Seafarers Log: Vol. 64 No. 1 (2002-01-01)

Volume 64, Number 1 January 2002

Maritime Trades Dept. Message

Representatives of the U.S. military and the domestic and
international labor movements emphasized the ongoing

need for a strong U.S. Merchant Marine when they
addressed the biennial convention of the AFL-CIO
Maritime Trades Department (MTD) Nov. 29-30 in Las
Vegas. Among those voicing support for the U.S. fleet
was AFL-CIO President John Sweeney (left photo, being welcomed by MTD and SIU President
Michael Sacco). Delegates and guests also remembered the victims of Sept. 11 and examined the
attacks' aftermath. Kicking off the convention were the Clark County (Nev.) Firefighters Honor

Guard, consisting of IAFF Local 1908 members (pictured at right). Pages 3, 11-14.

' t•
Requires Strong U.S. Fleet!

SIU Welcomes 2 Ships
Mary Sears, Pitsenbarger Join MSC Fleet

Seafarers are crewing two new vessels for the U.S.
Military Sealift Command (MSC). In mid-December,
MSC took delivery of its newest oceanographic survey
ship, the USNS Mary Sears (left). Additionally, in late
November, the former foreign-flag containership
Therese Delmas-now flying the Stars and
Stripes-was renamed the MV A 1 C William H.
Pitsenbarger (above) in honor of a Vietnam War Medal
of Honor recipient. Page 3.

Schubert Confirmed
As MarAd Chief

Port Security
Still Prominent

Page2 Page5

Patriotic Celebration in San Francisco

Patriotism was plentiful during the annual Thanksgiving feast
at the SIU hall in San Francisco, which attracted local digni­
taries, Seafarers and their families, SIU retirees, friends and
guests. Seafarers warmly welcomed members of a Marine
Corps color guard. Pictured from left to right are OMU Steve
Biles, Sgt. Michael Bundsen, AB Willie Aluata, Staff Sgt.
James Beach, OMU Kevin Cooper, Sgt. David Harmon, SIU
Asst. VP Nick Celona and Cpl. Marc Pensul. Page 9.

CIVMAR
News
Page6

SIU's Year
In Review

Page24



President's Report
Success and Challenges

Looking back on the year 2001, it's obvious that the events of
September 11 dwarf anything else that happened. To call it the year's

Michael Sacco

"defining moment" simply wouldn't capture the
magnitude of the terrorist attacks or the ensuing
changes that have taken place in the United States
and around the world.

Certainly, we in the SIU are very much affected
by the attacks and their aftermath-and we're
doing our part to help this great nation fight back.
As you know, our members were a key part of the
evacuation of New York right after the assault on
the World Trade Center. Members of our

Government Services Division also were on the scene a few days
later, providing valuable relief for many of the rescue workers from
"ground zero."

Since then, Seafarers have crewed ships for the U.S. Military
Sealift Command that are supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
All indications are that America's war against terrorism is just begin­
ning, and I believe that sealift will continue to serve as an important
component in this fight.

We've been impacted in other ways, too. Port security has been
tightened, with new regulations likely on the horizon. Our contracted
cruise-ship company, American Classic Voyages, is reorganizing
through a Chapter 11 filing that directly stemmed from the attacks'
major impact on travel, tourism and entertainment.

Activities that used to be unremarkable, such as opening one's
mail or flying out to catch a ship, now are viewed in a whole new
context.

While fully appreciating the enormity of September 11, I think it's
important for all of us in the SIU not to overlook some of the other
key moments for our union from 2001. Topping that list is the long­
anticipated merger of the National Maritime Union into the SIU,
which culminated last summer. The memberships of both unions rec­
ognized that the time finally was right for the merger, which had
been discussed from time to time since the 1950s.

Believe me, there were those who thought it never would happen.
It took patience, hard work-and the smart support of the member­
ship. The results already have been positive for our union and our
industry, and they're only going to get better.

We made other gains in 2001. Members approved the new stan­
dard freightship and tanker agreements- five-year contracts that
spell out numerous improvements. Those contracts in particular
addressed the things identified by our members as the most impor­
tant, including broader coverage for dependents, wage increases and
improvements in the pension plan.

SIU members welcomed a number of new vessels, including MSC
support ships, bulk carriers, Z-drive tugs and the unique "rocket
ship," the Delta Mariner.

With the deadline looming for compliance with the amended
STCW convention, Seafarers flocked to the Paul Hall Center for
Maritime Training and Education in numbers not seen since the
Persian Gulf War. Most went for STCW Basic Safety Training, a
widespread requirement of the updated convention.

The school has done a great job handling the crush of students,
even while moving forward on other projects. Last summer our facil­
ity in Piney Point opened a new simulator building that features sec­
ond-to-none equipment. Construction is ongoing on the hotel annex
that will house single-occupancy rooms, and students continue to
praise the center's fire fighting and safety school, which has become
central to many of the courses.

We achieved other improvements as well in 2001, and I encourage
you to read about them on the back page of this month's LOG. They
reflect a strong union that constantly is working to secure new ship­
board jobs, better contracts, the best training tools and whatever else
the membership needs.

As we head into the new year, we remain ready to answer whatev­
er challenges come our way. We will continue to lead the push to
revitalize the U.S. fleet, to ensure it will be there, whatever crisis is
thrown at our country. We will continue doing whatever it takes to
help our nation, our citizens, our union and our members to succeed.

Volume 64, Number 1 January 2002

The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org

The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published month­
ly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes
and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth
Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-
0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland
20790-9998 and at additional offices. POSTMASTER:
Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way
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Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing
Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate Editor, Jim
Guthrie; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne
Textor.
Copyright © 2002 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD
All Rights Reserved

2 Seafarers LOG

Capt. Schubert Confirmed
As Maritime Administrator

Capt. William G. Schubert is
the nation's new maritime admin­
istrator.

Schubert unanimously was
endorsed by the U.S. Senate and
was confirmed as the next head of
the Maritime Administration
(MarAd) Nov. 30.

"Now more than ever, it is cru­
cial to have a strong, viable and
commercially competitive mer­
chant fleet to support our troops
as the nation's fourth arm of
defense," Schubert stated. "As
maritime administrator, I will do
all I can to assure the nation that
our commercial fleet will contin­
ue to be the best in the world. Our
citizens deserve no less."

A 1974 graduate of the U.S.
Merchant Marine Academy,
Schubert sailed as a licensed deck
officer for l 0 years. He later
worked as master and installation
manager at three offshore drilling
platforms before starting a 10-
year stint at MarAd. He served as
a special assistant to former
Maritime Administrator John
Gaughan from 1986-90, then
worked as the agency's regional
representative for the southwest-

em United States from 1990-95.
Prior to his confirmation,

according to MarAd, Schubert
was president of Houston-based
International Trade and
Transportation, Inc., a maritime
consulting firm.

"During these extraordinary
times, it is important to have
someone like Bill Schubert on
our team at the Department of
Transportation," stated DOT
Secretary Norman Mineta. "His
years of experience, including his
years at sea, government service,
and expertise gained as a mar­
itime consultant will be invalu­
able to us as we move forward to
secure our nation in the months
and years ahead."

Schubert said that all segments
of the industry must be heard. "In
view of our tremendous mission
that lies ahead, it is important that
the government, private industry
and labor communicate on a reg­
ular basis and I thank President
Bush for entrusting me with this
crucial mission," he declared.
"Everyone must do their part to
ensure safe transportation as the
U.S. moves forward with her

Newly confirmed Maritime Admin­
istrator Capt. William G. Schubert
says America deserves the
world's best merchant fleet.

allies."
Sworn in Dec. 6 in New

Orleans aboard the Seafarers­
crewed Ready Reserve Force ves­
sel Cape Kennedy, Schubert said
his goals include encouraging
new U.S.-flag breakbulk tonnage
to enter the commercial market,
leveling the playing field for
U.S.-flag carriers, and renewing
the Maritime Security Program
(MSP) so that it meets national
security requirements.

AMO Reelects Mike McKay;
MEBA Chooses Ron Davis

Two officers' unions last month announced the
results of their respective elections for office.

Members of the American Maritime Officers
(AMO) reelected Mike McKay for his third full
term as president of the organization, while the
Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association (MEBA)
elected Ron Davis as president. Davis had been a
regional vice president for the past six years; he
defeated incumbent Larry O'Toole.

In a Dec. 10 letter to all AMO members, McKay
said he is "pleased to know that division is behind
us, and that a unified administration can now focus
exclusively on the long-term interests of all AMO
members and their families." McKay defeated three
opponents in AMO's election, including his closest
challenger, Jerry Joseph, who most recently had
served as AMO's national executive vice president.

MEBA Pres. Ron Davis AMO Pres. Mike McKay

Other winners in the AMO balloting were Bob
McKay, national secretary-treasurer; Tom Bethel,
national executive vice president; Joe Gremels­
backer, national vice president deep sea; Ed Kelly,
national vice president at large; Leroy Tanner,
national assistant vice president at large; and Bob
Kiefer, national executive board member inland
waters.

MEBA's voting took place September through
November. Besides Davis, the other winners were
Cecil Mcintyre, secretary-treasurer; Bud Jacque,
executive vice president and San Francisco branch
agent; Don Keefe, vice president Atlantic Coast;
Marc Huber, vice president Gulf Coast; Bill Van
Loo, Baltimore branch agent; Lou Marciello,
Houston branch agent; Al Camelio, Los Angeles
branch agent; John McCurdy, Seattle branch agent;
and Bill McHugh, M.I. Mallini, Jon Anderson,
Donn Reamer, Michael Nizetich and Mike Jewell,
patrolmen.

Reelected without opposition were Dan Smith,
national vice president Great Lakes; Don Cree,
national assistant vice president Great Lakes; Stan
Barnes, national executive board member Great
Lakes; J. D. Willard, Gus Guzelian and Paul Cates,
national executive board members at large; and Don
Nilsson, national executive board member deep sea.

The union noted that voting by secret mail ballot
took place Oct. 1 through Dec. 1 of last year.

In a sign of the times, MEBA's tallying commit­
tee wore protective gear because of the anthrax inci­
dents in Washington, D.C. The union noted that its
ballots had been processed through Washington's
Brentwood postal facility, one of the contaminated
sites.

From the Plans Administrator:
SIU Plans Administrator Lou

Delma last month announced the
following:

• In November, the Seafarers
Health and Benefits Plan and the
Seafarers Pension Plan mailed the
new enrollment beneficiary form to
all Plan participants. Seafarers who
received the form are urged to
complete it, making certain it is wit­
nessed by someone other than the
beneficiary.

Also, please be sure that all
dependents are listed on the form.

If an SIU member did not
receive the form and accompany­
ing letter, but participates in either
or both Plans, please contact the

administrator's office by writing to
5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD
20746.

As indicated in the letter dated
Nov. 16, due to changes in the
health care code, the Plans may be
required to collect and verify cer­
tain information on participants and
their families, which includes
copies of marriage certificates,
birth certificates and Social
Security cards. Failure to provide
the information requested in the let­
ter may cause delays in processing
dependent claims.

• Delma also reminded Sea­
farers that, while the Plans contin­
ue to examine the best approach
for benefit coverage as a result of
the SIU/NMU merger, "those mem-

bers formerly covered under the
NMU Plans will continue to be cov­
ered by the NMU, and SIU mem­
bers will continue to be covered by
the SIU Plan."

• Delma further reported that,
in light of recent national events
that have severely impacted the
U.S. economy, plans to initiate a
one-year special equipment pilot
program, which includes a hearing
aid benefit for dependents of eligi­
ble Seafarers, was cut back to just
three (3) months; November 2001
to January 2002. During these
three months, the changes in the
special equipment benefit will be
evaluated to determine the feasibil­
ity of its continuation.

January 2002



Strong U.S. Fleet Vital to America
Military, Labor Officials Vow Support at MTD Convention

AFL-CIO President John Sween­
ey stated the federation's support
for a strong U.S. fleet.

Representatives of the U.S.
military and the domestic and
international labor movements
emphasized the ongoing need for
a strong U.S. Merchant Marine
when they addressed the biennial
convention of the AFL-CIO
Maritime Trades Department
(MTD) Nov. 29-30 in Las Vegas.

Delegates to the convention
spelled out the MTD's agenda
through resolutions supporting
the Maritime Security Program,
the Jones Act, cargo preference
laws, the Title XI program and
other pro-maritime, pro-worker
statutes. They also spoke out
against runaway-flag shipping
(also known as flag-of-conve­
nience shipping), and reiterated

. labor's support for America's war

Renamed and Reflagged

against terrorism. Additionally,
they remembered the victims of
Sept. 11 and examined the
attacks' aftermath.

The MTD comprises 30 affili­
ate unions (including the SIU)
representing an estimated 7 .5 mil­
lion members.

In opening the meetings, MTD
and SIU President Michael Sacco
listed the many unions who lost
members in the Sept. 11 attacks
on America. He and the delegates
also praised their union brothers
and sisters who have been
involved in rescue and repair
operations from the beginning,
including SIU members aboard
passenger ferries and a hospital
ship, as well as other union mem-

hers working day and night at
New York's "ground zero."

"The roll call of unions who
lost members in and after the

Tum to pages 11 -14 for
additional coverage of the

MTD Convention.

attacks is mind-numbing," stated
Sacco. "In the face of these
tragedies, union members imme­
diately raced to the scenes with
one goal in mind: Helping fellow
Americans. In the hours and days
and weeks that followed, union
members also helped redefine the
word 'hero.' They're still at it
today."

searching for survivors, treating
the wounded, taking scared vic­
tims to safety, comforting the res­
cue workers, mobilizing for
Operation Enduring Freedom or
through other means, our affili­
ates and the rest of our brothers
and sisters throughout the labor
movement have answered the
challenge."

International Association of
Fire Fighters President Harold
Schaitberger followed Sacco's
remarks with a moving account
of his union's involvement in the
rescue operations. He thanked the
other affiliates for their support.

Other guest speakers included
AFL-CIO Union Label and
Service Trades Department
President Charles Mercer;
International Transport Workers'

Continued on page 4

Pitsenbarger Joins Prepositioning Fleet

He also pointed out, "Every
union that's part of the MTD has
pitched in for the relief effort in
one way or another. Whether it
was donating blood or money,

The Therese Delmas has a new
name and a new flag.

Formerly a foreign-flag con­
tainership, the vessel now sails as
a ptepositioning ship under the
Stars and Stripes, with an SIU
crew. The U.S. Military Sealift
Command (MSC) during cere­
monies Nov. 28 at the Detyens
Shipyard in Charleston, S.C.
renamed the vessel the MV Al C
William H. Pitsenbarger in honor
of a Vietnam War Medal of Honor
recipient.

Red River Shipping Corp. of
ockville, d. operates the 621-

foot vessel for MSC under a five­
year charter. The Pitsenbarger
will operate from Diego Garcia in
the Indian Ocean and preposition
Air Force ammunition at sea, aid­
ing the U.S. military's combat
readiness.

The ship can carry about 855
container equivalents-720 under
deck and 13 5 in a cocoon above
deck. Both cargo areas are air­
conditioned and dehumidified to
protect the ammunition.

The Pitsenbarger has five
cranes on its deck that allow crew
members to on-load and off-load
ammunition. This feature gives
the ship flexibility to off-load in
undeveloped ports.

The vessel joins a fleet of
more than 35 MSC Afloat
Prepositioning Force ships. At­
sea prepositioning of combat

equipment has become increas­
ingly important as U.S. bases
overseas continue to close.

MSC operates more than 110
ships. Missions vary from the
transport and prepositioning of
defense cargo; to underway
replenishment and other direct
support of Navy ships at sea; to
at-sea data collection for the U.S.
military and other U.S. govern­
ment agencies.

During the renaming ceremo­
ny, Richardene Brewer, wife of
Navy Rear Admiral David L.
Brewer, MSC commander, was
the ship's sponsor. She broke the
ceremonial bottle of champagne
on the vessel's hull, officially
naming it.

Air Force Gen. John W.
Handy, commander in chief, U.S.
Transportation Command, served
as the event's principle speaker.
Also addressing the gathering
were Admiral Brewer, and John P.
Morris III, president of RR &
VO, L.L.C. (the shipowner).

Airman 1st Class Pitsenbarger
on April 11, 1966 was lowered
from a hovering helicopter
through the dense jungles near
Cam My, Republic of Vietnam,
into the midst of heavy gunfire.
Then 21 years old, Pitsenbarger
had volunteered to board the res­
cue helicopter to evacuate U.S.
Army casualties. "Pits," as he
was affectionately known, was

A worker paints
the name onto
the MVA1C
William H.
Pitsenbarger
Nov. 27 in
Charleston,
S.C.

Photo by Air Force Staff Sgt. Mike Buytas

[..

Please be advised that SIU headquarters and all
SIU hiring halls will be closed Monday,

February 18, 2002 for the observance of

Presidents' Day (unless an emergency arises).
Normal business hours will resume

the following workday.

January 2002

nearing his 300th combat mission.
When his helicopter was

struck by enemy fire, he had a
choice--climb into the litter bas­
ket to depart with the helicopter
or stay behind. He elected to
remain behind and assist the
wounded. After he treated them,
he joined the infantrymen with a
rifle to hold off the Viet Cong.

Despite being wounded three
times, Pitsenbarger continued to
simultaneously treat the wound­
ed and ward off the enemy until
he succumbed to a sniper's bul­
let. When his body was recov­
ered the next day, one hand still
held a medical kit and the other, a
rifle.

MTD and SIU Pres. Michael Sacco (right) welcomes Rear Adm. John
Stewart, vice commander of MSC, to the convention.

New Survey
Ship Delivered

The U.S. Navy's newest oceanographic survey
ship, the SIU-crewed USNS Mary Sears last month
was delivered to the U.S. Military Sealift Command
(MSC). The vessel's arrival augments the nation's
worldwide survey capabilities and signals new jobs
for Seafarers.

Built at the Halter Marine Shipyard in Moss,
Point, Miss., the USNS Mary Sears (T-AGS 65) was
named in honor the longtime Woods Hole
Oceanographic Institution scientist and pioneer in
oceanography. It is the 12th ship in the nation's his­
tory to be christened officially with a woman's name
and the first oceanographic survey ship.

Mary Sears, a New England native, served as a
member of the Women Accepted for Voluntary

USNS Mary Sears

Class
Length (feet)
Beam (feet)
Draft (feet)
Displacement

(long tons)
Propulsion:

Cruising Speed (knots)
Crew
Scientific Party
Lab Space

(square feet)
Deck Space

(square feet)

T-AGS 60
329
58
18

4,722
Twin props and
retractable bow
thruster, Z-Drive
16
25
30

4,000

3,500

The USNS Mary Sears is launched in Moss Point,
Miss.

Emergency Service (WAVES) during World War II.
She made pioneering efforts in oceanographic fore­
casting and was a major force in uniting the world
oceanographic community while serving both her
community and her country.

The USNS Mary Sears is the sixth ship in the
Pathfinder (T-AGS) class. Dyn Marine will operate
the vessel for the Oceanographer of the Navy under
contract with MSC.

The T in T-AGS indicates operation by MSC and
AGS stand for Auxiliary General Survey.

Like all of the Pathfinder-class vessels, the USNS
Mary Sears will be multi-mission, capable of sur­
veying in either coastal or deep ocean waters. This
capability provides both economy and flexibility in
an era of military downsizing.

The keel of the Mary Sears was laid July 28,
1999. It was christened Oct. 19, 2000 and will join
fellow Seafarers-crewed MSC oceanographic sur­
vey ships USNS Pathfinder, USNS Bowditch, USNS
Sumner, USNS Henson and USNS Broce Heezen in
performing physical, chemical and biological
oceanography; environmental investigations;
marine geology and other types of surveying for the
Naval Oceanographic Office.



Seal arers Honored at AOTOS Event
Four SIU crews received

"Honored Seafarer Awards" from
the United Seamen's Service
(USS) during the annual Admiral
of the Ocean Seas (AOTOS) cer­
emony in New York.

Receiving the recognition
Nov. 9 were SIU members from
the NY Waterway ferry Thomas
Jefferson, and Seafarers and offi­
cers from the SSG Edward
Carter, USNS Watson and
Mayaguez. Mariners aboard the
Carter, an ammunition ship, bat­
tled a major fire; the other crews
were involved in rescues.

The USS described the
Honored Seafarer Awards as
"commending the heroism of
American seafarers who have
risked their lives to save others
and the outstanding seamanship
of officers and crews of vessels
participating in rescue opera­
tions." Winners were chosen after
nominations were submitted from
throughout the industry. The peri­
od under consideration was the
year 2000, although an exception
was made for the Carter because
of the magnitude of that event.

The AOTOS Awards went to
Philip J. Shapiro, president and
CEO of Liberty Maritime Corp.
of New York and to Erik F.
Johnsen, president of Inter­
national Shipholding Corp.,

headquartered in New Orleans.
They were selected via "an indus­
try-wide poll," noted the USS.

The following are summaries
of the SIU honorees:
• The Mayaguez saved all five

people who had abandoned a
sinking sailboat 70 miles off
the coast of Cape Canaveral.
The rescue took place April 5,
2001.

• Three Seafarers on the
Thomas Jefferson rescued a
man from the icy Hudson
River during the nighttime
hours of Dec. 20, 2000.

• The USNS Watson saved two
Navy sailors who almost
drowned after falling out of
their small craft in a lagoon in
Diego Garcia. It happened
Dec. 12, 2000.

• Crew members and officers
on the Carter fought a ship­
board fire while the vessel
was carrying 2.5 million
pounds of explosives. The
July 14 pier-side accident in
Sunny Point, N.C. claimed
two lives, including that of
GUDE Horace Beasley.
Though tragic, the incident
could have been more cata­
strophic if not for the initial
efforts to contain the fire until
shoreside help arrived.

Ascension, Sagamore Crews
Get Wage Boost as of Dec. 1

Seafarers aboard the MV
Ascension and the MV Sagamore
last month received welcome
news concerning wage increases
and better benefits.

According to SIU Vice
President Contracts Augie Tellez,
all were in line to receive a 3 per­
cent "total labor cost" contractual
increase. This improvement, an
across-the-board action, took
effect Dec. 1.

Further hikes are on the hori­
zon. The U.S. Military Sealift

NY Waterway Ferries
To Memorialize
Sept. 11 Victims

SIU-contracted NY Waterway
plans to name a pair of new pas­
senger ferries in honor of two
World Trade Center victims.

The new boats, scheduled for
christening this month, will be
named the Moira Smith and the
Father Mychal Judge, respective-

Command recently awarded a
five-year contract for the opera­
tion of trading vessels between
Cape Canaveral, Fla. and
Ascension Island. The contract
was awarded to Sealift, Inc. of
Oyster Bay, N.Y.-the operator
of both the Ascension and
Sagamore.

Under this agreement, crew
members on the two vessels will
receive an additional 7 percent
across-the-board hike when the
new contract goes into effect.

ly. Smith is believed to be the
lone female police officer who
died in the terrorist attack on New
York. Judge, a fire department
chaplain, was administering last
rites when he perished in the tow­
ers' collapse.

Seafarers aboard NY
Waterway ferries transported
more than 158,000 survivors
away from the disaster scene on
Sept. 11, including injured fire­
fighters and civilians.

Military, Labor Support MTD Agenda
Continued from page 3

Federation General Secretary
David Cockroft; Rear Adm. John
Stewart, vice commander of the
U.S. Military Sealift Command;
and AFL-CIO President John
Sweeney.

Stewart stressed the effective
partnership that exists between
maritime labor and MSC. "As
partners, we make the system
work," he stated. "Together we're
building a stronger, more resilient
America, one that can respond to
any contingency and stay strong,

4 Seafarers LOB

committed and ready. Together
we must continue to work for a
stronger U.S. maritime industry,
one which is able to attract and
retain the highly skilled mariners
we have become so dependent
upon.

"Our MSC team receives
many kudos for the outstanding
job we do for the U.S. armed ser­
vices," he continued. "Every time
we're told well done, it's a direct
tribute to the AFL-CIO Maritime
Trades Department, too. And for
that, we at Military Sealift
Command sincerely thank you."

STCW Basic Safety
Training Renewable
Via Sea Service

The U.S. Coast Guard recently confirmed a
change in the way mariners may meet the require­
ments for renewing STCW Basic Safety Training
(BST), a key component of the amended STCW
convention.

According to National Maritime Center Policy
Letter No. 12-01, "A mariner who has met the
requirements for initial competency in BST and
who is actively serving on seagoing ships will be
considered as having demonstrated continuing com­
petence in BST provided he or she completes at
least one year of sea service within the past five
years. This five-year period is a running calendar in
which credit for competency in BST extends for
five years beyond the critical date at which the
mariner has completed one year of sea service.

"To determine the critical date," the letter contin­
ues, "review the mariner's sea service starting with
the current date and go backwards in time until one
year of sea service is counted. The period of validi­
ty for continuing competence in BST is then five
years from the date where the mariner has complet­
ed one year of sea service. For example, if on 1
October 2001, you count backward and determine
the mariner completed one year of sea service on 1
June 2000, then the mariner is considered to be
competent in the four elements of BST through 31
May 2005.

"Using similar dates, if on 1 October 2001 a
mariner completed one year of sea service on 1 June
1996, then the BST would have been valid until 31
May 200 l. Because 31 May 2001 has passed
(today's date in this example is 1 October 2001 ), the

Solidarity in Hawaii

Seafarers from the
SSG Edward Carter
(below) and the
USNS Watson (left)
were among those
honored by the United
Seamen's Service.

mariner has not retained competency in BST."
The policy letter also notes that the "critical

date" mentioned above will advance as a mariner
continues serving on a seagoing vessel.
Additionally, Coast Guard regional exam centers
(RECs) may accept discharges or sea-service letters
"prepared in accordance with current standards" as
proof of sea service.

If a mariner cannot prove one year of sea service
within the past five years, then he or she must com­
plete a U.S. Coast Guard approved or accepted
course "approved for revalidation of BST," such as
the STCW curriculum available at the Paul Hall
Center for Maritime Training and Education, locat­
ed in Piney Point, Md.

Despite the fact that the policy letter is dated Oct.
31, 2001, its contents had been under legal review
beyond that date. The agency in early December
confirmed the policy change.

Notice: 'Pre-STC
Applications

Seafarers who have the required sea time

and who are considering either upgrading to

AB, FOWT or QMED or sitting for a license, can

go to any U.S. Coast Guard regional exam cen­

ter (REC} before Feb. 1, 2002 and get an

application to take the examination(s) under

pre-STCW conditions. This application will be

valid for one year.

The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training

and Education offers the necessary preparato­

ry courses to assist students in readying for the

exams.

Seafarers and SIU officials in
Honolulu last month demon­
strated support for members
of Honolulu-based United
Food and Commercial
Workers (UFCW) Local 480.
The UFCW brothers and sis­
ters are trying to get their first
contract at Aloha Nursing and
Rehabilitation Centre.
Pictured from the left are SIU
Patrolman Jim Storm, SA
Pete DiPierro, OS William
Joquin and OS Andrzej
Bronkowski.

January 2002



Federation Reelects Top Officials

Celebrating the accomplishments of the past six years and looking to the future, delegates to the AFL­
CIO convention last month reelected the federation's top three officers. SIU President Michael Sacco
(second from left), who was reelected as a vice president of the AFL-CIO executive council, congrat­
ulates (from left) AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Rich Trumka, Exec. VP Linda Chavez-Thompson and
President John Sweeney. The convention took place Dec. 3-6 in Las Vegas.

Part Security Still Scrutinized
While the U.S. Coast Guard

continues to enforce a wide range
of security measures on ships
entering the United States in the
wake of the Sept. 11 terrorist inci­
dents, legislation which ultimate­
ly will provide the Department of
Transportation (and other compo­
nents of government) the authori­
ty needed to enact a comprehen­
sive maritime security initiative
remains in flux.

As of press time for the
Seafarers LOG, lawmakers still
were debating possib e amend­
ments as well as specific lan­
guage to be contained in the Port,
Maritime and Rail Security Act of
2001, (S.1214). Likewise, two
other bills-the Port Threat and
Security Act (S.1587) and H.R
3013, a companion to S.1214-
still were undergoing congres­
sional scrutiny.

Secretary of Transportation
Norman Mineta supports the
goals ofS.1214. "We believe that
many of the elements laid out in
S. 1214 can be critically impor­
tant tools in crafting a new para­
digm in maritime and port securi­
ty, and look forward to continu­
ing to work with the leadership
and members of both bodies on
this vital issue," he said Dec. 6
during testimony before the U.S.
House of Representatives Sub­
committee on Coast Guard and
Maritime Transportation. "We are
making great strides in address­
ing our most critical transporta­
tion security challenges. How­
ever, much work remains to be
done-particularly in the security

Norman Mineta
U.S. Sec'y of Transportation

of our coastal waters, our inland
waterways, our port facilities and
their intermodal connectors."

Noting that existing statutes
bad enabled authorities to address
the most pressing security chal­
lenges, Mineta said a new net­
work of protections was needed,
"one that transforms what has
been a rapid response into a sus­
tained effort that recognizes
heightened security as a part of
normal operations."

Mineta then laid out what he
termed key principles, which he
believes, should underlie the
country's efforts to build a new
baseline of operations for mar­
itime security.

"Our approach must be com­
prehensive, reaching both securi­
ty at port facilities and in the
marine environment," he said. "It
must reach the security of physi­
cal assets and the security of mar­
itime and port personnel and pas­
sengers."

Planning and coordinating
with local and state authorities
will be crucial, according to
Mineta, because of the diverse
nature of the maritime system
across the country, and the wide­
ly deviating nature of operations
among ports.

Mineta emphasized that the
new system must fully demon­
strate a recognition of and appre­
ciation for the intermodal nature
of marine transportation. Cargo
that is unloaded from a ship today
in a seaport will move quickly to
other modes of transportation, he
said. "A cargo container arriving

Admiral James M. Loy
U.S. Coast Guard Commandant

at a U.S. seaport today can be vir­
tually anywhere in the heartland
of America via truck and/or rail
tomorrow. Accordingly, maritime
security measures must be fully
integrated with security measures
being implemented in other
modes of transportation."

Aiming to improve maritime
security, he proposed:
• That the secretary of trans­

portation be given expanded
authority to conduct security
assessments of foreign ports
where necessary. The
Department of Transportation
will also work with interna­
tional organizations for the
adoption of international stan­
dards for port security, similar
to international airport stan­
dards promulgated by the
International Civil Aviation
Organization.

• To extend the Coast Guard's
jurisdiction in order to
enhance the agency's ability to
monitor and manage arriving
vessel traffic.

• Establish new maritime safety
and security teams for rapid
deployment to enhance port
security in areas of heightened
threat.

• Formulate new criminal
penalties, similar to those in
place for aviation, for acts
against vessels and maritime
facilities. Establish a new
penalty for use of a dangerous
weapon on all passenger ves­
sels, similar to the penalty
recently enacted in the USA
Patriot Act for offenses
involving a ferry or mass tran­
sit system.

• Extend DOT's authority to
license and regulate deepwater
oil ports to include natural gas
facilities.

• Establish criminal penalties
for acts of maritime terrorism,
such as placing destructive
devices or harmful substances
into our waters.
In concluding his remarks to

the subcommittee, Mineta said
that the nation never will be "fin­
ished" dealing with the ongoing
threat to maritime and port secu­
rity. ''The transportation networks
that make up the marine trans­
portation system are constantly

Labor Mourns Kivikko
Dennis L. Kivikko, secre­

tary-treasurer of the AFL-CIO
Union Label and Service Trades
Department, died Dec. 6, 2001
after a brief hospitalization for
treatment of pulmonary fibrosis.
He was 57.

Kivikko had served as the
department's secretary-treasurer
since 1996. From 1990, he man­
aged the AFL-CIO 's annual
Union Industries Show, a huge
traveling exposition of union
services and products.

A native of Rochelle, Ill.,
Kivikko got an early start on his
career with organized labor. He
joined the Retail Clerks Union
(now the United Food and
Commercial Workers) at age 16,
as an employee of the Kroger
Co. in his hometown.

In 1966, he was appointed as
an organizer for the Retail
Clerks, taking on assignments
in Chicago, Minneapolis, Phila-

evolving," he said. "The security
threats and safety challenges we.
face in marine transportation are
constantly evolving. Our re­
sponse to those challenges must
be constantly evolving, as well."

Meanwhile, Coast Guard
Commandant Admiral James M.
Loy also addressed the subcom­
mittee. After updating members
on the various actions that his
agency has taken-including
hosting an SIU-attended Mari­
time and Homeland Security
Meeting on Oct. 30-to develop
the immediate maritime security
response to the events of Sept. 11,
the commandant focused on what
he envisions for the longer term.

"Our challenge is to determine
what the new normalcy repre­
sents in terms of mission require­
ments and the associated opera­
tional activity, while also ensur­
ing that the Coast Guard is able to
provide forces to meet its military
service responsibilities for sup­
porting the war against terrorism
both at home and abroad," he
said.

Noting that the U.S. Exclusive
Economic Zone encompasses
95,000 miles of open shoreline,
361 ports and nearly 3.5 million
square miles of ocean, Admiral
Loy said the challenge is an enor-

Dennis Kivikko managed the
annual AFL-CIO Union
Industries Show.

delphia and Richmond, Va.
He is survived by his wife,

Marge; two sons and two grand­
daughters, all of Richmond.

Donations in Kivikko's
memory may be made to the
Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation,
1075 Santa Fe Drive, Denver,
co 80204.

mous one. A key consideration,
he said, is the U.S. marine trans­
portation system.

This system of ports, water­
ways, intermodal connections,
vessels and vehicles moves 95
percent of the nation's overseas
trade and 90 percent of our war
fighting materials during a major
military contingency, according
to the admiral. Further, he point­
ed out, over 7,500 foreign-flag
vessels make more than 51,000
port calls bringing some 200,000
foreign mariners to U.S. ports
yearly. The cruise ship industry
carries more than 6.5 million
Americans annually on passenger
vessels. Six million loaded con­
tainers, 156 million tons of haz­
ardous material and nearly 1 bil­
lion tons of petroleum products
also enter our ports each year.

Because of its vulnerability,
the maritime transportation sys­
tem is an attractive target to ter­
rorists for both mass disruption
and mass destruction, Admiral
Loy said. For this reason, the
security environment must allow
for the differentiation between
the movements of lawful and
unlawful activities without unrea­
sonably disrupting the free flow
of commerce or movement of war
fighting materials to overseas the­
aters.

USCG photo by PA2 Tom Sperdute

Cdr. Daniel Ronan from Coast Guard Activities, NY shows Secretary of
Transportation Norman Mineta the Coast Guard security zones in New
York Harbor.

Seafaas 1.116 5



East Coast CIVMAR ABS
Receive Wage Increase
Union Pushed for Equitable Rates

Following a strong and consistent push by the
SIU's Government Services Division, CIVMARs
sailing as ABs on the East Coast are moving up the
pay scale.

Rear Adm. John Stewart last month announced
that wages for CIVMARs sailing as ABs on the East
Coast are increasing to the highest rate of the
Military Sealift Command (MSC) wage schedule.
They also will receive individual retention
allowances, while bosun mates will get an increase

in their retention allowance.
"We recently received approval to do just that

and are now in the process of implementing these
pay changes," Stewart stated Nov. 29 at the AFL­
CIO Maritime Trades Department convention in Las
Vegas. Stewart anticipated that the increases would
take effect by the end of last month.

The Sill's Government Services Division had
pushed for these increases and continues consulting
with MSC about recruitment and retention.

Notice to Civil Service Mariners: form, check other paid absence
and write "shore leave" in the
remarks. This information is
essential. Don't Lose Your Shore Leave

Many civil service mariners
have accrued large amounts of
shore leave and have been unable
to use it because a relief was
unavailable. Some mariners have
lost this leave prior to their retire­
ment. Don't let this happen to
you.

ure to use the leave therefore was
beyond the mariner's control. In
other words, a mariner may take
"terminal leave" if he or she
demonstrates a prior denial of
leave because the agency needed
the mariner to work.

• Make sure you note your
current address and phone num­
ber.

• If your leave is denied,
make sure you get the reason for
the denial in writing on the appro­
priate form. Your detailer can
provide you with information
about the proper forms to use. Generally the law states that

civil service mariners cannot use
their shore leave right before their
retirement. Use of leave in this
way is referred to as "terminal
leave." Terminal leave cannot be
used unless the mariner can show
that the agency previously had
denied leave because it needed
him or her to work, and the fail-

The union has consulted with
the agency on this matter to
ensure that civil service mariners
are protected and will not lose
the leave they have worked hard
to earn. Be sure to follow these
steps when requesting your leave:

• If you phone in your
request for leave or you e-mail
your request, make sure you
receive confirmations of all your
discussions in writing and keep
copies in your files . This step pro­
tects you whether you are
requesting shore leave or any
other type of leave.

• Request your leave from
the master at least 60 days in
advance.

• In block 6 of the leave

Retired Rep. Solomon Dies

Rep. Gerald
Solomon

The U.S. maritime industry
recently suffered the loss of one
of its most influential champi­
ons with the death of retired
U.S. Rep. Gerald Solomon, (R­
N.Y.). A veteran of the U.S.
Marine Corps, Solomon passed
away Oct. 26 of heart failure at
his Glens Falls, N.Y. home. He
was 71.

Solomon-who rose to a
dominant leadership post in the
House of Representatives-was

an ardent advocate of the U.S. merchant fleet. He
regarded it as a vital U.S. economic and national
security asset.

In 1996, Solomon helped guide the Maritime
Security Act through the House. It authorized the
10-year Maritime Security Program, which provides
limited aid to qualified U.S. merchant ships engaged
in commercial foreign trade. In exchange for the
operating assistance, participating companies make
their ships, crews, and all intermodal and logistics
support equipment available to the Defense
Department for use in strategic sealift and other mil­
itary support services.

Solomon in 1997 co-sponsored House Con­
current Resolution 65, which defended the Jones
Act and other cabotage laws as critically important
components of our nation's economic and military
security. The cabotage laws hold domestic cargo,
cruise and service markets for U.S.-owned, built,
flagged and manned vessels.

He retired in 1998.

Ballast Water Rule Flnallzecl
The U.S. Coast Guard has finalized a rule, which

implements and widens the scope of the National
Invasive Species Act of 1996. The agency in 1999
published an interim rule which addressed ballast
water management.

Under the previous guidance, operators of ves­
sels entering U.S. waters from beyond the Exclusive
Economic Zone (BEZ) were required to submit a
ballast water management report upon arrival. The

6 Seafarers LOG

new regulation-which became effective Dec.20-
requires a ballast water management report to be
filed 24 hours prior to arrival in the first U.S. port.
Previously, the requirement was that reports had to
be filed after arrivals. Further, the amended rule also
applies to ships equipped with ballast water tanks
rather than just to those carrying them. A provision
for equal reporting has been added to the new rule
for vessels making repetitive voyages.

Although this new mandate does not preempt
state and local government requirements, the Coast
Guard requests that such entities consider this poli­
cy before taking local action.

Economy In Recession
The U.S. economy is in recession and has been

since April, according to the National Bureau of
Economic Research.

Unemployment continues to rise and other tell­
tale signs-falling industrial output and weakened
commercial bank lending activity-suggest that the
economy is still declining.

Across the country, 7.7 million American work­
ers are unemployed. Nearly 750,000 layoffs were
announced between Sept 12 and Nov. 19, according
toAFL-CIO tabulations. As ofNov. 30, insured job­
less claims stood at 4 million-the highest level
since December 1982.

The increases in both unemployment and job
losses were spread broadly through the economy,
but the manufacturing sector-with 287 ,000
announced layoffs as of Nov. 19-was hardest hit.
The transportation sector checked in second with
137,291 layoffs, followed by the hospitality, tourism
and entertainment arena at 135,783.

Numerous recent reports regarding consumer
spending and industrial activity have led some ana­
lysts to conclude that the recession is "bottoming
out," and that overall economic growth will soon
tum positive. According to the Economic Policy
Institute, whether or not these forecasts are accurate,
simply moving from negative to positive growth
will not prevent unemployment from rising further.
The unemployment rate will continue to increase
until the economy returns to growth rates of at least
3 percent, the institute said.

SIU Government Services Division members aboard the Apache
helped rescue four boaters.

US#S Apache Saves 4
Government Services Div­

ision Seafarers who crew the
ocean tug USNS Apache recent­
ly saved four people from cer­
tain doom on the high seas.

The Apache, during the early
evening hours of Nov. 25, was
en route from Norfolk, Va., for
duty in the Mediterranean when
it was informed by the U.S.
Coast Guard Rescue Coor­
dination Center in Portsmouth,
Va., that an 80-foot sailing yacht
was in trouble. Any vessel in the
vicinity was advised to divert in
order to assist the distressed ves­
sel.

The craft- the Bossa Nova
JI- reportedly was foundering
in 20-knot winds and 12-foot
seas in a position some 1,400
miles southwest of the Azores.

In spite of having just cleared
bad weather itself- the ocean
tug 's voyage had been plagued
by strong winds and seas up to
20 feet since leaving port- the
Apache still headed back into the
teeth of the storm. Several hours
later, at about 10 p.m., the
Apache approached the sinking
yacht.

Because of high seas and
escalating winds, the Apaches
master decided on slowly com­
ing alongside the yacht and its
flailing 80-foot mast, keeping it
in the lee of his platform. The
Apache made a slow, controlled
but determined approach on the
yacht with one crew member
operating the tug's thruster con­
trols, the second mate on the
boat's throttles and an experi­
enced helmsman on the wheel.
Eventually, a line was passed to

the four-person Bossa Nova II
crew. They quickly transited
their craft for the security of the
USNS Apache. Their yacht was
left to the fate of the sea.

After its new guests were
aboard and securely tucked
away, the Apache resumed its
Mediterranean course for Rota,
Spain. Once there, the rescued
boaters were discharged. The
Apache then continued on to
Naples, Italy, where it joined the
Navy's 6th Fleet as a towing and
salvage ship.

Captain G. W. Summerfield,
master of the doomed yacht,
described the rescue experience
as being "like a John Wayne
western m · . " H de
Apache crew and hailed the U.S
Navy as "tops."

SIU crew members aboard
the Apache during the rescue
were: ABs Cullan P. Fardoux,
David Silvio, Michael Rankin
and Thomas Looney; Ordinary
Seamen Joseph C. Keyser and
Alf red Hogan and Engine
Utility Anthony Cassell. Stew­
ard department personnel
included Steward/Cook John
Breitenstein, Cook/Baker Al­
phonse Hunter and Steward
Utility Collins D. Fallejo.

The USNS Apache is one of
five fleet ocean tugs that oper­
ates in the Military Sealift
Command's (MSC) 34-ship
Naval Fleet Auxiliary Force.
The vessel is 240 feet long, has a
42-foot beam and carries a crew
of 16 Department of Navy civil­
ian mariners and four active duty
members of the Navy.

Four-Month Tour Introduced
For Civil Service Mariners

Behind the scenes and out in front. union representatives work
daity to improve the quality of life of civil service mariners sailing with
the Military Sealift Command.

Whether ifs checking mattress thickness, bunk space, lights and
heads on vessel conversions or working with MSC representatives
about wages, grievances and other tabor policies, the SfU ensures
MSC understands the needs of the civil service mariner. This work
has paid off in a positive change in leave policy for mariners.

Mariners are now eligible for relief after sailing for four months.
Union representatives have pushed for this policy for several years.
Additionally, mariners who wish to receive compensatory time in lieu
of overtime can use the compensatory time to extend their leave
between voyages.

January 2002



OMU Jason Powell (photo left) repairs an actuator module for the
main winch box aboard the tug Pioneer at the Crowley Maritime facil­
ity in Jacksonville. Above, ABs Michael Hurst and Steve Phelps posi-

Aboard the Charles L. Brown, a Transoceanic Cable Ship
Co. vessel, Guadalupe (Lupe) Campbell (center)
receives a company safety award for her outstanding
work aboard ship. Presenting the award are 1st A/E Joe
Olivieri (left), a former SIU member, and Captain Miro
Mavra. The ship and its crew were at work in Lima, Peru.

tion wooden planks in preparation for cargo operations aboard a
Crowley barge at the company's Talleyrand Terminal in

Jacksonville.

at Work
AboanlSbip

Biid
Ashore

After a 32-year career at sea, Recertified Chief Steward Ken Rosiek
(left) is coming ashore. Rosiek joined the MC&S in 1969 in the port of
San Francisco as a baker on the APL President Taft. He also sailed
aboard passenger ships, tugs and RO/ROs. In 1985, Rosiek joined the
AT&T Cable Ship Long Lines as chief steward and has worked aboard
cable ships for the past 17 years. On his last day, he was surprised with
a retirement party. The crew presented him with a ship's brass clock
(above) and a card signed by everyone. With his 17 years' experience
aboard cable ships, Rosiek will now work shoreside-as a consultant
to Tyco. Thanks to Chief Steward Shawn "Fuji" Fijiwara for the photo
and background information.

At the SIU hall in San Juan, P.R., two members receive their books from
SIU Rep. Amancio Crespo (at left in both photos). In the photo at left is
OS Kervin Velazquez and at right is OS Victor Velez with his daughter.

January 2002

A lifeboat endorsement is part of the Basic Safety Training (BST)
required of all Seafarers. The lifeboat training in the photo at left and
the one above were taken at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime
Training and Education at Piney Point, Md. At left, Wiper Felix
Medina-Vidal gives instructions on the lowering of the lifeboat.
Above. Seafarers ractice their rowing skills. From the le (on the
port side) are GUDE Mikhail Pinchevskiy, OS Patricia Hausner, OS
Sarni Abdulla and OS William Burnham. On the starboard side are
GUDE Nasser Hafid and Wiper Felix Medina-Vidal.

NY Port Council Honors 3

The New York Port Council of the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO, recently honored (upper left
photo, from left) U.S. Rep. Jack Quinn (R-N.Y.), Maher Terminals Chairman and CEO Brian Maher, and
International Longshoremen's Association Executive VP Al Cernadas at its annual awards dinner. This
year's event took place Oct. 27 in New York City. Also pictured at the gathering are (top right) SIU and
MTD President Michael Sacco, presenting the award to Cernadas, who also serves as president of
ILA Local 1235; (below right) SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez, congratulating Cernadas; and (below left)
various ILA officials and their guests. The honorees were selected for their support of the U.S. fleet.
Approximately 650 people attended.

Seafarers LOB 7



On his last trip before retiring, AB Joseph Osorio (right) poses with two
of the ship's newest crew members, Unlicensed Apprentices Jose Molina
Jr. (left) and Tiffany Nettles (both from class 620). Also pictured are DEU
John Cooper (center), who sent these photos to the Seafarers LOG, and
SIU Rep. Amancio Crespo from the port of San Juan.

Jorge Ellis is the chief cook aboard the El
Morro, which is owned by Sea Star Lines
and operated by lnterocean Ugland
Management.

Chief Electrician Fred Dougherty checks with the
chief engineer by phone from his workshop.

On the Coastwise Run With the

B Seafarers LOS

El Morro Crew ...

Right: Awaiting payoff
in San Juan is OMU

Pedro Gago.

At any given time, OMU Patrick
McPherson can be found in the ship's
engine room.

From the left: Steward Kris Hopkins makes sure everything in the galley is in its proper place before starting the next meal; Unlicensed
Apprentice Marvin Smith II cleans the passageways while Unlicensed Apprentice Matthew Ryan (both from class 616) works on the main
cargo deck; and DEU John Cooper puts a coat of primer on the main cargo deck's starboard bulkhead.

January 2002



San Fiucisco HaB Hosts HoHday Feast
Patriotism Permeates
Annual Assembly

The SIU hall in San Francisco once again played
host to a well-attended Thanksgiving celebration
which attracted local dignitaries, Seafarers and their
families, SIU retirees, friends and guests. An esti­
mated 380 people packed the hall Nov. 20 for food
and fellowship.

Patriotism was apparent throughout the three­
hour gathering. A Marine Corps color guard helped
set the appropriately nationalistic tone, as did rendi­
tions of "God Bless America" and "America the
Beautiful." Officials from local fire fighter and police
unions attended, and a minute of silence was
observed for their union brothers and sisters who per­
ished in the terrorist attacks on the U.S. Small
American flags adorned each table.

San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown addresses the crowd of 380
Seafarers, dignitaries and other guests at the SIU hall.

Land, and Crowley all pitched in.
Guests included San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown; John

Burton, president pro tempore of the state senate; California
Insurance Commissioner Harry Low; San Francisco Fire Chief
Mario Trevino; San Francisco Police Officers Association
President Chris Cunnie; Art Pulaski, executive secretary-treasurer
of the California Labor Federation; John Hanley, president of
International Association of Fire Fighters Local 798; Marine Corps
Col. Hank Morris (Ret.); local judges; many more officials from
unions including the Plumbers, the Carpenters, the Sheet Metal
Workers and several maritime unions; shipping company represen­

tatives and others.
Seafarers-con­

tracted companies
got into the holi­
day spirit by
donating most of
the food for the
big meal. Patriot
Shipholding,
American Ship
Management,
Matson
Navigation, Sea-

Alioto's Restaurant on Fishermen's Wharf cooked
22 turkeys and eight hams for the occasion, while
Chief Steward Peter Ciddio headed a group of vol­
unteer Seafarers who handled the other aspects of the
meal preparation and presentation. Among those
joining him were Recertified Stewards Jill Prescott
and Louella Sproul, Chief Steward Burt
Richardson, Chief Cooks John Blasquez and John
Stein, SA Whitey Pavo and ABs Gore Alta and
Jason Schoenstein. Bosun Mate George Pino carried
the U.S. Merchant Marine flag during the opening
ceremonies.

SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona, the event's coordinator,
reported lots of positive feedback from what steadily

Representing the U.S. Marine Corps and presenting
the colors are (from left) Staff Sgt. James Beach, Sgt.
Michael Bundesen, Col. Hank Morris (Ret.), Sgt.
David Harmon and Cpl. Marc Pensul.

Chief Cook John Blasquez
and Chief Cook John Stein
(top photo) and Recertified
Steward Jill Prescott (right)
help prepare the meal.

Below: Bosun
George Pino (right) and
SIU Asst. VP have the right
idea: displaying the U.S.
Merchant Marine flag.

January 2002

has grown into a very popular and customary part of the holiday
season for many in the San Francisco area. "Everyone keeps say­
ing it was the best," he noted.

The annual feast in San Francisco wouldn't be possible without the
efforts of volunteers such as (from left) AB Gore Alta, AB Jason
Schoenstein, Recertified Steward Louella Sproul, Chief Steward Burt
Richardson, Chief Cook John Blasquez and (in background) Chief
Cook John Stein.

Renee Marrone begins the festivities by singing "God Bless America"
and "America the Beautiful."

Left: Lending their tal­
ents to the occasion
are (from left) SA
Whitey Pavo, AB
Gore Alta, Recertified
Steward Louella
Sproul and Chief
Steward Peter Ciddio.

Guests enjoy the meal.

Retiree Mel Medesti tells 13-year-old
Nick Marrone II (son of SIU VP West
Coast Nick Marrone) that the seafar­
ing life is the way to go.

Pictured during the opening ceremonies are (from left) San Francisco Police Officers Association
President Chris Cunnie; IAFF Local 798 President John Hanley; San Francisco Fire Chief Mario
Trevino; Stagehands Exec. VP Eddie Powell; California Insurance Commissioner Harry Low; and
San Francisco Labor Council Sec.-Treasurer Walter Johnson.

Seafarers LOB 9



,....-------- - - ------ - - - - - ~

We1re 111aking

our list1
checking it

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Seafarers LOG

January 2002



Delegates Examine September 11 's Aftershock
Demand Fair Treatment for Working Families

Delegates to the AFL-CIO
Maritime Trades Depart­
ment's convention Nov.

29-30 in Las Vegas addressed a
number of subjects that are
imperative to America's working
families.

Not surprisingly, though, one

topic dominated much of the
biennial meeting: September 11.

International Association of
Fire Fighters President Harold
Schaitberger helped set the con­
vention's tone with a stirring
speech in which he described his
union's perseverance through the

terrorist attacks, which claimed
the lives of 344 New York-area
IAFF members. AFL-CIO Presi­
dent John Sweeney and MTD
President Michael Sacco (who
also serves as president of the
SIU) praised the labor move­
ment's response to the violence.
All three emphasized the need for
politicians to stand up for
American workers during the
awful economic fallout hastened
by the attacks.

"This is the biggest issue fac­
ing the labor movement," Sacco
said of the more than 700,000
layoffs nationwide that have
occurred since Sept. 11, including
many in the U.S.-flag cruise ship
industry. "Very few industries
have been immune. Economical­
ly, America is reeling."

MTD and SIU President Michael Sacco

Sacco pointed out that the
labor movement is "leading the
fight to protect American workers
and American jobs. We're stand­
ing up and demanding fair treat­
ment for our members and for all
workers throughout the nation-

MSC Vice Commander Praises
MTD Unions as 'Unsung Heroes'

•

The vice commander of the
U.S. Military Sealift
Command (MSC) lauded

MTD unions and their members
as "unsung heroes" who are "crit­
ical to our success and to the abil­
ity of the U.S. military to get the
job done."

Addressing the MTD conven­
tion last month in Las Vegas,
Rear Adm. John Stewart told the
officials, delegates and guests
that their respective unions are
essential to MSC 's mission of
providing the worldwide move­
ment of goods and materiel for
U.S. armed forces.

"Without your mariners,
Boilermakers, Sheet Metal Work­
ers, shipping company clerks,
Longshoremen and all the other
skilled workers who provide the
life's blood of this industry, we at
the Military Sealift Command
could not complete our mission,"
he stated. "Just as Military Sealift
Command personnel are consid­
ered the unsung heroes of the
Department of Defense, you and
your members are the unsung
heroes of the U.S. maritime
industry. Together, we're out
there on the seven seas, operating
in and through all 24 time zones
every day."

Stewart reviewed MSC's four
basic programs, which feature dif­
ferent types of civilian-crewed
military support vessels. These
include 29 naval fleet auxiliary
force ships. 24 oceanographic sur­
veillance vessels, 36 preposition­
ing ships and 30 "strategic sealift"
vessels. Altogether, they provide
food, fuel, armnunition and equip­
ment to U.S. forces, wherever and
whenever needed, as well as trans­
portation for the Department of
Defense. The vessels are main-

January 2002

c· c
tained in U.S. shipyards.

"The health of our U.S. mar­
itime industry is just as important
to MSC as it is to you. In short,
MSC needs you now and for the
years ahead," Stewart declared.
"I say thanks to each and every
one of you and to your members
who lift a hammer, wrench or
torch to our hulls and decks, and
thanks to those who maintain our
propulsion plants and operating
equipment. Because of you, we
don't lie awake at night worrying
about maintenance and repair. We
know it's going to get done and
it's going to get done well."

Turning his attention to
Operation Enduring Freedom,
Stewart noted, "Like all wars,
this one will take a lot of sup­
plies. Navy and Air Force bomb­
ing raids on Taliban strongholds
in Afghanistan can only happen if
our fighting forces get the muni­
tions they need. That's where all
of us come in. We're hauling
those munitions and the food and
fuel to keep air crews and planes
flying. Sustainment gear, food,
fuel, spare parts all come next for
any ground troops that remain in
the battle area for any prolonged
period of time. Again, Military
Sealift Command and the mar­
itime industry provide the core
capability to get the goods to the
war fighter where they're needed
and when they're needed."

He also applauded everyone
involved with the deployment of
the USNS Comfort (crewed by
members of the SIU's Govern­
ment Services Division) to New
York following the attacks on the
World Trade Center. The hospital
ship-underway well ahead of its
activation schedule-served as a
much-needed haven for rescue

Rear Adm. John Stewart,
MSC vice commander

workers at ground zero.
"The mission is completed by

the unsung heroes like yourselves
and your members who are out
there every day moving the
goods, providing the combat
equipment, food, fuel and other
gear to the forces around the
world and keeping our ships
operating," Stewart concluded.
"Together, as partners, we make
the system work. Together we're
building a stronger, more resilient
America, one that can respond to
any contingency and stay strong,
committed and ready. Together
we must continue to work for a
stronger U.S. maritime industry,
one which is able to attract and
retain the highly-skilled mariners
we have become so dependent
upon.

"Our MSC team receives
many kudos for the outstanding
job we do for the U.S. armed ser­
vices. Every time we •re told 'well
done,' it's a direct tribute to the
AFL-CIO Maritime Trades
Department, too."

IAFF President
Harold Schaitberger

and throughout the world, for that
matter. Obviously, it's a great
challenge. And we can't do it
alone. It's going to take labor,
business and government work­
ing together to stop this recession
and put people back to work.

"But we're going to make sure
that our members in the affected
industries get back on their feet,"
he continued. "We are going to
continue to make sure that the
policy makers hear and address
the concerns of all working peo­
ple."

Sweeney said that labor's
goals haven't changed since the
attacks, "except our work is now
more important than ever. The
union movement-our move­
ment of working families-is
now fighting wars on multiple
fronts. We're committed to stand­
ing with the president in fighting
the war against terrorism, here at
home and abroad, and we will not
rest until that battle is won."

As he continued, the federa­
tion president admonished certain
businesses and lawmakers for
their anti-worker actions. "We all
know we have to continue and
escalate the war and win another
war, and that's the battle against
terrorism in our workplaces. It's
the kind of battle the Maritime
Trades unions have been fighting
so valiantly on behalf of the off­
shore mariners and other workers
in the Gulf region," Sweeney
said. "Too many employers are
still committing too many acts of
harassment, intimidation and ter­
mination against workers who are
trying to form or join unions, and
we must bring it to a stop.

"As these last three months
have amply demonstrated, we
also have a continuing struggle
against conservatives in the
United States Congress who are
waging war against working fam­
ilies," he added. "Shortly after
September 11, we held a press
conference on Capitol Hill to
press for worker relief measures
in the Airline Bailout Bill. And
CWA President Morty Bahr
called the layoffs that had been
announced industrial genocide. I
agree with that characterization,
and in the weeks and months that
have gone by, I've grown angrier
by the day as I've watched the
conservative forces in Congress
try to block genuine worker
relief, tough airline security, and
effective economic stimulus leg­
islation.

'Tve become infuriated at

AF.L-CIO President
John Sweeney

their attempts to take advantage
of the cover provided by our
national emergency to advance
their anti-working family agenda,
more massive tax breaks for big
corporations and the wealthy,
more attacks on our social safety
nets and worker protections,
more sacrifice of American jobs
and incomes on the altar of
unregulated global trade."

Sweeny expressed support for
the Jones Act, cargo preference
and the Title XI loan guarantee
program, among other maritime
initiatives. He also commended
the MTD. "I really have a lot of
admiration for this department
and I have a tremendous amount
of admiration for your president.
Mike Sacco is so solid and so
strong and a good friend to all of
us. He is a great leader and a good
friend."

No speaker was more captivat­
ing than Schaitberger, who set up
staff operations near "ground
zero" hours after the collapse of
the World Trade Center.

"The images of September 11
are clearly and indelibly seared in
the souls of millions and millions
of Americans. For many of us in
this room, those images were
intensely personal, a tragedy of
truly epic proportions," the IAFF
president said, noting that several
other MTD affiliates lost mem­
bers in the attacks on New York,
Washington and Pennsylvania.
"In the days and weeks that fol­
lowed, my union put the collec­
tive arm of our 245,000 members
around the shoulders of our griev­
ing families and the 11,000 New
York firefighters who still had to
continue to do their job and pro­
vide protection for the five bor­
oughs in that great city of New
York."

Schaitberger said that the
union has raised more than $80
million to help "the families of
our firefighter victims," and he
repeatedly thanked fellow unions
for their support, financial and
otherwise.

He stated that the union
response reflects "the strength,
the compassion and love that
bonds all of us in this great labor
movement of ours together. I
have never been so proud or felt
so blessed to be part of organized
labor, to be affiliated with the
AFL-CIO than in the aftermath of
this horrific tragedy of September
11."

Noting that heroic union mem­
Continued on page 14

Seafarers LOS 11



Delegates to the 2001 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades
Department (MTD) convention called on Congress
to demonstrate backing for the U.S.-flag fleet by

supporting the Maritime Security Program, Title XI, cabo­
tage laws and other programs that promote a strong
American maritime industry. MTD and SIU President
Michael Sacco (right) chaired the conference, which took <)~A
place Nov. 29-30 in Las Vegas. Delegates from the MTD's 30 ~
affiliate unions and 24 port councils heard addresses from the
president of the AFL-CIO, the IAFF and the ITF, among many
other beneficial remarks. They considered numerous resolutions
dealing with issues that affect America's working families. Of
course, September 11 and its aftermath were discussed at length.
Kicking off the convention were the Clark County (Nev.)
Firefighters Honor Guard, consisting of IAFF Local 1908 mem-
bers Eric Poleski, Warren Whitney, Steve Petcoff, John
Wiercinski and Donald Price. Many delegates and guests are pic-
tured on these two pages.

Al Cernadas, Exec. VP, ILA
Nick Marrone, VP West Coast, SIU

Michael Goodwin,
President.

Harold Schaitberger,
President,

IAFF

Bill Lucy,
Sec. -Treasurer,

AF SC ME

Augie Tellez,
VP Contracts,

SIU

Joseph Hunt,
President,

Iron Workers

Dean Corgey,
VP Gulf Coast,

SIU

John Bowers,
President,

ILA

Ed Brown,
VP Atlantic,

ILA

12 Seafarers LOG

Charles Mercer,
President.

AFL-CIO Union
Label Dept.

OPEIU

Gerald Deneau,
Sec. -Treasurer,

GCIU

Henri Francois,
New Bedford Port

Agent, SIU

James Rankin,
President,

Glass Molders

Warren Mart,
VP,

Machinists

David Heindel,
Sec. -Treasurer,

SIU

Mike McKay, President, AMO
Bob McKay, Sec.-Treasurer, AMO

Dennis Metz, Baltimore Port Agent,
SIU; Jim McGee, Asst. VP Gulf

Coast, SIU

Ande Abbott,
Dir., Marine Div.,

Boilermakers

Larry Barber,
Exec. VP,
BCTGM

John Fay,
Exec. VP,

SIU

Whitey Disley,
President,

MFOW

Jack Wurm,
lnt'I VP,
RWDSU

Gunnar Lundeberg,
President,

SUP

Joe Soresi, Phil. Port Agent, SIU
Victor Nunez, San Juan Port Agent, SIU

January 2002



Gerald Deneau,
Sec. -Treasurer,

GCIU

Richard Cordtz,
President Emeritus,

SEIU

Roman Gralewicz,
President,

SIU Canada

Tai Simpkins,
Exec. Dir., AFL-CIO
Maritime Committee

January 2002

Michael Sacco,
President,

MTD and SIU

Frank Pecquex,
Exec. Sec.­

Treasurer, MTD

Robert Scardelletti, President, TCU
Howard Randolph, lnt'I VP. TCU

Richard Davis,
VP,

Steelworkers

Martin Byrne,
Exec. Asst. to

President,
Iron Workers

George McCartney,
Retired VP West

Coast, SIU

Becky Sleeper,
St. Louis Port

Agent, SIU

Larry O'Toole,
President,

MESA

Nick Celena,
Asst. VP West Coast,

SIU

John Cox, Wilmington Port Agent,
SIU; Don Thornton, Algonac Port

Agent, SIU

Richard Lanigan,
VP,

OPEIU

Jim Malone,
Representative,

SIU

David Cockroft,
Gen. Secretary,

ITF

Susan Phillips, International VP, UFCW
Hugh Walsh, Asst. to the president. CWA

Tony McQuay,
Jacksonville Port

Agent, SIU

Dennis Lundy,
Training Director,

OPEIU 501

John Baker, President, Cleveland Port
Council; Richard Hughes, Sec.­

Treasurer, ILA Atlantic

Vincent O'Reilly,
Senior Exec. Asst. to

president, IBEW

Capt. Tim Brown,
President,

MM&P

Joseph Mitchell,
Sec.-Treasurer,
Glass Molders

Rene Lioeanjie,
VP At Large,

SIU

Neil Dietz,
Honolulu Port Agent,

SIU

Seafarers LOS 13



ITF1s Cockroft Updates FOC Campaign
D avid Cockroft, general

secretary of the Inter­
national Transport Workers'

Federation (ITF), covered a num­
ber of key topics last month at the
MTD convention, including an
update on the long-running cam­
paign against flag-of-conve­
nience (FOC) shipping, also
known as runaway-flag shipping.

In addition, he described ITF
efforts to work with the govern­
ments of major maritime nations
and international bodies- includ­
ing the International Maritime
Organization, the International
Labor Organization and others
-"to re-establish a maritime
industry where standards are real­
ly enforced and practiced."

Like the other guest speakers,
Cockroft discussed the terrorist
attacks on America. However,
after extending condolences from
the London-based ITF, he sug­
gested a new perspective on
September 11-namely, that ter­
rorism in some ways parallels
runaway-flag shipping.

"September 11 has at least
concentrated the minds of the
United States government and of
virtually every other decent
member of the world community
on the shady world of money
laundering, corruption, shell
companies which give no clue of
their real ownership and of the
crucial need for world global
govemanc~" Cockroft said. "For
over 50 years, the ITF has been
arguing against the FOC system
as the earliest and the most obvi-

ous example ofa lack ofreal gov­
ernment control and responsibili­
ty. While there were already signs
that the real, genuine maritime
nations, including the United
States, were beginning to feel
more and more uncomfortable
about the human safety and pol­
lution effects of the FOC system,
the events after September 11
have intensified those concerns
enormously."

He cited a breaking ABC
News report that U.S. authorities
are hunting at least 20 ships
owned or operated by Osama bin
Laden. "When we learn which
flags they fly under, I will be very
surprised indeed if they aren't all
members of the ITF flags-of-con­
venience list," Cockroft stated.

Further, he compared mar­
itime and aviation security issues.
"We knew that there were prob­
lems with aviation security even
before September 11. Underpaid,
overworked, non-union contract
workers are not a great guarantee
of good security, and we applaud
Congress' decision to federalize
this business," Cockroft asserted.

"But those who know the mar­
itime industry know how easily
ships could also be used as terror­
ist weapons. Aircraft hijackings
are, thank God, rare occurrences.
But about one ship is hijacked
every week somewhere in the
world. And ships sail very close
sometimes to population centers,
which is why the ITF has strong­
ly supported efforts within the
International Maritime Organiza-

tion to tighten up security mea­
sures on board ship."

Highlighting the potential
dangers, the ITF official referred
to a well-publicized case from
last year in which he bought his
chief officer's license-issued by
Panama, the world's largest ship­
ping register-<lespite a complete
lack of shipboard experience.

"What was so appalling is just
how easy it was and the fact that
they were stupid enough to give it
to the head of an organization
which is, let's face it, not
unknown in the world maritime
community. One of the problems
with the shipping industry, and
one which is directly supported
by the FOC system, is the lack of
good government control over
the backgrounds and the qualifi­
cations of the people who serve
on board ship."

Cockroft also updated the con­
vention on the federation's new
campaign against the Liberian
register. According to a recent
United Nations report, the
Liberian government has chan­
neled money-collected through
the register-around UN sanc­
tions to buy and transport
weapons. Other reports charge
the government with encouraging
illicit diamond trading, some of
which may have been used to
help finance al Qaeda.

Lastly, Cockroft noted the
ITF's continued support of orga­
nizing efforts in the U.S. offshore
oil supply industry. "We believe
that American workers deserve

#o Tall Tale: 'Buying Union'
Benefits American Families

C hades Mercer, president of
the AFL-CIO Union Label
and Service Trades

Department, used a simple but
compelling story to illustrate the
importance of buying union­
made, American-made goods and
services.

Speaking at the MTD conven­
tion, Mercer summarized a fic­
tional-yet-realistic anecdote
about two households. In one, an
unemployed textile worker
whose factory was moved to
Mexico naively wonders why he
can't find a decent job. On a typ­
ical day, "Jim Jones" is depicted
using one foreign-made product
after another, from his alarm
clock to his clothes to his auto­
mobile.

In the other household, things

'A Beacon of Hope'

14 Seafarers LOG

are far better. There, the "Smith"
family utilizes nothing but union­
made, American-made goods and
services. And life is good.

Mercer quoted from a Union
Label publication called
"American Dream, Keeping It
Alive." And although the account
exaggerates to make its point, the
story nevertheless reinforces the
basic economic reality that con­
sumers in the U.S. wield a lot of
power with the purchases.

"If you want to describe how
the American worker has made a
better way of life for all ofus, this
story does it," Mercer stated.

He noted that union-made
products and services are listed in
a database on the Union Label
web site, located at www.union­
label.org. The site also includes

Charles Mercer, president, AFL­
CIO Union Label and Service
Trades Dept.

the department's latest "do buy"
and "don't buy" lists.

Mercer, whose department
runs the annual AFL-CIO Union
Industries Show, also thanked
MTD affiliates for their support
in the fight to preserve the
integrity of the "Made in USA"
label.

Exiled Burmese trade union leader U Maung Maung last month was
honored at the AFL-CIO convention, where he received the George
Meany-Lane Kirkland Human Rights Award for 2001. A week earlier,
shown in this photo, he updated MTD convention delegates and
guests on legislative and international efforts to assist Burmese citi­
zens. Maung Maung was president of the All Burma Mining Union
and active in the people's movement for democracy in 1988 when the
military shot 5,000 people demonstrating in the streets for democra­
cy. He fled to Thailand and has not seen his family in 13 years. In
1991 , he formed the Federation of Trade Unions, Burma. He also
helped found the Seafarers Union of Burma. He remains "a beacon
of hope for those yearning for a free Burma," stated SIU and MTD
President Michael Sacco.

the same rights as Norwegian,
British and Australian workers.
Together with maritime labor and
the AFL-CIO, we've entered a
formal complaint to the U.S. gov­
ernment under the new OECD
guidelines on multinational com­
panies to prove that corporate
social responsibility means let­
ting your workers choose freely
whether or not they want unions."

The SIU is one of 570 unions
affiliated with the ITF.
Altogether, those affiliates repre­
sent more than 5 million mem­
bers. ITF Gen. Sec. David Cockroft

Ed Kelly (second from right), SIU port agent in Mobile, Ala. and secre­
tary-treasurer of the MTD's Greater Mobile Port Maritime Council, pre­
sents a donation for the New York Fire Fighters 9/11 Fund to IAFF
President Harold Schaitberger (to Kelly's right) and IAFF Secretary­
Treasurer Vincent Bellon (far right) . They are joined by MTD and SIU
President Mic.t\ael SC:\,cco Nov. 29 dydng th~MTD c :{Sntion. The 1
tribution of $9,390 was raised from donations made in lieu of the port
council's annual dinner/dance.

MTD Delegates Examine
Effects of September 11
Continued from page 11

hers received a good amount of
well-earned media coverage for
their efforts during the actual
attacks in the ensuing months,
Schaitberger concluded, "We
must use the newfound recogni­
tion of our skills and our convic­
tion as a tool to secure adequate
and just compensation for all of
those who are suffering as a result
of this carnage. We must ensure
that an economic stimulus bill
provides financial assistance for
displaced workers. We must con­
tinue to fight for the Maritime

Security Program and demand
that funds for the Title XI
Shipbuilding Loan Guarantee
Program go forward.

"We have a job to do for those
who are left behind. We must
make sure that the government
provides care for families of all
the victims. We must also look
out for the welfare of the now
hundreds of thousands of workers
who have lost their jobs in the
continuing economic turndown
that our nation faces."

Alaska Port Council Chartered

During its biennial convention, the Maritime Trades Department
issued a charter for its 24lll port council-this one based in
Anchorage, Alaska. Proudly displaying the newly signed docu­
ment are (from left) MEBA Exec. VP Bud Jacque, SIU Rep Harold
Holten, MTD and SIU President Michael Sacco, Puget Sound
Port Council President Steve Demeroutis and MTD Exec.
Secretary-Treasurer Frank Pecquex.

January·2002



Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea
NOVEMBER 16 - DECEMBER 15, 2001

*TOTAL REGISTERED
All Groups

Class A Class B Class C

Port
Algonac
Baltimore
~m

5
0

Honolulu 10
Houston 23
Jacksonville 29
Mobile 13
New Orleans 24
New York 34
Norfolk 15
Philadelphia 2
Piney Point 0
Puerto Rico 9

· San Francisco 21
St. Louis 2
Tacoma 25
Wilmington 23
Totals 236

Port

1
2
2

0
2
1

9 2
13 7
25 6
10 4
11 6
18 16
16 4
4 2
3 0
7 1
7 7
3 2

15 10
11 6

157 76

TOTAL SHIPPED
All Groups

Class A Class B Class C

DECK DEPARTMENT
I l 0
3 2 0
2
8

18
27
10
13
16
11
1
2
4

15
4

29

3
3
7

15
7
8
8
9
0
3
7
9
2
9

0
4
4
7
1
6

10
6
0
0
3
4
0
9

Trip
Reliefs

0
1
1
2

13
16
3
9

12
7
0
1
8
9
0

19
23 9 6 7

187 102 60 108

ENGINE DEPARTMENT

**REGISTERED ON BEACH
All Groups

Class A Class B Class C

10
0

2
3
1

18 15
47 16
46 39
22 9
36 21
54 23
25 21

7 9
2 7

20 8
42 14

l 3
42 23
34 21

407 235

0
3
5
7

16
6

10
9

27
8
4
1
2
5
5

11
19

138

Algonac · 1
~--~~·~~~~

2
2 Baltimore 4

Guam 0
.Honolulu 4
Houston 20

. Jacksonville 25
Mobile 12
New Orleans 12
New York 10
Norfolk 6
Philadelphia 2
Piney Point

':"Puerto Riro~

Tacoma 16
Wilmington 3

T'
Port

· ~gonac
Baltimore

. Guam
Honolulu
Houston 17
Jacksonville 18
Mobile 6
New Orleans 6
~wYork 15
Norfolk 8
Philadelphia 2
Piney Point 2
:Puerto Rico 3

26

Tacoma 23
Wilmington 22
Totals 163
Port

3
3 2
0 0
3 2
6 7

20 8
4 0

12 3
. 12 7

12 2
1
2
:(f

1
l

18 10
5 3

. .5

0
.:• l

3 2
3 2
7 7
3 ': 1
2 "J
3 3
7 4

1 0 I
5 2 1
0 0 0
2 2 4 3

15 4 2 8
18 13 6 14
6 3 0 1
6 11 1 2
9 12 3 6
3
2
2
s
5
0

11
8

3 3
0 0
3 1
3 0
4_ - 0
1 2

12
7

7
3

5
0
3
2
3
1

14
3
7

STEWARD DEPARTMENT
-~ o ·o· o o

- 1 () 0 l
0 1 0 0
9 2 3 7
6 2 1 4

16 5 9
4 0 0 3
5 3 2

~!2 8
4 4 3 3

0 0 3 1
0
2
3
0
0
4

0
1
0
0
0

0
1
6

2 I 4

l 0 1
6 2 12
l (} 0 ----
2 1 15
5 18 0

15
0
7

15
47 25 110 28 12 81

ENTRY DEPARTMENT
~----,-0---..-. Algonac O 2 2

2 4
0
0
0

0
2

0
5
4
1
9
8
0
5
7
6
1

Baltimore 0
-Guam O
Honolulu 2
Houston 2
Jacksonville 3
fdob'e 0
New Orleans 2

• ~e)V Yorlf- 4
Norfolk 1
Philadelphia 0
Piney Point 0
Piierto Rico 3
San Francisco 5

_,St Louis 0
Tacoma 6
Wilmington 3
Totals 31

Totals All
Departments 566

2 4
8 24

13 7
15 21
2 .l
3 6

)3 2j
5 13
1 2

41 15
2 l

15 8
0 0

20 16
2 8

156 158

474 311

----
3
1
2
0
2
2
0
0
0
2
4
0
4
2

22

417

4
2

10
4
0

13
2
0

13
2
8
0

17
3

81

291

13
2
7
0
6
4

78

185 256

0 2
8 7
0 0

15 12
35 12
39 25
16 8
14 13
21 19
11 22
2 6
4 5

fle'. ~ ~2

17 9
5 4

20 17
12 5

. 2

0 1
5 0
0 1

14 6
26 5
32 10
10 7

.12 8

2_4 ~- 10
17 14
4
4
3

43 -

2 1
33 2
34 7

263 93

0
1
0

15
3
5
1
6
8
2
0
1
6

12
0

12
11
83

983

3
l
3

68
25
27
g

17
53
17
3

43
8

25
2

27
15

345

841

*"Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port.
**"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port.

January 2002

5
17
11
1
6

IO

I
I
1 ... --... - 1

2

8
5

76

0
- l

0
48
2

11
3

- 3
5
3
I
3
1
2
0
3
2

88

3
~ 1

---1

9 ___ 1

343
30
38
4 ~---·

18
63
25

6
7

18
1

44
31

642

944

Februa,., & llan:ll 2002
Membership Meetings

Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters

Piney Point ............. Monday: February 4. March 4

Algonac .................. Friday: February 8, March 8

Baltimore ................ Thursday: February 7, March 7

Boston ..................... Friday: February 8, March 8

Duluth ..................... Wednesday: February 13, March 13

Honolulu ................. Friday: February 15, March 15

Houston .................. Monday: February 11, March 11

Jacksonville ...... ,. .... Thursday: February 7~ March 7

Jersey City ........... .,.Wednesday: February 20, March 20

Mobile ........ n .......... Wednesday; Februaey 13, March 13

New Bedford ····; ;···Tuesday!.,february 19, March 19

New~Orleans~., ........• Tuesday:.February 12. March 12

NewYork ................ Tuesday; Febnuuy 5, March 5

Norfolk .............. , .... Thursday: February 7, March 7

Philadelphia ............ Wednesday: February 6, March 6

Port Everglades ....... Thursday: February l4; March 14

San Ftancisco ...••.. ~ .. Thursday:February l4, March 14

San .luau ....... ~:~.;:;~·;;.·'fhursdiY,j,,Februacy"o/~: March 7 -/~;.,:;.":

St. Louis ................. Friday: February 15, March 15

Personals

SCOTT MANLEY
Please call the Wallerstein family in Akron, Ohio at

(330) 384-8927.

PAULA KALIEKINI
Please call Mike ("Big Dog") at (650) 823-3532.

Holiday Greetings

The following holiday greetings arrived too late
for inclusion in the December issue of the LOG.

To Seafarers everywhere
My heartiest wishes for a very Merry Christmas

and smooth sailing into the year 2002 !
Gerry Borozan

To Randy Garay
To my friend who's made life a little easier for me.

Thanks and have a Merry Christmas.
Jim Holland

To Matthew, Malou and Maria Holley
We wish you a Merry Christmas and a safe, happy

new year. Love and miss you all.
Mom and Dad (Fred & Leila Holley)

To all Seafarers, active and retired, and shoreside
personnel ·

Compliments of the season and a bright, prosper­
ous new year which hopefully will bring continued
success to the best maritime union

Ricardo & Adeline Siddons

Seafarers LOG 15



•

.-

Seafarers lntemational Union
Directory

Michael Sacco, President

John Fay, Executive Vice President

David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer

Augustin Tellez. Vice President Contracts

Tom Orzechowski,
Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters

Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast

Nicholas J. Marrone, J!ice President West Coast

Kennett Mangram,
Vice President Government Services

Rene Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large

Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large . ..
HEADQUARTERS

5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746
(301) 899-0675

ALGONAC
520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 4800 I

(810) 794-4988

ALTON
325 Market St., Suite B, Alton, IL 62002

(618) 462-3456

ANCHORAGE
721 Sesame St., #IC, Anchorage, AK 99503

(907) 561-4988

BALTIMORE
2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224

(410) 327-4900

BOSTON
520 Dorchester Ave., Boston, MA 02127

(617) 269-7877

DULUTH
705 Medical Arts Building, Duluth, MN 55802

(218) 722-4110

GUAM
P.O. Box 23127, Barrigada, Guam 96921

125 Sunny Plaza, Suite 301-E
Tun Jesus Crisostomo St., Tamuning, Guam 96911

(671) 647-1350

HONOLULU
606 Kalibi St., Honolulu. HI 96819

(808) 845-5222

HOUSTON
1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002

(713) 659-5152

JACKSONVILLE
315 .biberty t., Jacksonvi le, L

(904) 353-0987

JERSEY CITY
99 Montgomery SL, Jersey City, NJ 07302

(201) 435-9424

MOBILE
1640 Dauphin lsland Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605

(251} 478-09 l 6

NEW BEDFORD
48 Union St.. New Bedford, MA 02740

(508) 997-5404

NEW ORLEANS
3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058

(504) 328-7545

NEW YORK
635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232

(718) 499-6600

NORFOLK
115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510

(757) 622-1892

PHILADELPHIA
2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148

(215} 336-3818

PINEY POINT
P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674

(301) 994-0010

PORT EVERGLADES
1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316

(954) 522-7984

SAN FRANCISCO
350 Fremont St.. San Francisco, CA 94105

(415) 543-5855
Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400

SANTURCE
1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16

Santurce, PR 00907
(787) 721-4033

ST. LOUIS
4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116

(314) 752-6500

SAVANNAH
2220 Bull St., Savannah. GA 31401

(912) 238-4958

TACO'.\fA
3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409

(253) 272-7774

WILMINGTON
510 N . Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744

(310) 549-4000

16 Seafarers LOG

l\TmV monthly Shipping A Registration Report

TOTAL REGISTERED
AU Groups

NOVEMBER

TOTAL SHIPPED
All Groups

REGISTERED ON BEACH
All Groups

Group I Group Il Group III Group I Group II Group III
Trip

Reliefs Group I Group II Group III

Port

Boston
Houston
Harvey, LA

New York
Norfolk
San Pedro
Savannah
Tacoma
Totals

Port

Boston
Houston
Harvey, LA

New York
Norfolk
San Pedro
Savannah
Tacoma
Totals

5
11
2

10

3
12
3
4

50

4
4

3

11
4

8

1
36

2
0
0
1
0
0
0
2
5

0
0

0

0
1
0
3

0

0

0
0

0

3

0
0

0

0

0
0

0
1

DECK DEPARTMENT

5 0 0
3 0
2
4
2
4
2

23

0
0

0
0
0
0

0

0

0
0
0
0
0
1

ENGINE DEPARTMENT

0
2

9
3

1
l
0

17

0
0
0
0
0

0
0
0
0

0
l
0
1
0

0
0

0
2

0
9
9
8
0

14
2
5

47

3
3

4
5
0

10

3
29

0

35
12
52

8
7
9
5

128

23

11

3
42
7

19
6

11
122

0
4
1
8
0

11
2
5

31

6
4
2
2

0
29

2
0

45

0
3

4
0
2

0

11

2
2
0
1
0
8
0

0
13

Port

Boston
Houston
Harvey, LA
New York
Norfolk
San Pedro
Savannah
Tacoma
Totals

STEWARD DEPARTMENT

3
2
2
0

I
3
2

I

0
0
0
0

0
0
0

0
0

4 0 0

14

1

0
0

0
0
0
3

0
4

4
0
0
2
0

14

0
0
0
0

0
0

0
0

0

0
0

0
0
0
0
0

Port ENTRY DEPARTMENT

Boston
Houston
Harvey, LA
New York
Norfolk
San Pedro
Savannah
Tacoma
Totals

0
2
0
3

0
6
0
0

2
2
0
4
0
0
2

2

0 0 l
2

0
2
0
0
2
7

0 0 0

0 0 1
0 0 0
0 0 0

11

Totals All
Departments 111

12

23

14

18

0
0

0

0

54

PIG-FROM-THE-PAST

0
0

0

0

0

These photos were sent to the Seafarers LOG by Leon D.
Sizemore of Eustis, Fla. The picture below shows Claude "Sonny"
Simmons (at right) on his last ship, the Canton Victory (photo at
right), in 1948. After that, he was invited by SIU President Paul
Hall to work at headquarters. Simmons, who was SIU vice presi­
dent in charge of contracts and contract enforcement when he
died in 1962, had been a member of the SIU since its founding in
1938. Behind him in the black cap is Al Driver. The other two men
are not identified.

0
0

0

2

5

0
0

1

0
7
0
2

11

0
7
1
3

0
7
1
3

22

109

0
7
3

10

6
4
7

0
37

0
7
7

21
0

20
0
0

55

342

0
0
3
3

0

9

11
3

27

0
27

5
39

112

197

0
0
0
I
0

13
0
0

14

9

22
0

14

6
9

61

99

Sizemore started sailing with the union in
1945, got drafted into the U.S. Army in 1951 and
was discharged in 1953. He then worked ashore
for more than 35 years before retiring .

If anyone has a vintage union-related photo­
graph he or she would like to share with the LOG
readership, please send it to the Seafarers LOG,
5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746.
Photographs will be returned, if so requested.

January 2002



An inland captain, a recerti­
fied bosun and a recertified
steward are among the 15

Seafarers announcing their retire­
ments this month. Francis
Benedict controlled the helm of
vessels in the inland division for
some 25 years while Konstan­
tinos Koutouras and Claude C.
Hollings III completed the high­
est levels of training available to
members of the deck and steward
departments, respectively, at the
SIU's training school in Piney
Point, Md.

Eleven of the retirees sailed in
the deep sea division. Three,
including Benedict, navigated the
inland waterways, and one was in
the railroad marine division. Six
of the retirees worked in the deck
department, five shipped in the
engine department and four sailed
in the steward department.

On this page, the Seafarers
LOG presents brief biographical
accounts of the retiring Seafarers.

DEEP SEA
MICKIE
FREDER­
ICK, 68,
started her
career with
the Seafarers
in [ 987 in the
port of
Honolulu.

Born in Idaho, Sister Frederick
shipped as a member of the stew­
ard department. She spent the
ma· · ai ing
aboard vessels operated by
American Hawaii Cruises, Inc.
including the SS Independence
and ms Patriot. A frequent
upgrader, she enhanced her skills
in 1993, 1994 and again last year
at the Seafarers training school in
Piney Point, Md. Sister Frederick
currently calls McKinney, Texas
home.

OSVALDO
GONZALEZ,
65, hails from
Ponce, Puerto
Rico. Brother
Gonzales
began his SIU
career in 1971
in the port of
New York. He served in the U.S.
Army from 1959 to 1961. Brother
Gonzalez first sailed on a Hudson
Waterways vessel. A member of
the deck department, he upgraded
his skills at the Seafarers training
school in 1975. He last worked
aboard the Sea-Land Expedition.
Brother Gonzales resides in his
native commonwealth.

KELLYR.
GRAHAM,
62, joined the
Seafarers in
1964. Brother
Graham's ini­
tial sea voy­
age was
aboard

Waterman Steamship Corp. 's
Topa Topa. The Texas native
shipped in the engine department.
He upgraded his skills in 1981,
1991 and 1997 at the Paul Hall
Cente for Maritime Training and
Education in Piney Point, Md.
Brother Graham last shipped on
the Liberty Star, operated by
Liberty Maritime Corp. He makes
his home in Houston.

January 2002

ROBERT
HARRELL,
70, began his
SIU career in
1966 joining
in the port of
San Francisco.
Brother
Harrell served
in the U.S. Army from 1948 to
1952. He first sailed on Water­
man Steamship Corp. 's Meridian
Victory. The Texas native worked
in the engine department and last
went to sea aboard the Sea-Land
Navigator. Brother Harrell calls
Brenham, Texas home.

CLAUDE C.
HOLLINGS
m, 61, started
his career with
the Seafarers
in 1959 in the
port of
Mobile, Ala.
Brother

Hollings first went to sea aboard
a vessel operated by A.H. Bull
Steamship Co. The Alabama
native shipped in the steward
department and upgraded his
skills in 1981 and 1999 at the
Seafarers training school in Piney
Point, Md. Brother Hollings com­
pleted steward recertification
training in 1984. His most recent
voyage was aboard the Overseas
Vivian , a Vivian Tankships Corp.
operated vessel. He resides in his
native state.

CHRISTIE
N.
JOHNSON,
64, hails from
Mississippi.
He started his
career with the
Seafarers in
1958 in the
port of Houston. Brother
Johnson's first SIU voyage was
aboard the Beaugard, a Sea-Land
Service vessel. He shipped in the
deck department and last sailed
on Liberty Maritime Corp. 's
Liberty Wave. Brother Johnson is
a resident of Eupora, Miss.

KONSTAN­
TINOSKOU­
TOURAS, 62,
was born in
Greece. He
started his
career with the
Seafarers in
1967 in the

port of New York. Brother
Koutouras first sailed aboard the
Bowling Green, operated by Pan
American Tankers. A member of
the deck department and a recerti­
fied bosun, he upgraded his skills
at the Seafarers training school in
1983, 1996 and 1997. Brother
Koutouras last went to sea on
U.S. Ship Management's
Integrity. He lives in his native
country.

SAEED
MUFLAHI,
58, joined the
Seafarers in
1976 in
Seattle. The
Yemen-born
mariner first
went to sea
aboard the Sea-Land Portland.
Brother Muflahi sailed in both the

Welcome Ashore
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 waterways 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.

engine and steward departments
during his career. His last voyage
was aboard lnterocean Ugland
Management Corp. 's El Morro.
Brother Muflahi now calls San
Francisco home.

.--==-----. ALFRED
PENA, 65, is
a native of
Honduras. He
started his SIU
career in
1967. Brother
Pena first
sailed aboard

a Marine Carriers Corp. vessel.
The engine department member
last went to sea on an Anchorage
Tankship Corp. vessel. Brother
Pena is a resident of Houston.

JOSE A.
SANTIAGO,
65, joined the
Seafarers in
1972 in the
port of New
York. Brother
Santiago first
shipped
aboard the Sea-Land Phila­
delphia. Born in Puerto Rico, he
sailed in the steward department.
Brother Santiago upgraded his
skills at the Seafarers Harry
Lundeberg School of Seamanship
in Piney Point, Md. in 1975 and
again in 1977. He last went to sea
on the Sea-Land Hawaii. Brother
Santiago lives in his native com-

o eal · e ci f
Aguadilla.

EFRAIN VELAZQUEZ, 65,
was born in Puerto Rico. He
started his SIU career in 1969 in
the port of New York. Brother
Velazquez's first sea voyage was
aboard Victory Carriers Inc. 's

Ames Victory.
The engine
department
member
upgraded his
skills at the
Seafarers
training school
in 1975 and

1977. He last worked aboard the
Sea-Land Producer. Brother
Velazquez resides in the com­
monwealth of his birth.

INLAND

FRANCIS
BENEDICT,
65, hails from
Louisiana. He
started his SIU
career in 1956
in the port of
New Orleans.
A captain,
Boatman Benedict shipped in the
deck department. He worked pri­
marily at the helms of vessels
operated by Dixie Carriers. He
still resides in his native state.

WALTONF.
McHORNEY,
62, started his
career with the
Seafarers in
1967 in the
port of
Norfolk, Va.
Ba

McHorney first shipped aboard
an Allied Towing Co. vessel.
Born in Virginia, he worked in
the steward department. His final
voyage was on an Express
Marine, Inc. vesse]. Boatman
McHorney makes his home in
Virginia Beach, Va.

ROBERT S. SUMMERS, 72,
began his SIU career in 1974. His
initial voyage with the Seafarers
was aboard an inland vessel.
Born in Missouri, Boatman
Summers sailed in the deck
department. He last worked
aboard a Northern Towing Co.,
Inc. vessel. Boatman Summers
resides in Marble Hill, Mo.

RAILROAD MARINE
THEO­
PHILOUSG.
WALLACE,
71, was born
in Guyana. He
started his
career with the
Seafarers in
1970 in the
port of New York. His initial SIU
voyage was aboard a Brooklyn
Eastern District Terminal
Railroad vessel. Boatman Wallace
shipped in the deck department.
He last sailed on a New York
Dock Railway Co. vessel.
Boatman Wallace makes his
home in Brooklyn, N.Y

Reprinted from past issues of the Se3farers LOG steward-that they would have to tum to
within practically hours' notice. The U.S. gov~
emment is in the process of breaking out 11 0
ships for coal and grain runs and MSTS and
other sources are reporting difficulty scouring
up men who can do the job.

1941
Jn an election conducted by the National
Labor Relations Board on the ships owned and
operated by Robin Line (Seas Shipping
Company), the SIU was the winner by an
ovetwhelming majority. Of the 210 men who
were eligible to vote, 201 actually voted,. with
199 vptlrig .in favor of the SIU. There was

1967
Seafarers at regular monthly meetings In all
constitutional Ports enthusiastically voted to

one crew member re==========~==============================~ endorse and support
the newly formed
Maritime Defense
league. In approving
the purposes of the
new organization, the

who voted aga(nst the
union and one whose
ballot was declared
void. This election
was a direct result of
th~ cQntracts. being.

THIS MONTH
IN SIU HISTORY

membership called for
maximum publicity in negotiated by the:

SJU. ~;:;;;;;:;;;;;:;;;;;:;;;;;:;;;;;:;;;;==:==:;:;;;;==::==:==:==:=:~ support of the league

1957
In anticipation of emergency shipping needs,
the SIU built up a "ready reserve" of
Seafarers working ashore. After the Korean
War crisis, the union, over several years,
developed a detailed and accurate listing of
thousands of men who were available as emer­
gency-period seamen. Arranged on an area
and then on a port basis, the reserve manpow·
er crew is in constant touch with SIU head­
quarters. Thus, the union is in a position to
supply the needed ratings-deck, engine and

by all Seafarers.

The new organization is a voluntary body set
up to assure that maritime workers, faced with
legal problems or charges threatening their
personal liberties, are assured their fundamen­
tal American tights to counsel and other assis­
tance. Robert A. Matthews, SIU vice presi­
dent in charge of contracts and contract
enforcement, has been selected chairman of
the Maritime Defense League, and offices have
been established on One Hanson Place In
Brooklyn, N.Y.

Seafarers LOS 17

-



final Departura
DEEP SEA

WILLIE BARRON
Pensioner
Willie Barron,
92, passed away
Nov. 13.
Brother Barron
began his SIU
career in 1959
in the port of
New York. Born

--...3''""---- in Alabama, he
first sailed aboard Suwannee
Steamship Co. 's Timber Hitch. The
engine department member last went
to sea aboard a Michigan Tankers,
Inc. vessel. Brother Barron started
receiving compensation for his
retirement in 1975. He was a resi­
dent of Troy, Ala.

JOHN BENNETT
Pensioner John
Bennett, 72,
died Sept. 22.
He started his
career with the
Seafarers in
1960 in the port
ofNewYork.
Brother Bennett
served in the

U.S. Army from 1946 to 1949. He
initially sailed aboard a Tiger
Steamship LTD vessel. Born in
Michigan, Brother Bennett worked
in the steward department. His final
voyage was aboard the Sea-Land
Mariner. Brother Bennett started
receiving his retirement pay in 1986.
He lived in Los Angeles.

GORDEN BRADFORD •••ri Pensioner
Gorden
Bradford, 77,
passed away
Sept. 19.
Brother
Bradford began
his SIU career
in 1959 in

"'"----!~""=I Seattle. He
served in the U.S. Army from 1943
to 1946. Brother Bradford first
sailed aboard an Ocean Clipper, Inc.
~vessel. The Tacoma, Wash. native
worked in the deck department. He
last went to sea on the Sea-Land
Mariner. Brother Bradford began
receiving his pension in 1988. He
resided in Seattle.

ROBERT CAMPBELL
Pensioner
Robert
Campbell, 76,
died Sept. 30.
He began his
career with the
Seafarers in
1946, joining in
the port of New
York. The

Georgia native first went to sea
aboard Calmar Steamship Corp. 's
Penmar. Brother Campbell shipped
in the steward department. He last
sailed on the LNG Taurus. Brother
Campbell started collecting his
retirement benefits in 1985. He
made his home in Hephzibah, Ga.

WILLIE CROMWELL
Pensioner
Willie
Cromwell, 75,
passed away
Sept. 28.
Brother
Cromwell
joined the
Seafarers in

~=~====-;:_;__i 1972 in Seattle.
Born in Mississippi, he served in the
U.S. Army from 1944 to 1946. He
first shipped aboard Delta Steamship
Lines 's Santa Mariana. The steward
department member last sailed on
the Westward Venture, an lnterocean
Ugland Management Corp. vessel.
Brother Cromwell started receiving

18 Seafarers LOS

his retirement pay in 1991. He called
Seattle home.

ARNOLD J. ECKERT
Pensioner
Arnold J.
Eckert, 65, died
Aug. 23. He
started his SIU
career in 1963,
joining in the
port of New
York. Brother
Eckert was born

in Canada and served in the U.S.
Army National Guard from 1954 to
1962. He first went to sea on the
Hastings, a Waterman Steamship
Corp. vessel. The deck department
member last worked aboard the
Anchorage, operated by CSX Lines.
Brother Eckert started receiving his
pension in 1999. He made his home
in Seattle.

GEORGE GLENNON
Pensioner
George
Glennon, 78,
passed away
Oct. 20.
Brother
Glennon began
his career with
the Seafarers in

i.........-..... _ ____.:;;&..L _ _,J 1948, joining in
the port of New York. He served in
the U.S. Navy from 1941 to 1944.
The Wisconsin native first sailed on
the Steel Design, an Isco, Inc. ves­
sel. Brother Glennon shipped in the
deck department and last worked
aboard Interocean Management's
Export Leader. He started receiving
compensation for his retirement in
1985. Brother Glennon lived in
Bluefield, W.Va.

EXEQUIEL LIWAG
Pepsi oner
Exequiel
Liwag, 73, died
Nov. 22. He
started his SIU
career in 1967,
joining in the
port of Norfolk,
Va. Brother -
Liwag served in

the U.S. Navy from 1946 to 1967.
His first ship was Waterman
Steamship Corp. 's De Soto. Born in
the Philippines, Brother Liwag
worked in the engine department. He
last went to sea on the USNS Altair,
operated by Bay Ship Management,
Inc. Brother Liwag began receiving
his pension in 1993. He resided in
Norfolk, Va.

GODOFREDO MELAD
Brother
Godofredo
Melad, 69,
passed away
Oct. 27. Born in
the Philippines,
be started his
career with the
Seafarers in
1988 in the port

of Honolulu. Brother Melad's initial
voyage was aboard American
Hawaii Cruises' SS Independence.
He shipped as a member of the stew­
ard department. Brother Melad last
sailed on the Mokihana, a vessel
operated by Matson Navigation Co.
San Francisco was his home.

REGINALD MELVILLE
Pensioner
Reginald
Melville, 75,
died Oct. 6.
Brother
Melville began
his career with
the Seafarers in
1953, joining in
the port of New

York. He first went to sea aboard the
President Theodore Roosevelt. Born

in Guyana, be worked in the steward
department. His final voyage was
aboard Puerto Rico Marine
Management Inc. 's Borinquen.
Brother Melville started receiving
his retirement stipend in 1988. He
lived in Teaneck, N .J.

CHARLES R. MILLER
Pensioner
Charles R.
Miller, 76,
passed away
Oct. 31. Brother
Miller joined
the Seafarers in
1951 in
Cleveland. He

........... .:...a:...;:""'-"'" served in the
U.S. Army from 1943 to 1946. Born
in New Jersey, he sailed in both the
deep sea and Great Lakes divisions.
Brother Miller first sailed aboard a
Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. A
member of the deck department, he
last sailed on the A Guthrie, operat­
ed by Great Lakes Associates, Inc.
Brother Miller started receiving his
pension in 1983. He made bis home
in Salem, Va.

ALVIN RASMUSSEN
Pensioner Alvin
Rasmussen, 83
died Nov. 12.
Brother
Rasmussen
started his
career with the
Marine Cooks

' and Stewards
(MC&S) in San

Francisco. Born in California, the
steward department member began
receiving his pension in 1977. He
was a resident of Coconut Creek,
Fla.

VINCENT SHERWOOD
Pensioner
Vincent
Sherwood, 73,
passed away
Oct. 10. He
started his SIU
career in 1951,
joining in the
port of Norfolk,
Va. Brother

Sherwood first went to sea aboard
the Longview Victory, operated by
Victory Carriers, Inc. Born in
Virginia, he shipped in the engine
department. His final voyage was on
the Manataee, a vessel operated by
Z Point Shipping. Brother Sherwood
began receiving his retirement
income in 1984. He resided in
Chesapeake, Va.

JAMES SHIBER
Pensioner James
Shiber, 79, died
Oct. 17. Brother
Shiber started
his career with
the Seafarers in
194 2 in the port
ofNewYork.
He served in the
U.S. Navy from

1942 to 1945. His initial voyage
with the SIU was aboard the Alcoa
Leader, operated by Alcoa
Steamship Co. The Pennsylvania
native shipt'ed as a member of the
engine department. He last went to
sea on A.H. Bull Lines' Sands Point.
Brother Shiber started drawing
annuities for his retirement in 1964.
Baltimore was his home.

JOSE SOARES
Pensioner Jose
Soares, 93,
passed away
Sept. 6. Brother
Soares joined
the Seafarers in
1943 in the port
ofNewYork.
He first sailed
on the Helen,

an Olympic Transport vessel. Born
in Portugal, he shipped as a member
of the deck department. Brother
Soares last worked aboard Calamar
Lines ' Ca/amar. He started collect­
ing his retirement allowance in
1970. Brother Soares resided in his
native country.

OSCAR SORENSON
Pensioner Oscar
Sorenson, 84,
died Nov. 11.
Brother
Sorenson start­
ed his career
with the
Seafarers in
1944 in the port

'-------'of New York.
He first sailed on Southern States
Navigation's Taddei Victory. A
native of Winchester, Wis., he
worked in the steward department.
Brother Sorenson last went to sea
aboard the Sea-Land Newark. He
began collecting his retirement pay
in 1978. Brother Sorenson made his
home in Bremerton, Wash.

LIONEL ST. JULIEN
Brother Lionel
St. Julien, 74,
passed away
Oct. 16. He
started his SIU
career in 1975,
joining in the
port of
Wilmington ,
Calif. Brother

St. Julien served in the U.S. Army
from 1952 to 1955. His initial voy­
age was aboard Delta Steamship
Lines' Santa Mercedes. Born in
Texas, he shipped in the steward
department. Brother St. Julien last
sailed aboard the Overseas Arctic,
operated by Overseas Bulk Trans­
port Corp. He was a resident of Los
Angeles. r

ADRIAN TEXIDOR
.--------.,,,,.......--__,Pensioner

Adrian Texidor,
76, died Nov.
15. Brother
Texidor joined
the Seafarers in
1951 in the port
of New York.
He first sailed
aboard a vessel

operated by A.H. Bull Steamship
Co. Born in Puerto Rico, he worked
in the engine department. His final
voyage was on the Jacksonville, a
CSX Lines vessel. Brother Texidor
started collecting compensation for
his retirement in 1981. He resided in
his native commonwealth.

GREAT LAKES

EDWARD LISZEWSKI
Pensioner Edward Liszewski, 70,
died Oct. 24. He started his SIU
career in 1960 in Detroit. Brother

Liszewski
served in the
U.S. Navy from
1955 to 1957.
The Ohio
native 's initial
voyage for the

' SIU was aboard
a vessel operat­
ed by Great

Lakes Associates, Inc. The engine
department member last worked on
the Kinsman Enterprise, another
Great Lakes Associates vessel.
Brother Liszewski started receiving
bis retirement stipend in 1996. He
made his home in Twinsburg, Ohio.

INLAND

JOHNNIE COLEMAN
Pensioner
Johnnie
Coleman, 78,
passed away
Oct. 1. Boatman
Coleman started
his SIU career
in 1979. Born
in Alabama, he
worked primari­

ly aboard Dravo Basic Materials Co.
vessels. He shipped as a member of
the deck department. Boatman
Coleman began receiving compensa­
tion for his retirement in 1989.
Jackson, Ala. was his home.

MARVIN RALEY
Pensioner
Marvin Raley,
67, died Sept.
25. He started
his career with
the Seafarers in
1956 in the port
of Mobile, Ala.
Boatman Raley
was a veteran of

the U.S. Marine Corps, joining in
1953. He sailed in the deep sea and
inland divisions during his career.
His initial voyage was aboard
Waterman Steamship Corp. 's City of
Alma. The deck department member
last worked aboard a Crescent
Towing and Salvage Co., Inc. vessel.
Boatman Raley started receiving-his
retirement benefits in 1993. He
resided in Mobile, Ala.

RAILROAD MARINE

WILLIAM R. FORREST
Pensioner William R. Forrest, 82,
died Oct. 21. He started his career
with the Seafarers in 1960 in the
port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Forrest
served in the U.S. Navy from 1944
to 1945. Born in Portsmouth, Va, he
spent his entire career working
aboard vessels operated by
Pennsylvania Central Railroad Co. A
member of the deck department, be
worked as a barge captain. Brother
Forrest started receiving his retire­
ment compensation in 1969. He
made his home in Matthews, Va.

Notice: 'Pre-STCW' Applications . ~Ji

Seafarers who have the required sea time and
who are considering either upgrading to AB,
FOWT or QMED or sitting for a license1 can go to
any U.S. Coast Guard regional exam center
(REC) before Feb. 1, 2002 and get an applica­
tion to take the examination(s) under pre-STCW
conditions. This application will be valid for one
year.

The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and
Education offers the necessary preparatory ···
courses to assist students in readying for the
exams. '°.:

January 2002



Digest of Shipboard
Union Meetings

The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard
minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space

limitations, some will be omitted.

Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department.
Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union

upon receipt of the ships' minutes. The minutes are then forwarded
to the Seafarers LOG for publication.

DEFENDER (U.S. Ship Manage­
ment Co.), Sept. 16-Chairman
Kissinfor N. Taylor, Secretary
Richard E. Casuga, Educational
Director Hardin C. Chancey,
Engine Delegate Horst G.
Baetjer, Steward Delegate Ernest
Polk. Chairman thanked crew for
working well together. Secretary
reminded members to clean rooms
and have set of linen for next per­
son when leaving ship in Oakland,
Calif. He also reminded everyone
of importance of contributing to
SPAD for job security. Educational
director advised crew members to
have TRBs signed by chief mate.
Clarification requested by deck
department on watchstanding.
New radio requested for crew
lounge. Next ports: Yokohama and
Nagasaki, Japan; Pusan, S. Korea.

INTEGRITY (U.S. Ship Manage­
ment Co.), Sept. 30-Chairman
Domingo Leon Jr., Secretary
Stephanie L. Sizemore, Educa­
tional Director Brian J. Senge­
laub, Deck Delegate Daniel W.
Miller, Engine Delegate Conrado
D. Martinez. Bosun reported good
trip and great weather. He noted
extra security measures being
taken. U.S. Coast Guard will board
ship upon arrival in U.S. waters.
Secretary stated vessel will try dif­
ferent chandler in Houston for
proand with fewer shortages. No

Suggested OT be paid for stripping
and waxing wheelhouse and 06
stairwell. Vote of thanks given to
trainees on board ship. One minute
of silence stood in memory of
departed brothers and sisters as
well as the victims of recent terror­
ist attacks on U.S.

NORTHERN LIGHTS (IUM),
Sept. 28--Chairman John 0.
Glenn, Secretary Alphonso Davis,
Educational Director Glenn Snow,
Deck Delegate Amin M. Shariff,
Engine Delegate Steven A. Lom­
bardi, Steward Delegate Leroy
Jenkins. Chairman announced
payoff Oct. 1 in Tacoma, Wash. He
advised crew members to make
sure they comply with STCW reg­
ulations. Feb. 1, 2002 is near and
no one wants to lose employment
because of failure to renew train­
ing. Educational director talked
about upgrading classes offered at
Piney Point. No beefs or disputed
OT reported. Recommendation
made to raise pension benefits.
Clarification requested about safe­
ty shoes. Vote of thanks given to
steward department for job well
done.

SEALAND COMMITMENT
(U.S. Ship Management Co.),

advantage of educational facilities
at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or
disputed OT reported. Suggestion
made to have gym set up for unli­
censed members. Vote of thanks
given to steward department for
good food and delicious barbecue.

COAST RANGE (Crowley
Petroleum), Oct. 5--Chairman
John T. Mossbarger, Secretary
Lanette A. Lopez, Educational
Director Alex Resendez III, Deck
Delegate Stephen D. Castle,
Steward Delegate Mary L.
Brayman. Chairman talked about
restriction to ship claims. He stat­
ed correspondence was received
from the Seafarers Executive
Board and President Michael
Sacco advising everyone that
restriction to ship claims are not
valid and asking for crew mem­
bers' cooperation during this time
of national crisis. Secretary report­
ed on Coast Guard guidelines
issued and security procedures for
refineries. No beefs or disputed
OT noted. Discussion held about
negotiations for next contract.
Everyone asked to keep linen lock­
er in good order. Next ports: Los
Angeles; Ferndale, Wash.

LIBERTY GLORY (Liberty
Maritime), Oct. 6--Chairman
Juan M. Rivas, Secretary
Michael L. Baker, Deck Delegate
Robert C. Hoppenworth, Engine
Delegate Marcos Hill. Chairman
announced arrival Oct. 7 in
Panama. He stated letter received
about possible extension due to
war in Afghanistan and that getting
reliefs may be difficult. Everyone
should step up and do their part.
Steward asked all members getting
off to return dirty linen to locker
and leave rooms clean. Staffing
concern raised by steward dele­
gate. Vote of thanks given to stew­
ard and unlicensed apprentice
Jerry Wilder for their hard work.

LIBERTY WAVE (Liberty
or di d 0 orted.

Suggestion made for contrac'ts '
department to negotiate 15-minute
break for four hours work after
1800. Crew laundry in need of
new washer and dryer. Repair of
antenna in crew lounge requested.
Vote of thanks given to steward
department. Next ports: Elizabeth,
N.J.; Charleston, S.C.; Miami,
Fla., Houston, Texas.

~""M1arn:· "rme), Oct. -e airmarr -
John J. Williamson, Secretary
Frederick L. Washington Sr.,
Educational Director Ronald
Miller Jr., Deck Delegate Solo­
mon H. Shields, Steward Delegate
Jorge Bernardez. Chairman

Sept. 23--Chairman Jim Hassan,
Secretary Jerome Jordan, Educa­
tional Director Panagiotis C.
Kanavos, Deck Delegate James
K. Barrett, teward Delegate
William Simmons. Chairman
announced payoff Sept. 30 in
Elizabeth, NJ. He thanked all
departments for working well
together. Educational director
reminded crew of need to comply
with amended STCW convention
by Feb. 1, 2002 and to take advan­
tage of upgrading opportunities at
Paul Hall Center. No beefs or dis­
puted OT reported. Vote of thanks
given to steward department for
job well done and excellent meals.

/TB NEW YORK (Sheridan
Transportation Corp.), Sept. 30-
Chairman Stephen J. Argay,
Secretary Virgilio A. Donghit,
Educational Director John K.
Bimpong, Deck Delegate Randy
Diaz, Engine Delegate Nicholas
Jones, Steward Delegate Breon A.
Lucas. Bosun thanked crew for
cooperation in separating garbage
and plastic items. He asked every­
one to keep volume down while
watching videos and reminded
them to rewind and return tapes
when finished. Secretary stated all
departments doing well. He
encouraged crew members to
upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center
in Piney Point, Md. and check
expiration dates on shipping docu­
ments. No beefs or disputed OT
reported. Problem noted with TV
reception. Thanks given to steward
department for good food. Next
ports: Port Everglades and Jack­
sonville, Fla.

MOTIVATOR (U.S. Ship Manage­
ment Co.), Sept. 23-Secretary
Edward C. Winne. Chairman
read portions of latest LOG and
new contract highlights. Educa­
tional director suggested everyone
attend upgrading courses at Paul
Hall Center and make sure STCW
training is up to date. No beefs or
disputed OT reported. Requests
made to have copy of payroll
voucher two days before payoff
and have mail forwarded to next
port of call if it missed ship in
port-and not back to sender.

January 2002

USNS ABLE (Maersk Lines
Ltd.), Sept. 13--Chairman
William B. Fielding, Secretary
Roderick L. Clay, Educational
Director Andrew J. Linares, Deck
Delegate David Alexander III.
Chairman told crew members to
prepare to gear up for another mis­
sion following terrorist actions of
Sept. 11. Secretary confirmed
increase in dues to $400 annually.
Educational director encouraged
everyone to upgrade skills at Piney
Point and to remember to send
copies of discharges along with
application. No beefs or disputed
OT reported. Request made for
current union meeting materials.
Steward department praised for
their hard work.

CLEVELAND (Sealift, Inc.), Oct.
14--Chairman Donald P. Snead,
Secretary Miguel E. Vinca,
Educational Director Vincent
Sanchez ID, Deck Delegate
James Browne, Steward Delegate
Henry Commager. Chairman
announced layup of ship and said
all crew members should register
within 48 hours. Secretary stated
payoff to be held Oct. 18 in Lake
Charles, La. Room inspection will
take place prior to payoff. Every­
one asked to continue helping keep
vessel clean and separating gar­
bage and plastics. Educational
director encouraged crew to take

announced payoff Oct. 30 in New
Orleans. Secretary asked all mem­
bers getting off to clean rooms,
refrigerators and tum in keys.
Educational director urged every­
one to take advantage of union
school in Piney Point and upgrade
whenever possible. Some disputed
OT reported in deck and engine
departments. Problems also report­
ed with heating system, draws,
broken juice machine and TV.

LNG GEMINI (PRONAV Ship
Management), Oct. ?-Chairman
Jack J. Cooper, Secretary John
D. Bukowsky, Educational
Director Jeffrey D. Levie, Deck
Delegate Scott E. Snodgrass,
Engine Delegate Steven M.
Hoskins, Steward Delegate Jose
E. Guzman. Chairman requested
clarification on penalty rates for
Sunday meetings of ship's com­
mittee. Secretary announced cut­
backs in provisions and noted
some fresh stores now delivered in
Bontang, Indonesia. Educational
director noted need to get required
STCW training by Feb. 1, 2002.
Treasurer reported $1,200 in ship's
fund. Some beefs reported in all
three departments. Following read­
ing of president's report from
recent LOG, crew members
expressed pleasure with gains in
new contract and gave thanks for
VP Contracts Augie Tellez and sta­
ble, progressive union leadership.
New ice machine to be delivered
upon arrival in Nagoya, Japan.
Clarification requested on who
cleans EOS in engine room: SA or
GUDE. Vote of thanks given to
steward department for job well
done.

MAERSK TENNESSEE (Maersk
Lines Ltd.), Oct. 14--Chairman
James J. Keevan, Secretary
Dwight E. Wuerth, Educational
Director Peter G. Murtagh,
Engine Delegate Oscar Martinez.
Chairman thanked everyone for
good job. He added that gangway
watch should constantly be busy
checking lines or anchor and keep­
ing lookout for anything unusual.
Secretary stated chain of command
for beefs. Department delegate
should be first on list for hearing
any beefs. Educational director
encouraged crew members to take
advantage of Paul Hall Center for

pay. Treasurer announced $115 in
ship's fund. Some movies have
been purchased, and gym has new
speed bag. No beefs or disputed
OT reported. Crew members asked
to return movies to cabinet after
using and help keep laundry room
clean. Steward department thanked
for good job. Next ports: Tacoma,
Wash.; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu.

SEALAND ACHIEVER (U.S.
Ship Management Co.), Oct. 14-­
Chairman Luke F. Wells, Secre­
tary Kim R. Dewitt, Deck Dele­
gate Steve D. Fabritsis. Chairman
announced payoff Oct. 15 in

Ambrose Channel Pays Off in Tampa

When the Ambrose
Channel (inset)
tied up in Tampa,
Fla. recently, SIU
officials were on hand to meet with crew members. From the left in
top photo are Chief Pumpman Peter Joseph, Bosun Mario
Romero, Chief Steward Elena Curly, SIU Rep. Bryan Powell and
Port Agent Anthony McQuay.

any upgrading classes, including
STCW training. Treasurer
announced $640 in ship's fund. No
beefs or disputed OT reported.
Engine delegate requested clarifi­
cation on work duties. Request
made for · of e c as
well as union meeting minutes
forms. Next ports: Buenaventura,
Colombia; Callao, Peru; San
Antonio and Arica, Chile; Balboa,
Panama.

QUALITY (U.S. Ship Manage­
ment Co.), Oct. 14--Secretary
Franklyn J. Cordero, Educational
Director Ogden W. Lafaye, Deck
Delegate Alvin V. Jackson.
Chairman stressed that all who go
ashore overseas be on alert for ter­
rorist actions and practice safety
aboard ship at all times. Secretary
thanked all departments for help­
ing keep ship's house clean.
Educational director reminded
crew members that Paul Hall
Center has necessary courses to
complete STCW requirements. He
also thanked electrician for galley
repairs. Some disputed OT report­
ed in deck department. Suggestion
made for next contract to include
physical rehabilitation for depen­
dents. Recommendation also made
to change formula for receipt of
vacation checks. Vote of thanks
given to steward department for
job well done.

RELIANCE (CSX Lines), Oct.
15--Chairman Lance X. Zollner,
Secretary Mark S. Scardino,
Educational Director Mohamed
Ali, Deck Delegate Rodolfo
Asopardo, Engine Delegate
James K. Smartt, Steward
Delegate Thomas E. Kleine.
Chairman reported lots of cleanup
required from shipyard period,
including some electrical prob­
lems. Everyone reminded to wear
safety helmets while on deck in
port. Secretary stated excellent
crew with no problems this trip.
He reminded crew members to be
sure to comply with STCW train­
ing requirements by Feb. 1, 2002.
Educational director encouraged
everyone to upgrade skills at Piney
Point for better jobs and better

Houston. He advised crew mem­
bers to be aware of new proce­
dures due to heightened security in
domestic and foreign ports.
Clarification requested by deck
delegate regarding overtime. Vote

' of thanks given to steward--depart­
ment for excellent meals and ser­
vice and to all crew members for
their cooperation throughout the
voyage.

SPIRIT (CSX Lines), Oct. 4-­
Chairman Scott K. Grider,
Secretary William E. Bryley,
Educational Director Roger M.
Wasserman, Deck Delegate
Andre J. Bernard, Engine
Delegate Guy Leary, Steward
Delegate Blaine R. Amundson.
Bosun reminded everyone to be
STCW compliant by Feb. 1, 2002.
He announced payoff Oct. 6 in
Tacoma, Wash. Educational direc­
tor echoed need for STCW and
stated that Paul Hall Center has all
necessary courses. While there for
STCW training, members can also
upgrade skills by taking other
classes. Treasurer announced $75
in movie fund. No beefs or disput­
ed OT reported. Communications
received pertaining to reliefs and
restriction to ship claims. Clari­
fication requested on days off.
Vote of thanks given to steward
department for good chow. Crew
stood one minute of silence for
Sept. 11 victims of World Trade
Center attack.

STONEWALL JACKSON
(Waterman Steamship Corp.), Oct
14-Chairman James K. Walker,
Secretary Norman J. Duhe,
Educational Director Randy C.
Louque, Deck Delegate Shelia 0.
Lewis, Engine Delegate Dennis
Swords, Steward Delegate
Elbussieny Elnaggar. Chairman
advised crew signing off that they
should stay until properly relieved,
as per shipping rules. He also led
crew in one minute of silence for
all people affected by Sept. 11
attacks. Treasurer announced $50
in ship's fund. Some disputed OT
noted in deck department. Thanks
given to steward department for
great meals and service.

Seafarers LOS 19



Litter to:tht Editor
(Editors note: the Seafarers

LOG reserves the right to edit let­
ters for grammar as well as space
provisions without changing the
writers intent. The LOG wel­
comes letters from members, pen­
sioners, their families and ship­
mates and will publish them on a
timely basis.)

SIU Medlcal Plan
Is Tops

I was in the SIU 45 years and
retired in Oct. 1992.

I just wanted to write and tell
everyone that the SIU has the
best medical plan. There is none
better than the SIU's.

In nine years, I have never had
to pay anything. Whatever Medi­
caid didn't cover, the SIU paid,
and I want everyone to know it
was plenty and has made my
retirement great.

Leo Paradise
Moultonborough, NH

AFL·CIO NATIONAL BOYCOTTS

NOVEMeEA/DECEMBEA 2001

.................................
APPAREL

NEW ERA CAP CO.
Exclusive producer of sports caps with logos of all Major
League Baseball teams, 39 colleges and universities,
National Hockey League, Professional Golfers' Association,
and National Basketball Association. Sold in retail outlets,
sports stores, at ball parlls and campus shops nationwide.
... Communications Workers

BUILDING MATERIALS & TOOLS

BROWN & SHARPE MFG. CO.
Measuring, cutting and machine tools and pumps
... Machinists

JET EQUIPMENT & TOOLS, INC.
Auburn, Wash., distributor of "JET" brand metal- and wood­
working power and hand tools for home and commercial use
... Teamsters

SOUTHWIRE CO.
Commercial and Industrial wire and cable; Do-It-Yourself
brand homeWire
... Electrfcal Worlc91S

ENTERTAINMENT & RECREATION

BIG LEAGUE THEATRICALS ROAD COMPANY
Performing the 'The Music Man"
... Actors' Equity Assn/American Federation of Musicians

BLACK ENTERTAINMENT TELEVISION
BET cable television, Action pay-per-view, Bet on Jazz

Iii" EJectricsJ WorlcetS

UNION LABEL AND SERVICE

TROIKA ENTERTAINMENT
Troika's touring production of "The Sound of
Music"
... Actors' Equity Assn.

FOOD & BEVERAGES

MT. OLIVE PICKLE CO. •
Pickles and relishes sold under the Mt Olive and other
labels, including the Food Lion and Harris Teeter supermar­
ket "house• labels
... Farm labor Organizing Committee

DIAMOND WALNUT CO.
Diamond brand canned and bagged walnuts and
walnut pieces
... Teamsters

PICTSWEET MUSHROOM FARM
Fresh mushrooms and frozen vegetables
with the Pictsweet label
... Unned Farm Workers

TRANSPORTATION & TRAVEL

BEST WESTERN-GROSVENOR RESORT
Hotel in Lake Buena Vista, Fla.; located at Disney
Wortd, but separately owned and operated
... Hotel Employees & Restaurant Employees

FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON
Hotel in Waterbury, Conn.
... Hotel Employees & Restaurant Employees

HOLIDAY INN SUNSPREE HOTEL
Hotel in Kapaa, Hawaii
... Longshore & Warehouse Union

NEW OTANI HOTEL & GARDEN
Hotel in downtown Los Angeles
... Hotel Employees & Restaurant Employees

OTHERS

CF&I STEEL and OREGON STEEL MILLS, INC.
Steel, including rod, bar, rail, pipe and steel plate
... Steelworlcers

R.J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO CO.
Cigarettes: Best Value, Camel, Century, Doral, Eclipse,
Magna, Monarch, More, Now, Salem, Sterling, Vantage,
and Winston; plus all Moonlight Tobacco products
... Bakery. Confecttonery. Tobacco Worlcers & Grain Millers

RADES DEPARTMENT , AFL·CIO

Don't Let the The deadline for receipt of
Seafarers scholarship applica­
tions is April 15, 2002. That is
only three months away-but
there still is plenty of time to
apply for one of the eight schol­
arships ($132,000 in all) being
awarded this year.

by filling out the coupon below
and mailing it to the SIU
Scholarship Program of the
Seafarers Health and Benefits
Plan. Scholarship

·Deadline

Pass You By

First, obtain a scholarship pro­
gram booklet, which spells out
eligibility requirements and pro­
cedures. It also includes a copy of
the application form. You may
get the booklet in any SIU hall or

All Seafarers and their spous­
es and children who plan to
attend college are encouraged to
apply.

If you sent in an application
form last year and were not
selected for one of the scholar­
ships, you definitely should try
again this year.

r----------------------------------------------------------------------------,

Please send me the 2002 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligi-
bility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form:

Mariner's Social Security Number----------------------

Street Address

City, State, Zip Code

Telephone Number __________________________ _

This application is for: 0 Self 0 Dependent

Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan,
5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746

1/02

L----------------------------------------------------------------------------
20 Seafarel'S LOS

Know Your Rights
FINANCIAL REPORTS. The

Constitution of the SIU Atlantic,
Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters
District makes specific provision for
safeguarding the membership's
money and union finances. The con­
stitution requires a detailed audit by
certified public accountants every
year, which is to be submitted to the
membership by the secretary-trea­
surer. A yearly finance committee of
rank-and-file members, elected by
the membership, each year examines
the finances of the union and reports
fully their findings and recommen­
dations. Members of this committee
may make dissenting reports, specif­
ic recommendations and separate
findings.

TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of
the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and
Inland Waters District are adminis­
tered in accordance with the provi­
sions 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 representatives and
their alternates. All expenditures and
disbursements of trust funds are
made only upon approval by a
majority of the trustees. All trust
fund financial records are available
at the headquarters of the various
trust funds.

SHIPPING RIGHTS. A mem­
ber's shipping rights and seniority
are protected exclusively by con­
tracts between the union and the
employers. Members should get to
know their shipping rights. Copies of
these contracts are posted and avail­
able in all union halls. If members
believe there have been violations of
their shipping or seniority rights as
contained in the contracts between
the union and the emp oyers, they
should notify the Seafarers Appeals
Board by certified mail, return
receipt requested. The proper
address for this is:

Augustin Tellez, Chairman
Seafarers Appeals Board

5201 Auth Way
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 Seafarers 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 contrac­
tual rights properly, he or she should
contact the nearest SIU port agent.

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

PAYMENT OF MONIES. o

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 circum­
stances should any member pay any
money for any reason unless he is
given such receipt. In the event any­
one attempts to require any such
payment be made without supplying
a receipt, or if a member is· required
to make a payment and is given an
official receipt, but feels that he or
she should not have been required to
make such payment, this should
immediately be reported to union
headquarters.

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

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

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

SEAFARERS POLITICAL
ACTIVITY DONATION
SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregat­
ed fund. Its proceeds are used to fur­
ther its objects and purposes includ­
ing, but not limited to, furthering the
political, social and economic inter­
ests of maritime workers, the preser­
vation and furthering of the
American merchant marine with
improved employment opportunities
for seamen and boatmen and the
advancement of trade union con­
cepts. In connection with such
objects, SPAD supports and con­
tributes to political candidates for
elective office. All contributions are
voluntary. 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 contri­
bution is made by reason of the
above improper conduct, the mem­
ber should notify the Seafarers
International Union or SPAD by cer­
tified mail within 30 days of the con­
tribution for investigation and appro­
priate action and refund, if involun­
tary. 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 violat­
ed, 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 Michael · Sacco at
headquarters by certified mail, return
receipt requested. The address is:

Michael Sacco, President
Seafarers International Union

5201 Auth Way
Camp Springs, MD 20746.



SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER
UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE

The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime
Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. from February through May 2002.
All programs are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote
the American maritime industry.

Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the mem­
bership, the maritime industry and-in times of conflict-the nation's security.

Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before
their course's start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the
morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reserva­
tions should be made for Saturday.

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

Deck Upgrading Courses
Course

Able Seaman

Automatic Radar Plotting Aids*
(*musJ have radar unlimited)

Bridge Resource Management
(BRM) - Inland

Bridge Resource Management
(BRM) - Unlimited*
(*prerequisite required)

GMDSS (Simulator)

Lifeboatman ater Survival

Radar

T · Mate*
(*prerequ;s · required)

Bosun

Steward

Arrival Date

February 4
Aprill
May 13

April 21

February 4
April 29

March 4

February 4
March 11
April 15
May20

February 18
March 18
April 15
April 29
May13

March 11

March 4
April 1
April 29
May27

February 18

Recertification
April 8

February 4

Date of Completion

March 1
April 26
June 7

April 27

February 8
May3

March 8

February 15
March 22
April 26
May31

March 1
March 29
April 26
MaylO
May24

March 20

March 15
April 12
May20
June 7

April 5

May3

March 1

Course

Steward Upgrading Courses
Start Date Date of Completion

GaUey Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week beginning
January 7. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week begin­
ning January 7.

Course

Fireman/Watertender
& Oiler

Engine Upgrading Courses
Arrival Date

February 4
ApriJ 29

Refrigeration System
Maintenance & Operations

February 18

QMED - Any Rating

Welding

Course

Advanced Firefighting

Government Vessels

Tanker Familiarization/
Assistant Cargo (DL)*
(*must have basic fire fighting)

Basic Fire Fighting/STCW

April 29

February 4
March 4
Aprill

Safety Specialty Courses
Arrival Date

February 18
March 18

February4
March 4
April 1
April 29

February 18
April 15

February4
February 11
February 18
February 25
March 4
March 11
March 18
March 25
April 1
April 8
April
April 22
April 29
May6

STCW Medical Care Provider March 11
April 1

Date of Completion

March 15
June 7

March 29

July 19

February 22
March 22
April 19

Date of Completion

March l
March 28

February 22
March 22
April 19
May 17

March 1
April 26

February 8
February 15
February 22
March 1
March 8
March 15
March 22
March 29
April 5
April 12
Apr1 9
April 26
May3
May 10

March 15
April 5

Academic Department Courses
General education and college courses are available as needed. In addition, basic voca­
tional support program courses are offered throughout the year, one week prior to the
AB, QMED, FOWT, Third Mate, Tanker Assistant and Water Survival courses. An
introduction to computers course will be self-study.

-·-~-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-
UPGRADING APPLICATION

Name
---------------------------~

Address ____________________________________________________ _

Telephone ______________ _ Date of Birth --------------
Deep Sea Member D Lakes Member D Inland Waters Member D

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

Social Security # _ ___________ Book # ______ ___________ _

Seniority_________________ Department _______________ _

U.S. Citizen: Yes D No D Home Port

Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _ __________________ _

Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? DYes DNo

If yes, class# _ _______ _______________ _

Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? DYes DNo

If yes, course( s) taken ------------ ------------------­

Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatrnan Endorsement?

D Yes D No Firefighting: D Yes D No CPR: D Yes DNo

Primary language spoken ------------------------------

January 2002

With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty
(120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the
date your class starts, US MMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book
indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is
Coast Guard tested. All FOWT. AB and QMED applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard
fee of $280 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order only.
payable to LMSS.

COURSE
BEGIN
DATE

END
DATE

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 successfally complete the course. If you have any ques­
tions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point.

RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education,
Admissions Office, PO. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189.

The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and
Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qual­
ified, of 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. J/o2

Seafarers LOS 21



.. Paul Hall Center Classes

Able Bodied Seaman - Seafarers who successfully completed the AB course
Nov. 16 are (from left, front row) Bernabe Pelingon (instructor), Brian Jonsson,
Ramon Martinez, Timothy Squire, (second row) John Zabielski, Harold Gierbolini,
Lovell Hyman and Joseph Gierbolini.

Advanced Fire Fighting - Upgrading SIU members who enhanced their fire fighting
skills by completing the advanced course Nov. 16 are (from left, front row) Rodolfo Antonio,
William Deloach, Evan Bradley, Justin Valencia, James Grubbs, Eddie Johnson, (second
row) Bob Baker (instru.ctor), Gene Butson, Donald Deflorio, Conrado Martinez, Monte Pryor,
Gregory Carroll, (back row) John Fleming and Eddie Almodovar.

Rizal Colon, Robert Crane, Thomas Cuddihy, Danny
Cummings, Thomas Decarlo, Jebediah Dishman, Gregory
Dixon, John Ellias Jr., Alberto Falcon, Raymond Fernandez,
Daniel Ford, Willie Franks, James Glover, Leoncio Gonzalez,
Luis Gonzalez, Erik Grant, Eloy Gutierrez, Russell Haynes,
Maurice Hetrick, Welkey Hogan, Glenn Holden and Frank
lngellis. (Note: not all are pictured)

Basic Safety
Training Classes

Ivan Ingram, Timothy Jackson, Nils Jernstrom, Johnny Johnston,
John Lange, Carl Larson, Reynaldo Magpaie, Carlos Marcial,
Maurice Marks, James Martin, Fritz McDuffie, James Myers, Frank
Michalski Jr., Aledriss Moore, Charles Mroczko, Sjarifudin Noor,
Carlos Parrilla, Randell Perrine, Sant Persaud, Saiad Monasar' 1
and Roque Lambert. (Note: not all are pictured)

William Rivera, Juan
Rochez, Luis Ruiz, Elizer

Saintvil, Ahmed Salim, John
Scheuren, Brian Sengelaub,

Joseph Singleton, Dalip
Singh, George Skelding,

Bruce Smith, Scott
Snodgrass, Samuel Spain,

Arthur Spohn, William
Stone, Jennette Suarez,

Jessy Sunga, Joseph Tiller
and Harry Toheey.

(Note: not all are pictured)

Any student who has registered for a class and finds-for whatever
reason-that he or she cannot attend, please inform the admissions

department so that another student may take that place.

Computer Lab Classes
Pictured, from the left, are recent
graduates of the computer lab
with their certificates: Rick
Prucha (computer lab instructor),
Alan Day, John S. Kamara,
George W. Rose, and Roman
Zarkiewicz.

Day, who sails from Seattle,
completed advanced Excel as
well as beginning and intermedi­
ate Access. Kamara, who ships
out of Philadelphia, finished the
computer basics class. Rose, a
member of the engine depart­
ment from San Francisco, also
mastered the computer basics
course, as did Zarkiewicz, who
also sails from Seattle.

Included in the class are Rolando Pulido, David Purganan, Luis Roebuck, Carlos
Rosales, Ahmed Saleh, Juan Salgado, Wayne Sapp, Alberto Semedo, Yahya
Shamman, Rex Simbre, Kenneth Simmons, Steven Talucci, Taymond Tate,
Timothy True, Eloy Uruena, Christopher Walker, Ronald Walker, Patrick Warnick,
Arthur Whitfield, Clark Williams and Michael Sorensen.

Armando Evangelista, Silvio Iglesias, Trinity Ippolito, Randy Isenhart, Norman
Johnson, Robert Johnson, Bobby Jones, Ezzell Jordan, Denis Kay, David King,
Harry Kinsman, Robert Kirk, Dale Kirsch, Patrick Lettsome, Steve Lewis, Silvio
Lino, Santiago Ludan, Maximo Lugtu, Noland Macadaan, Larry Martin,
Francisco Martinez, Robert Mason and Julio Mattos. (Note: not all are pictured)

J.,,.,,,, 2002



Paul Hall Center Classes

Basic Safety
Training Classes

George Adams, Kevin Bowden, Steven Bower, Michael Brown,
Kenneth Biddle, Stan Castro, William Charnock, Miguel Barbosa,

Sindy Lou Davis, Donald Clatter, Laurentis Colbert, Timothy
Defreitas, Roger Corbin, Alexander Dodoo, Cesar Erese,
Domingo Contreras, Manoling Daguio, Manuel Daguio, Melito
Daguio, Christopher Deluca, Edward Gaillard, Raymond Gordon,
Ricardo Ellis, Jose Garcai, Carnavius Davalie, Kevin Gatling.
(Note: not all are pictured)

.._ _______________ ,. Juuan Chevalier, Terrence Carmody, Dominique Bush, Donald
Bond, Jessie Burnett, Thomas Arthur, Eddie Almodovar, Beltran

Cahapay, Reynaldo Baluyot, Therman Ames, George Carter, Matthew Brown and
Nicholas Aponte. (Note: not all are pictured)

John Andrade, Bentley
Arrundell , Sergio Ayala,
Thomas Barrett, William
Barrett, Leo Bonser Sr.,

Christopher Brady, A an Day,
Robert Deane, Lee Dubany,
Eddie Ebanks, Earl Ebbert,
Criselda Espinosa, James
Foley, Denise Frasier, Roy
Frett, Daniel Gamboa and

Daniel Gibbons.

Harold Gierbolini, Joseph Gierbolini, Frank Hall, William Harvell, Adel
Hassan, Jaime Hernandez, Leon Hayward Jr., Derrick Hurt, Richard
Johnson, Wayne Johnson, Brian Jonsson, Andrew King, Cristain
Laborial, Robert Lee, George Lammers and Jay Henderson. (Note: not
all are pictured)

A Proud Moment

David Alexander (right) is congratulated by VP Contracts
Augie Tellez at the December membership in Piney Point,
Md. for completing the requirements necessary to receive his
high school diploma from the state of Maryland. Alexander,
who was taking an AB course at the same time as working
toward his GED, thanked the academic department and his
union brothers and sisters for all their encouragement.

January 2002

Leslie Davis, Virgilio
Conghit, Lawrence

Donia, Henry
Edmondson, Cecil

Edwards, James
Elliott, Barry Ford,

David Freeman,
James Garrity,

Donald Gee,
Richard Gegen­

heimer,
John Gibbons.
Alton Glapion,

Darryl Goggins,
Melchor Gorospe,
Gerard Grossholz,

Salvatore Gugliara,
Wilbert Haywood,

Ernie Hudgins and
William Hudson.

Eusebia Amaya, Tory Ancar,
Christopher Beahan, Kenneth
Bethea, Edward Bishop, James
Bloom, Leo Bognoson, Robert
Boone, Grant Bazile, Brian
Burchette, Dennis Caballero, Luis
Caballero, Samuel Calder Jr.,
Jose Calix, Frank Cammuso,
Christopher Campos and Edward
Collins. (Note: not all are pictured)

(Kneeling, from left) Ricky
Carter, Joe Morgan, Felipe
Nunez, Gregorio Ortiz,
Robert Owens, (second
row) Romulo Racoma, Ali
Mosad, Joel Miller, Charles
Ortiz, Dadang Rashidi,
Paul Mcclatcher, Ramon
Martinez and Clarence
Poore.

Seafarers LOB 23

,

JI



•

•

What does not destroy
me, makes me stronger.

-Friedrich Nietzsche
(German philosopher, 1841-1900)

N o one will ever think of
2001 as just another year.
Overshadowed by the

tragic terrorist events of Sept. 11
in New York, Washington, D.C.
and Pennsylvania, the effects of
that single day will be with us for
a long time-physically, emo­
tionally and economically.

The attacks were an awaken­
ing, clearly illustrating that the
things one takes for granted one
day can so very easily be taken
away the next. This held true for
the SIU as well.

The year got off to a good
start. The 1,212-passenger cruise
liner ms Patriot-the first ship
for the United States Lines
fleet-had just started its week­
long cruises around the Hawaiian
Islands. With the SS Indepen­
dence already in service and two
more cruise ships under construc­
tion in an American shipyard, it
was to be a new beginning for
the U.S. cruise industry.

Seafarers also climbed the
gangway to a number of other
newly contracted vessels, many
for the Military Sealift
Command, among them the
USNS Brittin, USNS Soderman,
USNS Roy Wheat, USNS
Mendonca, USNS Watkins, USNS
Stockham, SSG Edward A.
Carter, Jr., Lt. Col John UD.
Page, USNS Pomeroy and USNS
Benavidez.

The SIU welcomed the Delta
Mariner to its fleet. Designed to

transport rocket boosters and
other space hardware, the Delta
Mariner operates on rivers as
well as oceans, thanks to a vari­
able ballast design.

Crew members also began
working aboard the Cape May
Light, a coastal cruise ship, as
well as on the bulk carriers
Liberty Glory and Liberty Grace.

SIU boatmen on the West
Coast welcomed new job oppor­
tunities with the christening of
the Z-drive tug ~nema Spirit, a
strong tractor tug operated by
Brusco Tug and Barge of Port
Hueneme, Calif.

At the end of last year, Sea­
farers cast ballots for national
officers of the Atlantic, Gulf,
Lakes and Inlands Waters District
as well as five constitutional
amendments. The results were
announced in January by the
SIU's rank-and-file tallying com­
mittee.

Education of each Seafarer
remained a high priority. The
Paul Hall Center for Maritime
Training and Education in Piney
Point, Md. continued to be the
focal point for training and
upgrading in all department .
Many students enrolled in the
center's U.S. Coast-Guard­
approved STCW basic safety
class, a key requirement for
numerous mariners under the
amended STCW convention.
(The deadline for compliance
with the amended STCW treaty
is Feb. 1, 2002.) Water survival
and lifeboat classes also were
held in Hawaii and Diego Garcia
to assist those members who
might otherwise have difficulty

The Paul Hall Center offered many oppportunities to take the STCW
basic safety training (including fire fighting, above) required for numer­
ous mariners under the amended STCW convention.

getting to the Piney
Point facility in com­
pleting the STCW
training requirements.

Other students took
advantage of a wide
variety of courses con­
ducted in the center's
new simulator build­
ing or other specially
tailored courses
designed to accommo­
date their individual
work schedules.

In March, nine SIU
members completed
the Paul Hall Center's
new medical first aid
provider course.

The building that
houses the school's
world-class simulator
was dubbed the Bob
McMillen Simulator
Annex during an on-site ceremo­
ny in June. And, in an effort to
make the already comfortable
living accommodations at the
school even more pleasant for
upgrading students, construction
began, also in June, for a new
96-room hotel annex that will
contain single-occupancy dormi­
tory rooms.

The U.S. Coast Guard
approved a 70-hour GMDSS
(global marine distress and safety
system) course offered at the
school, which utilizes the new
simulator, and the center
revamped its anti-terrorism class
so that every student at the Paul
Hall Center receives the training.

Additionally, the union's
health and benefits plan awarded
$132,000 in scholarships to three
Seafarers and five dependents of
SIU members-a program which
was introduced in 1953.

One of the highlights of 2001
was the merger of the NMU into
the SIU. In June, members of
both unions approved the details
of a merger agreement, thereby
finalizing the unification and
marking an historic occasion in
maritime labor history.
Intermittent merger talks between
the two unions had gone on since
the mid-1950s. The integration of
the two groups will mean a more
powerful voice for mariners, a
stronger manpower pool for
national defense and a brighter
future for the U.S. maritime
industry as a whole.

In an effort to protect and

AP PhotofThe United States Navy, Chief Photographer's Mate Philomena Gorenflo
Members of the SIU's Government Services Division crewed the USNS Comfort when the hospital ship was
activated Sept. 11 to help respond to the terrorist attacks on New York. The ship offered a much-needed
refuge for rescue workers in New York City.

in Review

The Paul Hall
Center for

Maritime Training
and Education in
Piney Point, Md.

enters its 36th
year of unsur- ~~_,..,~,------- "

passed vocation- r,,,._.~.f,..~

al schooling for
the continual bet-

terment of Sea­
farers. Training
tools include a
state-of-the-art

bridge simulator
(right).

ensure the contin-
ued job security of the SIU mem­
bership, the contracts department
negotiated new standard freight­
ship and tanker agreements that
are effective through June of
2006. The new agreements
include improvements in the
areas most often cited by
Seafarers--expanded medical
coverage for dependents, an
increase in wages and gains in
the pension plan, to name a few.

The union negotiated other
contracts as well, among them a
new five-year agreement for the
car carrier Overseas Joyce, a
five-year pact covering Tyco 's
cable ships and a three-year con­
tract for the ITBs operated by
Sheridan Transportation.

Throughout the year, the SIU
continued, through its affiliation
with the International Transport
Workers' Federation (ITF), to
expose the greed and corruption
rooted in the flag-of-convenience
system as well as the dismal
conditions under which flag-of­
convenience mariners are forced
to live and work. ITF representa­
tives were successful in securing
hundreds of thousands of dollars
in back wages for many stranded
foreign crew members and
helped many return to their
homes and families.

Even before Sept. 11, howev­
er, the SIU saw its share of dis­
appointments-although nothing
in comparison with or of the
magnitude of the terrorist

attacks. A flag of convenience
vessel rammed the SIU-crewed
Liberty Spirit in Haifa, Israe1; the
Tacoma hall withstood an earth­
quake; the hall in Houston sus­
tained significant damage in a
tropical storm; and a tragic fire
aboard the SIU-crewed ammuni­
tion ship SSG Edward A. Carter,
Jr. claimed two lives.

In the wake of Sept. 11, SIU­
contracted American Classic
Voyages, which had been off to
such a good start at the begin­
ning of the year, announced it
had filed a voluntary petition for
reorganization under Chapter 11
of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code.
The move was driven by the ter­
rorist attacks, which harmed the
tourism, entertainment and trans­
portation industries more than
any others.

But a new year of promise
has begun-and with it comes
lots of hard work. SIU members
aboard the USNS Comfort and
NY Waterway ferries played key
roles during the initial relief
efforts in New York, and the SIU
will continue to carry on the
proud tradition of delivering
goods wherever and whenever
needed, whether it's grain to
Africa, jet fuel to South Korea,
rocket boosters to California, or
military materiel for our armed
forces at home and abroad.

The SIU has had its gains and
its losses in 2001, but it is ever­
ready to face the challenges that
2002 will bring.


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MDS03106
MDS03107
MDS03108
MDS03109
MDS03110
MDS03111
MDS03112