Lech
Jankowski, Secretary George
Egbert, Educational Director
Christopher Eason. Educa-
tional director reminded crew to
take Coast Guard physical be-
fore taking any classes at Piney
Point. No beefs or disputed
OT reported. Crew change to
take place in Tampa. Members
requested better Wi-Fi and free
calls. Crew suggested overtime
pay rates for apprentices.

LIBERTY PRIDE (Liberty Mari-
time), November 20 – Chairman
Victor Eligio, Secretary Gregory
Melvin, Deck Delegate Dwayne
Harris. Chairman advised mem-
bers to keep upgrading. Payoff
date scheduled for November
27. Crew is working on finishing
engine repais. Secretary reminded
members to keep documents up
to date. No beefs or disputed OT
reported. Crew requested new
mattresses, new shower curtains,
new refrigerators, new TV for
crew lounge, new lamps and new
power supply for state rooms.
Members discussed possibly
modifying requirements for pen-
sion qualification.

MAERSK ATLANTA (Maersk
Line, Limited), January 22 –
Chairman Ferdinand Gongora,
Secretary Glenn Williams,
Educational Director Derek
Chestnut, Steward Delegate
Steven Laubach. Chairman
reminded crew to keep rooms
clean. Members were instructed
to place dirty linen in bags on B
and C deck when departing ship.
Educational director reviewed
credential expiration dates and

upgrading opportunities. No
beefs or disputed OT reported.
Crew requested increases to
vacation and pension benefits.
Steward department was thanked
for doing an excellent job during
the holidays.

MAERSK CHICAGO (Maersk
Line, Limited) January 29 –
Chairman Linnell Coleman,
Secretary Norma West, Educa-
tional Director Charles Packer,
Deck Delegate Muafa Musad,
Engine Delegate Lateef Sanusi,
Steward Delegate Carl Royster.
Chairman urged crew to check
their documents and to take ad-
vantage of the upgrading courses
held at the union-affiliated Paul
Hall Center for Maritime Train-
ing and Education, located in
Piney Point, Maryland. No beefs
or disputed OT reported. Not all
crew quarters have heat. New
linen and various PPE items
needed on ship. Members re-
quested a change in rider gang
pay and vacation time. Crew
asked for increases in pension
payout and increases in vacation
days. Vote of thanks given to the
steward department for provid-
ing good food. Next port: New-
ark, New Jersey.

LIBERTY PRIDE (Liberty
Maritime), February 12 – Chair-
man Victor Eligio, Deck Del-
egate Dwayne Harris, Engine
Delegate Travis Houston,
Steward Delegate Delphine
Simmons. Chairman recom-
mended members upgrade at the
Paul Hall Center for Maritime
Training and Education, the
union-affiliated school located in
Piney Point, Maryland. No beefs
or disputed OT reported. Several

items to be ordered including
mattresses, washing machines,
new pillows, shower curtains and
towels. Four refrigerators also to
be ordered. Crew reviewed and
discussed retirement benefits.

MISSOURI EXPRESS (Ma-
rine Personnel & Provision-
ing), February 12 – Chairman
Nathaniel Sherrill, Secretary
Vincent Chavez, Educational
Director Jimmie Williams,
Deck Delegate Michael Brisco,
Engine Delegate Yves Nsuami.
Educational director encouraged
crew to take advantage of the
upgrading opportunities at the
Piney Point school. No beefs or
disputed OT reported. Members
are unhappy about paydays
being moved from the end of the
month to the seventh of the fol-
lowing month. Crew needs better
Wi-Fi for a stronger signal.

OVERSEAS MARTINEZ
(Overseas Ship Manage-
ment), February 24 – Chairman
Anton Sulic, Secretary James
Cameron, Educational Direc-
tor George Mardones, Deck
Delegate David Brady, Engine
Delegate Julio Zapata, Steward
Delegate Maurice Henry. Crew
reviewed subjects under “old
business,” including orders for
new pillows, new comforters
and a new refrigerator in crew
mess hall. Chairman reminded
everyone to leave clean rooms
for oncoming members and to
know when documents expire.
He encouraged crew to go out
and vote for people that are
going to support unions. Sec-
retary also advised members to
stay on top of documents and
to keep ship clean. Educational

director urged members to ad-
vance their careers by upgrading
at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall
Center, which offers upgrading
courses for mariners in all three
shipboard departments. No beefs
or disputed OT reported. Crew
discussed importance of fulfill-
ing contractual obligations. They
encouraged fellow members to
donate to the Seafarers Political
Activities Donation (SPAD), the
union’s voluntary political ac-
tion fund, and to the Maritime
Defense League. Crew requests
DVD players in rooms with USB
drives, along with fitted sheets

for bigger beds. Vote of thanks
given to steward department.
Next port: Long Beach, Califor-
nia.

MAERSK PITTSBURGH
(Maersk Line, Limited),
January 17 – Chairman John
O’Shaughnessy, Secretary
Memo Elfeky, Educational
Director Jan Morawski. Crew
reported smooth trip. They dis-
cussed upgrading opportunities
available at SIU-affiliated Paul
Hall Center for Maritime Train-
ing and Education. No beefs or
disputed OT reported.

FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitu-
tion of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and
Inland Waters District makes specific pro-
vision for safeguarding the membership’s
money and union finances. The constitu-
tion requires a detailed audit by certified
public accountants every year, which is
to be submitted to the membership by the
secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance com-
mittee of rank-and-file members, elected
by the membership, each year examines the
finances of the union and reports fully their
findings and recommendations. Members
of this committee may make dissenting re-
ports, specific recommendations and sepa-
rate 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 represen-
tatives and their alternates. All expenditures
and disbursements of trust funds are made
only upon approval by a majority of the trust-
ees. All trust fund financial records are avail-
able at the headquarters of the various trust
funds.

SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s ship-
ping rights and seniority are protected exclu-
sively by contracts between the union and the
employers. Members should get to know their
shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are
posted and available in all union halls. If
members believe there have been violations
of their shipping or seniority rights as con-
tained in the contracts between the union and
the employers, they should notify the Seafar-

ers Appeals Board by certified mail, return
receipt requested. The proper address for this
is:

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 tradition-
ally has refrained from publishing any article
serving the political purposes of any individual
in the union, officer or member. It also has re-
frained from publishing articles deemed harm-
ful to the union or its collective membership.
This established policy has been reaffirmed
by membership action at the September 1960
meetings in all constitutional ports. The respon-
sibility for Sea farers LOG policy is vested in an
editorial board which consists of the executive
board of the union. The executive board may
delegate, from among its ranks, one individual
to carry out this responsibility.

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

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

EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are 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. Conse quently, no mem-
ber may be discriminated against because of
race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic
origin.

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

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

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

David Heindel, President
Seafarers International Union
5201 Capital Gateway Drive
Camp Springs, MD 20746

Know Your Rights Know Your Rights

Aboard Kaimana Hila

Pictured aboard the Matson vessel are Recertified Steward Alan
Hollinger (right) and SIU Guam Port Agent Victor Sahagon.

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April 2023 Seafarers LOG 15

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

Welcome AshoreWelcome Ashore

DEEP SEA

FERNANDO ABUAN
Brother Fernando Abuan, 66,
signed on with the SIU in 2007
when he sailed
aboard the Bal-
domero Lopez.
He worked in
the steward de-
partment and
upgraded often
at the Paul Hall
Center. Brother
Abuan last
shipped on the
John Paul Bobo and lives in Wood-
land, California.

MOHAMED ALSINAI
Brother Mohamed Alsinai, 65,
embarked on his career with the

union in 1990,
first sailing on the
Independence. He
shipped in the en-
gine department
and upgraded at
the Piney Point
school on sev-
eral occasions.
Brother Alsinai
concluded his

career aboard the Horizon Kodiak.
He makes his home in Dearborn,
Michigan.

MARIO BATIZ
Brother Mario Batiz, 60, started
sailing with the
SIU in 1988 when
he shipped aboard
the Economy. He
was a deck de-
partment member
and upgraded
at the Paul Hall
Center on mul-
tiple occasions.
Brother Batiz last
sailed on the Pennsylvania. He is a
Houston resident.

HENRYNILO BECODO
Brother Henrynilo Becodo, 65,
joined the Seafarers in 2002, ini-

tially sailing on
the Global Link.
Working primar-
ily in the deck
department, he
upgraded at the
union-affiliated
Piney Point
school on sev-
eral occasions.
Brother Becodo

most recently shipped on the
Maersk Atlanta. He calls Severn,
Maryland, home.

EVAN BRADLEY
Brother Evan Bradley, 68, joined
the union in 1975.
He shipped in the
deck department
and upgraded
at the Paul Hall
Center on numer-
ous occasions.
Brother Bradley’s
first vessel was
the Erna Eliza-
beth; his last,
the Alliance Fairfax. He makes his

home in Summerfield, Florida.

LESLIE DAVIS
Brother Leslie Davis, 66, donned
the SIU colors
in 1983 and first
shipped on the
Boston. He was
a steward depart-
ment member
and most recently
sailed on the
American Liberty.
Brother Davis up-
graded his skills
often at the Piney Point school. He
is a New Orleans resident.

CHRISTOPHER FENNELL
Brother Christopher Fennell, 65,

joined the union
in 1976. A deck
department
member, he first
sailed aboard the
Boston. Brother
Fennell upgraded
at the Paul Hall
Center on mul-
tiple occasions.
He last shipped

on the Long Lines and resides in
Pilot, Virginia.

MICHAEL HINTON
Brother Michael Hinton, 66, be-
came an SIU member in 1975
when he sailed on the Venture. He
upgraded on multiple occasions at
the Piney Point school and worked
in both the deck and engine depart-
ments. Brother Hinton was last em-
ployed by Moran Towing of Texas.
He is a resident of Jacksonville,
Florida.

JOSEPH JONES
Brother Joseph Jones, 58, signed on
with the union in
1988. He sailed
in the steward
department and
upgraded often
at the Paul Hall
Center. Brother
Jones’ first vessel
was the Bonny;
his last, the Pa-
cific Reliance.
He makes his home in Fort Worth,
Texas.

MOHAMMAD KHAN
Brother Mohammad Khan, 66,
joined the SIU in 1998. He sailed

primarily in
the steward de-
partment and
upgraded often
at the Paul Hall
Center. Brother
Khan first
shipped on the
Global Mariner.
He most recently
sailed on the

Maersk Atlanta and makes his
home in North Brunswick Town-
ship, New Jersey.

TOMAS MARTINEZ
Brother Tomas Martinez, 67, signed
on with the union in 1989, sailing
first aboard the Independence. He

worked in all
three departments
and upgraded at
the union-affili-
ated Piney Point
school on mul-
tiple occasions.
Brother Martinez
last shipped on
the Sam Houston
and is a Houston resident.

CLEOTILDE MARTINEZ MEJIA
Brother Cleotilde Martinez Mejia,
67, joined the SIU in 2001. He

initially worked
aboard the Chemi-
cal Pioneer and
sailed in the stew-
ard department.
Brother Martinez
Mejia upgraded at
the Paul Hall Cen-
ter on multiple
occasions. He
last sailed on the

President Truman and lives in the
Bronx, New York.

STEVEN MCKITTRICK
Brother Steven McKittrick, 66,
donned the SIU colors in 1978. He
first sailed aboard the Maryland and
was a member of the deck depart-
ment. Brother McKittrick upgraded
at the Piney Point school on multiple
occasions and concluded his career
aboard the Endurance. He settled in
Signal Hill, California.

GEORGE PINEDA
Brother George Pineda, 65, signed
on with the SIU
in 1991 and was
a deck depart-
ment member. He
upgraded at the
Paul Hall Center
on multiple oc-
casions. Brother
Pineda worked on
the Independence
for the duration of
his career. He lives in Honolulu.

JOSE ROJAS
Brother Jose Rojas, 65, joined the

union in 1994 and
first sailed aboard
the Independence.
He worked in
the steward de-
partment and
upgraded at
the Piney Point
school in 2005.
Brother Rojas’
final vessel was

the Liberty Grace. He resides in
Reading, Pennsylvania.

LEVI ROLLINS
Brother Levi Rollins, 67, embarked
on his career with
the Seafarers in
1990 when he
shipped on the
Cape Nome. He
primarily sailed
in the engine
department and
upgraded on nu-
merous occasions
at the Paul Hall
Center. Brother Rollins last shipped

on the Patriot and settled in Pem-
broke Pines, Florida.

RICHARD SANDERSON
Brother Richard Sanderson, 66,
became an SIU
member in 1974.
He upgraded
often at the Paul
Hall Center and
worked in the
steward depart-
ment. Brother
Sanderson’s first
vessel was the
Keva Ideal. He
most recently sailed on the North
Star and is a Seattle resident.

MILTON SIVELLS
Brother Milton Sivells, 66, joined
the SIU in 1989. He sailed in the

steward de-
partment and
upgraded often
at the union-
affiliated Piney
Point school.
Brother Sivells
first shipped on
the USNS Indomi-
table. He most
recently sailed on

the Resolve and makes his home in
Suffolk, Virginia.

MARSHALL TURNER
Brother Marshall Turner, 55, signed
on with the union in 1993, sailing
first aboard the
USNS Denebola.
He worked in the
deck department
and upgraded
at the Paul Hall
Center on several
occasions. Brother
Turner most re-
cently shipped
on the Perla Del
Caribe and is a resident of Jackson-
ville, Florida.

GREAT LAKES

EDWARD DERRY
Brother Edward Derry, 65, began
sailing with the Seafarers Interna-
tional Union in 1987. He initially
sailed on the Steel T. Crapo and
was a steward department member.
Brother Derry last shipped on the
Alpena. He resides in Watertown,
New York.

ABDO MASHRAH
Brother Abdo Mashrah, 65, signed
on with the SIU in 1978. He first
shipped aboard the Paul Thayer
and worked in the deck department.
Brother Mashrah upgraded on mul-
tiple occasions at the Piney Point
school. He last sailed aboard the
Presque Isle and makes his home in
Dearborn, Michigan.

INLAND

DENNIS COMPTON
Brother Dennis Compton, 63, donned

the SIU colors in 1976. An engine
department member, he was first
employed with McAllister Towing of
Virginia. Brother Compton upgraded
at the Paul Hall Center in 1997. He
concluded his career with Crowley
Towing and Transportation and is a
resident of Jacksonville, Florida.

HOWARD HAWREY
Brother Howard Hawrey, 62, em-
barked on his career with the Sea-
farers in 1982 when he shipped on
the Manhattan
Island. He was
a member of the
deck department
and upgraded at
the Piney Point
school on multiple
occasions. Brother
Hawrey most
recently sailed
aboard the Liberty
Island. He lives in Deland, Florida.

CHARLES MILLS

Brother Charles Mills, 65, became
a member of the union in 1995,

initially sailing
with OSG Ship
Management. He
sailed in the deck
department and
upgraded often at
the Paul Hall Cen-
ter. Brother Mills
most recently
shipped aboard
the Innovation and

settled in Baltimore.

GIL PRUITT
Brother Gil Pruitt, 62, began sailing
with the SIU in 1979 when he worked
with Steuart Transportation. He was a
deck department member and upgraded
at the Piney Point school on numerous
occasions. Brother Pruitt concluded his
career with Express Marine. He lives in
Onancock, Virginia.

CHARLES WILLIAMS
Brother Charles Williams, 56,
started his career with the SIU
in 1990, ini-
tially working
with McAllis-
ter Towing of
Philadelphia. He
shipped in the
deck department
and upgraded at
the Piney Point
school on multiple
occasions. Brother
Williams was last employed with
Crowley Towing and Transportation
and lives in Jasper, Florida.

STEPHEN WILLIAMS
Brother Stephen Williams, 64,
joined the Seafarers International

Union in 1989. He
sailed in the deck
department and
upgraded at the
Paul Hall Center
on multiple oc-
casions. Brother
Williams worked
with Moran Tow-
ing of Texas for
his entire career.

He resides in Orange, Texas.

79203_SEAFARERS_LOG_APRIL_2023.indd 1579203_SEAFARERS_LOG_APRIL_2023.indd 15 3/20/23 9:00 PM3/20/23 9:00 PM



16 Seafarers LOG April 2023

DEEP SEA

ABRAHAM ABAS
Pensioner Abraham Abas, 90, passed
away February 20. He signed on
with the Seafarers International
Union in 1969, when he sailed
aboard the Transcolumbia. An en-
gine department member, Brother
Abas last shipped on the Manhattan.
He retired in 1994 and settled in
Lacey, Washington.

JAMES ALLEN
Pensioner James Allen, 91, died
February 21. He started sailing with
the union in 1952,
initially working
for Alcoa Steam-
ship Company.
Brother Allen was
a deck depart-
ment member.
He concluded his
career aboard the
Stonewall Jack-
son before going
on pension in 1994. Brother Allen
was a resident of Baton Rouge,
Louisiana.

EPIFANIO HIPOLITO
Pensioner Epifanio Hipolito, 94,
passed away December 11. He
joined the SIU in 1978 when he
sailed on the Overseas Washington.
Brother Hipolito was a member of
the deck department and last shipped
on the Enterprise in 1993. He be-
came a pensioner the following year
and made his home in Daly City,
California.

LONNIE GAMBLE
Pensioner Lonnie Gamble, 78, died

February 8. Sign-
ing on with the
union in 1967,
he first sailed
with Bloom-
field Steamship.
Brother Gamble
was a steward de-
partment member
and last shipped
on the Delta Mar-

iner. He became a pensioner in 2006
and settled in Mobile, Alabama.

JAMES INSKEEP
Pensioner James Inskeep, 77, died
October 5. He began his career
with the Seafarers in 1991. Brother
Inskeep first shipped on the USNS

Wilkes and was
a member of the
deck department.
He last sailed
aboard the Hori-
zon Pacific and
retired in 2009.
Brother Inskeep
resided in Reno,
Nevada.

MARION KAMINSKI
Pensioner Marion Kaminski, 96,
passed away February 28. He donned
the SIU colors
in 1951 when he
shipped with Blid-
berg Rothchild.
Working in the
steward depart-
ment, he concluded
his career aboard
the Seattle in 1982.
He became a pen-
sioner the follow-
ing year and settled in Baltimore.

SHAN MOON
Pensioner Shan Moon, 92, died Janu-

ary 25. He became
a member of the
union in 1989 and
worked in the en-
gine department.
Brother Moon
worked aboard the
Independence for
the duration of his
career. He began
collecting his

pension in 2001 and lived in Sandy,
Utah.

MAHER OMAR
Pensioner Maher Omar, 76, passed
away November 21. He joined the
Seafarers International Union in
2001. Brother Omar first shipped on
the Cape Alexan-
der and sailed in
both the deck and
engine depart-
ments. His final
vessel was the
Mercury. Brother
Omar became a
pensioner in 2014
and made his
home in Jersey
City, New Jersey.

RICARDO QUINONES
Pensioner Ricardo Quinones, 73,
died January 21. Sailing first aboard

the Warrior, he
donned the SIU
colors in 1971.
Brother Quinones
worked in the
deck department.
He last shipped
on the Horizon
Navigator in 2009
before going on
pension the fol-
lowing year. Brother Quinones re-
sided in Puerto Rico.

STUART SCHROEDER
Pensioner Stuart Schroeder, 73,
passed away February 7. He signed
on with the Seafarers in 1980. A
steward department member, he first
shipped on the Oceanic Indepen-
dence. Brother Schroeder last sailed
on the Independence in 1990. He be-
came a pensioner in 2014 and settled
in Honolulu.

LEONARD STEINHARDT
Pensioner Leonard Steinhardt, 79,
died January 23. He embarked on his
career with the SIU in 1964, initially

sailing aboard an
Isco Inc. vessel.
Brother Stein-
hardt worked
in the engine
department and
also worked on
shore gangs. He
concluded his
career working
with World Crane

Services and retired in 2000. Brother
Steinhardt made his home in Omaha,
Nebraska.

CLYDE THOMPSON
Pensioner Clyde Thompson, 70,
passed away February 22. He joined
the union in
2001 and first
shipped aboard
the Navigator.
Brother Thomp-
son worked
in the steward
department. He
last sailed aboard
the Freeport
before becoming
a pensioner in
2014. Brother Thompson was a New
Orleans resident.

JERRY VAN ETTEN
Pensioner Jerry Van Etten, 66, died

December 13.
A deck depart-
ment member,
he signed on
with the SIU in
1974. Brother
Van Etten first
worked on the
Chas C. West.
He last shipped
aboard the De-
veloper in 2002.

Brother Van Etten went on pension
in 2021 and made his home in Las
Vegas.

LEROY WOODS
Pensioner Leroy Woods, 77, passed
away January 17. He became a
member of the Seafarers Interna-
tional Union in 2001. Brother Woods

first sailed with
Marine Personnel
and Provisioning.
He was a deck de-
partment member
and last shipped on
the Alliance Nor-
folk. Brother Woods
went on pension
in 2015 and lived
in Jacksonville,
Florida.

GREAT LAKES

DANIEL NATTO
Pensioner Daniel Natto, 74, died
January 13. He joined the Seafar-
ers in 1988 and first worked with
Dunbar and Sullivan. Brother Natto
sailed in the deck department. He
became a pensioner in 2011 after
concluding his career with Great
Lakes Towing. Brother Natto made
his home in Cleveland.

PAUL SHA
Pensioner Paul Sha, 90, passed away
March 6. He donned the SIU colors
in 1966, initially sailing with Great
Lakes Associates. He shipped in the
deck department and last sailed aboard
the St. Clair. He retired in 1997 and
resided in Carson City, Nevada.

INLAND

RUBY HOWARD
Pensioner Ruby Howard, 79, passed
away February 5. She began sailing
with the Seafarers in 1994. A steward
department member, Sister Howard
was employed with Orgulf Transport
for the duration of her career. She
went on pension in 2014 and called
Ledbetter, Kentucky, home.

LAODIS PRIMEAUX
Pensioner Laodis
Primeaux, 93,
died February 7.
He embarked on
his career with
the union in 1967
and shipped in the
deck department.
Brother Prime-
aux worked with
Dixie Carriers for

his entire career. He retired in 1994
and resided in Kaplan, Louisiana.

WESLEY ROSS
Pensioner Wesley Ross, 64, passed
away January
13. He joined
the SIU in 1988,
initially sailing
with Mariner Tow-
ing. Brother Ross
worked in the
deck department
and concluded his
career with Penn
Maritime in 1999.
He began collect-
ing his pension in 2020 and made his
home in Bayboro, North Carolina.

DALE SEVERS
Pensioner Dale Severs, 64, died Jan-
uary 2. In 1993, he became a mem-
ber of the Seafarers International

Union. Brother
Severs was a deck
department mem-
ber and sailed
with OLS Trans-
port for his entire
career. He became
a pensioner in
2020 and lived in
Hawesville, Ken-
tucky.

NMU

OLMEDO ALVAREZ
Pensioner Olmedo Alvarez, 92,
passed away November 30. Brother
Alvarez first sailed aboard the Amoco
Illinois and worked in the engine
department. He concluded his career
aboard the Chelsea Keystone. Brother
Alvarez retired in 1995 and made his
home in Coral Springs, Florida.

JOSE BRITO
Pensioner Jose Brito, 90, died Oc-

tober 30. A stew-
ard department
member, he first
shipped on the
Texaco Maryland.
Brother Brito’s
final vessel was
the Valley Forge.
He became a
pensioner in 1997
and lived in Paw-

tucket, Rhode Island.

JACK COLSON
Pensioner Jack Colson, 95,
passed away
December 26.
Brother Colson
was born in Los
Angeles. He
worked in the
deck department
and initially
sailed aboard
the Flying Scud.
Brother Colson
concluded his
career aboard the Key Tanker
before going on pension in 1968.
He resided in Kill Devil Hills,
North Carolina.

SIDNEY DAVIS
Pensioner Sidney Davis, 82, died
December 26. Brother Davis sailed
in both the deck and engine depart-
ments. He concluded his career
aboard the Cape Knox and went on
pension in 2002. Brother Davis was
a New Orleans resident.


PEDRO DEL CASAL
Pensioner Pedro Del Casal, 99,

passed away
January 28.
Born in Ecua-
dor, he first
shipped on the
Great Fall Vic-
tory. Brother
Del Casal sailed
in the deck de-
partment. His
final vessel was

the Blue Ridge and he retired in
1985. Brother Del Casal called
Peotone, Illinois, home.

Final Final
DeparturesDepartures

The February LOG included the obituary of the late SIU pen-
sioner Herbert Scypes – but it ran with a photo of his son by the
same name, who also sailed with the SIU. The write-up with the
correct photo follows. We apologize for the error and sincerely
appreciate the younger Scypes being a very good sport about it.

HERBERT SCYPES
Pensioner Herbert Scypes, 91, died December 18.
He donned the SIU colors in 1956 and sailed in the
steward department. Brother Scypes first worked
with Waterman Steamship Corporation. He last
sailed on the Overseas Harriette before going on
pension in 1996. Brother Scypes resided in Mobile,
Alabama.

Final Departures Correction

16 Seafarers LOG April 2023

DEEP SEA

ABRAHAM ABAS
Pensioner Abraham Abas, 90, passed
away February 20. He signed on
with the Seafarers International
Union in 1969, when he sailed
aboard the Transcolumbia. An en-
gine department member, Brother
Abas last shipped on the Manhattan.
He retired in 1994 and settled in
Lacey, Washington.

JAMES ALLEN
Pensioner James Allen, 91, died
February 21. He started sailing with
the union in 1952,
initially working
for Alcoa Steam-
ship Company.
Brother Allen was
a deck depart-
ment member.
He concluded his
career aboard the
Stonewall Jack-
son before going
on pension in 1994. Brother Allen
was a resident of Baton Rouge,
Louisiana.

EPIFANIO HIPOLITO
Pensioner Epifanio Hipolito, 94,
passed away December 11. He
joined the SIU in 1978 when he
sailed on the Overseas Washington.
Brother Hipolito was a member of
the deck department and last shipped
on the Enterprise in 1993. He be-
came a pensioner the following year
and made his home in Daly City,
California.

LONNIE GAMBLE
Pensioner Lonnie Gamble, 78, died

February 8. Sign-
ing on with the
union in 1967,
he first sailed
with Bloom-
field Steamship.
Brother Gamble
was a steward de-
partment member
and last shipped
on the Delta Mar-

iner. He became a pensioner in 2006
and settled in Mobile, Alabama.

JAMES INSKEEP
Pensioner James Inskeep, 77, died
October 5. He began his career
with the Seafarers in 1991. Brother
Inskeep first shipped on the USNS

Wilkes and was
a member of the
deck department.
He last sailed
aboard the Hori-
zon Pacific and
retired in 2009.
Brother Inskeep
resided in Reno,
Nevada.

MARION KAMINSKI
Pensioner Marion Kaminski, 96,
passed away February 28. He donned
the SIU colors
in 1951 when he
shipped with Blid-
berg Rothchild.
Working in the
steward depart-
ment, he concluded
his career aboard
the Seattle in 1982.
He became a pen-
sioner the follow-
ing year and settled in Baltimore.

SHAN MOON
Pensioner Shan Moon, 92, died Janu-

ary 25. He became
a member of the
union in 1989 and
worked in the en-
gine department.
Brother Moon
worked aboard the
Independence for
the duration of his
career. He began
collecting his

pension in 2001 and lived in Sandy,
Utah.

MAHER OMAR
Pensioner Maher Omar, 76, passed
away November 21. He joined the
Seafarers International Union in
2001. Brother Omar first shipped on
the Cape Alexan-
der and sailed in
both the deck and
engine depart-
ments. His final
vessel was the
Mercury. Brother
Omar became a
pensioner in 2014
and made his
home in Jersey
City, New Jersey.

RICARDO QUINONES
Pensioner Ricardo Quinones, 73,
died January 21. Sailing first aboard

the Warrior, he
donned the SIU
colors in 1971.
Brother Quinones
worked in the
deck department.
He last shipped
on the Horizon
Navigator in 2009
before going on
pension the fol-
lowing year. Brother Quinones re-
sided in Puerto Rico.

STUART SCHROEDER
Pensioner Stuart Schroeder, 73,
passed away February 7. He signed
on with the Seafarers in 1980. A
steward department member, he first
shipped on the Oceanic Indepen-
dence. Brother Schroeder last sailed
on the Independence in 1990. He be-
came a pensioner in 2014 and settled
in Honolulu.

LEONARD STEINHARDT
Pensioner Leonard Steinhardt, 79,
died January 23. He embarked on his
career with the SIU in 1964, initially

sailing aboard an
Isco Inc. vessel.
Brother Stein-
hardt worked
in the engine
department and
also worked on
shore gangs. He
concluded his
career working
with World Crane

Services and retired in 2000. Brother
Steinhardt made his home in Omaha,
Nebraska.

CLYDE THOMPSON
Pensioner Clyde Thompson, 70,
passed away February 22. He joined
the union in
2001 and first
shipped aboard
the Navigator.
Brother Thomp-
son worked
in the steward
department. He
last sailed aboard
the Freeport
before becoming
a pensioner in
2014. Brother Thompson was a New
Orleans resident.

JERRY VAN ETTEN
Pensioner Jerry Van Etten, 66, died

December 13.
A deck depart-
ment member,
he signed on
with the SIU in
1974. Brother
Van Etten first
worked on the
Chas C. West.
He last shipped
aboard the De-
veloper in 2002.

Brother Van Etten went on pension
in 2021 and made his home in Las
Vegas.

LEROY WOODS
Pensioner Leroy Woods, 77, passed
away January 17. He became a
member of the Seafarers Interna-
tional Union in 2001. Brother Woods

first sailed with
Marine Personnel
and Provisioning.
He was a deck de-
partment member
and last shipped on
the Alliance Nor-
folk. Brother Woods
went on pension
in 2015 and lived
in Jacksonville,
Florida.

GREAT LAKES

DANIEL NATTO
Pensioner Daniel Natto, 74, died
January 13. He joined the Seafar-
ers in 1988 and first worked with
Dunbar and Sullivan. Brother Natto
sailed in the deck department. He
became a pensioner in 2011 after
concluding his career with Great
Lakes Towing. Brother Natto made
his home in Cleveland.

PAUL SHA
Pensioner Paul Sha, 90, passed away
March 6. He donned the SIU colors
in 1966, initially sailing with Great
Lakes Associates. He shipped in the
deck department and last sailed aboard
the St. Clair. He retired in 1997 and
resided in Carson City, Nevada.

INLAND

RUBY HOWARD
Pensioner Ruby Howard, 79, passed
away February 5. She began sailing
with the Seafarers in 1994. A steward
department member, Sister Howard
was employed with Orgulf Transport
for the duration of her career. She
went on pension in 2014 and called
Ledbetter, Kentucky, home.

LAODIS PRIMEAUX
Pensioner Laodis
Primeaux, 93,
died February 7.
He embarked on
his career with
the union in 1967
and shipped in the
deck department.
Brother Prime-
aux worked with
Dixie Carriers for

his entire career. He retired in 1994
and resided in Kaplan, Louisiana.

WESLEY ROSS
Pensioner Wesley Ross, 64, passed
away January
13. He joined
the SIU in 1988,
initially sailing
with Mariner Tow-
ing. Brother Ross
worked in the
deck department
and concluded his
career with Penn
Maritime in 1999.
He began collect-
ing his pension in 2020 and made his
home in Bayboro, North Carolina.

DALE SEVERS
Pensioner Dale Severs, 64, died Jan-
uary 2. In 1993, he became a mem-
ber of the Seafarers International

Union. Brother
Severs was a deck
department mem-
ber and sailed
with OLS Trans-
port for his entire
career. He became
a pensioner in
2020 and lived in
Hawesville, Ken-
tucky.

NMU

OLMEDO ALVAREZ
Pensioner Olmedo Alvarez, 92,
passed away November 30. Brother
Alvarez first sailed aboard the Amoco
Illinois and worked in the engine
department. He concluded his career
aboard the Chelsea Keystone. Brother
Alvarez retired in 1995 and made his
home in Coral Springs, Florida.

JOSE BRITO
Pensioner Jose Brito, 90, died Oc-

tober 30. A stew-
ard department
member, he first
shipped on the
Texaco Maryland.
Brother Brito’s
final vessel was
the Valley Forge.
He became a
pensioner in 1997
and lived in Paw-

tucket, Rhode Island.

JACK COLSON
Pensioner Jack Colson, 95,
passed away
December 26.
Brother Colson
was born in Los
Angeles. He
worked in the
deck department
and initially
sailed aboard
the Flying Scud.
Brother Colson
concluded his
career aboard the Key Tanker
before going on pension in 1968.
He resided in Kill Devil Hills,
North Carolina.

SIDNEY DAVIS
Pensioner Sidney Davis, 82, died
December 26. Brother Davis sailed
in both the deck and engine depart-
ments. He concluded his career
aboard the Cape Knox and went on
pension in 2002. Brother Davis was
a New Orleans resident.


PEDRO DEL CASAL
Pensioner Pedro Del Casal, 99,

passed away
January 28.
Born in Ecua-
dor, he first
shipped on the
Great Fall Vic-
tory. Brother
Del Casal sailed
in the deck de-
partment. His
final vessel was

the Blue Ridge and he retired in
1985. Brother Del Casal called
Peotone, Illinois, home.

Final Final
DeparturesDepartures

The February LOG included the obituary of the late SIU pen-
sioner Herbert Scypes – but it ran with a photo of his son by the
same name, who also sailed with the SIU. The write-up with the
correct photo follows. We apologize for the error and sincerely
appreciate the younger Scypes being a very good sport about it.

HERBERT SCYPES
Pensioner Herbert Scypes, 91, died December 18.
He donned the SIU colors in 1956 and sailed in the
steward department. Brother Scypes first worked
with Waterman Steamship Corporation. He last
sailed on the Overseas Harriette before going on
pension in 1996. Brother Scypes resided in Mobile,
Alabama.

Final Departures Correction

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16 Seafarers LOG April 2023

DEEP SEA

ABRAHAM ABAS
Pensioner Abraham Abas, 90, passed
away February 20. He signed on
with the Seafarers International
Union in 1969, when he sailed
aboard the Transcolumbia. An en-
gine department member, Brother
Abas last shipped on the Manhattan.
He retired in 1994 and settled in
Lacey, Washington.

JAMES ALLEN
Pensioner James Allen, 91, died
February 21. He started sailing with
the union in 1952,
initially working
for Alcoa Steam-
ship Company.
Brother Allen was
a deck depart-
ment member.
He concluded his
career aboard the
Stonewall Jack-
son before going
on pension in 1994. Brother Allen
was a resident of Baton Rouge,
Louisiana.

EPIFANIO HIPOLITO
Pensioner Epifanio Hipolito, 94,
passed away December 11. He
joined the SIU in 1978 when he
sailed on the Overseas Washington.
Brother Hipolito was a member of
the deck department and last shipped
on the Enterprise in 1993. He be-
came a pensioner the following year
and made his home in Daly City,
California.

LONNIE GAMBLE
Pensioner Lonnie Gamble, 78, died

February 8. Sign-
ing on with the
union in 1967,
he first sailed
with Bloom-
field Steamship.
Brother Gamble
was a steward de-
partment member
and last shipped
on the Delta Mar-

iner. He became a pensioner in 2006
and settled in Mobile, Alabama.

JAMES INSKEEP
Pensioner James Inskeep, 77, died
October 5. He began his career
with the Seafarers in 1991. Brother
Inskeep first shipped on the USNS

Wilkes and was
a member of the
deck department.
He last sailed
aboard the Hori-
zon Pacific and
retired in 2009.
Brother Inskeep
resided in Reno,
Nevada.

MARION KAMINSKI
Pensioner Marion Kaminski, 96,
passed away February 28. He donned
the SIU colors
in 1951 when he
shipped with Blid-
berg Rothchild.
Working in the
steward depart-
ment, he concluded
his career aboard
the Seattle in 1982.
He became a pen-
sioner the follow-
ing year and settled in Baltimore.

SHAN MOON
Pensioner Shan Moon, 92, died Janu-

ary 25. He became
a member of the
union in 1989 and
worked in the en-
gine department.
Brother Moon
worked aboard the
Independence for
the duration of his
career. He began
collecting his

pension in 2001 and lived in Sandy,
Utah.

MAHER OMAR
Pensioner Maher Omar, 76, passed
away November 21. He joined the
Seafarers International Union in
2001. Brother Omar first shipped on
the Cape Alexan-
der and sailed in
both the deck and
engine depart-
ments. His final
vessel was the
Mercury. Brother
Omar became a
pensioner in 2014
and made his
home in Jersey
City, New Jersey.

RICARDO QUINONES
Pensioner Ricardo Quinones, 73,
died January 21. Sailing first aboard

the Warrior, he
donned the SIU
colors in 1971.
Brother Quinones
worked in the
deck department.
He last shipped
on the Horizon
Navigator in 2009
before going on
pension the fol-
lowing year. Brother Quinones re-
sided in Puerto Rico.

STUART SCHROEDER
Pensioner Stuart Schroeder, 73,
passed away February 7. He signed
on with the Seafarers in 1980. A
steward department member, he first
shipped on the Oceanic Indepen-
dence. Brother Schroeder last sailed
on the Independence in 1990. He be-
came a pensioner in 2014 and settled
in Honolulu.

LEONARD STEINHARDT
Pensioner Leonard Steinhardt, 79,
died January 23. He embarked on his
career with the SIU in 1964, initially

sailing aboard an
Isco Inc. vessel.
Brother Stein-
hardt worked
in the engine
department and
also worked on
shore gangs. He
concluded his
career working
with World Crane

Services and retired in 2000. Brother
Steinhardt made his home in Omaha,
Nebraska.

CLYDE THOMPSON
Pensioner Clyde Thompson, 70,
passed away February 22. He joined
the union in
2001 and first
shipped aboard
the Navigator.
Brother Thomp-
son worked
in the steward
department. He
last sailed aboard
the Freeport
before becoming
a pensioner in
2014. Brother Thompson was a New
Orleans resident.

JERRY VAN ETTEN
Pensioner Jerry Van Etten, 66, died

December 13.
A deck depart-
ment member,
he signed on
with the SIU in
1974. Brother
Van Etten first
worked on the
Chas C. West.
He last shipped
aboard the De-
veloper in 2002.

Brother Van Etten went on pension
in 2021 and made his home in Las
Vegas.

LEROY WOODS
Pensioner Leroy Woods, 77, passed
away January 17. He became a
member of the Seafarers Interna-
tional Union in 2001. Brother Woods

first sailed with
Marine Personnel
and Provisioning.
He was a deck de-
partment member
and last shipped on
the Alliance Nor-
folk. Brother Woods
went on pension
in 2015 and lived
in Jacksonville,
Florida.

GREAT LAKES

DANIEL NATTO
Pensioner Daniel Natto, 74, died
January 13. He joined the Seafar-
ers in 1988 and first worked with
Dunbar and Sullivan. Brother Natto
sailed in the deck department. He
became a pensioner in 2011 after
concluding his career with Great
Lakes Towing. Brother Natto made
his home in Cleveland.

PAUL SHA
Pensioner Paul Sha, 90, passed away
March 6. He donned the SIU colors
in 1966, initially sailing with Great
Lakes Associates. He shipped in the
deck department and last sailed aboard
the St. Clair. He retired in 1997 and
resided in Carson City, Nevada.

INLAND

RUBY HOWARD
Pensioner Ruby Howard, 79, passed
away February 5. She began sailing
with the Seafarers in 1994. A steward
department member, Sister Howard
was employed with Orgulf Transport
for the duration of her career. She
went on pension in 2014 and called
Ledbetter, Kentucky, home.

LAODIS PRIMEAUX
Pensioner Laodis
Primeaux, 93,
died February 7.
He embarked on
his career with
the union in 1967
and shipped in the
deck department.
Brother Prime-
aux worked with
Dixie Carriers for

his entire career. He retired in 1994
and resided in Kaplan, Louisiana.

WESLEY ROSS
Pensioner Wesley Ross, 64, passed
away January
13. He joined
the SIU in 1988,
initially sailing
with Mariner Tow-
ing. Brother Ross
worked in the
deck department
and concluded his
career with Penn
Maritime in 1999.
He began collect-
ing his pension in 2020 and made his
home in Bayboro, North Carolina.

DALE SEVERS
Pensioner Dale Severs, 64, died Jan-
uary 2. In 1993, he became a mem-
ber of the Seafarers International

Union. Brother
Severs was a deck
department mem-
ber and sailed
with OLS Trans-
port for his entire
career. He became
a pensioner in
2020 and lived in
Hawesville, Ken-
tucky.

NMU

OLMEDO ALVAREZ
Pensioner Olmedo Alvarez, 92,
passed away November 30. Brother
Alvarez first sailed aboard the Amoco
Illinois and worked in the engine
department. He concluded his career
aboard the Chelsea Keystone. Brother
Alvarez retired in 1995 and made his
home in Coral Springs, Florida.

JOSE BRITO
Pensioner Jose Brito, 90, died Oc-

tober 30. A stew-
ard department
member, he first
shipped on the
Texaco Maryland.
Brother Brito’s
final vessel was
the Valley Forge.
He became a
pensioner in 1997
and lived in Paw-

tucket, Rhode Island.

JACK COLSON
Pensioner Jack Colson, 95,
passed away
December 26.
Brother Colson
was born in Los
Angeles. He
worked in the
deck department
and initially
sailed aboard
the Flying Scud.
Brother Colson
concluded his
career aboard the Key Tanker
before going on pension in 1968.
He resided in Kill Devil Hills,
North Carolina.

SIDNEY DAVIS
Pensioner Sidney Davis, 82, died
December 26. Brother Davis sailed
in both the deck and engine depart-
ments. He concluded his career
aboard the Cape Knox and went on
pension in 2002. Brother Davis was
a New Orleans resident.


PEDRO DEL CASAL
Pensioner Pedro Del Casal, 99,

passed away
January 28.
Born in Ecua-
dor, he first
shipped on the
Great Fall Vic-
tory. Brother
Del Casal sailed
in the deck de-
partment. His
final vessel was

the Blue Ridge and he retired in
1985. Brother Del Casal called
Peotone, Illinois, home.

Final Final
DeparturesDepartures

The February LOG included the obituary of the late SIU pen-
sioner Herbert Scypes – but it ran with a photo of his son by the
same name, who also sailed with the SIU. The write-up with the
correct photo follows. We apologize for the error and sincerely
appreciate the younger Scypes being a very good sport about it.

HERBERT SCYPES
Pensioner Herbert Scypes, 91, died December 18.
He donned the SIU colors in 1956 and sailed in the
steward department. Brother Scypes first worked
with Waterman Steamship Corporation. He last
sailed on the Overseas Harriette before going on
pension in 1996. Brother Scypes resided in Mobile,
Alabama.

Final Departures Correction

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April 2023 Seafarers LOG 17

Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course DatesPaul Hall Center Upgrading Course Dates

UPGRADING APPLICATION
Name ________________________________________________________________________
Address ______________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________
Date of Birth __________________________________________________________________
Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o

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

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

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

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

____________________________ _______________ ________________________

____________________________ _______________ ________________________

____________________________ _______________ ________________________

____________________________ _______________ ________________________

LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________

Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________

SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________

NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you
present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any 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.
4/23

The following is a list of courses that currently are scheduled to be held at the
Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland
during the next several months. More courses may be added. Course additions and
cancellations are subject to change due to COVID-19 protocols. All programs are
geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American
maritime industry.

Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the
Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010.

Title of Start Date of
Course Date Completion

Deck Department Upgrading Courses

Able Seafarer-Deck April 10 April 28
June 5 June 23
July 17 August 4
August 28 September 15
October 23 November 10

Lifeboat/Water Survival April 10 April 21
May 8 May 19
June 5 June 16
July 3 July 14
July 31 August 11

RFPNW May 15 June 2
June 26 July 14
August 14 September 1


Fast Rescue Boat July 17 July 21
August 28 September 1

Leadership & Management Skills June 19 June 23

Advanced Shiphandling September 25 October 6

Advanced Stability October 9 October 13

Advanced Meteorology October 16 October 20

Search & Rescue Management Level October 23 October 25

Engine Department Upgrading Courses

RFPEW May 15 June 9
August 14 September 8

FOWT June 12 July 7
October 2 October 27

Junior Engineer Program June 5 July 28
August 21 October 13

Marine Electrician April 24 May 26
September 18 October 20

Marine Refer Tech August 7 September 15

Advanced Refer Containers April 10 April 21

Title of Start Date of
Course Date Completion

Engine Department Upgrading Courses

Advanced Refer Containers July 31 August 11
October 23 November 3

Machinist September 25 October 20

Pumpman September 18 September 22

Welding May 8 May 26
June 5 June 23

Engineroom Resource Management June 12 June 16

Steward Department Upgrading Courses

Certified Chief Cook May 1 June 2
June 5 July 7
July 10 August 11

ServSafe Management April 24 April 28
May 29 June 2
July 3 July 7
August 7 August 11

Advanced Galley Operations May 22 June 16
July 31 August 25
October 16 November 10

Chief Steward April 17 May 12
June 26 July 21
September 11 October 6
November 13 December 8

Safety/Open Upgrading Courses

Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting June 5 June 9

Medical Care Provider June 12 June 16

Basic Training April 17 April 21

Basic Training Revalidation April 17 April 17
April 21 April 21
May 1 May 1
May 5 May 5

Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation May 15 May 19

Government Vessels April 10 April 14
April 24 April 28
May 8 May 12

Tank Ship DL (PIC) August 14 August 18

Tank Ship Familiarization DL May 22 May 26

Tank Ship Familiarization LG May 15 May 19

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18 Seafarers LOG April 2023

Paul Hall Center ClassesPaul Hall Center Classes

Junior Engineer – Graduated January 20 (above, in alphabetical order): Reco Bennefield, Shawn James Diaz Benosa, Kevin Brown, Jarvis Carter, Zachary Ali Cartwright, Ricardo
Antonio Escorcia, Dennison Forsman, Joshua Glancy, Malcolm Haynes Jr., Eric Jackson, Anson Johny, Daryl Thomas Jr., and Paul Valiente.

Apprentice Water Survival Class #891 – Graduated January 27 (above, in alphabetical order): John Stephano Moris Adarayan, Taher Albaneh, Jacob Burns, Trinity Carter, Jacob
Devers, Tevon Edwards, Jesus Fernandez, Chase Greenawalt, Antonio Johnson, Jayline Johnson, Sierjohn Caba Jove, Owen Lehman, Jabar Mohamad, Darriona Noisette, Valerie
O’Reilly, Robert O’Neal, Andrew Pecheux, Josh Neilsen Templonuevo Rivera, Nakari Smith-Barnard, Jermal Torney and Eric Willey.

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April 2023 Seafarers LOG 19

Paul Hall Center ClassesPaul Hall Center Classes

Basic Training (First Aid, CPR & AED) – Graduated January 27 (above, in alphabetical order): Rasheed Groden,
Donald Harwerth, Reyna Lee Mendez, Jorge Morales, Perrin Proctor, William Rackley, Jocelyn Ramos, Zachary
Rosenthal and Joseph Alvarez Samonte. (Note: Not all are pictured.)

UA to Able Seaman-Deck – A pair of apprentices recently com-
pleted their requirements in this course. Graduating January 27
(above, from left) were Cordera Deandre Looney and Brandon
Coleman.

Government Vessels –
Graduated January 20
(photo at right, in alphabeti-
cal order): Nassr Hassan
Ahmed, Angel Manuel Ber-
rios Jr., Marsheta Brooks,
Gionet Dennis, Steven Ellis
Jr., Timothy Fogg, Tammy
Gammage, Carlos Marcos
Gutierrez, Donna Hickman,
Sheena Borinaga Jumamil,
Michael Knight, Sedell
Mitchell-Reynolds, Jesus
Alberto Morales Izquierdo,
Joseph Alvarez Samonte,
Dequan Vanandez Smith Jr.,
Jayson Velez-Cruz and Ken-
neth Williams. (Note: Not all
are pictured.)

Certified Chief Cook (Module 5B) – Graduated January 6 (above, in alphabetical order): Khiry Jamal
Bivins, Raymond Gregory Forse, Kenneth Paul Von Kaenel, Ali Mohamed Mossed Yahia and Cody Young-
hans.

Certified Chief Cook (Module 5A) – Graduated January 6 (above, in
alphabetical order): Xavier Burgos, Richard Dolan, Tkeyah Elliot and
Xander Balian Farris. (Note: Not all are pictured.)

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

Important Notice to All Students

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20 Seafarers LOG April 2023

O F F I C I A L P U B L I C A T I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N A T I O N A L U N I O N A T L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W A T E R S , A F L - C I O

APRIL 2023 VOLUME 85, NO. 4

Paul Hall CenterPaul Hall Center
Class PhotosClass Photos
Pages 18-19Pages 18-19

Members Team Up Aboard NOAA ShipMembers Team Up Aboard NOAA Ship
WWhen Recertified Bosun Greg Jackson earlier

this year took a temporary job aboard a Na-
tional Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra-

tion (NOAA) vessel, he didn’t know what to expect.
It turned out that working side-by-side with members

of the SIU Government Services Division aboard the
Ronald H. Brown agreed with him.

“It was a pleasant experience,” Jackson stated. “It re-
inforced that we are all just merchant seamen and never
too old to learn new things.”

The Brown is NOAA’s largest vessel. Its mis-

sions include collecting and assessing scientific
data above and below the ocean surface, “allowing
us to simultaneously measure the atmosphere and
the ocean and increase our understanding of global
climatic changes and other issues,” the agency
noted. Some of the crew members are represented
by the SIU.

“The food was great,” Jackson added. “Just working
alongside the NOAA crew was enjoyable. No matter
where we come from or who we work for, we’re all sea-
men and all here for a reason.”

AB John Hampton – like Jackson a member of the
SIU’s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters – was
part of the same voyage and came away with a similar
outlook.

“The NOAA crew were some of the most generous,
fun-loving people I’ve ever sailed with,” he said. “We
took the ship from Rhode Island to Brazil and it was a
really good experience. We had guys from all walks of
life when it comes to sailing. We all shared our experi-
ences and our knowledge with one another. I enjoyed my
time and learned a lot.”

The Ronald H. Brown, above, is NOAA’s largest vessel, at 274 feet long.
(Photo courtesy NOAA). Deck gang members aboard the vessel, photo
at right, from left are: Michael Lastinger, Gregory Jackson, Michael Burke,
Harrison Bruce, Jared Van Borgen, John Hampton and Jeff Greely.

Chief Cook Deandre Speight, Chief Steward Emir Porter, Sec-
ond Cook Ashley Pape

Anna McAuliffe, NOAA Scientist

OMU Mark Watson

Executive Officer Aaron Maggied, Commanding Officer Marc
Moser

Chief Engineer Alan Currie, Recertified Bosun Greg Jackson

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