http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/fca76092e39a037ecf4bde792961da7d.PDF 99a7bf66c633a229e90bcb340d87308a PDF Text Text ••• "•, •• r-S.f •• fi'. . OFFICIAL 0R6AN OF THE SIAFARtRS INTERNATIONAL UNION • ATIANTIC GULF, LAKES AND INLAND WATERS DISTRIG • AFL-CIO Volume 55, Number 3 N • hi • ; •; 1* ••V- . •• March 1993 Ship Revival Tops issues At MID Board Sessions •my- Studtfo, Moynihan, Gephardt Stress Need For Speed in SetUng MariUme Policy Page 3 Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan Rep. Gerry Studds Rep. Richard Gephardt Speaking before the MTD executive board, the Senate Finance Committee chairman blasted runaway flags, saying "this Liberian and Panamanian business has got to come to an end!" The new chairman of the House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee declared, "We have got to operate U.S.-flag vessels and have got to operate more of them! We need new tonnage under the U.S. flag." Concemed about the nation's economic fu­ ture, the House Majority Leader announced, "We need an industrial and technological policy that includes a maritime and shipbuild­ ing policy!" New Facility Opened SlU Upgrades Training For Cuiinary Skiiis A new state-of-the-art steward department located on the grounds of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is designed to provide greater emphasis on individual training andmore one-on-one instruction for stu­ dents seeking to improve their steward department skills. i '' Pages 12-13 v .r-"" • '•'•t'" '-'v.- �2 SEAFMBRSLOG / MARCH 1993 President's Report DOT'S Pens Meets with Maritime To Understand indushy Probiems The Maritime Trades Department This issue of the LOG reports on the speakers and actions of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department's recent executive board meeting. It might be a good idea to remind Seafarers of the kind df organization the MTD is and what it does. The MTD operates for the mutual benefit of all of its 42 affiliated unions and their mem­ bers and families. From the SIU standpoint, this means that when legislation or other mat­ ters come up that affect the welfare of Seafarers^ we are able to call upon the other af­ filiates of the MTD to join our cause. It also means that Seafarers reciprocate by assisting the other affiliated unions in their times of Michael Sacco need. At last month's board meeting in which the affiliated unions had a chance to catch up on each other's objec­ tives for the coming year and to exchange views, one of the speakers summed up how important this mutually benfeficial relationship is for the workers represented by unions in the MTD. Lenore Miller, president of the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union, talked about how the support of the MTD made a big difference. There were times, she said, when her union "would not have been successful were it not for the maritime trades unions." Citing examples. Sister Miller talked about how the un­ derpaid juice processing workers represented by her union at one company won a good contract because that firm was owned by a shipping company, and the maritime unions with contracts in its ship operation section went to bat for the juice workers. It should be noted that this kind of grassroots support activity is really at the heart and soul of what the MTD is all about. And, while the MTD's executive board meeting is important as it provides a framework in which the organization can map out strategies and priorities for the year, these meetings are but the sur­ face level of the work the department carries out. The real guts of the organization is its activities on the grassroots level, through its port councils in vm-ious cities throughout the United States and Canada. Often, Seafarers participate in these grassroots activities. Whether it means joining fellow trade unionists in a picket line, providing hot coffee and sandwiches to striking workers, or calling on legislators on an important issue to all working people. Seafarers have been a part of the MTD's grassroots action. For Seafarers, the MTD is an opportunity to work with the rest of the labor movement, to lend a hand when we can, and, when it's needed, to call on fellow trade unionists to weigh in on our fights. Training for the Galley Crew Once again, we take pride in our record of constantly seeking to improve the quality of our training programs. Evidence of this is in the new facility at the Lundeberg School at the Paul Hall Center for our steward department crewmembers. This facility allows for an expanded and more detailed course of instruction for galley Seafarers. But it does not only benefit steward department mem­ bers. Because mealtime is so important to all seamen, the benefits of the new facility ultimately benefit every Seafarer aboard ship. I urge all to take advantage of these improvements and develop­ ments in the course of instruction at the school. These changes are made available with the welfare of all Seafarers in mind. Conse­ quently, it makes sense for every Seafarer who wishes to become a better seaman to take advantage of the opportunities that these programs offer. Any Seafarer interested in upgrading should talk to their port agents or boarding patrolmen about enrolling in the school's courses. Applying for a Scholarship April 15 marks the deadline for Seafarers and members of Seafarers' families to apply for the seven SIU scholarships. Four of those are earmarked for children and spouses of Seafarers and three go to SIU members. I urge any Seafarer or Seafarer family member who seeks to ex­ pand his or her education to take advantage of this opportunity and apply. Do it quickly as there is only a month or so to take care of all the paperwork. Volume 55. Number 3 In an evident attempt to get a sense of the problems within maritime. Secretary of Transpor­ tation Federico Pena met on March 2 with representatives of the vessel operating industry, shipbuilding companies and maritime labor. Michael Sacco represented the SIU at the twohour meeting. The session was called at the request of Secretary Pena in order to develop an understanding about the views of the individual industry components as well as explain where the Clinton ad­ ministration Stands on the subject. Reports from the meeting said Pena proposes to unveil between mid-April and early May the administration's legislative pack­ age to revive the U.S.-flag mer­ chant fleet. He told the group that shipping companies renewed the administration plans to place their threats to go foreign flag if a the same energy into helping program is not passed by 1995. maritime that it is using to fight (The Bush administration, led by foreign subsidies within the air­ former Transportation Secretary Andrew Card, proposed a line industry. The secretary announced he maritime revivaljg^kage last would create an industiy-govern­ summer after execuljyes from \ ment committee on U.S.-flag Sea-Land and American Presi­ maritime revival. The committee dent Lines threatened to go would be made up of three offi­ foreign flag.) Those who attended the meet­ cials from the Department of ing stated Pena was well versed Transportation and two repre­ sentatives each from maritime about maritime and asked many labor, shipbuilding, liner questions. They said they were operators and bulk operators. The impressed by how quickly Pena group will be asked to have a plans to act on the problem. A spokesperson at the depart­ legislative proposal ready for Pena's review by the April/May ment said there was "a consensus among all parties that the goal is deadline he announced. During the meeting, several a sound and revitalized U.S. executives representing U.S.-flag maritime industry." AFL-CIO Announces its Support Of Clinton Economic Package The executive council of the AFL-CIO has endorsed President Clinton's economic package "in most of its details." In a prepared statement issued ebruary 18, the day after Clinton addressed a joint session of Con­ gress, the national trade labor ederation stated, "The president las provided the leadership the nation desperately needs." Clinton outlined four major components within tlie economic package he is presenting to Con­ gress: a short-term spending stimulus to be used on infrastruc­ ture and job creation; long-term deficit reduction; long-term in­ vestment strategy; and health care cost containment. "The Clinton plan has the great virtues of stimulating a depressed economy, of putting people back to work and of in­ vesting in the nation's future," the AFL-CIO statement read. It also noted that America's working people are willing to contribute their fair share to make the plan -work. However, the AFL-CIO asked the president to reconsider his proposal of placing a wage freeze as well as other burdens on federal workers. The labor federation pledged to "help see [the package] through the legislative process, while making certain that workers' con­ cerns are properly addressed." Range Reports on Somaiia Mission For SIU crewmembers aboard the Cpl. Louis Hauge Jr., their job in Somalia is far from over. TTie jrepositioning vessel is one of 3 SlU-crewed vessels still involved in the combined U.S./United Na­ tions effort to feed Somali citizens that began in December. The Hauge is one of several vessels responsible for the ship­ ment of food and materiel to American forces stationed in the East African nation. In a letter to the Seafarers LOG, Chief Steward William usti wrote that galley gang members are following a normal schedule. Despite the turmoil around them, the steward depart- ment continues to prepare excel­ lent meals for the crew aboard the Maersk-operated vessel. Justi (who provided the photos accompanying this article) reported that the food prepared by Chief Cook Victorino Vince Cruz and Assistant Cook Larry Griffin has helped keep morale up for the crewmembers and troops stationed on the Hauge. The ship is based out of Diego Garcia and is assisting ap­ proximately 17,000 U.S. troops as well as almost 15,000 soldiers from 20 U.N.-member nations. U.S. ves­ sels have been docking at the In­ dian Ocean ports of Mogadishu and Kismaayo since forces started going ashore Decembo- 9. An upsurge of violence in Somalia iii late February has prompted U.S. military planners to consider slowing the withdrawal of U.S. troops and leaving a larger number of com­ bat troops in Somalia than originally planned. The increased activity by warlords who rule various parts of Somalia has been associated with a March 15 con­ ference to determine the political future of the nation. Until this recent outbreak of fighting and rioting, the Pentagon had expected to begin a full-scale withdrawal in a matter of weeks, leaving behind as many as 5,000 U.S. troops, mainly in support of a larger U.N.-Ied force. March 1993 The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published monthfiy by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, Md. 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSC Prince Georges, Md. 20790-9998 and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER; Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Md. 20746. Communications Department Director and Editor, Jes­ sica Smith; Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editors, Jordan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen; As­ sociate Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Art, Bill Brower. Chief Steward William Justi (second from right) informed the Seafarers LOG that the galley gang on the Cpl. Louis J. Hauge Jr. is Peeling fresh garlic for a stir-fry doing a great job. From the left are Chief Cook Victorino Vince Cruz, dinner is Chief Cook Victorino SA Clive Steward, SA Esther Wilks, Assistant Cook Larry Griffin, Chief Steward Justi and SA Thabet Alsaedi. Vince Cruz. i 'M- �..-vl.^..r ^.. •.;>.^.v.v:.- .; MARCH 1993 SEAFARERS LOG 3 Ikmgns^onal Leadav Tell MTD BoanI Of Suppoff for U.S.-Flag Ship Prognun Three key members of Con­ labor, business and govern­ gress, addressing the AFL-CIC ment—to meet to develop a con­ Maritime Trades Departmen sensus approach to new (MTD) executive board meeting legislation to aid maritime. last month, urged adoption of a AFL-CIO President Lane U.S.-flag shipping program. Kirkland added the support of the Senate Finance Committee national organized trade labor Chairman Daniel Patrick movement to the cause. Moynihan (D-N.Y.), House Mer­ "The Persian Gulf served as a chant Marine and Fisheries Com­ stark reminder of what our mer­ mittee Chairman Gerry Studds chant fleet means," Kirkland told (D-Mass.) and House Majority the body. "We pledge our support Leader Richard Gephardt CD- as you try to enact a sensible Mo.) all noted the need to pass a maritime policy under Bill Clin­ U.S.-flag maritime revival pack­ ton." age during this session of Con­ New Technology gress. Rebuilding the U.S. merchant Speaking to the group on fleet became the theme of the February 11, Moynihan noted a two-day meeting of the MTD, recent visit he had made aboard which is made up of 42 the Aegis-class niissile cruiser Representative Gerry Studds (D-Mass.), chairman of the House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Com­ autonomous unions containing Valley Forge. He described how mittee, tells the executive board of the Maritime Trades Department that he will work to enact a maritime ^ 8.5 million members. The board the engineroom looked more like revival program during this session of Congress. passed a number of resolutions of an operating room and talked the largest Navy in the world, we Representative asks European gressional committee for this ses­ concern to the maritime industry about the changes associated have one of the smallest merchant Community representatives to sion. on the,Jones Act, workplace with it. "At 25 toots, [the ves­ marines. It is time we tended to reduce its subsidized airline pro­ "I told him two things: clean safety and cargo preference. sel] can stop in three ship's this issue. Revision of the gram, Airbus. water and the American merchant Another of those resolutions lengths and reverse," the chair­ American merchant marine must "What's fair is fair," marine," the 11-term repre­ called on President Bill Clinton to man of the Senate Finance Com­ be part of the national economic Moynihan added. "We cannot sentative said. "We need to re-es­ issue "an executive order that un­ mittee said. policy." compete against shipping that has tablish the merchant marine for derlines the nation's historical "We need to put that kind of The chairman of the Senate been subsidized by their govern­ national security, trade and to needs for and its legal mandate to technology into merchant ship­ Finance Committee called on the ments. Shipbuilding subsidies produce jobs. He told me, 'I maintain an adequate American- building. If we can do it on Clinton administration to include will be part of the negotiations." didn't come [to Washington] to flag merchant fleet and a domestic cruisers, then we can do it on conrollback on foreign countries When he addressed the MTD veto bills. I want to make things shipyard mobilization base." Ibe tainerships." subsidizing new shipping which on February 12,Studds recounted happen.'" boaM also called on all sections Moynihan also pointed out puts the U.S. fleet at a disad­ meeting with President Clinton to Studds noted it was too soon to within the industry—organized that while the United States "has vantage when the U.S. Trade discuss the priorities for his con- discuss details about any maritime revival package. How­ ever, any plan must include build­ ing vessels within the United States, he stated. "Our skilled shipbuilders can build vessels for the same cost as in Europe," he told the audience. "We than just don't have the management or en­ Officials representing the 42 continued, "A true, meaningful Automobile Workers (UAW), gineering experience. There is getting told the board how has been in­ and long-term recovery of the autonomous unions of the nothing wrong with our labor, but cluded in meetings between the job," said U.S. economy only is possible if Maritime Trades Department we have to import our engineers. new president and the heads of working Otero, who (MTD) agreed the time is now to There is no excuse for that" the ttoee American automobile people and is working begin enactment of economic (The district Studds represents companies. t h e i changes needed in this country to as a volun­ includes Quincy, Mass., which He called the meetings historic unions are help the working people of teer with the as Clinton would not meet with part of the America. Office of had been a major shipbuilding solution. the chairmen of General Motors, The representatives to the Personnel area until the facility closed six The people Ford and Chrysler without labor meeting passed several resolu­ Manage­ years ago.) being at the who know tions c^ling on the Clinton ad­ ment "Our Maritime Policy Needed table what this ministration and Congress to Jack Otero country While outlining the four com­ "T h i country enact health care reform, a nation­ needed a ponents of Clinton's proposed meant needs are al industrial policy, workplace m a j o economic plan, representative great deal the people safety legislation and an intemachange in direction. Enough Gephardt noted the need for a Lane Kirkland to me and who have tionsd trade policy. Labor offi­ trickle down economics is nationwide industry and technol­ the trade cials addressed the group's suffered the most." enough." ogy policy. unionists, Lane Kirkland, president of concern about changing the direc­ Otero stated the president had "As long as other nations are Bieb er tion of the federal government. the AFL-CIO, noted thechange in started to fill some of the 7,400 playing the game a certain way in said In opening the two-day meet­ the make-up of the government positions available for his ap­ electronics and maritime, we bet­ Under the ing of the MTD executive board when he told the MTD executive pointment. He added that ter do the same," the long-time Reagan last month, MTD President board, "We look ahead to a new Owen Bleber Clinton's staff is sorting through maritime proponent said. "We and Bush Michael Sacco stated, "We meet era in the White House. Bill Clin­ adminis­ more than 115,000 resumes for need a shipbuilding and maritime at a time of change. We talked ton and A1 Gore were elected into policy." change last year during the elec­ office with the support of a trations, labor was excluded from those jobs. There is hope within or­ the gatherings. As an example of how such a tions. Now it is time to bring unified trade union movement. The UAW president also ganized labor that some of the policy should be crafted, "I know you will continue to about change." do what you do best, building pointed out that Clinton had told positions will be filled by people Gephardt described how the U.S. 'Time of Change' solidarity and support for your him he will meet with the repre­ affiliated with the trade union was almost out of the semicon­ He pointed out that the unions programs across a wide spectrum sentatives of imi)ort automobile movement. Otero noted the AFL- ductor business eight years ago. belonging to the MTD must work of interest within the labor move­ companies when their economic CIO is' following appointments Semiconductors are used in com­ ^ "to turn ment itself," he continued. and political leaders meet with within all federal departments. puters and wer^ invented in this r I this mood Kirkland listed maritime the representatives from Detroit. coupjfy. When the Pentagon dis­ for change revival, national health care covered it had to go overseas for Work for Solution : More MTD meeting into some- reform, striker replacement and semiconductors for its weapons, Making sure that labor's voice thing international trade agreements coverage on legisla­ the military began a joint research beneficial among issues needing attention will be heard. Jack Otero, the in­ tive issues and trade effort with Congress to revitalize our from the administration. "There is ternational vice president of the for union solidarity is on the industry. ' members no issue under the sun in which Transportation • Communica­ 'We're making progress," the page 4. Additional and for we do not have an interest and tions Union, described how he is St. Louis congressman noted. working with the Clinton ad­ America's seek a voice," Kirkland added. coverage about Foreign countries are buying ministration to recommend, in­ working runaway-flag vessels more [semiconductors] and Labor Included In Talks dividuals for government service people." Michael Sacco and health care dumping less. Today, we have 53 who understand the issues facing Sacco, Highlighting one of the chan­ reform is on page 24, percent of the market in semicon­ working Americans. who also ges ^eady t^ng place, Owen "Our objective is far loftier ductors." serves as president of the SIU, Bieber, president of the United New Administration's 'Mood for Miange' Soon as Bringing Hope for tl.S. Workers • ni •vli. -i' - .V �. .,-r , 4 V. . ,, SEAFARERS LOG SlU-Crewal ^nies Pnssed Into Service 1;. , W.-- .•'• •'>• • >- / •.'• . SlU-crewed ferries were a lot of people who normally take called into service to transport the subway or the train," ferry thousands of people from Man­ Captain Rick Thornton told a hattan across the Hudson River reporter for the Seafarers LOG. on the afternoon of February 26 "Every boat was packed, al­ following the explosion which though none were close to being rocked the World Trade Center. overloaded. With everybody The ferries, which traditionally working together, things went operate between Manhattan and fairly smooth." TTie SIU represents the men New Jersey, quickly increased and women who crew the ferries, the number of runs and pick-up most of which have capacities of locations. up to 400 passengers. Some of the The blast, which resulted in at boats operate within a mile of the least five deaths and thousands of World Trade Center. injuries, also severely disrupted One secretary who works in local subway, train and bus ser­ the World Trade Center was vice. But 10 SlU-manned pas­ trapped in an elevator for an hour senger ferries, operated by on the 91st floor. Eventually she ARCORP of New Jersey, quickly got to the stairs, but,"All the way started an emergency schedule down, I kept wondering how I'd that afternoon and relieved the get home. Then somebody said overcrowding for the city's not to worry, the ferry would be stranded commuters. here," she told the Newark (N.J.) "We had our usual riders, plus Star-Ledger. The ferries stayed on an ex­ tended schedule throughout the weekend and the early part of the next week. But by March 2, Thornton reported, "Things had pretty much gotten back to nor­ mal, which is kind of amazing." The explosion took place shortly after noon, in a parking garage beneath the two buildings. It created an underground crater almost the length of a football field, tore a hole down three levels of the garage, caved in the ceiling of the commuter railroad station and started fires in one of the building's lower levels. The blast also destroyed the port authority's underground com­ mand center, rendering the complex's evacuation plan use­ less. The ferry workers first heard about the incident around 12:30 p.m., Thornton said, although none heard the explosion. "It was overcast and hazy that day, so we really couldn't see any smoke," he added. "The first reports were sketchy.... I remember a deck­ hand from another boat came out and told us about it, and one of our deckhands thought he was kidding. It just seemed im­ possible." But they soon saw rescue helicopters heading for the twin towers, and within a half-hour after the explosion, other captains and crews arrived to start an early rush-hour schedule. 'More Bread' Is Goal For Labor in Congress Although the occupant of the will be able to work with the new White House has changed, labor secretary of labor, Robert Reich, will continue its fight to enact because "he understands the legislation that will help the economy and what it means to working people of America, the have a good-paying job. We AFL-CIO's legislative director haven't had a secreta^ [recently] told the Maritime Trades Depart­ who knew what a job was, let ment (MTD) executive board last alone a good-paying job.^Besides [Reich] is very, very close to the month. Robert McGiotten, director of president." The legislative director the national labor federation's legislative predicted the North American department, Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) SlU-manned ARCORP ferries like the one pictured above transported thousands of commuters from New advised the among the U.S., Canada and York across the Hudson River after an explosion disrupted local train service. board that Mexico "will go down like a dud" the unions if it comes to the floor of the will have House of Representatives in its to "make present form. Labor has opposed sure that the legislation because—among Members of the Maritime we cooperated with each other The union president also [President other filings—the pact makes no Trades Department (MTD) ex­ and we have to continue to recounted the role Seafarers have Bill Clin­ provisions for raising the work­ ecutive board received a reminder cooperate with each other." played to assist the RWDSU. ton] does ing, safety, environmental and from one Miller began her presentation "We would not have been suc­ the job so living standards within Mexico to of their with a thank you to all of the cessful in organizing Macy's if Robert McGiotten that we can levels equal to those in the U.S. own about unions who have stood with her Paul Hall had not provided the bring some, and Canada in order to prevent a what union members during beefs. She manpower and the pickets. Our bread to the table of our members mass exodus of jobs to south of solidarity recalled how the late Teddy efforts at Macy's would not have and ensure that they are going to the border. has meant Gleason, former president of the been successful. have the kinds of programs that and still Longshore- men's Union, "Of all the unions that don't President Would Sign we so desperately need. means threatened to close the port of have maritime or seafarers in its Striker replacement legisla­ when they Charleston, S.C. if unionized name, it is that kind of relation­ "For the first time in 12 years, tion already has 113 sponsors in met last hospital wooers were not recog­ ship that makes us join, belong we are able to take our issues to the House of Representatives. month. nized. She noted how juice and be proud to be part of this the White House," he added. "But The bill, which would prevent Lenore processing workers were able to get department," Miller said. we have a lot of enemies who are scabs from being hired per­ Lenore Miller Miller, a contract because the firm was "We need to continue to do upset that we have access." manently when workers go on president of the Retail, Wholesale owned by a shipping company that kind of work, because it is Health Care Struggle strike, may be debated in Con­ and Department Store Union and maritime unions applied only that kind of solidarity that McGiotten pointed out that na­ gress in the spring, he said. (RWDSU), informed the group pressure. makes us successful." "If striker replacement gets to that her organization would not tional health care reform—a plan proposed for years by the AFL- his desk, the president has indi­ exist if it had not been for the CIO—faces strong opposition in cated he will sign it," McGiotten efforts made on its behalf by other Washington, despite the fact that noted. Similar legislation passed trade unions. the labor-supported family leave the House of Representatives in 'There were initiatives in (my) bill was passed and signed into the last session of Congress but union which would not have been law during the first month of the failed to gamer enough votes in successful were it not for the The executive secretary43-year the Senate. President Bush had new administration. maritime trades unions," she said. treasurer of the Maritime Trades career stated he would have vetoed the He mentioned some proposals "I think we forget to take pride in Department (MTD) announced with the circulating around the Capitol in­ bill had it made its way through that. I think we forget how much she would be retiring from the AFL-CIO Congress. clude taxing health care benefits. position effective May 31. began im­ "Our members have the best Jean Ingrao made her inten­ mediate­ health care programs in the tions known at the opening of ly. MTD country built through collective the MTD's executive board Resident Fosco meeting last month. She has bargaining. Taxation of benefits Angelo Fosco, president of the Michael held served with the organization will destroy collective bargaining Laborers International Union, Sacco various since being appoint^ by Paul as we know it today. It woUld be passed away February 11 after a said, positions Hall in 1979 when he was presi­ very desthictive." brief illness. He was 71 years old. "Your Jean Ingrao within the dent of the MTD. Brother Fosco was a senior Union members already are years of paying extra into the nation's member of the AFL-CIO Execu­ union, in­ . Immediately after her an­ loyalty cluding in­ nouncement, the executive health care systems because "we tive Council, having been elected and kindness are treasured by all ternational board elected Frank Pecquex as are the only ones with health to it in 1976. of us who have had a chance to care," McGiotten said. "The sys­ vice presi­ acting executive secretaryA native of Chicago, Fosco work with you." dent, be­ treasurer until the full MTD tem is broke. We didn't break it, began his labor career there as a AFL-CIO President Lane fore he as­ convention meets this fall. Pec­ but we are willing to help fix it. member of the union's Sewer and Kirkland noted that IngraO was sumed the quex had been serving as ad­ We should not have to pay for Tunnel Miners Local Union 2. He Angelo Fosco. "part of my original AFL fami­ presidency ministrator. what has been done to die sys­ became an international repre­ ly. You have worked tirelessly of the tem." sentative for the Laborers in the Tributes for Ingrao and her for solidarity." McGiotten stated trade unions early 1950s. Laborers in 1975. MTD Remimleil of Solidarity's Strength MTD Sec'y Jean ingrao Announces Retirement Ai^lo Fosco, L^oras nvsUea^ Dies �-r • '-.-X-'-Ar^- MMCa 1993 SEAFARERS LOG 5 / Ignored by Forei2n'Fla^ Ship Ranger Saves Five from Sinking Schooner Five people aboard a founder­ crew to abandon ship. Joining the ing schooner were grateful a human crew was an eight-weekU.S.-flag tanker responded to old dog. However, the Topaz crew their distress call after watching a realized it had more problems foreign-flag tanker steam past when the members found the.life them without even acknow­ raft would not hold air. It had ledging their request for help. been serviced last in 1981. The SlU-contracted Ranger At daybreak, the Ranger was picked up a distress call from the beside the life raft. The rescue twin-masted Topaz around 5 a.m. operation proceeded normally on January 11. The OMIuntil, according to Downing, operated tanker was off the coast "one of [the Topaz'] crew fired a of Venezuela sailing from San flare across our deck giving us all Nicholas, Aruba when it changed a good scare." course to answer the call. Downing continued with a The Topaz, one day out of Las description of the rescue, "Bosun Piedras, Venezuela, was taking Mike Moore got a line on the raft on water. The engine of the New and positioned it below our pilot Zealand-registered vessel would ladder. ABs Jonathan Weaver, not run, and the three bilge pumps Joe Mieluchowski, Norm Had­ on board were broken. The sail­ dad, Tom Lasater and I started boat had been in Venezuela for helping the crew and their dog more than four months for a hull aboard and pulling up their gear. overhaul. Members of the Ranger's deck gang pose with the crew of the Topaz. From the left are (kneeling) ABs That was the last we saw of the After consulting with the cap­ Jonathan Weaver, Norm Haddad and Joe Mieluchowski, (standing) Topaz crewmembers Neil Rooney, Topaz." tain, Second Mate Ben Tidwell, Anastasia Ledwon, Jim Baldwin, Steve Sheeling and Mike Kelly and Bosun Michael Moore. an SIU hawsepiper, called all The rescue was completed by hands at 5:20 a.m. to assist in the Seafarers LOG about the opera­ their stations, they noticed the rescue, the crew of the schooner 7:40 a.m. No injuries were reported rescue, according to AB Casey tion. foreign-flag tanker within three said they tried to raise the vessel by members of either crew. The Downing, who wrote the As crewmembers arrived at miles of the Topaz. Following the but were not successful. The Ranger resumed its voyage to Port Ranger spotted the Topaz on radar Everglades, Fla. Once ashore, the around 5:30 a.m. and began Topaz crew again thanked the maneuvering operations. Weather mariners aboard the Ranger. As he conditions were posted as 17- to was talking with Third Mate Sam 21-knot winds, moderate waves of McBean, also an SIU hawsepiper, about seven feet and white caps and AB Downing, the captain of Seafarers aboard the USNS yacht delivery from Bermuda to members were huddling inside with some spray. After reporting the Topaz told them, "TTtank God Capella recently helped save the the Caribbean.) the cockpit," Kelly said in a letter the schooner was filling with water, for American merchant ships and the captain of the Topaz ordered tiie union crews." lives of three people manning a With the Capella heading recounting the rescue. Utiliziiig the strong wind 37-foot catamaran who were toward the unnavigable boat. rendered helpless by severe Radio Officer Ashley Vail con­ members of the engine depart­ weather approximately 300 miles tacted a weather center in Nor­ ment stopped the Capella's en­ folk, Va. and learned that the gines while the captain let the fast north of Bermuda. The rescue took place around storms were expected to worsen sealift vessel drift toward the sail­ boat. The catamaran also tried to 9 a.m. the day after Christmas, during the next 48 hours. All hands reported topside to maneuver into rescue position. despite 20-foot seas and winds of After one failed attempt, the 30-40 knots. No one was injured, search for the boat, which would although the sailboat capsized have been easy to miss because of three boaters reached the ladders and broke apart after its crew­ the waves. Also, the only flares and safely climbed aboard the members were safely aboard the aboard the sailboat were nearly Capella, where members of the impossible to reach, as they were steward department provided Capella. blankets and hot coffee. The The Capella, operated by Bay in an enclosed life raft. Bosun Michael Shappo and ship's medical officer examined Tankers, was en route to Somalia as part of the U.N. relief effort other members of the deck the boaters and found them ex­ when the vessel received a department readied two rope lad­ hausted but otherwise unharmed. The unmanned catamaran sub­ Among the Ranger deck gang members who participated In the Mayday from the catamaran. The ders on the Capella's port side. rescue were (left to right) ABs Casey Downing, Jonathan Weaver and Cat Hull, approximately 18 miles Since it would have been difficult sequently capsized. "The crew was elated," wrote Tom Lasater and Bosun Michael Moore, who provided the Seafarers northeast of the Capella and or impossible to properly recover headed to Bermuda from New­ one of the Capella's lifeboats in Kelly, who commended the crew­ LOG with the photographs for this story. port, R.I., had endured four days the dangerous weather. Captain members for their "heroism" and A Valuable Asset to the Harkness of rough weather. Its captain and David Kelly planned to maneuver "skillful performance." The thankful boaters were dis­ crew, all citizens of France, were the vessel close to the sailboat and drifting with a sea anchor out, in have; the stranded crewmembers charged in Gibraltar on January 1 and returned to France via arran­ hopes of outlasting the foul climb the ladders. One of the lookouts spotted gements made through their weather. But it appeared the small craft was in imminent danger of the drifting craft from about four employer. The SIU members who took capsizing or coming apart. (The miles. "Waves were crashing part in this rescue are: Bosun over the boat and the three crewboaters were scheduled to make a Shappo, ABs Gino Whitehead, Joseph Bryan, Kaare O'Hara, William Sieggreen, Joseph Conlin and Gregory Gorenflo; OSs Glenn Baker, Denis Piccinolo and Mark Weaver; DEU Jeffrey Hailstone; Electrician Lawrence French; UJEs Phillip Burke, Terry Harmon, Glenn Kenyon and Richard Presson. Also assisting in the operation "Brother Jose Martinez has been aboard the USNSHarkness tor are: FOWTs Ronnie Micklos, C. over one year and has consistently performed above expecta­ tions In both the steward department and deck department." Davis and Paul Pagano; Wiper These were words In praise of Steward Assistant Jose Martinez, Randell Porter; Chief Steward written by Chief Steward Ben\l|enderson and echoed In other Sergio Castellanos; Chief Cook letters of commendation from the master, chief mate and crew­ Jimmie Reddick; Assistant members aboard the Mar Ship vessel. "Brother Martinez sets one Cook James Jordan; and GSUs of the best examples of a merchant seaman and SIU memberone In which we can all be proud." In photo above, Martinez poses The USNS Capella was en route to Somalia as part of the I^I.N. relief Dayna Roger, Gerald Williams on the deck of the USNS Harlmess in Dubai, UAE. and Leon Gonzales. effort when It received a distress call from a 37-foot catamaran. iL . > --V •' • CapeHa &VW Rescues Boaters hi Rott^ Seas, Hi^ Wiads '• •. -1: V- -'-v. '• -..4.' 4. -• • • •- 'J Cio • �7 - •, • 6 I • SEAFARERS LOG MARCH 1993 Benzene Regs Top Concerns at Safety Team Meeting mented, specifically concerning facial hair. The safety team is composed of representatives who work out of SnJ halls around the country. They meet with crewmembers aboard SlU-contracted vessels to keep them updated on safety-re­ lated items and information. team members stated many of the tanker crewmembers with whom they have talked still have Listening to an answer regarding benzene regulations during the safety team meeting are Bobby CInton III of questions regarding the restric­ Norfolk, J.J. Arnold of Honolulu, Ken Conklin of the Lundeberg School, Tony McQuay of Jacksonville and tions on faci^ hair stipulated by Steve Judd of New Orleans. the benzene regulations. Dr. Kenneth Miller, director of issue ip this process. The SIU's nated by the Coast Guard in the respirators on board as well as the Seafarers Welfare Plan's concern is to make sure our mem­ benzene regulations, carry both other safety gear required for medical department, reviewed bers are as safe as they possibly positive and negative pressure working around the chemical. the Coast Guard directive which can be. "Today's respirators will only states facial hairs cannot impede the snug fit of any breathing ap­ work if they are not impeded by paratus required on a crewmem- facial hair. We are looking for Former SIU official Ernes ber when working around the new technology concerning respirators. But for now, the Frank "Scottie" Aubusson died of petroleum-based chemical. safety of our members is the most natural causes Feb. 10 in Miami. "A snug fit between the important thing," he added. Brother Aubusson, who passed respirator and face is vital to the Miller reminded safety team away in his sleep, was 72. Dr. Kenneth Miller, medical direc­ safety of our members working members to verify that tankers, "The former bosun and SIU tor of the Seafarers Welfare Plan, with or around beiftene," Miller barges and tank vessels, as desigport agent was in Florida to attend reviews the benzene regulations. stated. "Facial hair has become an the Maritime Trades Department executive board meeting—an ex­ ample of how Brother Aubusson stayed in touch with his union and SIU members are manning the the industry even though he offi­ Sea-Land Shining Star, a 637cially retired in January 1977. foot containership which SeaBrother Aubusson was bom in Land Service chartered "Scottie" Aubusson Middlesex County, England, just beginning last month. outside London. Seafarers crewed the Shining He sailed as a merchant Street beef of 1946 and the Star in the port of Wilmington, mariner aboard British ships from Isthmian strike of '47. He also Calif., although the vessel will 1940 to 1942, thenJoined the SIU participated in organizing drives operate from Ae East Coast. The under unusual circumstances. As for the SlU-affiliated United In­ Shining Star ts "filling in" for four Brother Aubusson once said, "I dustrial Workers and facilitated other Sea-Land ships (the Chal­ came into the SIU on a torpedo! the building of a large and active lenger, Crusader, Discovery and The British ship on which he Maritime Trades Department Expedition) as they "cycle sailed during World War II was Port Council in Chicago. through shipyard periods," said a torpedoed by Germans at Mur­ After he retired. Brother company spokesperson. The mansk, Russia, and Aubusson Aubusson did extensive work Shining Star will go on a run (then 22) was wounded. He was with charities and with hand­ known as the America's Service, picked up by a hospital ship icapped children in the Chicago which includes stops in the Gulf of Mexico, Puerto Rico and the Posing at the console in the engineroom of the Shining Starare, from which berthed in Loch Ewe, Scot­ area. A close friend of retired SIU left, OMU Jesse Manard, Engine Utility William Gordon, OMU Victor land. But when he heard that a official Ed Mooney, he also Caribbean. convoy of U.S. ships was forming stayed abreast of SIU matters, and "The members are excited Bermudez and OMU Gary Mitchell. nearby, he snuck away from the attended the SIUNA convention about it," said SIU Patrolman Rob hospital and signed on an SIU last summer. Scrivens, who sent the accom­ ship, the Gateway City. He was so "He was a great guy to work panying photos to the Seafarers anxious to get to America, he did with," said Ed Pulver, an SIU LOG. "The ship had been laid up not care that the Gateway City vice president who had stood for a while, and it looks like there was going to Murmansk. And it with Aubusson in many beefs will be a lot of OT available while was aboard that vessel where over the years. "And he definite­ the guys get it back in shape." Aubusson was dubbed Scottie ly was one of the funniest people Crewmembers will have in­ (because he had signed on in I ever met. The day he died, he dividual quarters aboard the ves­ Scotland). was passing around cartoons he sel, which will transport a variety For the next 10 years. Brother had drawn." of dry cargo. Aubusson sailed as AB or bosun. George McCartney, SIU vice During the last five years, the In 1949, he became a U.S. citizen. iresident West Coast who also vessel was on charter to Lykes Aubusson came ashore in lad known and worked with Bros, and sailed by the name Al1952 and began working his way Aubusson for many years, meria Lykes. Before that, it was The passenger area of the Shin- The Shining Star takes on cargo up through the union. In 1955 he described Brother Aubusson as at Nasco shipyard In San Diego. an American President Lines ship ing Star Is aft of the house. became a patrolman in the port of very popular. He had many known as the President McNew York. Four years later he yams to spin, but he also did a lot Kinley. became port agent of the port of for the union. The Shining Star has a breadth Chicago. Brother Aubusson oiften; of 82 feet and a depth of 30.8 feet. Brother Aubusson spent more referred to himself as A-8, which/ than a dozen years working in was his SlU book number. Chicago, then finished his SIU When he retired, he told the career as port agent in St. Louis Seafarers LOG that his greatest from 1973 to late 1976. accomplishment was obtaining Throughout his years with the his high school diploma at the Seafarers, Brother Aubusson Lundeberg School in 1974. He is gained a reputation as someone believed to be the first SIU offi­ who had a great sense of humor. cial to complete the GED pro­ Scottie was much loved by the gram at the school. membership," noted SIU Presi­ "Sure, I was afraid of failing," dent Michael Sacco. "He always Brother Aubusson told the LOG had a grin on his face and a stoiy in January 1977."But I was deter­ to tell." mined to show the trainees that if Chief Steward Curtus Phillips and Aubusson participated in a guy who dropped out of school Chief Cook Allan Sim are at work Bosun Bobby Garcia (lower right) and Mike Charben (seated left) draw many of the epic beefs involving 40 years ago at age 14 could make In the ship's galley. the SIU beginning with die Wall it, anybody could." cards with other deck department crewmembers for watches. Seeking to promote safety practices in benzene-associated environments, the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship safety team met last month to review the Coast Guardissued regulations related to the petroleum-based chemical Several wrinkles have come up in the way regulations cover­ ing benzene are being imple- Former Seafarers Port Agent 'Scottie' Aubusson Dies at 72 Seafarers Crew Sea-LantFs Shining Star I �.trr MARCH 1993 SEAFARERS LOG 7 Gnat Lakes Boatmen damplete Special Courses Seafarers employed by Great Lakes Towing Company recently completed special courses cover­ ing AB and engineroom skills ai the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Early last month, 10 SITJ members who sail for Grea Lakes Towing finished the train­ ing programs which were developed for the company due to f: Opening a water valve prior to en­ gine start is Tony Willoughby. sailed exclusively in the deck department until recently, when he also started working in the en­ gineroom. "As you can imagine, I learned a lot from this engine course," Homer said. One of the Seafarers who took both courses is Tony Willough­ by. He summed up the experience when he stated, "^ey were good courses and I got a lot out of them." Greg Stamatelakys, another first-time visitor to the Paul Hall Center, said, "It was great to see another part of the union, and I think the school is a very progres­ sive idea." Mark Rohn, director-fleet operations for Great Lakes Towing, said in a letter to the Lundeberg School, "... from the enthusiasm and response shown by our employees, [the courses] should prove to be a success and beneficial to both the individuals and the company by insuring that the equipment is being operated Seafarers who completed the special courses are (from left, kneeling) Lonnee Aakeberg, Greg and maintained properly." Rohn Stamatelakys, Ray Smith, Tony Willoughby, (second row) Timothy McKenna, Cliff Stockman, A.K. also expressed appreciation about Horner, Mike McCormick, Mike Lock and Mike Kornmeier. Instructor Joe Kurley is at far right. the school's willingness to pro­ vide the special training. informative. When you learn on While all of the formal teach­ the job, you usually don't have ing was handled by instmctors, time to End out why things are Kurley noted the "wide variety of done certain ways. But in these background and experience" courses, everything seems to among the students, who also come together for you." taught each other. "The exchange Aakeberg added that instruc­ of information among them was tors Joe Kurley (engine depart­ fabulous," Kurley said. "The in­ ment) and Jim Brown (deck) "are teraction helped everyoiie, in­ lighly skilled in relating to our cluding me. I learned from them, questions and giving answers we and I tlunk that proves once again understand." the caliber of people in the SIU." Similarly, Mike McCormick, new tonnage regulations affect­ ing tugboats. The Lundeberg School modified its AB course and created the engine training in order to accommodate both the company's and the members' needs and schedules. The Seafarers, most of whom previously sailed as deckhand/en­ gineers, got plenty of hands-on training in areas such as valve maintenance, back and hearing safety, pumps, repair techniques for broken bolts and studs, start­ ing a boat's main engines, cutting and threading pipes, lifeboat operation and many other skills. (Four of the men already were ABs and took only the engine course. The others took both courses.) They also took written tests and kept training manuals which were produced specifically for them by Lundeberg School instructors. Lonnee Aakeberg, who sails from the port of Duluth, Minn., Before starting the engine, Cliff said he found the classes "very Stockman gives it a pre-lube. .j; A.K. Horner wipes up oil on the BullShepard'sstaiboard main engine. who sails from the ports of jobs." Kommaier also said the Toledo, Ohio and Detroit, said he scheduling allowed the Seafarers gained a lot from the courses. "In to make the most of their time at fact, I'm considering coming the school. A.K. Horner has been a mem­ Timothy McKenna reviews the back to the school so 1 can learn ber of the SIU since 1971. He pre-engine start-up checklist. more." While discussing thefrequent­ ly changing needs of the industry, Tim McKenna said he recog­ nized the importance of the train­ ing available at the Lundeberg School. "We have to be sure we have qualified employees." For Cliff Stockman, who has been a Seafarer since 1978, this was his first trip to the SIU educa­ tion facility in Piney Point, Md. 'I'm impressed with the staff and the facilities," he said. "It's much larger than 1 realized." Like several of his fellow classmates, Ray Smith, who works in Cleveland, said he ap­ preciated the instructors' willing­ ness "to go out of their way to help us. '^at really helped, and 1 feel likeeveryone benefitted from the courses." A Great Lakes employee for more than 23 years, Mike Kornmaier described the cour­ ses as "well-handled. The facilities were better than we ex­ Checking the schematic to ensure proper lubrication for the Bull pected, and we picked up some important things that apply to our Tho Alaska and the Missouri are two of Great Lakes Towing's tugs. Shepard's main engine are Mike McCormick (left) and Ray Smith. W --'--.AT?: • • USi'v'Vv;*- •« �8 MARCH1993 SEAFARERS LOG Charter Member Eloris Tart Finds Relaxation on Links Retired Steward Still Keeps Up with SIU .L/- • After a long, distinguished Rescue at Sea career with the SIU that included One of the most dramatic serving in World War IT and later events of Tart's career took place taking part in a dramatic rescue at in May 1972, 30 miles off the sea, SIU pensioner Eloris Tart coast of Florida. He was sailing, has settled into a comfortable aboard the Sea-Land Warrior routine which includes plenty of when he and his fellow crewmemhis favorite sport: golf. bers rescued all 104 passengers who Many people find the game had been forced from their fuomaddening, but Tart, a charter ravaged vessel, the Liberianmember of the Seafarers, says, registered Oriental Warrior. "I've always liked it. I used to be a The Sea-Land Warrior's crew caddie when I was young, and I later received a prestigious safety never lost my interest in the sport." award from the National Safety He plays at least nine holes on Council and the American In­ most days, weather permitting. stitute of Merchant Shipping Assessing his skills, he says, "I (AIMS). At the awards still need to brush up!" ceremony, the president of AIMS Last month. Tart celebrated singled out Brother Tart, describ­ his 80th birthday. The former ing him as "a credit to his vessel recertified steward retired from and to theU.S. merchant marine" the SIU in 1975, settling in for the fine care he and the Mobile, Ala. steward department extended to It requires some cajoling to get the rescued passengers and crewTart to reminisce, but his memories members of the Oriental Warrior. of the union are plentiful. At the time. Tart said the burn­ ing ship reminded him of the Started in 1933 many vessels he saw go down in Brother Tart was born in flames during WWII. "There was Baldwin County, Ala. in 1913, no chance for rescue in those near Mobile. He first went to sea days," he said in 1972. at age 20, mostly because"80 per­ But, according to an article in cent of the people from my com­ June 1972 Seafarers LOG, munity did it. You have to realize, Brother Tart also said he had no those were different times." qualms about taking risks to help He started with the old Inter­ national Seamen's Union, but be­ save lives. Under similar cir­ came a Seafarer in 1939 in the cumstances, he said, "1 would do port of Mobile. In fact, his SIU the exact same thing —just like membership began on his any other Seafarer." Helpful Suggestions birthday, February 14. "There wouldn't have been an Just before he retired. Tart SIU if we hadn't resisted the (at­ played a big part in having some tempted) takeovers by the of the steward department ratings NMU," Tart declares. "A lot of restructured. Based partly on his good men helped keep the SIU recommendations, the steward/ going, naturally including Paul cook position was re-rated to Hall (who headed the SIU from steward/baker, while chief cooks 1947 until his death in 1980), retained their old ratings. This whom I knew for a long time. I resulted in fair pay and distinctive also sailed with his brother. Bill." job descriptions for those who Brother Tart participated in sailed with those ratings. many of the union's beefs. He Since then. Tart, who has two also sailed extensively during sons, has enjoyed his time on the World War n, including trips on links. But he also has stayed the bauxite run. "Those were very abreast of the union"^s activities. dangerous, hard voyages," he He still regularly reads the LOG recalls. "But we had to get the and occasionally drops in at the bauxite for aluminum for airplanes Mobile union hall. and other war materials." In fact, Brbther Tart says he is Tart remembers one trip when hopeful that this year the cutoff his ship ran out of stores. He also date for WWII veterans' status recalls sailing with all of the for merchant mariners will be ex­ ship's lights out so the merchant tended to include those who vessels would not be easily sailed during the first year of the spotted by enemy submarines. war. "1 know a lot of people have An occasional contributor to written their congressmen about the Seafarers LOG, Brother Tart this issue," he says. "From ex­ also served in the Coast Guard perience, 1can tell you there were during WWII. a lot of deadly mines and other But he returned to the SIU hazards out there." before the war's end, and in 1964 (Brother Tart recently sent his he graduated from the chief original membership records to steward recertification course in the LOG. He included dues New York. Brother Tart was a mem­ receipts and discharges, copies of ber of the ninth recertification class. which, appear on this page.) Graduation tlma in the Maritime Advancement Program, finds Class No. 9 of the Stewards Training and Recertification Program lined up after receiving their new certificates. In the photo are (front,1-r) Walter Newberg,, Orville Payne, Eloris Tart, Juan Oquendo, Jr. and Terrill York. At rear are instructor Tony Goncalves, Angel .Seda, SIU President Paul Hall, who presented the certificates, Juan Reinosa, Rex O'Connor, Frank J. Meggie, and instructor Eric Kingwall. Brother WiRlam McNelly was not present when the photo was taken. (See Page S.) Recerfificoffon. -ate*.) • « r Y Sis ijsr mi. 93. *>« "St. IS. S94S. !io. -So.. ''HiA 'xr V DECK 3EAFABEBS INTERNATK^ otNorfii Am«{3, • 1; 2 oil 7 > L lb« cmfbonx* 1 i Ghra rsealpt to tho i » ond 1 p Qici azn%£} sloctpod hU bcok y - .1^ 1/ �•. F- MARCH1993 " J-' ;®: SEAFABERSLOG 9 Efforts Begin io Pass WWII Mariner Veterans Extension Grassroots efforts already are noted Joseph Katusa, vice chair­ being organized to seek congres­ man of the Merchant Mariners sional support for legislation that Fairness Committee of the would extend the cutoff date for American Merchant Marine World War Il-era merchant Veterans. manners. Katusa and George Searle, The Merchant Mariners Fair­ chairman of the committee, have ness Act of 1993 has been sub­ organized a data base of the mitted for the third straight American Merchant Marine session of ^Congress by Repre­ Veterans to know which veterans sentative Jack Fields (R-Texas). live in which districts. "We want It seeks to extend World War II our members to contact the dis­ veterans status to U.S. merchant trict offices or the Washington of­ mariners who sailed between fices to let the Congress loiow of August 15, 1945 and December our support," Katusa noted. 31,1946, the date President Harry Already letters are being Truman declared an end to the received in Montgomery's office hostilities. as well as in the office of Jim In just one month, the bill (also Slattery (D-Kansas), who is known as HR 44) has acquired chairman of the House Veterans more than 130sponsors. This is as Affairs' Compensation, Pension many as the bill acquired in the and Insurance Subcommittee. To first year of the previous session date, no hearing on HR 44 has of Congress. Before the session been scheduled. adjourned last fall, 227 members Bill supporters received a of Congress (more than half) had boost last month when the Sun­ signed on as sponsors. day newspaper magazine Parade However, the bill still faces ran story about HR 44. "It was Opposition from the chairman of tremendous to see that article ap­ the House Veterans' Affairs pear at the beginning of Con­ Committee, G.V. "Sonny" gress," Searle stated. "That Montgomery (D-Miss.). brought more national attention to our cause." Writing Campaign Starts Changes 1988 Ruling "We have started letter-writ­ ing campaigns by members of our Both Searle and Katusa organization who live in a district received their veterans status in where the representative is not a 1988 when the secretary of the sponsor or serves on the commit­ Air Force (the branch of the tee where the bill is hung up," Department of Defense that over­ sees veterans affairs) declared merchant mar i -. s who sailed be­ tween Dece.-.'uer 7, 1941 and August 15,1945 as World War II vets. However, all other branches of the service use December 31, 1946 as the cutoff date for World W^ n veterans status. "The members of the mer­ chant marine who were in train­ ing as of August 15 had no idea that the atomic bomb existed or would end the war," Katusa ex­ plained. "They were in training to prepare for the invasion of Japan." Like many other merchant mariners from the war, Katusa and Searle sought to join the Navy to fight for their country, but ended up in the merchant fleet. Write to Congress to Express Support for HR 44 Seafarers and their families are urged to voice their support for the Merchant Mariners Fairness Bill of 1993 (HR 44) by writing to their member of Congress or to the House Conmnittee on Veterans' Affairs. The names of the committee members appear below. Letters for all members of the House of Repre­ sentatives should be addressed to: The Honorable • U.S. House of Representatives, Washington, DC 20515. Luis V. Guiterrez, 111. Democrats Scotty Baesler, Ky. G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery, Sanford Bishop, Ga. Miss. James E. Clybum, S.C. Don Edwards, Calif. Mike Kreidler, Wash. Douglas Applegate, Ohio Conine Brown, Fla. Lane Evans, 111. Republicans Timothy J. Penny, Minn. Bob Stump, Ariz. J. Roy Rowland, Ga. Christopher H.Smith, N.J. Jim Slattery, Kan. Joseph P. Kennedy II, Mass. Dan Burton, Ind. Michael Bilirakis, Fla. George E. Sangmeister, HI. Tom Ridge, Pa. Jill Long, Ind. Floyd Spence, S.C. Chet Edwards, Texas Tim Hutchinson, Adc, Maxine Waters, Calif. Terry Everett, Ala; Bob Clement, Term. Steve Buyer, Ind. : Bob Filner, Calif. Jack Quinn, N.Y. Frank Tejeda, Texas "I went to enlist in the Navy with a friend," Katusa recalled. "We were shoved into the maritime service. The trappings were military and we wanted to serve oin country." Searle became a merchant mariner when "the Navy turned me down because of my eyes. It was on my 17th birthday and I had dropped out of 10th grade. They told me if I wanted to join a ser­ vice, go into the maritime service. I wouldn't have left high school if I thought I was going to be a civilian." Outside Support Besides congressional sup­ port, the bill has been endorsed by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans and American Legion posts around the country as well as by nation­ ally syndicated columnist James J. Kilpatrick. If passed, the bill would allow the merchant mariners it covers to receive a military burial, medical care at Veterans Administration (VA) hospitals and VA homeloan guarantees. Harry Bur­ roughs, the minority staff Erector for the House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee, pointed out that most of those ^ected already have their own doctors and homes so the cost to the government would be minimal. SlU Pensioner Wadlington Helps Henor All Veterans of War World War 11 veteran seaman and SIU pensioner Maxwell Wadlington wants to make sure his fellow merchant mariners are not forgotten. Brother Wadlington noticed an advertisement in his local Eustis, Fla. newspaper requesting community contributions toward SIU pensioner Maxwell Wad­ lington placed a wreath at the new war memorial in Florida. thJ building tend the dedication ceremony on November 11 where he could place his own special wreath of remembrance on the memorial. Wearing his Seafarers jacket. Brother Wadlington attended the ceremony and proudly placed a wreath on the monument. Its in­ scription read, "The U.S. Mer­ chant Marine - WWII." "I was anxious for people to know about the seamen of World War II. I wanted to remind them that soldiers and aviators weren't out there fighting alone. There were seamen too," Wadlington said. "I am proud to have sailed as a merchant mariner. The problem is that hardly anyone knows about the merchant marine and what they did in World War II. That is the purpose of my wreath, to make people remember that we were there too." His is still the only wreath to date on display at the site, but he said he expects there will be more once other area veterans visit the memorial. A native of Hopkinsville, Ky. Brother Wadlington joined the merchant marine in 1943 in Sheepshead Bay, N.Y. He sailed the Mediterranean throughout World War II. In 1943, Wadlington sailed on his first ship, the Sebastian Vizcamo, a Liberty ship. The vessel's mission was to transport six locomotives to Londpn. But the locomotives were too heavy of a load, and the vessel began to crack. The ship had to detour into Newfoundland for repairs before delivering its cargo safely. Once in London, the Sebastian Vizcamo tied up at the Royal Al­ The memorial In Ferran Park stands as a tribute to all veterans of war. bert docks. Wadlington recalled there were Nazi bombers over­ curate in those times. Some came The vessel then took 400 German head every night. The target was close to us, very close. Search prisoners to Oran, Algeria in the Woolwich Arsenal across the lights, bombs exploding, tracers North Africa. Brother Wad­ Thames River. and star shells made the most lington also sailed in Korea. "Bomb sites were not so ac- spectacular sight this kid had ever He joined the SIU in 1950 and witnessed," Wadlington ob­ finished his career as an AB in served. During World War 11 he was 1980. Brother Wadlington still aboard the Robert Dale Owen, a loves to be on the water and cur­ Liberty ship which participated in rently owns and sails boats on the the invasion of Southern France. lakes of Lake County. of a veterans memorial. He quickly researched the "Troject and discovered the memorial was being built to honor all veterans of war—not just a particular branch of the military. Wadlington provided a donation. "I contributed be­ cause I have a deep love and affection for the mere^hant seaman," he told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. His donation, along with other community contributions, helped pay for a monument honoring the veterans of Lake County. The memorial was built in the city's Ferran Park on Lake Eustis. Brother Wadlington received a letter thanking him for his con­ Brother Wadlington had this wreath specially made to honor fellow tribution and inviting him to at­ merchant seamen who served in World War II. • • "-i-f' Russian Medals Presented in San Francisco A group of 26 WWII merchant mariners who sailed the Mur­ mansk Run, among them retired SIU member James Fuller, received medals of heroism from the Russian government at a commemoration ceremony held aboard the Liberty Ship SS Jeremiah O'Brien on January 30 in San Francisco.. Duringthe war. Fuller (who sailed with the SIU from 1946 to 1990) was in the Armed Guard crew aboard the American Mail Une SS Gilbert Stuart which went from Manchester, England to Mur­ mansk and then down to Molotovsk t>eyond Archangel on the White Sea and then back to Murmansk. Pensioner Fuller lives in Setjastopol, Calif. < T �10 MARCH 1993 SEAFAIKRSUMt 55 Years of SIU Membership Come to an End When Boatman J.F. "Jake' Kelley announced his retirement as an active member of the Seafarers earlier this year, it marked the first time since 1931 when the SIU was founded that neither he nor any of his four brothers were sailing for the union. J.F. "Jake" Kelley Last month, Kelley ended a 29-year career as an engineer with G&H Towing of Houston. He began sailing as a deep sea member in 1947, then switched to inland in 1964. "It was after the war [World War II] and I couldn't find any­ thing else to do," he told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "My oldest brother was sailing so I thought I'd make one trip to see what it was like. "That turned out to be the started," Ed noted. "Working conditions, pay scales, fringe benefits, less hours, overtime—^it is almost unbelievable. When I started, we got $1 an hour for overtime. But that was good money back then. "Today, the union is the land of opportunity. You have to work hard, but it is a good life," he longest one trip anyone has made because I kept going and didn' quit until now," added the 66X. year-old. Oldest Brother Was First According to all of his surviv­ ing brothers, the eldest. Jack Keily, was the reason they went to sea and joined the SIU. Jack was a charter member of the union. His career went back even further as he had been a member of the old International Seamen's Union. He had sailed in the Gulf pf Mexico with Alabama-native and former SIU president Paul Hall. Brother Kelly held Gulf book number 10 when he joined the SIU. After the war, the other Kelly brothers began their careers with the Seafarers. Ed Kelly Sr. signed on in 1947 shortly after Jake went to sea and just before Fred Kelly Barney Kelly brother Barney Kelly came aboard. Finally, Fred Kelly joined his brothers at sea in 1953. Jake started in the steward department but chahged to engine after a few trips. As his family began to grow, he decided he wanted to spend more time at Jack Kelly home. He began sailing inland the same year that Jack lost his life when the tugboat on which he added. was working sank during a freak His brother Fred, who retired accident in the Houston Shipping as a utilityman in 1973, agreed. Channel. I'd tell someone getting started to go ahead and join. Make a life Work His Way Up While Fred also went from out of it and stay until you retire. deep sea to inland, Ed stayed on The union will be good to you and the ocean-going vessels and br you," he said. worked his way up to recertified Carried Grain to USSR steward before retiring in 1986. During his 40 years with the "There has been a big change SIU, Ed stated that he had gone m the merchant marine since I from sailing on C-1 and T-2 ves­ sels that hauled bauxite to the large military prepositioning ships now stationed in Diego Gar­ cia. Among his many voyages was one on board an Ogden tanker that carried some of the first American grain to the Soviet Union in 1973. "When we arrived, the people were so grateful," he recalled. "We had a party on the ship and entertained about 50 people in the saloon." Fred was the first in the family to retire. He started receiving his pension in 1973. Barney signed off the next year. Barney, Fred and Jake all live in Texas while Ed resides in North Carolina. Of the Kelly generation that followed, only Ed's son— Ed Jr.—still is with the union. He serves as a port representative in Mobile, Ala. V Ed Kelly Sr. SnowsUnm Does Not Delay EartyFHout for American Republic The weather may not have Weather conditions had been looked like spring, but the SIU mild—for the Lakes regioncrew of the American Republic prior to the fitout. When he started working on the deck, AB/Watchman Don White joked, "Ice skates should be is­ sued as work gear." Hoses used in fire drills for Coast Guard inspectors began to freeze almost immediately after the tests, forcing the deck crew to clean them out before putting them back in their stations. In the conveyor area, engine depart­ ment members had to clean up what the winter's cold and ice had messed up, while the steward department got the galley back in order. Although crewmembers had AB/Watchman Glen Tate realizes extra effort will be needed to release frozen hatch covers. to deal with the cold above and below deck, none of them com­ plained because of the unex­ pected extra month of work. The 635-footer was called to duty to carry ore from Ashtabula, Ohio to the McLeod Steel plant in Trenton, Mich. The ship was able to answer the call because there is relatively little ice on the Lakes this winter. While the Republic already is making its runs, most of the other vessels crewed by SIU members are expected to return to the Lakes in late March or early April. Crewmembers should stay in touch with the union halls in Algonac, Mich, or Duluth, Minn, Trying to empty fire hoses of water before they freeze are Deckhand Dean Brownjng (left) and AB/Watchman Ronald Vandercook. for the latest information. , • ' got a month's jump on the rest of the Great Lakes fleet when the self-unloader departed the port of Toledo, Ohio on February 18. "This is the earliest I've gone back to work," Deckhand Dean Browning told Algonac (Mich.) Fort Representative Don Thornton who met with the crew before the ship set sail. The vessel had laid up for the winter in late December. The crew did not ex­ pect to go back to work until midMarch. "Yeah, but I sure am glad to be back to work," added his watch partner, AB/Watchman Ron Vandercook. A snowstorm hit the western Lake Erie region two days before While ice has formed around vessels docked In the harbor, the ship A hard snow welcomes the crew of the American Republic as they the American Republic set sail. channels have remained almost Ice-free this winter. . report to work. �MARCH 1993 SEAFARERS LOG 11 Dredge Dodge Island Heads lor Wanner Waters After Summer on Great Lakes Mjp SIU members aboard the dredge Dodge Island reported all was going well when union rep­ resentatives recently serviced the crew near Chestertown, Md. The North American Trailing Company vessel was working in Chesapeake Bay after spending the summer on the Great Lakes around Michigan doing main­ tenance work and cleaning out the shipping channels. The crewmembers had plenty of questions concerning upcom­ ing contract negotiations, upgrad­ ing at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education and health and medical matters, reported SIU Assistant Vice President Tony Sacco and Bal­ timore Patrolman Charlie Clausen. The crew also praised the fine food served by Chief Cook Curtis Brodnax. After completing its work in the bay last month, the Dodge /s/flnd sailed south for Norfolki Va. to take on another job. ^ Taking part in a shipboard union meeting are (left to right) Wiper Joseph Ritter, AB David Lijewski, SA Michael Isnas and Assistant Engineer Jay Stiles. , Crewmembers of the dredge Dodge/s/andgather in the galley to meet with union representatives. From the left are (seated) Chief Engineer ' Michael Hinchcliffe, Wiper Joseph Ritter, (standing) ABJim Anderson ^ and SIU Assistant Vice President Tony Sacco. Drag Tender Bill Padgett over- Chief Cook Curtis Brodnax dices sees operations from the bridge, an onion while preparing dinner. •, J-"- ^ . f •• Global Link Galley looks Forward to 1993 The past year has been an eventful one for the galley gang of the SlU-crewed Global Link, according to Chief Steward D. (Brandon) Maeda. The vessel, the first of Tran­ soceanic Cable Ship's new cablelaying vessels for its parent company, AT&T, made two trips during 1992 across the Atlantic. Maeda noted the steward department stayed busy as it took care of the full working crew when the ship departed its berth Viewing work from the bridge are, from left, SIU Assistant Vice President in Baltimore to load cable in New Tony Sacco, Mate Pat Dollard and Captain Howard Hawrey. Hampshire in February. The Global Link then laid cable across the ocean to a point north of Scot­ land before heading to a shipyard in Southampton, England for minor repairs. The vessel sailed home in May. In late October, the crew was notified of a cable break in the Atlantic and set sail for one month. When they got back, the galley gang discovered an addi­ tional "member" was waiting ^hore for them. Chief Cook Cheryl Neff had signed off before the second voyage because she was due to give birth. Her son, Dakota Wil­ liam Neff, was bom November 3. Upon die Global Link's return, Mae^ and the rest of the crew gave Dakota his first tour of the cable ship. "The crew has done an out­ standing job all year," Maeda wrote in a note included with the photographs that appear with this story. "We are looking for-: ward to another productive year in 1993." -I;'; v.; Cold Work on the Philly-Camden Ferry Aboard the Delawhaleare, from left. Captain Bob Papale, Philadel­ phia Patrolman Sean Ryan and Capt. Dom Rizzo. Chief Cook Cheryl Neff brings her Taking desserts to hungry crew- Giving Dakota Neff his first tour of newborn son, Dakota, aboard the members is Steward Assistant the cable ship is Chief Steward D. cable ship. Joseph Sneed. (Brandon) Maeda. SIU Captains Bob Papale and Dom Rizzo, as well as other Seafarers who crew the Philadelphia-Camden, N.J. ferry, recently endured bone-chilling weather to get the Job done. During a three-day span in late January and early February, the Philadelphia area had its coldest weather in three years—sub-zero temperatures and high winds which made it seem even colder. But that did not stop the SIU members aboard the Delawhale from transporting passengers across the Delaware River. Captain Dom Rizzo secures The ferry crosses the Delaware gangway on the Delawhale. River in all kinds of weather. The galley gang of the Global Link gathers around the ship's Christmas tree. From left to right are Cook/Baker George Sasaki, Steward Assistants Nolan Hurtt, Keith Barfield, Barbara Boyer, Scotty, Greenlee and Cromwell Henderson, and Chief Cook Jose Luaces. • '?-• •^ '••'4m I' �• - A- miWH 1993 12 SBAFAKERS LOG SEAFARERS UK II/UUICH1993 SIU Hatches New Idea To Improve Galley Training - • Marked by state-of-the-art equipment, spacious design and opportunities for more individual instruction, the new steward department lab at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education opened last month. The lab, which represents the continuing effort to fine-tune the SIU's shipboard feeding programs, covers 5,300 square feet and features a dining room, an amphitheater-like demonstra­ tion room, a classroom and an eight-station lab. All of the cook­ ing and refrigeration equipment is brand new, and up to 16 people simultaneously may use the facility. "It's well-planned, it's designed well and there's no limit to what we can do here," said Recertified Steward William Winters, whose class was the first to use the lab. "This opens the door for higher-level culinary arts training." Winters added that the lab's layout will give upgraders a chance for more hands-on training and more oneon-one instruction. Top photo; The lab Is housed In buildings which formerly were used as bungalows. Three photos above: Recertified Steward Anthony Curran (top), a Lundeberg School graduate, says the lab i ' i;';V _;.-.f', •' •i '•' • ..' -t- • • Facil^ Features Kloderu Equipment, Itoaiduess Stewards Lab Oaais at Paul Had Salter Above: Recertified Steward Carl Poggioll gives cooking demonstration for fel­ low upgraders at the new lab. '44 The lab is housed in what used to be two one-story bungalows. (Winters stayed there in 1976 as a member of class 218.) The buildings were refurbished, while an addition was constructed which adjoins the two structures. Most of the installation has been finished, but a few items — such as mirrors, desks for the classroom and seats for the demonstration room — are scheduled to be in place shortly. "The facility is comfortable and very modem," said Recer­ tified Steward Mark Flores. "This is what it's like on modem ships, so it's great that we have all this equipment right here. As for quality of the equipment, this is the best I've ever seen, and I've been a cook in many different hotels and elsewhere." All steward department upgrading courses will include time in the lab, which was designed to allow improved monitoring of each member's capabilities. The Lundeberg School steward conunittee (com­ prised of representatives from the school, the SIU and the union's contracted companies) is scheduled to meet March 8 "to address priorities and planning— decide specifically how often the lab will be used by people in various courses," said Don Nolan, Lundeberg School culi­ nary services director. Nolan and other SIU reps visited numerous culinary school labs around the country, then modeled the Lundeberg School lab after the best ones — for example, the Culinary Institute of America, Cornell University, the California Culinary Academy and Johnson and Wales Univer­ sity. "Naturally, those places have a lot more space than we do," Nolan explained, "so what we did was take the same design ideas and condense them. "This is just another example of how the union works with SIUcontracted companies to con­ tinually upgrade our members." Construction and refurbishing From top left "egg:" Construction and refur­ bishing began last year and was comleted early In *93. The Seafarers will benefit all galley gang upgraders. Julio Roman (left) ap­ preciates the spacious­ ness at the facility. Instructor Ed White prepares a sample in the demo room. were done by a local contractor whose employees are members of the SIUNA-affiliated United In­ dustrial Workers (UI^. Addi­ tionally, the refrigeration equipment that was purchased for the lab was constmcted at Vic­ tory, a UTW plant near Philadel­ phia. Much of the equipment is port­ able, so it may be moved to the demo room, where guest chefs periodically are expected to ap­ pear. Recertified Steward Car! Poggioli said the new lab, located near the computer lab and other academic buildings, "is a lot like the labs at Cornell. It definitely is beneficial for the school, espe­ cially with the (potential employ­ ment opportunities on) gambling ships and cruise ships, because you do more refined cooking on those ships I think this allows more hands-on experience and more individual attention for each upgrader." Julio Roman, another mem- I 'r®? •« SMS Wi •!I .TF1 t I I Photos 1-7 show various stages in the building process. The lab Includes a classroom, a demon­ stration room (pictured at left) and other modern features. Much of the design Is patterned after prestigious culinary labs throughout the United States, including those at the Culinary Institute of America. ^ •X'.'A Am 4 her of the recertified class which christened the lab, noted the inodern equipment which "al­ lows you to do a whole batch of shrimp at once." He also men­ tioned one of the new ovens which cooks meat at low temperatures and does not shrink the meat. In fact, in a recent demonstration, Lundeberg School instructor Ed White showed the stewards a piece of comed beef which was left in an, oven for 24 hours—but came out full-sized and juicy. "It's amaz­ ing," said Roman. Each of the stewards ex­ pressed appreciation for the roominess in the lab. Joe Ortega summed up his experience there when he said, "So far, everything is running nicely. I think [the new facility] willgive us more time to learn, and that's why we're here." John Reid likened his time at the lab to "breaking out a ship. It's just like that.... We're still get­ ting stuff running, but people down the line will benefit from what we're doing now." who will graduate as re­ certified stewards on March 8 were the first to use the facilities. . ;- •0^^. 'v •.-r,;..; ; ^ '••••:" f- Below: Carl Poggioli and Monica Kohs work at one of the lab stations. i From top left: Mike Thornton chops steak at lab station. Carl Poggioli continues with demo. Patrick Briggs emerges from freezer and prepares another dish. 6 .-N, / —t r"'-. Above: From left, Andrew Austin, William Winters and Julio Roman arrange cake exhibit, while (directly above) Joe Ortega works on desserts. ' ; ±uiL •A X V". I �14 MARCH 1993 SEAFARERS LOG Muimansk—'42: THE DIARY OF WYMOND D. HENDERSON : i . ' •. f f . ' • Last month, the Seafarers LOG published part of a diary written by Wymond D. Henderson, a ,Seafarer who was part of the vital supply run to Russia known as the Murmansk Run. [Last month's ar­ ticle incorrectlyddentified him as William. Although he was known as "Bill," his full name was Wymond Donlan Henderson. His widow, Wilhemina, resides in Oregon.] Henderson was killed in an automobile accident in 1959, but the family sailing tradition lives on. Two of his sons—Ben, 33, and George, 35—are members of the SIU. Part I of Brother Henderson's diary left off with Henderson going ashore in Murmansk and asking the Maritime Commission to provide gas masks to the Yaka's crew. Whatfollows is Part II of his narrative. The remaining portion of the diary will appear in future issues of the LOG. with five cartons of cigarettes (worth 300 rubles or the Part II I obtained masks at a Russian equivalent of $60.00 U.S. dollars store several miles out on the edge per carton in the consumer goodsof town, and gave the address to starved town). Several crewmembers stayed Mr. McGinnis who is part of the ashore for various lengths of time, staff of U.S. representatives. The next day when I called on including—besides unlicensed Mr. Pearsons to be reimbursed, I men—the chief engineer, second found the Naval attach^, Mr. assistant engineer, third mate, second mate, etc., so I was not Frankle, waiting to talk to me. alone, you see. Among other things, he asked Though conventional enter­ why we were ashore without leave. I told him we had come tainment and diversion are not to ashore to walk around and break be had in this war-torn, once the monotony of ship life and to evacuated frontier city, the people see Capt. Pearsons about shore are brave and friendly. Many of leave and gas masks. Frankle said the girls are very beaiitiful. I was that he could understand that but more fortunate than most in ob­ wanted to ask us to return to our taining liquor. (I bought West In­ ship. This was Friday. I told him I dian rum and vermouth on a couldn't say for sure, but I thought British ship.) One or, at the most, the fellows intended to return after two glasses of wine or vodka at the Arctica Hotel per day was all, ab­ the weekend. solutely all, you could get fi-oiti As to the gas masks, Pearsons spoke up to deny that he had Russian sources! I made the ac­ agreed to pay for any I might buy, quaintance of several intelligent affirming that he had only asked and charming people. Unlike most me to let him know where they of my shipmates, I hope to visit Murmansk again some day. could be bought. There were many spectacular Frankle then said that he didn't think gas would be used here.That air raids for the first week of my if it were used, it would be mustard stay ashore, for the weather was gas sprayed on the docks, which excellent—clear and warm. But would not be repelled by gas for the last five or six days, it was masks anyhow. He didn't think it overcast, cold, often sriowing or fair for a few people or even a few raining, so the planes did not come ships to be supplied while others over. were not. Furthermore, he said . I thought the convoy was ready that he could not allow his office to leave when I went back aboard. to be used for these unimportant Back Aboard Ship things when more important June 10,11,12—air raids. things were to be done. He said June 13. Air raids at 6:50,8:50 that if anybody was able to buy and 11:30 a.m. and 2:20 p.m. masks himself, as a souvenir, it Heavy shrapnel barrage over was all right, but that his office town, bombs apparently fell above would have nothing to do with it. town. Air raid at 3:30 p.m. No He said that he was glad that 1 warning 'til seven heavy bombers had not brought up the matter of (probably four-motored) were "seamen's rights" as such, be­ overhead, quite high, and the guns cause this was war. He was a opened up a barrage ahead and Naval man and wouldn't stand for below them. They held their al­ it. We were working for our lives titude and dropped their bombs and not for money^ That his duty without swooping—the first time was first to cargoes, second to I'd seen that. As near as we could ships and last to men. tell, they fell on the town some­ Before the weekend was over, where between the docks and the however, I had obtained sleeping town proper. However, a tremen­ accommodations at the over­ dous black smoke was thrown up crowded Arctica Hotel and had which we later were told was a met several people whom I wished plane, loaded with incendiary •to see more of. I had gotten into bonibs that crashed and burned. the swing of how to enjoy oneself Air raid at 5:30 p.m. Enemy even in a constantly raided, war- dived on Yaka about 5:45 p.m. torn city, and decided that as the About seven or eight two-motored ship was simply lying in the bombers dived on us. Bombs fell stream waiting for a chance to go aft and on port side, striking shal­ to drydock, as the seamen were low water, thus going off near the occupied doing small, unimpor­ surface and throwing large tant things such as chipping the amounts of bomb fragments deck and red-leading, etc., I would which rained down onto the water just stay ashore awhile and enjoy and swept the decks. Several small myself. holes were put in the port side of the ship from mid.ships forward. Yaka In Drydock One large fragment went through^ When the Yaka went into the {xnt side of the fo'c's'l head" drydock, June 2, I went aboard, occupied by the survivors. No one changed clothes and loaded up was in there at the time. Another tore a hole in the comer of the captain's cabin. One mast shroud, port side forward, was nearly cut in two. Other minor damage. Small pieces of bomb fragments were picked up all over the decks. This makes about seven times we've been individually attacked. Everyone hopes the captain will move the ship a mile or so in order to throw the Nazi maps off, as they undoubtedly will keep at us here 'til they get us. I think I'll get my things in order again in case we have to abandon ship in a hurry. Air raids at 7:00 and 9:20 p.m. June 14. Shifted ship at 6:30 a.m. several miles downstream around the bend from town. Tried to drop anchor close in under some cliffs, but as there were over 40 fathoms of water, we shifted into a little bay where we still have some of the protection of the cliff. It is a surprise that this long, nar­ row inlet should be so deep and that, even though of glacerial origin, that the run-off of the stream at its head should not have filled it with sediment. We all feel much better now that we've shifted. Undoubtedly, we were again marked at the other anchorage. I hear the House of Culture was stmck by bombs yesterday, when we saw all the smoke up town, and that all the windows and window frames in the Arctica were blown in. I wonder how Zoe and Esther made out. Sailors called out at 10:30 to )ut #4 lifeboat over the side and ead it along the port side forward while the size of ^eshrapnel holes along the waterline were measured, preparatory to mending them. Air raid at 11:05 a.m. Shrapnel bursts between ship and airfield beyond near hills. Did not sight enemy planes, but Russian Hur­ ricanes, "stubbies," bi-planes, some other small fighter and a number of Russian two-engine planes were in the air. About 11:40 a.m. heavy barrage was thrown up over city which, from our present position, lies across high hills. Bombs were dropped and dense clouds of smoke appeared and hung heavily over the hills. Air raid at 12:40 p.m. The warning flags on the corvettes and destroyers had never been hauled down. Eight, four-motored bom­ bers crossed over the town rather low and dropped bombs. Dogfight ensued over city. Air raid at 2:05 p.m. Gunfire, then we saw one huge bomber coming out of the sun very high, leaving a trail, without dropping bombs. Apparently a reconnais­ sance and photographic flight. I suppose they'll be back in earnest in a couple of hours. Air raid alarms at 4:50 and 5:48 p.m. Dogfight over town. Air raids at 6:50 and 7:45 p.m. Large bomb­ er flew quite high. Small barrage put up. Apparently observer and photographer. Land of the Midnight Sun 12:00 midnight, June 14-15. It is comfortable and warm tonight as I sit in a deck chair with the sun streaming out of the north, over the top of the world, into my face. The wispy, cirrus clouds are tintedgold. The evergreens and grasscovered hills are fresh and ex­ uberant between rocks and snow patches, like the banks of the Snake River in April. The tinted waters of the inlet, icily smooth, lay placid and still. Smoke from a freighter anchored down the way rises in a thin, straight column. The fresh, clean call of birds is in the air like the evening noises back home. Mostly one hears a large, pure white, swallow-like bird, and his call—a short, slightly trilled whistle—resembles the call of parakeets in Central America. A little earlier, a half-dozen black ducks sped in their head-long flight across the water. This surely is the end of their long northern flight, so I don't see why they should still be in such a hurry. There is the friendly drone of a Russian "stubby" fighter as he goes through spectacular stunt flying over die field south of us. I rather expect the big raids tomor­ row. There have been a number of reconnaissance flights today. Oh well, perhaps this is a lucky anchorage. I'm sure it's a more beautiful one! June 15. Air raid alarm at 12:45 p.m. Esther Samwell of the Infleet office came out to the ship in the evening to ascertain bomb damage to the ship for her office. She stayed aboard 'til 1:00 a.m. She spoke of bomb damage to the Arctica and to her own hotel where three people were killed. June 16. Airraids at 7:30,8:45, 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 and 8:10 p.m. We believe, and hope, the convoy will be leaving soon. June 17. Air raids at 8:00,9:15 and 10:15 a.m. Clear weather with scattered cumulus clouds. At 10:25,18 bombers dived on ships Wing about a mile across the inlet from us. We could see no hits from here. The attack was not far below the location where we were bombed on the 15th of May. These planes dove in unexpec­ tedly, and there was no fire 'til they released their bombs. A great, many Russian fighters were in the air and chased the bombers back over the hills. One parachute drifted down from the west and landed in the water quite a dis­ tance above us. We didn't see his plane shot down. Air Raids Continue Air raids at ,12:05 and 12:45 p.m. , June 18. Air raids at 7:15 and 10:45 a.m. Continued 'til 12:40 p.m. Small barrage was put up over city. We saw no planes, but shortly after a great deal of black smoke came up over the hills toward town and continued all afternoon. Air raid at 4:00 p.m. continued 'til 5:30 p.m. About 4:15, 11 bombers came over the town. A tremendous barrage was put up, part of which was hidden by the great column of smoke from the morning raid that still rose over the town. The detonation of these guns and the concussion of bombs continued to be heard several minutes. From our present anchorage, the raids over the city seem a long way off. It is the first time in two months that we have not been under all action. They seem to be "blitzing" the town in earnest now. Perhaps that would indicate an attempt to take it this summer. If so, they might change from fire and dynamite to gas. I'm going to carry my gas mask with me in case. Air raid at 7:00 p.m. Shooting commenced about three minutes after the alarm wa§ given on ship. Heavy motors could be heard crossing above clouds and haze near us. Then anti-aircraft fire and. exploding bombs commenced a rolling cacophony like thunder that continued for several minutes. This continuous sound was dis­ tinct from the separate pop, pop of close fire and is new to me. I don't know whether they are using more guns now or if qur distance from town causes the piling up of sound. June 19. Air raid alarms at 11:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Shooting over the city. Warning continued and at 2:25 p.m. a barrage again was thrown up over the city. Sky is full of huge cumulus clouds. Among these, Russians and Ger- mans engaged in brief dogfights as the Nazis fled. Air raid at 8:30 p.m. June 20. Air raids at 3:00 and 4:50 p.m. Shooting over town. Large number of Russians took to the air. Sky crowded with cumulus clouds. No Nazis seen. June 22. Air raid at 2:50 p.m. Shooting over town. Again at 5:45 and 11:05 p.m. Shooting over city again. The sky has cleared. It is a beautiful sun-drenched midnight. The fresh green of the hillsides, the cool moist air tempered by the hot touch of the low sun, makes midnight here resemble an early June morning high in the moun­ tains of Montana or Idaho. The old gray-headed gentleman of the Infleet office came out to the ship in the afternoon with two assis­ tants and took up our Russian pas­ ses. Mine was already sewn up in a canvas bag with the rest of my papers and waterproofed. I would have declared them lost rather than cut the bag open except that I feared one might be refused shore leave in Russia at some possible future time. Heavy artillery could be heard firing to the north of us all eve­ ning. June 23. Shooting and dogfight over town at 9:20 a.m. A naval boat came alongside with papers for the captain. We, all hope it means we are about to sail. �SEAFAREK106 IS ilMffCMf993 April & May 1993 Membership Meetings Deep S^, Lakes, inland Waters Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea JANUARY 16 — FEBRUARY 15,1993 1. ' :7" '• I" '; •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port 15 18 32 New York 2 8 0 {Philadelphia 11 •.•:••; 5 3 Baltimore 5 13 6 Norfolk 3 13 12 Mobile 3 18 New Orleans 21 19 • ^ 11 Jacksonville 23 4 22 San Francisco 27 2 16 Wilmington 10 6 18 23 Seattle 4 4 4 Puerto Rico 7 16 ' 6 Honolulu 3 29 22 Houston 0 3 ••. 0 St. Louis 1 •f'i© 16 Piney Point 1 2 1 Algonac 72 226 191 Totals Port 19 fnm23 New York Philadelphia •. 2 ' •••••• • 2-:© 6 Baltimore 5 7 7 Norfolk 1 9 9 Mobile 3 14 New Orleans 12 8 17 Jacksonville 11 3 San Francisco 13 2 10 Wilmington 11 5 11 6 Seattle 0 1 7 Puerto Rico 5 10 3 Honolulu ••5: iM-Houston 0 G St. Louis 16 '•M: 2 PineyPoint 0 0 0 Algonac 43 168 117 Totals Port •41 13 12 New York 2 Philadelphia • 1 d "{3: 2 Baltimore 4 5 3 Norfolk 2 5 3 Mobile •©•X,'--..' New Orleans 7 Jacksonville 15 San Francisco 30 9 J: Wilmington 17 Seattle 3 Puerto Rico 12 Honolulu 8 Houston 0 St. Louis 2 Piney Point 0 Algonac 124 Totals Port 8 New York 1 Philadelphia 2 Baltimore 4 Norfolk , 1 Mobile New Orleans 10 2 Jacksonville San Francisco 17 6 Wilmington 9 Seattle 6 Puerto Rico 5 Honolulu 3 Houston 0 St. Louis 0 Piney Point 0 Algonac • < 4 3 •1• • 19 3 34 1 10 18 11 23 • Til 20 9 15 8 57 14 2 21 0 254 ©•••'1 4 0 162 0 15 0 37 <•© ©:©" 5 1 6 3 6 6 15 '-9:: 6 0 138 2 0 3 0 220 4 1 0 0 1 4 0 1 24 m 12 J 2 6 11 9 19 11 a. M. y-% 10 . 2 8 1 16 1 0 0 0 53 1 159 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 9 8 2 1 O'0 3 3 3 1 1 7 9 3 10 9 5 10 ?-•••; ;6 0 10 ©'|{dO 8 ISV91 17 9 0 3 2 8 16 3 {•"•.s: 4 0 0 0 y-S 1 0 1 0 26 109 77 STEWARD DEPARTMENT ... 4 4 5 ©•• .5 5 isiyt d 0 4 2 3 0 0 2 0 19 0 0 0 2 18 7 3 8 0 0 • • • 1^.-| ©d 0 0 0 0 32 60 105 ENTRY DEPART DEPA ?|2' . 16 IIO:-; : 1 V..-' 3 {|©.©:..6...:: 0 3 9 2 1 8 2 3 12 5 "{•'-1 6 0 3.'. 10 13 4 15 0 5 3 133 57 7 13 1 0 0 0 1 25 ©..,...^.:..,' 0 0 0 0 149 191 49 '• yy0f "• ' 53 1 .8 23 16 36 41 y-m y':M 46 17. 8 45 ©l,';-0 , 1 1 372 48 .3 0 0 0. 1 3 2 ^l3-^ 2 2 1 5 •{ST.: 0 1 0 24 l'8{-15 15 23 25 29 17 23 13 4 28 0 2 0 254 0 0 2 1 7 3 11 3 5 2 27 4 0 1 0 72 30 -3 4 7 10 10 20 > 81 1 20 27 9 19 13 : 0 ' 4 0 257 .© , .^©.-.•^,.. j©-,©©!. :>:2©^'v ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT 1 20 23 1 5 :-Vl 2 2 1 2 10 6 1 8 11 1 19 19 T6:;^I ©•22 •••.IS-:-©; 16 .-Oyy 17 9 2 20 20 1 0 8 6 13 4 12 16 0 1 •;•;: 1 iyy.i:.. 2 1 •^•"'l3 ' • 4 0 91 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 pm . © . :T 6 2 14 6 42 10 15 12 10 8 0 0 0 153 40 9 13 29 25 33 40 47 29 27 10 22 60 4 15 3 406 35 5 4 16 6 11 21 11 n 13 6 8 17 0 2 0 166 36 8 12 14 22 27 33 46 19 16 1 11 27 3 29 1 305 9 4 3 5 1 10 16 15 7 9 0 7 9 0 21 .9 i'- 0 96 yy/s/yy 5 8 10 9 17 29 •r-lo'.-^:{|5 1 1 • 8:-«l': 4 . 3 31 3 2 18 8 3 26 PF-6:"{ yyy0 •• 0 ::\'•-.A 23 0 0 59 176 76 6 13 28 24 34 32 58 16 22 17 54 34 6 21 2 443 Piney Point Monday: April 5, May 3 New York Tuesday: April 6, May 4 Philadelphia Wednesday: April 7,May 5 Baltimore Thursday: April 8, May 6 . Norfolk • l:©&l;;l- : Thursday: April 8, May 6 ; ..•{{(© Jacksonville Thursday: April 8, May 6 '' , Algonac Friday: April 9, May 7 Houston •/©'Si Monday: April 12, May 10 1 New Orleans .iifi©-- Tuesday: April 13, May 11 {':•{• Mobile •:''r • Wednesday, April 14, May 12 I San Francisco Thursday: April 15, May 13 Wilmington Monday: April 19, May 17 © • , .«©• Seattle ©. Friday: April 23, May 21 San Juan yy • : Thursday: April 8, May 6 St. Louis Friday: April 16, May 14 Honolulu Friday: April 16, May 14 1 Duluth ^ K© Wednesday, April 14, May 12 Jersey City Wednesday: April 21, May 19 . , , New Bedford |li , Tuesday: April May 18 •. .1 60 8 0 16 6 25 19 42 18 10 6 142 11 0 6 0 369 149 1,036 1,330 Totals All 390 522 231 Departments 506 739 . actuallv registered for shipping at the port last month. . -real Registered" means the at the port at the end of last month. •• "Registeied on the ^ t„„,racted deep sea vessels. Of the 1.292 jobs shipped, 390 jobs A total of 1,292 jobs were shipped on SlU-contracien p or abont^SO percent rf 149 ttdp relief Jobs were sblppel. Since the trip Jit. • •; ;tT L^© Each ports meeting stalls at 10:30ajn. Personals WILLIAM IVAN THEODORE Pleae contact Audrey (Theodore) Drawdy at 8731 Berry Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32211. WILLIAM KELLY WESS a.k.a. "KELLY" Please contact Marian D. (Wess) Jones at 9104 Crosshill Rd., Baltimore, MD 21234. PAUL EHLERS Please contact David Foster at (813) 933-0072 or (800) 786-9330. WILLIAM LEE WEY a.k.a. WILLIAM HAYES Anyone with any information about this retired merchant mariner is asked to contact Jacl^ Miselis at 23 Noah Chapin Drive, Somers, CI 06071. JOHN WAYNE NEWTON Please contact your sister, Linda Welch, at (205)343-4114. CLYDE KREISS Please contact your former shipmate, Jack Meyer at 222 Groveland Circle, Savannah, GA 31405; or call (912) 354-4253. .• ©St! . •. ©.©:&ass . ©M ;©;:©©©-^^•© Correction Mike Paladino was elected to a four-year teim as port agent at the Norfolk, Va. hall. On 3 of the February 1993 issue of the Seafarers LOG, he was listed incorrectly as port agent for Philadel­ phia. We regret any confusion this error may have caused. ' ."III" > • '•V ^t •. 'hy. " ' ''V " r • , •• �16 MARCH 1993 SEAFARERS LOG Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Collective Bargaining George McCartn^ Ibast Vice President West Co Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack Caffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Coreey Vice President Gulf Coast HEADQUARTERS ^uth Way 5201 At igs, MD MU 20746 ZK Camp Springs, m-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 (313) 794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (218)722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713)659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201) 435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (205) 478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508)997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans.'LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 675 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718)499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804)622-1892 " PHILADELPHIA 2604S.4St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215)336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, FL 33004 (305) 921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San FrancLsco, CA 94105 (415)543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave. Stop I6V2 Santurce, PR 00907 (809) 721-4033 SEATTLE \ 2505 First Ave. battle, WA 98121 ^\1[206) 441-1960 ST. LOUIS \ 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 \ (314)752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilinington, CA 90744 (310)549-4000 Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes JANUARY 16 — FEBRUARY 15,1993 NP—^Non Priority CI^omparo;^ake^_^^ ••"KG.ST.RKD ON BEACH All GrouDS Class CL Class L Class NP All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 0 2 1 6 0 ' 0 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 3 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 45 0 22 4 d' 0 39 190 0 0 Totals All Departments 0 73 10 0 3 * 'Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. 19 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters JANUARY 16 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast V,, Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals 2 4 22 0 28 0 13 0 1 14 0 3 0 0 3 '2 0 16 0 18 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 4 0 5 Q 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 3 A-,' 0 3' 0 0 3 FEBRUARY 15,1993 TOTALSHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 2 0 P 101 103 0 1 1 P 0 3 0 4 7 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 0 0 ^ 0 0 0 0 0 0 > 0 0 0 1 0 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 P 1 1 0 p Q 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 55 11 51 23 140 2 9 0 0 11 12 0 37 0 49 1 0 0 0 1 0 19 0 9 28 0 0 16 1 28 0 0 0 1 9 Totals All Departments 51 4 20 104 2 8 217 13 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. 43 SUNUBIinNtD 9 BOAT MODEL FESTIVAL AT SOUTH STREET SEAPORT MUSEUM . More, than 100 model boat builders will descend on Pier 16 for the South Street Seaport Museum's 3rd Annual New York Model Ship and Boat Festival on Saturday and Sunday, August 7-8. To display a model you've constructed yourself, call or write for a registration form (Model Festival, South Street Seaport Museum, 207 Front Street, New York, NY 10038) or call (212) 6699400. ATTENTION: PORT ARTHUR,TEXAS INLAND MEMBERS A meeting for all inland members in the Port Arthur area will be held on Wednesday, April 7, 1993 at 2:(X) p.m. It will take place at the Ramada Inn on Highway 87 |n Port Arthur. LOOKING FOR PICTURES OF OLD SHIPS A veteran merchant seaman, Otis L. Bouchie Jr., is looking for pictures of old ships—specifically Liberty T-2 transports. Anyone with photos they would like to donate may send them to Otis L. Bouchie Jr., 518 A Shade Crest St., Oneonta,AL 35121. ATTENTION: GREAT LAKES MEMBERS Several vessels are having an early fitout this year because of the mild winter in the Great Lakes region. Please stay in touch with the Algonac, Mich. (313-794-4988) or Duluth, Minn. (218722-4110) hiring halls to get the latest information on when vessels will return to the Lakes. REPLACEMENT CARDS ^ PUBLIC HEALTH AVAILABLE FOR RECORDS AVAILABLE UPGiymERS Members who were treated at United • Seafarers who have upgraded at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of ^ States Public Health Service Hospitals may obtain their medical records by Seamanship but have lost their school writing to PHS Health Data Center, identification/upgrading card may ac­ GWL Hansen's Disease Center, Carquire a replacement. For more informa­ ville, LA 70721. To make sure your tion on how to obtain one, see your port request is answered i^ickly, be sure to agent or contact the Director of Admis­ include your name, date of birth, social sions, Lundeberg School Upgrading security number, in which facility you Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD were treated and the approximate dates 20674. of'treatment. ' '..'J �MARCH 1993 SEA-LAND VALUE (Sea-Land Service), December 13—Chairman George Burke, Secretary A. Has­ san, Educational Director G.Rogers, Deck Delegate Abdul­ lah Oun, Engine Delegate W.B. & The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union ship- McCan, Steward Delegate Miguel tnmrd minutes as possibie. On occasion, because of space Pabon. Chairman reported smooth iimitations, some wiii be omitted. sailing. No beefs or ^sputed OT Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. reported. Crew suggested new Those issues requiring attention or resoiution are addressed by the telephone system allowing mem­ to pay aboard for long-dis­ union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then for­ bers tance calls made at sea. Crew warded to the Seafarers LOG. thanked steward department for well-prepared Thanksgiving din­ OAr/LE>tDE/7(OMI Corp. Inc.), ner, Next port: Elizabeth City, N.J. year-end payoff. Secretary November 29—Chairman A. reminded crew to read Seafarers SE4-iyOLF(American Transport Trikoglou, Secretary C. Davalie, LOG and wished a Happy New Educational Director C. Coello, Year to all. Educational director en Line), December 27—Chairman Haman Rivers, Secretary Phillip Deck Delegate B. Hanback, En­ couraged members to upgrade at gine Delegate Terry Mouton, Lundeberg School. No beefs or dis­ Paquette. Chairman reported ice machines not working. Pressure Steward Delegate Francis DIcarlo. puted OT reported. Crew thanked washer and TV need repairs. Educa­ Chairman and crew gave thanks to galley gang for job well done. tional director stressed safety stand­ steward department for wonderful Crew requested contracts depart­ ards aboard ship. Deck delegate Thanksgiving at sea. Crewmem-. ment clarify to company that reported new captain and change in hers also thanked the Seamens travelers' checks are to be made crew. No beefs or disputed OT Church Institute for Christmas available as cash in foreign ports. reported. A hand of appreciation gifts. Educational director en­ Crew also would like standard couraged members to upgrade at policy of checks or cash at payoffs. was raised to steward department for excellent holiday dinner. Lundeberg School. No beefs or dis­ One minute of silence observed in puted OT reported. Crew reported memory of departed brothers. Next STONEWALL JACKSON repairs needed for TV, radio anten­ port: Rotterdam. (Waterman Steamship), December na and dryer. 20—Chairman Carl Linberry, SEA-LAND PACIFIC (Sea-Land USNS WILKES (Mar Ship Service), December 27—Chairman Secretary Reid Christensen, En­ gine Delegate William Jones, Operators), November 15-^hairWilliam Lough, Secretary G.M. Steward Delegate Robert Mosley. man R. Seratt, Secretary K. Bronson, Educational Director Chairman reported good trip and Dougherty, Educational Director Steve Bigelow, Deck Delegate J.T. thanked crew for keeping tidy ship. Johnson, Engine Delegate CJ. Brown, Deck Delegate Stan­ He reminded crew to work s^ely ley Whitaker. Chairman reported Michael Veigel, Steward Delegate and look out for one another. acknowledgement from contracts Don Spangler. Chairman asked Treasurer reported movie fund of department regarding previous writ­ members to document all beefs to $647. Deck delegate reported dis­ ten resolution. He announced pur­ make them easier to understand. puted OT. No beefs or disputed OT chase of universal remote for VCR Educational director reminded reported by engine or steward and blank tape to begin video members that Lundeberg School is delegates. Crew requested new radio state-of-the-art facility with supe­ library. No beefs or disputed OT for lounge and new mattresses. Crew reported. Crew asked contracts rior training opportunities. He asked that fresh milk be used before department for clarification of last added this was the most congenial bringing frozen milk into galley •wage adjustment..Crew requested crew with whom he has sailed. refrigerator. Special thanks given to TV antenna be repaired for better Treasurer reported 17 movies and entire crew for excellent job of keep­ reception. Crew asked if those on new rice cooker purchased. Engine ing laundry room clean. Next port: watch could be served first at delegate reported disputed OT. Newport News, Va. meals. Crew voted to use ship's Steward delegate reported beefs. fund to fix bicycle. Crewmembers No beefs or disputed OT reported USNS HARKNESS (Mar Ship by deck delegate. Crew thanked stated they are now capable of Operators), December 20—Chair­ stewiard department for job well making movie copies and begin­ man Hershel Turner, Secretary done. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. ning a video library. Next port: Ben Henderson, Educational Oakland, Calif. Director Joyce Tovay, Deck SEA-LAND PERFORMANCE Delegate Stephen Thompson, En­ (Sea-Land Service), December L/eE/?7Y W4VE(Liberty gine Delegate Jorge Vicente, 17—Chairman R. Moss, Secretary Maritime), December 27—Chair­ Steward Delegate Robert Tovay. R. Griswold. Chairman and crew man John Leonard, Secretary E. Chairman read memo from purser. thanked steward department for Hagger, Educational Director Secretary reported crew coopera­ delicious Thanksgiving dinner. In David Dunklin. Chairman tion helped complete 35-day opera­ return, galley gang thanked crew reported a good trip. Educational tion. Treasurer reported ship's fund for cleaning up after themselves. director encouraged crew to of $581. New treasurer was No beefs or disputed OT reported. upgrade at Lundeberg School. elected. Deck delegate gave thanks Crew made request for refrigerator Deck delegate reported disputed to engine and steward departments OT. Engine delegate reported beef. in lounge and reported washer in for job well done. No beefs or dis­ need of repair. Next port: Elizabeth No beefs or disputed OT reported puted OT reported. Crew reported by steward delegate. Crew asked City, N.J. ship's fund to be used for SlU contracts department to look into Christmas party at the Seameii's SEA-LAND PRODUCER (Seaputting additional men in all depart­ club. SA James "Doc" Whalen Land Service), December 27— ments. Crew thanked steward won first prize in talent show. Chairman J. Edwards, Secretary department for good food and job Christopher Maye elected new L. Hoffman, Deck Delegate Larry well done. chairman by majority vote. Crew Thompson. Chairman announced reported steward departmenf MOKU PAHU (Pacific Gulf year-end payoff. He said transporta­ received 98.5 percent on weekly Marine), December 27—Chairman tion to main gate in Honolulu was sanitation inspection score. Next D.M. Ticer Jr., Secretary J. Pratt being discussed. Treasurer reported )ort: Dubai, U.A.E. Chairman reported crew must wait $55 in crew fiind. Crew requested to find out if ship will make next dockside phone to communicate USNS WYMAN (Mar Ship trip. Educational director urged with main gate regarding transpor­ Operators), December 19—Chair­ members to upgrade at Piney Point tation to and from ship. No beefs or man Charles Brooks, Secretary No beefs or disputed OT reported. disputed OT reported. Chairman Dorothy TakahashI, Deck Crew asked contracts department asked crew to dress properly for delegate W. Hamrick, Steward to look into adding additional men meals. Crew expressed thanks to Delegate T. Milovich. Secretary to steward department. Ship to lay steward department for holiday reported new secretary will be Lorup upon arrival. decorations and food. rin Rodrigues. Engine delegate reported new engine delegate will OVERSEAS BOSTON SEA-LAND SPIRIT(Sea-Land be Brian Gelaude. No beefs or dis­ (Maritime Overseas), December Service), December 6—Chairman rated OT reported. Crew asked 21—Chairman Eddie Cain, Rafael Clemente, Secretary S. contracts department for written re­ Secretary Harry Lively, Education­ Apodaca, Educational Director quirements for full book on a al Director Brian Burkis. Charles Henley, Deck Delegate military vessel. Crew also sent Treasurer reports $400 in ship's E.F. O'Brien, Engine Delegate wishes for a Merry Christmas and a fund. Crew reports VCR needs Phil Parent, Stewed Delegate F. iappy New Year. tune-up. No b^fs or disputed OT ^aliga. Chairman remind^ crew report^. WESTWARD VENTURE (lOM). to let mate know they have signed December 31—Chairman D. on. No beefs or disputed OT SEA-LAND FREEDOM (Sea-Land Koebel, Secretary R.B. Sander­ reported. Crew asked contracts Service), December 20—Chairman son, Educational Director R.E. department to look into retirement Robert Woods, Secret^ Danny Clock, Deck Delegate John or members who have been with Brown, Educational Director Kelly labib,. Engine Delegate S. Sopfi, Davis, Deck Delegate Tom Keely, the union 20 years. Crew ialso Steward Delegate D.E. Hines. asked contracts department to look Engine Delegate Leonardo PapChairman announced layup of ship into additional eye and dental care. pas, Steward Delegate Wayne Bal­ or 14 days. Educational director "4ext port: Honolulu. lard. Chairman announced Digest of Ships Meetings SEAFARERS LOG told crew of new informational rack in lounge with material on AIDS and substance abuse. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Christmas card received from head­ quarters. Chairman and crew thanked galley gang for good Christmas meal. ITB BALTIMORE (Sheridan Transport Co.), January 3—Chair­ man D. Plummer, Secretary Fran­ cis DiCarlo, Deck Delegate William Lumber, Engine Delegate Mohamed Hadwan, Steward Delegate Johny Bolton. Chairman reported successful trip. Crew received new couch. Educa­ tional director urged members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to SlU for Christmas card. Crew asked contracts depart­ ment to look into full medical coverage for spouses and children. 17 members of importance of upgrad­ ing. He also urged crew to donate to SPAD and MDL. Crew requests new chair, TV and carpet for lounge. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to look into allotment increase. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. Next port; Char­ leston, S.C. RANGER (Vulcan Carriers), January 13—Chairman Michael Moore, Secretary Joseph Mieluchowski, Deck Delegate Casey Downing, Engine Delegate Gerald Daley, Steward Delegate Karriem Allah. Educational direc­ tor encouraged crew to upgrade at Lundeberg School. He informed members that donating to SPAD in­ creases job security. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to look into increase in crew size. Crew Hot Off the Press '•'y', Payoff aboard tfie ITB Mobile and a chance to look at the latest LOG took place recently at Stapleton Anchorage in New York. From the left are Bosun Fred Jensen, Chief Ckrak Theodore Quammic, QMED/Pumpman John Quintec and Steward Pedro Selian. LNG ARIES (ETC), January 17— Chairman Robert Schwarz, Secretary Doyle Cornelius, Educa­ tional Director Steven Hoskins, Deck Delegate Raphael Vargas, Engine Delegate Kevin Conklin, Steward Delegate Alebert Fretta. Chairman reminded crew to check posted taxi/bus schedule and be on time. He also pointed out gas ter­ minal policy of taking taxis to and from vessel. Educational director encouraged crew to attend upgrad­ ing classes at Piney Point. Treasurer reported $439 in fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Crew said they would all miss Brother Fretta's cooking. Next port: Nagoya, Japan. LNG TAURUS (ETC), January 3—Chairman Carlos ^neda. Secretary D.A. Pappas, Deck Delegate Tom Harding, Engine Delegate David Veldcamp, Steward Delegate Mark Kahnus. Chairman thanked crew for job well done and gave his best wishes for pleasant vacation in Japan. He reported tour was great and en­ couraged all to return to the Taurus after their vacation. Educational director informed crew to submit scholarship applications as soon as possible. Treasiu-er reported $800 donated by company for recreation­ al use. Entire crew thanked steward department for very enjoyable holiday feast. Members of galley gang include: Chief Steward Pap­ pas, Chief Cook Kalmus; SAs Ronald Adriani, Vicky Echeverio and Ralph McKee. Next port: Arun, Indonesia. NEWARK BAY(Sea-Land Ser­ vice), January 9—Chairman Pedro Sanchez, Secretary Edward Porter, Vocational Director R. Johnsen, Engine Delegate Phillip Pardovich. Payoff in Charleston announced. Chairman reminded reported ship to be sprayed for bugs in port. Crew expressed thanks to steward department for wonderful holiday m^. Captain and crew to spUt cost of mpvies for ship. Crew helped rescue five people and a dog in a sinking sailboat. Next port: Port Everglades, Fla. SEA-LAND DEVELOPER (SeaLand Service), January 10—Chair­ man Patrick Gallager, Secretary Frank Sison, Deck Delegate Tillman Churchman, Engine Delegate G. Bemloehr, Steward Delegate James Boss. Chairman reported request to replace VCR. He said ship will pay off upoii ar­ rival in port. Educational director urged members to go to Piney Point and donate to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to keep them informed on union contract negotiations. Crew re­ quested new mattresses, pillows, washer, dryer, microwave oven And toaster. Crew thanked steward department for job well done^ Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND ENDURANCE (SeaLand Service), January 17—Chair­ man F. Sierra, Secretary M. Kohs, Steward Delegate C. Gomez. Seafarers LOG was distributed. Crew thanked galley gang for put­ ting out better-than-gourmet food for Christmas and New Year's Day. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND TRADER (Sea-Land Service), January 13—Chairman W. Willis, Secretary J.L. Johnson, Educational Director M. Shin. Secretary reported $100 in ship's fund. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Engine delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegates. •/• • •. .( . .; I �18 MARCH 1993 SEAFARERS LOG • .. •" --V.' Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. the employers. Members should Seafarers LOG traditionally has halls. All members should obtain boatmen and the advancement of The constitution of the SIU Atlan­ get to Imow their shipping rights. refrained from publishing any ar­ copies of this constitution so as to trade union concepts. In connec­ tic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters Copies of these contracts are ticle serving the political purposes familiarize themselves with its tion with such objects, SPAD sup­ District makes specific provision posted and available in all union of any individual in the union, of­ contents. Any time a member feels ports and contributes to political for safeguarding the membership's halls. If members believe there ficer or member. It also has any other member or officer is at­ candidates for elective office. All money and union finances. The have been violations of their ship­ refrained from publishing articles tempting to deprive him or her of contributions are voluntaty. No constitution requires a detailed ping or seniority rights as con­ deemed harmful to the union or its any constitutional right or obliga­ contribution may be solicited or audit by certified public account­ tained in the contracts between the collective membership. This estab­ tion by any methods, such as deal­ received because of force, job dis­ ants every year, which is to be sub­ union and the employers, they lished policy has been reaffirmed ing with charges, trials, etc., as crimination, financial reprisal, or mitted to the membership by the should notify the Seafarers Ap­ by membership action at the Sep­ well as all other details, the mem­ threat of such conduct, or as a con­ secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance peals Board by certified mail, tember 1960 meetings in all con­ ber so affected should immediately dition of membership in the union or of employment. If acontribution ports. The notify headquarters. committee of rank-and-file mem­ return receipt requested. The stitutional bers, elected by the membership, proper address for this is: responsibility for Seafarers LOG EQUAL RIGHTS. All mem­ is made by reason of the above policy is vested in an editorial bers are guaranteed equal rights in improper conduct, the member each year examines the finances of . Augustin Tellez, Chairman board which consists of the ex­ employment and as members of should notify the Seafarers Inter­ the union and reports fully their find­ Seafarers Appeals Board ings and recommendations. Mem­ ecutive board of the union. The the SIU. These rights are clearly set national Union or SPAD by cer­ 5201 Auth Way executive board may delegate, forth in the SIU constitution and in tified mail within 30 days of the bers of this committee may make Camp Springs, MD 20746 dissenting reports, specific recom­ Full copies of contracts as from among its ranks, one in­ the contracts which the union has contribution for investigation and mendations and separate findings. referred to are available to members dividual to carry out this respon­ negotiated with the employers. appropriate action and refund, if Consequently, no member may be involuntary. A member should TRUST FUNDS. All trust at all times, either by writing diiectiy sibility. funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, to the union or to the Seafarers Ap­ PAYMENT OF MONIES. No discrinlinated against because of support SPAD to protect and fur­ Lakes and Inland Waters District peals Board. monies are to be paid to anyone in race, creed, color, sex, national or ther his or her economic, political are administered in accordance CONTRACTS. Copies of all any official capacity in the SIU im- geographic origin. If any member and social interests, and with the provisions of various trust SIU contracts are available in all SIU less an official union receipt is given feels that he or she is denied the American trade union concepts. If at any time a member feels fund agreements. All these agree­ halls. These contracts specify the for same. Under no circumstances equal rights to which he or she is ments specify that the trustees in wages and conditions under which .should any member pay any money entitled, the member should notify that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she charge of these funds shall equally an SIU member works and lives for any reason unless he is given such union headquarters. has been denied theconstitution­ consist of union and management aboard a ship or boat. Members receipt. In the event anyone attempts SEAFARERS POLITICAL representatives and their alter­ should know their contract rights, as to require any such payment be m^e ACTIVITY DONATION — al right of access to union nates. All expenditures and disbur­ well as their obligations, such as without supplying a receipt, or if a SPAD. SPAD is a separate records or information, the sements of trust funds are made filing for overtime (OT) on the member is required to make a pay­ segregated fund. Its proceeds are member should immediately only upon approval by a majority proper sheets and in the proper man­ ment and is given an official receipt, used to further its objects and pur­ notify SIU President Michael of the trustees. All trust fund finan­ ner. If, at any time, a member but feels that he or she should not poses including, but not limited to, Sacco at headquarters by cer­ cial records are available at the believes that an SIU patrolman or have been required to make such furthering the political, social and tified mail, return receipt re­ headquarters of the various trust other union official fails to protect payment, this should immediately be economic interests of maritime quested. The address is: funds. their contractual rights properly, he reported to union headquarters. Michael Sacco, President workers, the preservation and fur­ SHIPPING RIGHTS. A or she should contact the nearest SIU CONSTITUTIONAL thering of the American merchant Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way member's shipping rights and port agent. . RIGHTS AND OBLIGA­ marine with improved employ­ seniority are protected exclusively EDITORIAL POLICY — TIONS. Copies of the SIU con­ ment opportunities for seamen and Camp Springs, MD 20746. by contracts between the union and THE SEAFARERS LOG. The stitution are available in all union Letters to the Editor Apfylications Available for Union's 1993 Scholarship Program SIU Helped Make Police Work Possible Some 37 years ago, the came the first maritime union in members and their dependents Seafarers International Union's America to establish a scholar­ finance a college or vocational Atlantic and Gulf District be­ ship program to help qualified education. Every year, four scholar­ ships are given to children of SIU members. These are worth $15,000 each over a four-year period at the college of the winner's choice. In addition, three scholar­ ships are reserved annually for SIU members, themselves. One is a $15,000 four-year scholar­ ship. Each of the other two is a $6,000 two-year stipend for study at a vocational school or comunity college. The scholarship materials are available at any SIU union hall. Prospective applicants also may request a copy by fill­ ing in the request form below. Time is running out. All applications must be received at the Seafarers Welfare Plan by April 15,1993. r P lease send me the 1993 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility • information, procedures for applying and the application form. ' Name Book Number Address : ' •/'!,• I City, State, Zip Code. I j Telephone Num|5er_ '• This application,is for: I I Self Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 AUth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. \ i sible for me without experience I gained in the SIU. Of course, I miss going to sea, but at least I am tiying to do some good for others. QMED Perry Ellis Forth Worth, Texas I would like to give specia thanks to the SIU for helping me to prepare myself to do police reserve work. Due to a health problem, I cannot go to sea at this time, and most people know how merchant seamen will put them­ selves on the line to help others, whether it is on land or at sea. I had to go to school for the Police Reserve and take a state test, but nothing could have prepared me for this any better than the SIU did. Going to sea and dealing with life-threatening situations aboard ships is the best way to learn how to deal with people. I have also learned from Michael Sacco how to sit down with people and deal with almost any type of situation. A kind word and a little under­ standing can go a long way. Everyone is aware of the rising crime rate; it affects us all. The SIU helped prepare QMED Perry I volunteer so many hours out of Ellis for work in the Police Reserve. the month with a small police NL *1/ department outside Fort Worth, Texas. We deal with every situa­ Robinson Family tion imaginable, family violence Expresses Thanks included. Unfortunately, We the family of the late Wilchildren often get caught in situa­ liam Robinson [who died tions they don't understand. But February 21,1992] would like to we try our best to make this world take these means to express our a little safer for them. It is a warm thanks to the Mississippi Queen feeling to know that you can try family for all assistance to us to help a community to be a little during William's employment safer and to talk to children to with the Mississippi Queen, his assure them that everything will illness, death and to this point.' be OK. For us, the memory will never be The police department I forgotten. To the Mississippi volunteer with commented on Queen's band leader, Brian O'[low well I deal with people. My Neil, thanks for the poem answer to them was that I have "Skywatch." We will ever keep leen with the merchant marine the Mississippi Queen family in For many years. I would like to our thoughts and prayers. say that it does get scary at times Mrs, Gwendolyn Robinson, dealing with the criminal ele­ daughters and grandchildren ment. None of that would he pos­ Fulton, Ky. /• 1, �MARCH 1993 nr^he Seafarers Pension Plan i this month announces the retirements of 18 members. Ten of those signing off sailed in the deep sea division, while three sailed ip the inland division and five sailed in the Great Lakes division. Two of the retirees were bom in Arabia while three each were bom in New York and Alabama. Two were bom in North Carolina as well as two in Michigan. Cuba, Greece, Ireland, Maine, Florida and Wisconsin account for one retiree apiece. Florida, Alabama and Michigan proved to be the most popular retirement spots for this group, as four retired in Michigan and three each in Alabama and Florida. Carl Francum had been an ac­ tive Seafarer longer than any of the other new pensioners. He joined the union in 1945 in the port of Boston. Brief biographical sketches of Brother Francum and the other new pensioners follow. DEEP SEA JOSEPH BENNETT JR., 64, joined the SlUin 1967 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Bom in Coy, Ala., he com­ pleted the steward recertification program at the Lundeberg School in August 1982. Brother Bennett served in the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1950. Brother Bennett has retired to Houston. FRANCIS DICARLO, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1948 in his native New York., He com­ pleted the steward recertification program at the Lundeberg School in 1980. Brother DiCarlo served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1954. He lives in Green Cove Springs, Fla. KENNETH DUDLEY, 65,joined the union in 1968 in the port of San Francisco. Bom in Maine, he sailed in the steward department. Brother Dudley served in the U.S. Navy from 1945, to 1966. He resides in Porterville, Calif. CARL FRANCUM, 65, joined the SIU in 1945 in the port of Bos­ ton. A native of North Carolina, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Francum completed the bosun recertification program at the Lundeberg School in April 1976. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1946 to 1947. He has retired to Lenoir, N.C. ORLANDO GON­ ZALEZ, 65; joined the . Seafarers in 1960 in the port of New Orleans. SEAFARERS LOG To Our New Pensioners ... Thanks for a Job Well Done Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names of SIU members who recentiy have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. Bom in Cuba, he sailed in the steward department. Brother Gonzalez upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. He has retired to Metairie, La. BILLY JARVIS, 62, joined the union in 1951 in the port of New York. A na­ tive of Alabama, he sailed in the engine department. Brother Jarvis upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1974. He served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1954. He lives in Mobile. GEORGE KONTOS, 65, joined the SIU in 1966 in the port of Baltimore. Bom in Greece, he sailed in the engine department. Brother Kontos upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1982. He retired to Mardela Springs, Md. MARTIN MCHALE; 62,joined the Seafarers in 1957 in the port of Philadelphia. A native of Ireland, he sailed in the engine department. Brother McHale served in the U.S. Army from 1954 to 1956. He has retired to Seattle. HARRIS PATTER­ SON, 65, joined the union in 1946 in the jort of Nor­ folk, Va. Bom in Opelika, Ala., he sailed in the en­ gine department. Brother Patter­ son upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1975. He served in the U.S. Army from 1951 to 1952. He lives in Robertsdale, Ala. ; ROBERT VANCE, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1960 in the port of New York. The na­ tive of Alabama sailed in the engine department, brother Vance still calls Alabama home. MOHAMED OBAID, 52, joined the union in 1971 in the port of Detroit. Born in Arabia, he sailed in the engine department. Brother Obaid resides in Detroit. GLENN SOMERVILLE,71, joined the SIU in 1968 in the port of New York. A native of Babcock, Wis., he sailed in the deck department. Brother Somerville served in the U.S. Army from 1941 to 1954. He resides in Seattle. LEONARD JASKOLSKI,71, joined the SIU in 1947 in the port of Detroit. A native of Al­ pena, Mich., he sailed in the deck department. Brother Jaskolski served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1942 to 1947. He still calls Alpena home. SAMUEL TORINA, 62, joined the SIU in 1947 in the port of New York. Bom in Detroit, Brother Torina sailed in the engine department. He lives in Warren, Mich. 19 INLAND WILLIE GRAY, 62, joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Nor­ folk, Va A North Carolina native, he sailed as a tankerman. Boatman Gray resides in Elizabeth City, N.C. ROBERT E. PETRLAK, 68, joined the union in 1983 in the port of Jack­ sonville, Fla. Bom in New York, he sailed in the steward department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945. He has retired to Jacksonville, Fla. i .'rv DEWEY ROUTH,66, joined the SIU in 1978 in the port of Jacksonville, Ha. Boatman Routh sailed in the deck department. He calls Jacksonville home. SoimMi^ Hew Every Day Aboan! Resean^ Vessel SIU crewmembers aboard the oceanographic research vessel USNS Wilkes stay busy con­ tinuously, according to one of the ship's officers. Whether it is deck maintenance, engineroom work or meal preparation, there is al­ ways something to do on the Mar Ship Operators vessel. Chief Mate Frederick Smallwood (who provided the photos for this story) reported to ihe Seafarers LOG that sailing on the oceanographic fleet ship keeps niembers busy. "For crewmembers of the Wilkes, there is There is always work to be done aboard ship for OS George Galanis something new every day, and the (left) and AB Tom Skubinna. next assignment is always more interesting than the last," he noted in his letter. Keeping with the regulations of an oceanographic research vessel, the Wilkesmust be painted a brilliant white at all times. This makes deck maintenance for the crew, led by Bosun Tom Trehern, a constant challenge. Chipping and painting must be worked out with oceanographic over-the-side operations, and the crew often works long hours. Operating primarily in Pacific AS Donald Shuler helps keep the Wilkes In ship-shape condition. waters, the Wilkes sails as far west as the Strait of Malacca or closer to home in waters off San Francisco. Ship's Nurse Tom "Doc" Jensen takes advantage of down time. GREAT LAKES SALIH SAID ABDULLAH, !, joined the Seafarers 1972 in the port of 'rankfort, vlich. A na­ tive of Arabia, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Abdulah has retired to Detroit. Reworking the ship's lifetroat oars is AB John Bobbins. jhe USNS Wilkes ties up alongside docks in Oakland, Calif. -'Mr VX �VT-S'r V- - "'''i""""" ' .M' 20 MARCH 1993 SEAFAOERSLOG Independence a \Great White Ship' t^: ' • looking good. Most of the time they are out of sight for the hundreds of passengers who travel aboard the SS Inde­ pendence. In the galley, the GUs serve as assistants to the cooks and chefs who prepare meals almost around the clock. In order to meet all the requests from the passengers for breakfast, lunch, dinner or snacks, the galley gang depends on the GUs to do the initial preparation of foods—such as cleaning, peeling and slicing. On deck, the porters, who are dressed in aqua-colored shirts, help monitor buffet conditions, supplying trays and utensils. They also assist the waiters by running items between the deck and the galley. General Utility Galley Augusto Pineda (left) helps Assistant Cook Porter Linda Keyes provides a And when the eating is Edgar Cezar with meal preparation. cheerful smile while doing her job. finished, the job of dishwashing and pot scrubbing falls on the GUs, who make sure everything is ready when preparations for the next meal begin. As with all SIU members sail­ ing on the Independence, work never ceases for porters and GUs. Everything is done with the General Utility Mohammed Adam passengers' satisfaction and conheads for his next assignment. I venience in mind. Part of the reason the American Hawaii Cruises vessels that sail around the Hawaiian Is­ lands are known as the "Great White Ships" is the pristine clean­ ing job done by theSIU members who sail as porters and general utilities (GUs). These crewmembers work be­ hind the scenes in the steward department^—either in the galley or the passenger cabin areas—to keep everything spotless and Always ready to assist passenger Standing by to load dirty dishes after a meal are GUs Saleh Mohsau or crew is Porter William Kellum. (left) and Wilfredo Zuniga. Peering from behind a dishwasher is General Utility Rudy Morere. Porter Daniel Hernandez keeps the lunch buffet spotless. SIU Crew Aboard Seaiift Pacific Travels Through Panama Canal For SIU crewmembers aboard the Sca/i/ifFacij^c, it was business as usual as they traveled through the Panama Canal en route to Houston from the port of Los Angeles. AB Robert Seaman told a reporter from the Seafarers LOG that the trip was a success. Seaman, 56, joined the SIU last year in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. Operated by International Marine Carriers, Inc. the military tanker usually sails coastwise delivering jet and diesel fuel. On February 28 the Seaiift Pacific left Houston to deliver a shipment of jet fuel to Turkey. The accompanying photos were taken by Brother Seaman as the Seedift Pacific sailed through the P^ama Canal. / ^7 , The ship prepares to go through one of the locks in the Panama Canal. AS Robert Seaman stands watch on the bridge. TO The Seaiift Pacific travels through the Panama Canal. QMED Ray Prall does some repair work on one of the ship's doors. �J MMCH1993 SEAFARERSLOG Final Departures DEEP SEA HUSSEIN AHMED Hussein Ahmed, 46, died Septem­ ber 13, 1992. A native of Arabia, he joined the Seafarers in 1972 in the port of New York. Brother Ahmed sailed in the engine depart­ ment. He upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1978. , JACOB ARSHON Pensioner Jacob Arshon, 70, passed away January 3. He joined the SIU in 1958 in his native Seattle. Brother Arshon sailed in the steward department. He began receiving his pension in 1984. MERLE BOND Pensioner Merle Bond, 84, passed away November 8, 1992. He joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1942 in the port of Portland, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Bond retired in August 1969. • WILLIAM BRACK Pensioner William Brack, 68, died January 20. A native of Boston, he joined the Seafarers in 1958 in the port of New York. Brother Brack sailed in the engine department. He upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1968. Brother Brack began receiving his pension in Febru^ 1988. DAVID BURGESS David Bur­ gess, 38, passed away July 11, 1992. Bom in Norfolk, Va., he joined the SIU in 1970 in the port of New York. Brother Burgess sailed in the steward department. JOHNCABELLO Pensioner John Cabello, 79, died December 12, 1992. A native of Puerto Rico, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1945 in the port of New York, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Cabello retired in January 1975. JOSEPH CALCAGNQ Pensioner Joseph Calcagno, 84, passed away December 8, 1992. Bom in Italy, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1956 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Calcagno began receiving his pension in October 1970. WILLIAM DOUGHMAN William Doughman, 37, died December 29, 1992. A na­ tive of Oshkosh. Wis., he joined the union in 1990 21 ^4 i'r in the port of San Francisco. Brother Doughman sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1975 to 1980. ALLEN DAWSON Pensioner Allen Dawson, 67, passed away October 9, 1992. Born in Los Angeles, he joined the Seafarers in 1959.in the port of Portland, Ore. Brother Dawson sailed in the steward department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1946. Brother Dawson retired in May 1985. JAMES FITZGERALD Pensioner James Fitzgerald, 88, died January 19. A native of Galway, N.Y., he joined the SIU in 1951 in the port of Tampa, Fla. Brother Fitzgerald sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1921 to 1947. Brother Fitzgerald retired in Oc­ tober 1969. EDWARD FOULGER Pensioner Edward Foulger, 80, passed away October 20,1992. A Ohio native, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1948 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Foulger began receiving lus pension in July 1970. Francisco, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Jee retired in April 1978. GABRIEL LECLAIR Pensioner Gabriel LeClair, 67, passed away November 14, 1992. Bom in Canada, he joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of Buffalo, N.Y. Brother LeClair sailed in the steward department. He began receiving bis pension in November 1990. EDWARD MISAKIAN Pensioner Edward Misakian, 66, passed away DecembCT 1,1992. The New York native joined the SIU in 1962 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Misakian sailed in the deck department He letued July 1978. ERNEST OHLSSON Pensioner Emest Ohlsson, 96, passed away January 14. Bom in Sweden, he joined the Seafarers as a charter member in 1939 in the port of Baltimore. Brother Ohlsson sailed in the engine department. He retired in October 1971. STEPHEN FRANKEWICZ Pensioner Stephen Frankewicz, 72, passed away Decem­ ber 31, 1992. Bom in Mobile, Ala., he joined the union as a charter member in 1938 in the port of New York. Brother Frankewicz sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1945. Brother Frankewicz began receiving his pension in November 1977. MIKADE OLENCHIK Pensioner Mikade Olenchik, 87, died January 8. He joined the SIU in 1950 in his na­ tive New York. Brother Olenchik sailed in the deck depart­ ment. He retired in December 1974. HARRY FRIERSON Pensioner Harry Frierson, 57, died December 5, 1992. A na­ tive of Missis­ sippi, he joined the Seafarersin 1967 in the port of Houston. Brother Frierson sailed in the deck depart­ ment He served in the U.S. Coast Guard fiom 1955 to 1956. Brother Frierson retired in July 1988. MIGUEL RODRIGUEZ Miguel Rodriguez, 57, died November 2, 1992. He joined the SIU in 1978 in his native Puerto Rico. Brother Rodriguez sailed in the deck department. He upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1982. Brother Rodriguez served in the U.S. Army from 1954 to 1956. JOHNFUNCHESS Pensioner John Funchess, 79, rassed away November 30, 1992. Bom in Louisiana, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1964 in the port of San Francisco, refore that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Funchess retired Febraary 1978. CALVIN SEWELL Calvin Sewell, 35, passed away December 10, 1992. A native of Jamaica, West Indies, he joined the Seafarers in 1989 in the port of Honolulu. Brother Sewell sailed in the steward department. He upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1989. Brother Sewell served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1976 to 1983. [i'RANK HOWE 'ensioner Frank Howe, 65, passed away December 6,1992. The China native joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1960 in the port of Wil­ mington, Calif., before that union meiged with the AGLIWD. Brotiier Howe began receiving his pension in December 1976. GINGYIPJEE 'ensioner Ging Yip Jee, 77, died November 6,1992. Bom in China, le joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1952 in the port of San FRANK RAMSEY Pensioner Frank Ramsey, 46, passed away December 5,1992. He was bom in Texas and joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 946 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Ramsey began receiving his pension in September 1973. ADOLF STRAWINSKI Adolf Strawinski, 63, died December 12, 1992. Bom in Poland, he joined the SIU in 1965 in the port of New York. Brother Strawinski sailed in the engine department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1951 to 1954. DIRKYISSER Pensioner Dirk Visser, 83, passed away January 20. A native of Holland, he joined the SIU in 1946 in the port of Boston. Brother Visser sailed in the deck department. He retired in November 1973. JOHNWRIGGINS John Wriggins, 56, died January 1. A Mississippi native, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1971 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. INLAND GEORGE BARNES Pensioner George Bames, 85, passed away January 9. He joined the union in 1961 in his native Philadelphia. Boatman Bames sailed in the deck department. He retired September 1973. HOWARD ETZEL SR. Pensioner Howard Etzel Sr., 82, died December 23, 1992. Bom in Smithville, Texas, he joined the union in 1957 in the port of Houston., Boatman Etzel sailed in the engine depart­ ment. He served in the U.S. Army in 1945. Boatman Etzel began receiving his pension in Febmary 1980. CHARLES KORDOWSKI Pensioner Charles Kordowski, 88, passed away January 11. A native of Warsaw, Poland, he joined the union in 1957 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Kor- | dowski sailed in the engine depart­ ment. He retired in March 1974. ROBERT WAKEFIELD Pensioner Robert Wakefield, 71, died January 26. Bom in Angalton, Texas, he joined the union in 1957 in the port of Houston. Boatman Wakefield sailed in ihe engine department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1945. Boatman Wakefield began receiving his pen­ sion October 1984. ••a EDWIN WELCH Pensioner Edwin Welch, 61, passed away January 17. He joined the union in 1961 in his na­ tive Port Ar­ thur, Texas. Boatman Welch sailed in the en­ gine department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955. Boatman Welch retired in Decem­ ber 1988. GREAT LAKES FRANK ROYSECK Frank Royseck, 76, passed away January 16. A native of Mil­ waukee, Wis., he joined the Seafarers in 1976 in the port of Detroit. Brother Royseck sailed in the deck department. He also sailed as a merchant mariner during World War II. RAILROAD MARINE ROBERT BLUMLEIN Pensioner Robert Blumlein, 74, died November 22,1992. Bom in Yonkers, N.Y., he joined the SIU n 1960 in the port of New York. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Blumlein served in the U.S. Army from 1937 to 1945. He retired in April 1981. EOIEI •r -..ft- •' •.flt • •-"a'-;: �22 MARCH 1993 SEAFARERS LOG Lundeberg School Graduating Classes • ••• •'''d " a - . -,v •'ifi Trainee Lifeboat Class 507—Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 507 are (from left, kneeling) Curtis Torres, Jason Pechette, Glen Liddle, Dennis Danforth Jr., Pedro Melendez, Josue Iglesia Jr., Ttiomas Stead, (second row) Instructor Ben Cusic, George Gill III, Willis Cahoon, Justin Stewart, Antfiony Niekrasz, Scott Gautreaux, Steven Reed, Darrin Eastridge, Jeremy Nores and Andrew Clausen. m: Upgraders Lifeboat—Howard H. Hendra Jr. (right) poses with Instructor Ben Cusic following his com­ pletion of the January 12 lifeboat course. Since he was the only student in the class, Hendra went through his lifeboat training with trainee class 507. 'mtm •ysmM . ' f t Fireman, Oiler, Watertender—^Working their way up the engine department ratings are (from left, kneeling) Charles Brockhaus, James Perez, Sjamsidar Madjidji, Adam Noor, Kenneth Jischke, Scot Jauma, Jose Rodriguez, (second row) Mohamed Eljahmi, Joel Smith, Billy Joe Cox, Troy Williams, Gary Smith, Glenn Snow, Howard Bryant III, (third row) Conrado Martinez, David Powers, Instructor J.C. Wiegman, Robert Upgraders Lifeboat—Members of the January 26,1993 graduating class receiv­ Maurer, David Matto, Ricky Couillard, Claud Yockey, Nash Henrietta and Alvin Pence. ing t^ir lifeboat endorsements ate (from left, kneelingy James Ward, Mark Bleau, Daniel Bryant, Dale Kaiser, Darryl Smith, (second row) Clay Swidas, Ahmed Naga, Sean Flaherty, Phillip Jackson, Kenneth Cuffee, Instructor Casey Taylor, Jerome Hawkins and Robert Stanbach. Advanced Firefighting—Completing the advanced firefighting course on January 28,1993 are (from left, front row^ Instructor Byran Cummings, Kenneth Steiner, John Toomey, Lee Toczylowski, Henry Muller, (second row) Robert Adams, Jim Tracey, Calvin Miles, George Murphy, Skip Sims, (third row) Ftoyd Turner, Russell Nelson, David Murphy, James Martin, Fredrick Swain Sr., (fourth row) Phil Wilson, Albert Schroeder, Robert Layko, William Thomas, Robert Habina Jr., (fifth row) Jim Wood and Tyler Womack. Not pictured Radar—Successfully completing the January 14,1993 radar course are (from left, first are Tommy Dowdell, Giro Igneri, Charles Jones, Charles Pieterson and Wendell Sprague. row) Randy Van Hom, Carl Kriensky, David Albert, Charles Pieterson, Instructor Jake Karaczynski, (second row) Charles Jones, Stephen Tannish, Chris Regan and William Robitzsch. -.i Pumproom Maintenance & Operations-Graduating from this engine department course on February 2, 1993 arelfrom left, kneeling) Joshua(seofgiades, Paul *Ar t J. .... ^ . m-r- .1. Peterson, Larry Prttman, (second row) Instructor Jim Shaffer, Ralph Kurpeski, Sergio Welding—Members of the January 14,1^3 da^ in welding are (from left) Timothy Pasilong. Gifidio Esquivel Jr., Gilbert Tedder Jr., Troy Robin, David PlumbrChristopher Johnston, Jerome KIrstern, Brian Haley arKl Instructor Bill Foley. Benzenlsierg and Jim Gibbion. J'""" • .',i �'l;.' :./ • • • MiUieH 1993 SEAFMERSLOe UMKBERGSamL 1993 UPBRADIHG COURSE SCHEDULE 23 'it-i ftecerancatkmPngnuns The following is the current course schedule for classes beginning between April and August 1993 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Pointy Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation's security. Course Check-In Date Completion Date Bosun Recertification October 4 Novembers Steward Recerttfication June 28 August 2 SiewanI Upgiaillng Courses Check-In Date Course DeckUpgtading Courses Check-In Completion Date Date May 24 July 2 July 19 August 27 All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Course Able Seaman 'f' Completion Date Assistant Cook, Cook and Baker All open-ended (contact admissions office for starting dates) Chief Cook, Chief Steward All open-ended (contact admissions office for starting dates) Engine Upgrading Courses Shiphandling April 26 June 21 August 23 May 7 July 2 September 3 Radar Observer - Unlimited April 19 May 17 July 12 August 16 April 23 May 21 July 16 August 20 Celestial Navigation May 24 July 19 May 3 August 30 June 18 August 13 August 13 December 10 Third Mate Check-In Date Completion Date May24 August 2 AprU26 May 24 June 21 July 19 Augustl6 April 26 Julyp May 29 August 6 May 7 June4 July 2 July 30 August27 May 21 May 21 July 23 May 10 July 5 .August 30 June 4 July 30 September 24 ' Oil Spill Prevention and Containment Lifeboatman . I Tankerman Basic/Advanced Fire Fighting May 11 April 12 July2 July 19 October 8 Fireman/Watertender and Oiler April 12 May 21 June 7 July 16 All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Pumproom Maint & Operations June 21 July 30 Refrigeration Maint. & Operations July 6 August 13 Hydraulics June 7 July 2 August 2 August 27 Diesel Engine Technology August 9 September 3 RefrigeratedContainers May 10 June 18 Advanced Maintenance 1992'93 Adult BducaUon Schedule The following courses are available through the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. Please contact the acknissions office for enrollment information. J: Address- (Middle) Month/Day/Year .Telephone ( (State) Deep Sea Member D (Z^Code) Lakes Member D (Area Code) Inland Waters Member D Book# Seniority Department - U.S. Citizen: D Yes D No High School Equivalency (GED) Adult Basic Education (ABE) English as a Second Language (ESL) All open-ended (contact admissions office for starting dates) SIGNATURE _DATE Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held •Ves If yes, which program: from , DNO • • • • to. Last grade of school completed •Ves Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? DNO • CH No C] Q Q If yes, course(s) taken Have you taken any SHLSS Sealift Operations courses? C] Yes DECK AB/Sealift 1st Qass Pilot Third Mate Radar Ohserver Unlimited Master Inspected Towing Vessel Towboat Operator Inlwd Celestial Navigation Simulator Course If yes, how many weeks have you completed? Firefighting: CH Yes [U No Date available for training Primary language spoken CPR: IZl Yes - ^ ' • • FOWT [H No • ;• • • Q Marine Electrical Maintenarice C] Pumproom Maintenance & Operation Q Refrigeration Systems Maintenance & Operation • Diesel Engine Technology O Assistant Engineer/Chief Engineer Motor Vessel Q Original 3rd Engineer Steam or Motor n RefrigeratedContainers Advanced Maintenance • D Electro-Hydrsulic Systems n Autorrration • Hydraulics EH Marine Electronics Technician • • ENGINE Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? n Yes IZl No June 4 '-O. I am interested in the following coufse(s) checked belowor indicated here if not listed Home Port. Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? AprillT Pacific• If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #. Completion Date With this application COPIES of yourdischarges must be submitted showing sufficient time to qualify yourself for the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s)you have taken and completed The Admissions Office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received RATING DATE DATE OF VESSEL HELD SHIPPED DISCHARGE (Street) (Qty) Check-In Date FULL 8-week sesskms Date of Birth (First) (Last) Course College Program Schedule for 1993 UPGRADIHO APPLICATION Name Completion Date QMED-Any Rating Safety Specialty Courses Course Check-In Date Couree n QMED—Any Rating • Variable Speed DC Drive Systems (Marine El^tronics) • D • STEWARD Assistant Cook Utility Cook and Baker Chief Cook Chief Steward Towboat Inland Cook ALL DEPARTMENTS • Welding • Lifeboatman (must be taken with another course) n Oil Spill Prevention & Containment D Basic/Advanced ' Fire Fighting D EH • • • ADULT EDUCATION DEPARTMENT Adult Basic Education (ABE) High School Equivalency Program (GED) Developmental Studies (DVS) English as a Second Language (ESL) ABE/ESL Lifeboat Preparation COLLEGE PROGRAM EH Associate in Arts Degree Transportation will be paid in acrordancc with the scheduling letter only if yon present original receipts and successfully com­ plete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney PoinL RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg Upgrading Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. V93 •II ' I <1/, �SBAEUtERS SlU Scholarships The deadline for submission of schoiarship appiications is APRIL 15. Volume 55, Number 3 March 1993 SeepageiSfordetaiis and an application form. Hew ITF Mrief CHes Hunawa]^ as Major Target Cockroft said a positive worldwide team of inspectors coast and into the North Sea. Declaring the "war" agains development toward improving The ITF also is initiating who are responsible for going shipowners who fly flags of con the life of mariners worldwide aboard flag of convenience vessels programs designed to force na­ venience above their vessels stil was the recent presidential elec­ is going strong, David Cockroft to check on safety, working and tions to take their maritime safety tion held in the United States. living conditions and to erfoice responsibilities more seriously. acting secretary general of the In collective bargaining agreements. "We seek to strengthen port-state "The election of Bill Clinton will ternational Transport Workers "We impose some kind of dis­ control systems by which coast make a big difference not just to Federation (ITF), asked the ex ecutive board of the Maritime cipline to the conditions and wages guard and maritime authorities go the working people of the United on board ships of countries which States, I dare say, but also to the Trades Department (MTD) for its of seafarers," Cockroft said. don't take their own respon­ working people of the world." continued help. Initiating Programs He noted that the previous ad­ sibilities. We want to force condiCockroft recently was elected ministrations in the White House by the ITF board to head the One of those vessels that ITF tions to be brought up to had opposed "every progressive worldwide organization of trade inspectors had visited and noted acceptable standards." unions affiliated with maritime He added that the ITF is an piece, of legislation, eveiy progres­ poor working and pay conditions interests. The ITF operates with was the runaway-flag tanker organization that "worries" the sive rule or regulation that workers' 400 trade unions representing ap­ Braer, which recently lost power owners of flag of convenience organizations put forward. The proximately 10 million people in and crashed onto the southern ships. Because of the ITF, "they idea of having administration rep­ more than 100 countries. David Cockroft, acting ITF coast of the Shetland Islands. The don't have total freedom to ex­ resentatives listen to what we say Speaking about the ITF's cam­ secretary general, calls for an end vessel, which Cockroft described ploit seafarers. They don't have rather than automatically tooppose paign to raise the standards and to mnaway flag vessels. as "a badly run ship," spilled 26 total choice over the use of labor everything \ve put forward, that's a pay of seafarers on runaway, million gdlons of oil dong the and over conditions." very, very positive development." Cockroft noted, "The ITF is not maritime over the last 10 years, just a federation of trade unions, he noted. "The flags of con­ it is a trade union," Cockroft told venience have gotten bigger anc the audience. "In maritime, we bigger. More and more countries The director of the AFL-CIO play an unusual role that we never lave become cheap, open flags. To complicate the problem, imployee Benefits Department wanted to have. We act as the only bargaining representatives the opening of the Communist- suggested one way tofind the dolfor trade union members on board bloc nations in Europe has in­ ars needed to fund a maritime ships which have chosen to take creased the already glutted reinvestment progi^ is to get runaway flags and fly the flags of market of mariners on the world America's health care costs under convenience of Liberia, Panama, market. "Seafarers in Russia control. today would be more than happy Karen Ignagni—who oversees Vanuatu and others." o work for $100 a month. In fact, the national trade union Started 40 Years Ago they consider [that figure] to be a federation's activities concerning He noted the ITF began a cam­ ring's ransom," Cocl^oft added. health care, pensions, social paign almost 40 years ago to put an security and child care—told the Fair Trade for Mariners end to flags of convenience, which executive board of the Maritime The ITF head noted the debate Trades Department (MTD) that are ships owned by people or com­ within this country concerning the time to tackle the problem is panies in one nation but registered iree trade and fair trade also deals now while the new president and in another country which has estab­ with merchant mariners around nation's attention are focused on lished a ship registry with the pur­ le world. pose of attracting outside revenue. the matter. "There cannot be an industry Runaway registries promote Ignagni noted polling exits themsseelves with shipowners by n which fair trade is less isted health care right behind the offering low standards and low prevalent than the shipping in­ economy in order of importance. costs—no taxes, lax safety regula­ dustry worldwide," Cockroft 'The president has shown he is tions and superficial inspections. stated. "It is the only^dustry in serious about getting the health Noting that 37 million Americans have no health care, Karen Ignagni told However, several nations which employers have complete care problem resolved by keeping the MTD executive board that the cost for these people Is put on the backs known for their strong maritime reedom to choose what workers the issue in the White House and of companies that provide employees with coverage. traditions have adopted second they want to employ, what condi­ appointing his wife to head the registers "which offer flag of con­ tions they want to employ them commission," she stated. "And to make matters worse, gresspeople, senators, families, venience conditions without the under and what laws they will (Shortly after becoming presi­ our labor costs look higher be­ friends and relatives" to fight for stigma of flying the flag of obey when they employ them. dent in January, Bill Qinton of that subsidization. We national health care reform. countries like Liberia or Vhen the laws are too unpleasant, named a commission to review cause pay a surcharge on our health care "Many already are lined up Panama," Cockroft stated. He ley are free at a flick of a pen to lealth care in America. His wife, protection to cover the cost of against reform, but it means dol­ listed Norway, Denmark and change flag and jurisdiction." Hillary, was appointed to head the those employers who fail to do lars and cents to us. It won't be To combat the exploitation of roup that includes cabinet mem­ Germany among those countries. "It has been a veiy tough timein mariners, the ITF has a bers, political officials, scholars their fair share. Then our easy, but let's get a good package employers look uncompetitive in and pass it." and health care representatives.) the marketplace." Following her presentation, the MTD board approved several Increases Auto Costs Prevents Projects resolutions calling on the ad­ To emphasize her point, she ministration and The amount of money being Congress to cre­ The National Center for 843-5678 or the Missing Per­ referred to statements made ear­ Missing and Exploited Children sons Unit of the Suwannee spent on health care in this lier to the MTD board by United ate a health care program that is has asked the Seafarers Interna­ County (Fla.) Sheriff sOffice at country is preventing many Auto Workers President Owen equitable to all without taxing needed projects from being un­ those who have health benefits. tional Union to assist them in (904) 362-2222. dertaken, Ignagni said. The high Bieber who stated health care in­ locating Christina Ann Wood, a cost of health care "is lining Ae creases the cost of each American 17-year-old from Live Oak, Fla. pocketbooks of insurance com- car by more than $100 over the More MTD Missing since December 2, lanies, doctors and hospitals. It is cost of imports from countries 1991, the young woman may be Coverage Irtside crowding out everything else— with national health care with an adult male companion. programs. infrastructure, shipbuilding, She is considered an en­ Pages While health care costs ac­ education." dangered runaway. Three key legislators Although union members count for 8.5 to 10 percent of the At the time of her disap­ gross national product of most of lave the best health care coverage address maritime revival. pearance, the brown-haired, of any other group in the nation, our nation's trading competitors, brown-eyed Christina Wood New administration offars gnagni pointed out it has not the latest figure in the United was 5 ft. 4 in. tall and weighed States is 14 percent, according to come without a cost. hope for change. 145 pounds. She has a tattoo of "The facts are there are 37 mil- Ignagni. "We don't need to tell a heart on her left ankle and a ion people who have no access to anyone what our members have Page4 3-inch scar on her upper leg. given up in wage increases if it health care," she said. "This af­ Labor legislative Initiatives Anyone having information fects each and every person here hadn't been for the amount of on the disappearance of Chris­ still face tough fight In when you go to the bargaining money paid into health care over tina Ann Wood should contact the last 10 years." Congress. table. You are paying for these the National Center for Missing Ignagni asked the board to people. and Exploited Children at (800) Christina Ann Wood have their members contact "con- AFL-CIO to Tackle Health Care Crisis Help Find This Hlissing CMId � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource March 1993 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES DOT’S PENA MEETS WITH MARITIME TO UNDERSTAND INDUSTRY PROBLEMS AFL-CIO ANNOUNCES ITS SUPPORT OF CLINTON ECONOMIC PACKAGE HAUGE REPORTS ON SOMALIA MISSION CONGRESSIONAL LEADERS TELL MTD BOARD OF SUPPORT U.S. -FLAG SHIP PROGRAM NEW ADMINISTRATION’S ‘MOOD FOR CHANGE’ SEEN AS BRINING HOPE FOR U.S. WORKERS SIU-CREWED FERRIES PRESSED INTO SERVICE ‘MORE BREAD’ IS GOAL FOR LABOR IN CONGRESS RANGER SAVES FIVE FROM SNKING SCHOONER CAPELLA CREW RESCUES BOATERS IN ROUHC SEAS, HIGH WINDS BENZENE REGS TOP CONCERNS AT SAFETY TEAM MEETING FORMER SEAFARERS PORT AGENT ‘SCOTTIE’ AUBUSSON DIES AT 72 RETIRED STEWARD STILL KEEPS UP WITH SIU EFFORTS BEGIN TO PASS WWII MARINER VETERANS EXTENSION SIU PENSIONER WADLINGTON HELPS HONOR ALL VETERANS OF WAR SNOWSTORM DOES NOT DELAY EARLY FITOUT FOR AMERICAN REPUBLIC DREDGE DODGE ISLAND HEADS FOR WARMER WATERS AFTER SUMMER ON GREAT LAKES STEWARDS LAB OPENS AT PAUL HALL CENTER FACILITY FEATURES MODERN EQUIPMENT, ROOMINESS MURMANSK--- ’42: THE DIARY OF WYMOND D. HENDERSON BEHIND-THE-SCENES GALLEY CREW KEEPS INDEPENDENCE A ‘GREAT WHITE SHIP’ NEW ITF CHIEF CITES RUNAWAYS AS A MAJOR TARGET AFL-CIO TACKLE HEALTH CARE CRISIS Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 03/01/1993 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 55, No. 3 1993 Periodicals Seafarers Log