Fall 2021 Official Voice of the International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Vol. 57, No.3
Fall 2021
Official Voice of the International
Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots
Table of Contents The Master, Mate
& Pilot is the
official voice of
Vol. 57, No. 3 Fall 2021 the International
Organization of
Masters, Mates &
From the President 1 Pilots.
The passing of longtime AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka brings © 2021 IOMMP.
into sharp focus the importance of labor movement values such
The Master, Mate & Pilot (ISSN
as solidarity and mutual respect, in particular as we chart our way 0025-5033) is published quarterly
forward out of the Covid-19 pandemic. by the International Organization
of Masters, Mates & Pilots. MM&P
News Briefs 3 Headquarters: 700 Maritime Blvd.,
Suite B, Linthicum Heights, MD
Liz Shuler elected first woman to head the AFL-CIO, USW 21090-1953.
International Vice President Fred Redmond elected secretary- Phone: (410) 850-8700
treasurer; USNS Patuxent saves 15 in Gulf of Aden; new MM&P affiliate E-mail: communications@bridgedeck.org
wins majority of votes in bid to represent tug workers in seven Internet: www.bridgedeck.org
Mexican ports; greetings from our members aboard President FD Periodicals Postage Paid at
Elkridge, MD and additional
Roosevelt, at Circle Line and at Windserve; crew of Miss Freedom
offices. POSTMASTER: Send
rescues jet skier; unions rally in defense of Oakland’s Howard Terminal. address changes to The Master,
Mate & Pilot, 700 Maritime
Resolutions Honoring Richard L. Trumka 11 Blvd., Suite B, Linthicum
Two resolutions honoring the late AFL-CIO president have been Heights, MD 21090-1953
posted in every MM&P hiring hall. Don Marcus
Chairman, Editorial Board
MM&P Health & Benefit Plans 13 Lisa Rosenthal
Communications Director
Five scholarship winners for the current year approved; eligible
dependent children of eligible Offshore members and co-pay INTERNATIONAL OFFICERS
pensioners in good standing are reminded to request an application Don Marcus, President
for the scholarship program. Don Josberger, Secretary-Treasurer
News From MITAGS 18 VICE PRESIDENTS
Business Development Director Bob Becker retires; virtual Azipod Thomas Bell, Great Lakes & Gulf
training for Mercy Ships captains “a big success.” Jeremy Hope, Offshore Gulf
& Government Contracts
Beck Notice 19 Thomas Larkin, Offshore Atlantic
Pensioners 20 George A. Quick, Pilots
Michael Riordan, Atlantic Maritime
MM&P Directory 21 Randall H. Rockwood,
Federal Employees
Cross’d the Final Bar 24
Timothy Saffle, Pacific Maritime Region
Thank You Contributors to the MM&P PCF! 26 Lars Turner, Offshore Pacific
Vol. 57, No.3
Connect With Us!
Fall 2021
About the Cover
Official Voice of the International
Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots
Richard Trumka was a champion Bridgedeck.org
for all American workers, and
in particular for the members of
Communications@bridgedeck.org
MM&P. He will never be forgotten. Facebook.com/IOMMP
Resolutions passed by the MM&P
General Executive Board in his honor YouTube: MastersMatesPilots
are on pages 11 and 12. Instagram: bridgedeck
Twitter: @MMP_Union
FROM THE PRESIDENT
Labor’s Loss
Union Sisters & Brothers,
Normalcy does not want to return to our world. The the world. They can be found
resurgence of the COVID-19 pandemic, tragedy and on pages 11 and 12. Please read
national humiliation in Afghanistan, social strife in them. In addition to being posted
America and the ongoing transformation of our climate in all our hiring halls and offices,
must cause all of us to wonder about the future. What kind these documents will be given to
of world will our children inherit? Richard’s widow, to AFL-CIO
During periods of uncertainty in our nation’s history, the President Liz Schuler and to
labor movement has always been a tangible force. A force Cecil Roberts, President of Richard’s beloved United Mine
giving working people hope for a better tomorrow and Workers of America (UMWA).
a compass pointing to True North. The labor movement We have lost a great friend, brother and leader. A man
and America’s working people have lost a champion. struck down at the pinnacle of his achievements at a time
The passing of Richard L. Trumka, well before his time, when labor is on the upsurge and the stars are aligning for
and when the fortunes of labor seem to be resurgent, is unions in Congress and in the White House. His death is
devastating. His powerful and eloquent voice will not be a tragic loss for all of us. We know that the torch will be
replaced. His many contributions will not be forgotten. picked up and carried steadfastly by incoming President
For MM&P in particular, the death of Richard Trumka Liz Shuler, the first female president of the AFL-CIO.
is a heartbreaking loss. His resolute sense of justice and President Shuler will carry on Richard’s work and get the
his personal integrity were instrumental in the recognition job done. We also know that the labor movement is larger
of our AFL-CIO charter and the confirmation of our than any one leader—no matter how effective, no matter
independent status as an AFL-CIO affiliate. Every member how strong his or her voice. It is a movement of everyday
of our venerable union owes him a debt of gratitude. Our working people looking out for each other, helping each
organization’s standing in the labor movement is a long other, and respecting each other.
and proud one. From our founding in New York Harbor The topic of death has made far too many unwelcome
in 1887, to our joining the AFL in 1916, to the countless appearances in my recent editorials. The loss of four
sacrifices of our members at sea during two deadly world MM&P members to COVID-19, three accidental
wars, to the everyday labors of MM&P professional shipboard deaths and one shipboard suicide within the
mariners and to our own member, Lane Kirkland, serving last two years point to the adversities inherent in our
as President of the AFL-CIO from 1979 to 1995, we have profession as well as to the hardships of the present time.
earned our admission into the pantheon of American The recent establishment of a mental health committee
Labor. Richard Trumka understood this, and he acted on by Vice President Jeremy Hope and the support he
this knowledge when he recognized our charter. Many has received from our membership, other officials and
others in his position would not have done the same. representatives is significant. Thank you to all who are
Two resolutions were passed at our most recent General participating in this important effort.
Executive Board meeting to honor Richard Trumka’s
service to the working people of America and, in fact,
continued on page 2
www.bridgedeck.org - The Master, Mate & Pilot 1
President’s Message continued In every issue of our magazine, we carry notices of the experts—yes, medical experts, not internet charlatans— passing of our brothers and sisters. Each one of these recommend. Those who do not believe the medical experts members contributed in some way to our Union. Some and, consequently, appear to be more concerned about their changed the lives of shipmates forever and will never be self-determined personal right to die of COVID-19 and forgotten by those individuals. All of us have read about infect others in the process must not endanger the rest of our a lost Union brother or sister who personally touched us membership. and changed our lives in some way. The longer one is in The COVID-19 pandemic and maintaining health and MM&P, the more there are and the greater the sense of good safety aboard the vessels that our members work on and fortune one has for being in our Union—a brotherhood and live on has been MM&P’s central theme for the last 18 sisterhood where bonds of common shipboard experience, months. While as individuals some may reject the experts at friendship, and the gift of passing on the traditions and skills the FDA, the CDC, the U.S. Public Health Service, Johns of our profession count for so much. Hopkins University, and the worldwide professional medical I will mention two brothers who meant a great deal to me establishment, MM&P as an organization will abide by the going back to my first days working ashore for our Union. determinations of the experts and the dictates of common They were true comrades and fine human beings who sense. MM&P fully and unapologetically supports U.S. cared for their shipmates and their Union, and protected government and company mandates regarding preventing the the interests of their employers. One, Scott Abrams, was spread of COVID-19. mentioned in the Spring 2021 issue of our magazine. My administration does not take the position that Captain Abrams was a true gentleman of the old school, vaccinations and respecting the health and safety of our a supreme and kindly master mariner, and a mentor to shipmates, our Union brothers and sisters, our Union staff countless others beside me. As Captain Kip Carlson recounts and the public at large is an infringement on one’s personal on page 25 of this issue, Scott was given a mariner’s send-off liberty. recently in the waters off Oahu by a group of his shipmates With that said, be assured that MM&P has and will and Union brothers and sisters: people who, like myself, will continue to bargain with our employers over exactly how forever be touched by his warm support and friendship. these mandates are implemented aboard MM&P-contracted Another outstanding Union brother recently lost to our vessels. MM&P will ensure that our collective bargaining membership was Andy Hetz. Andy, like Richard Trumka, agreements are complied with in the process. MM&P went well before his time. Andy passed after a years-long will work with our employers to see that all public health courageous battle with cancer. A keystone in the San mandates, including vaccination, are implemented reasonably Francisco/Oakland Hall and a rock as Master in the Alameda and in accordance with the law. Ready Reserve Fleet, Andy’s love for his family and his Union Thank you in advance for understanding MM&P’s was apparent to all who knew him. He pulled himself out of responsibility to protect the health and safety of our members his sickbed to visit us at our first in-person Union meeting and for looking out for your Union sisters, brothers, in Oakland last April. A finer husband, father and Union shipmates, family members and the general public! brother could not be found. I mention these deaths because I do not want to see more. Wishing all good health and fraternity, I do not want to see deaths that could have been avoided by timely vaccination, the observance of government Don Marcus requirements pertaining to the wearing of face masks and MM&P President compliance with the advisories and mandates that medical 2 The Master, Mate & Pilot - Fall 2021
NEWS B RIEFS
New MM&P Affiliate Wins Majority of Votes in Bid
To Represent Tug Workers in Seven Mexican Ports
The battle to represent workers at a tugboat company in seven ports
in Mexico has moved closer to a favorable resolution now that a
majority has voted to be represented by the MM&P affiliate Orden
Mexicana de Profesionales Marítimos y Portuarios, Similares y
Conexos (Orden Marítima).
The workers, who are employed by the Spanish tugboat company
Boluda, had chosen Orden Maritíma to represent them in 2019.
But the union was sidelined by the company and has been fighting
ever since to assume its rightful place as representative of the Boluda
workers, many of whom have reported labor rights violations
including 18-hour workdays and denial of overtime pay.
This time an overwhelming majority of Boluda workers—79
percent—again chose Orden Marítima to represent them.
“This is a great win for the labor movement north and south of the
border,” said MM&P President Don Marcus, who participated in a After the ballot count: Captain Antonio Fritz of Orden Marítima (far
pre-vote press conference in Mexico City along with Orden Marítima right) with MM&P Regional Representative Eduardo Iglesias (left),
officials, MM&P Representative Eduardo Iglesias, AFL-CIO MM&P President Don Marcus and tug workers employed by Boluda.
Solidarity House Representative Jeff Hermanson and Representative
Carlos Paniagua, from MM&P’s Panamanian affiliate UCOC.
Members of the group also observed vote counts in two of the seven Mexican ports involved.
“The courage of the Mexican tugboat workers in standing up to their corrupt employer is inspirational,” Marcus said. “The same can
be said of the leadership of Secretary-General Jorge Gomez Garcia, Secretary of Labor & Conflicts Captain Antonio Fritz and the other
officials, staff and organizers of Orden Marítima.”
“The true value of Mexican labor law and the negotiated labor protections of the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement on Trade (USMCA)
will only be demonstrated upon the successful certification of Orden Marítima and the achievement of a bona fide collective bargaining
agreement.”
“We will be calling on the State Department and the US labor movement to demand that the rights of freedom of association and
collective bargaining as provided in the USMCA are adhered to.”
Under Mexican law, the case now moves to the courts.
Tug workers in Ensenada, Baja California, vote on representation.
Tugboats in Ensenada, where 79 percent
of the workers chose Orden Marítima to
represent them.
www.bridgedeck.org - The Master, Mate & Pilot 3
NEWS B RIEFS (CONTINUED)
Fighting High Winds and Seas, USNS Patuxent
Saves 15 in Gulf of Aden
The Civil Service mariners aboard USNS Patuxent saved the
15-person crew of a cargo ship that had lost propulsion and was
taking on water on the night of June 7.
Patuxent’s master, Captain Peter Aguinaldo, was alerted to the
developing situation when his vessel was over 80 miles away from
the sinking ship. Vessels that were closer, he was informed, lacked
the maneuverability, crew and equipment needed to carry out the
rescue.
As Patuxent headed to the scene, Chief Mate Jamie Gleber began
rousing the deck dayworkers. She slipped a memo under each door,
outlining the urgency of the situation and listing the equipment
that would be needed. Within minutes, the crew was on deck
and had begun to rig cargo nets along Patuxent’s hull and prepare
mooring lines for the possible arrival of a lifeboat.
When Patuxent arrived on scene, the captain of the distressed
vessel asked that the fast rescue boat be deployed. Aguinaldo told
him that because of the weather, the rescue craft could not be
launched safely. Instead, he said, Patuxent would create a lee and
recover the men from the sinking ship’s own lifeboat.
But once the lifeboat had been loaded, mechanical issues blocked
its launch, and the captain of the sinking cargo ship again asked
“I couldn’t have asked for a better crew,” Captain Aguinaldo said.
that Patuxent’s rescue boat be deployed.
“Heroic acts by the whole deck department with many other
“I asked Chief Mate Gleber to assess the seas as she was closer crewmembers turning out and assisting as needed on tank deck.”
to the water’s edge,” Aguinaldo said, “but the complete darkness
and stormy seas were deemed too rough for safe deployment and
eventual recovery of the rescue boat.”
The chief mate suggested that the sailors board their own life out over the edge, grabbing the exhausted sailors, hoisting them the
raft and Patuxent would attempt to recover them with a towing last few feet and assisting them aboard,” the captain said.
line sent via shot line. But when the crew of the distressed vessel But one of the men fell from the net, landing between the life
attempted to launch the starboard life raft, it capsized immediately. raft and the hull. Life rings with towline were deployed along the
At this point the sailors moved to port side to launch another side of the ship, and the man was able to take hold of one but
life raft—their last survival craft—which was on the opposite side struggled to hang on as the swells crashed over him. A pilot ladder
of the ship and exposed to the violent seas. They deployed and was quickly rigged. The man made his way to it, climbed a few
boarded it as their sinking ship rolled deck edge to deck edge, steps, but eventually lost all motivation and, exhausted, declared he
without lights or power. was ready to let go.
As Patuxent maneuvered to get the life raft on the lee side, the “The deck crew refused to accept this,” Gleber said. They lowered
chief engineer manned the engine room, ensuring the plant was not a tag line and instructed the sailor to tie it around his waist. Once
lost. “It took plenty of power from both main engines to control the line was secured, they hauled the soaking, exhausted man
and steer the vessel in the heavy seas,” the captain said. aboard.
The deck department had to shoot multiple lines because But there was yet another person to rescue: he was still in the
conditions made it nearly impossible to land the shot line inside raft, seemingly unable to find it in himself to climb the cargo net.
the raft. Round Number 21 from the cargo team proved successful. After discussing several options, the deck team rigged a bosun
“The deck crew was waiting at the top of the cargo net, where chair to the gangway winch and deployed it to him. He was able to
several CIVMARS, without concern for their own safety, reached mount it and the crew worked quickly to get him aboard.
4 The Master, Mate & Pilot - Fall 2021
USNS Patuxent continued The deck crew was
waiting at the top of the
cargo net, where several
CIVMARS, without
concern for their own
safety, reached out over
the edge, grabbing
the exhausted sailors,
hoisting them the last
few feet and assisting
them aboard.
The sinking ship was rolling deck edge to deck edge, without
lights or power, when the sailors boarded the life raft.
“I couldn’t have asked for a better crew,” Aguinaldo said. “Heroic “The humanitarian, selfless efforts that you and your shipmates
acts by the whole deck department with many other crewmembers demonstrated by saving the entire crew of stranded sailors is, in a
turning out and assisting as needed on tank deck.” word, incredible,” said MM&P Government Fleet Representative
“Supply and medical supporting humanitarian efforts ensuring Randi Ciszewski. “Thank you Captain Aguinaldo, Chief Mate
the passengers had dry shoes, clothes, blankets, and towels while Gleber and your entire crew of professionals for the daily sacrifices
keeping them well fed and hydrated.” that you and your families make in support of our great nation.”
The 15 men were transferred ashore via small boat for processing The licensed deck officers aboard USNS Patuxent are represented
to return home. by the MM&P Federal Employees Membership Group.
Greetings From President FD Roosevelt!
The crew of APL’s President FD Roosevelt in Los Angeles: (back row)
AB Eric Sheldon, Third Mate William Esselstrom; (second row) Third
Mate Edward Sanchez, AB Napoleon Ramon, Chief Mate Christopher
Cruz, Captain Richard Vanderlaan, Bosun Dennis Solijon, AB
Alcodea Camacho; (front row) Second Mate Rexel Dagdag, Chief Mate
Christine Hogan, AB Alan Marshall and AB Joseph Balerite.
MM&P licensed deck officers: Second Mate Rexel Dagdag, Chief Mate
Christopher Cruz (outgoing), Captain Richard Vanderlaan, Chief Mate
Christine Hogan (incoming) and Third Mate Edward Sanchez.
www.bridgedeck.org - The Master, Mate & Pilot 5
NEWS B RIEFS (CONTINUED)
New Leaders Take Helm of AFL-CIO PHOTO CREDIT JOE KEKERIS/AFL-CIO
Liz Shuler was elected in August as the first woman to head the
AFL-CIO. United Steelworkers International Vice President Fred
Redmond was elected to succeed Shuler as secretary-treasurer. He is
the first African American to serve in the federation’s number two
role. Tefere Gebre will continue to serve as executive vice president,
rounding out the most diverse team of officers ever to lead the
nation’s labor federation.
Shuler will complete the term of the late Richard Trumka.
Delegates representing the AFL-CIO’s 56 affiliates, labor councils
and constituent groups will vote on a permanent successor to
Trumka at their national convention in June 2022.
“I believe in my bones the labor movement is the single greatest
organized force for progress,” Shuler said after her election.
“This is a moment for us to lead societal transformations—to
leverage our power to bring women and people of color from the Members of the AFL-CIO leadership team: Executive
Vice President Tefere Gebre, President Liz Shuler and
margins to the center—at work, in our unions and in our economy,
Secretary-Treasurer Fred Redmond.
and to be the center of gravity for incubating new ideas that will
unleash unprecedented union growth.” shipbuilding, health care and public sector bargaining, and worked
Shuler grew up in a union household in Oregon and went with USW allies across the country responding to attacks on voting
to work as an IBEW organizer in 1993. After serving as an rights and combating economic inequality. He has a long history
international representative in the IBEW’s Political/Legislative of leadership on national and international boards, including the
Affairs Department, she assumed a leading role in advancing the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists and the A. Philip Randolph
union’s strategic agenda. In 2009, she became the first woman Institute.
elected to the position of AFL-CIO secretary-treasurer and the “I could not be more excited to get to work with President Shuler
youngest to hold a seat on the federation’s Executive Council. so we can build on the labor movement’s legacy of change, writing
Fred Redmond served three terms as president of a USW a new chapter that brings the promise of union membership to
local before assuming staff and leadership roles at headquarters. workers across this country,” Redmond said after his election.
As international vice president for human affairs, he oversaw “This is the right team at the right time to help bring about the
the Civil and Human Rights Department, as well as the union’s economic and social justice America is hungry for.”
Unions Rally in Defense of Oakland’s Howard Terminal
MM&P member Coleman Rosenberg addresses a
rally opposing the plan to force maritime activities,
residents and small businesses out of the Howard
Terminal area in Oakland to make room for a
baseball stadium and luxury development. The
Oakland A’s say the team will move away if city
managers don’t approve the project and fund it
with massive taxpayer subsidies. Opponents of the
plan include MM&P, the International Longshore
and Warehouse Union, the Marine Engineers’
Beneficial Association, the Sailors’ Union of the
Pacific and the United Brotherhood of Carpenters.
6 The Master, Mate & Pilot - Fall 2021
CAMM Retirees Underway!
PHOTO CREDIT: DOUG SUBCLEFF
The Seattle chapter of the Council of American Master Mariners resumed in-person meetings in July. Members of the
chapter include retired captains (left to right) Doug Subcleff, Tuuli Messer-Bookman, Kevin Coulombe, Bill Bundren,
Don Moore, Chuck Lund, Jim Herron and RJ Klein. CAMM is an organization of active and retired captains, pilots,
maritime industry professionals and advocates working to support and promote the American Merchant Marine. It is a
source of information, professional development and networking for both active mariners and retirees.
AFL-CIO Report: “CEOs Make 300 Times More
Than Their Employees”
Millions of working Americans suffered extreme hardship in 2020, but CEOs
at S&P 500 companies did just fine. They earned, on average, $15.5 million
annually—$700,000 a year more than they had in 2019. And their employees?
The average production and nonsupervisory worker earned $43,512 in 2020, up
a total of just $957 a year over the course of the past decade.
“This is consistent with what we’ve been seeing year to year,” said AFL-CIO
President Liz Shuler in announcing the findings of Executive Paywatch, the union
federation’s searchable database on CEO pay. “While working people bore the
brunt of the pandemic, CEOs earned even more money.”
“For every dollar a worker earns, an S&P 500 CEO earns $299,” she noted.
“That level of pay inequity is unacceptable. Working people deserve better.”
Unions are calling on the Senate to pass the Protecting the Right to Organize
Act, which would help address the massive inequities in the ratio of CEO-to-
worker pay by making it easier to bargain over salaries and working conditions.
www.bridgedeck.org - The Master, Mate & Pilot 7
NEWS B RIEFS (CONTINUED)
Back to Work at Circle Line
On the job aboard Circle Line Liberty are (left to right) Deckhand Brian (Left to right) Deckhand Rafael Zorrilla, Deckhand Tom Fitzgerald,
Happaney, Captain Gabe Zambrano and Tour Guide Chris Mason. The Captain Ken Corcoran and Senior Deckhand Carl Parsons. The hangar
ship in the background with the number 11 on it is the Intrepid Sea, for the Space Shuttle Enterprise, which is on the aft deck of the Intrepid,
Air & Space Museum. “The men are happy to be back to work,” says is visible in the background. Circle Line operates seven ships in New
MM&P Representative Keith Poissant. “The numbers are nowhere near York Harbor. “We’d be nowhere—literally—without our awesome fleet
pre-COVID but they are steadily rising.” and crew,” the company says on its website.
Lack of Shore Leave and Crew Change
Drive “Happiness Survey” to New Low
Mariners who responded to the Mission to Seafarers most recent survey on seafarer wellbeing expressed growing frustration over lack of
shore leave, long hours and uncertainty about crew change.
The so-called “Seafarer Happiness Index” dropped significantly in the second quarter of 2021, to its lowest level since the start of the
pandemic. The second quarter score was 5.99 out of 10, down from 6.46 in the first quarter of the year.
“The latest results reveal a growing negativity across all aspects of life on board,” Mission to Seafarers said. The index fell in every category:
general happiness, workload, training, social life, shore leave, wages, food, health, family contact and welfare facility access. Lack of shore
access for crew change, or even just a walk around the port, was at the top of the list of complaints.
Workloads are on the rise, with many seafarers reporting 11–12-hour days. Excessive paperwork, including being required to answer
numerous emails from headquarters, was singled out as a big problem leading to increased workloads.
The Seafarers Happiness Index was designed to monitor satisfaction levels through responses to 10 questions on a range of issues, from
mental health and wellbeing to working life and family contact. The results are shared with industry and key decision makers.
“The Seafarers Happiness Index exists to provide all men and women working at sea with a chance to share how they feel and to talk
about the good and bad of life at sea today,” Mission to Seafarers says. “Share your views and let the industry know what works and what
needs to be changed.”
To take the survey, go to: https://www.happyatsea.org/
8 The Master, Mate & Pilot - Fall 2021MM&P Members at Statue City Cruises Rescue Jet Skier
MM&P members aboard Miss Freedom, a tour boat
operated by Statue City Cruises, rescued a woman who
had been thrown from her jet ski into the Hudson
River and was being pulled along by the current on the
morning of June 21.
The incident began when Deckhand John Sullivan
alerted Captain Brian Dubreuil that there was a person
in distress astern of the vessel as the crew was preparing
to depart to Ellis Island.
A first-time jet skier had been thrown from her two-
person jet ski and was treading water in the Hudson
River, south of the Morris Canal. “She was in trouble,
and in need of assistance,” said Port Captain Matt Gill
of Hornblower/City Experiences, which owns Statue
Cruises.
The crew tossed her a life ring tethered to the boat’s
railing to keep her from going under. First Officer
William Lynch, with Sullivan and Jonathan Santiago,
readied the rescue ladder and set up a rescue operation
platform off the stern of the vessel. Miss Freedom’s Captain Brian Dubreuil (third from left) with (third, fourth and
Dubreuil went down the ladder and pulled the jet fifth from right) Deckhand Jonathan Santiago, First Officer William Lynch and
Deckhand John Sullivan. “While we are not surprised by this group acting in
skier onto the rescue platform. She was able to climb the manner they did, we are extremely proud of their dedication to safety and
the ladder and the first officer hoisted her onto preparedness,” a company spokesperson said.
Miss Freedom.
“This group of employees professionally exceeded their safety training and acted heroically, communicating and using the utmost
teamwork to rescue the jet skier from the treacherous Hudson,” Gill said. The entire crew “demonstrated Hornblower respect values,” he
added, and will be recognized with Hornblower Challenge Coins.
MM&P Members
Crew Windserve
Marine’s First CTV
Matt Pearson (left) and Michael Ryner
aboard Windserve Marine’s first crew transfer
vessel. CTVs can nose up to turbine towers
and transfer workers and supplies to service
operation vessels. The company plans to build
up to five more. The Windserve Odyssey is also
equipped with an a-frame to do survey work.
Windserve Marine is a Reinauer company
and employs members of the MM&P Atlantic
Maritime Group.
www.bridgedeck.org - The Master, Mate & Pilot 9NEWS B RIEFS (CONTINUED)
Food and Drug Administration Grants Full Approval to Pfizer
Covid-19 Vaccine
The FDA has granted full approval to the Pfizer/BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine for people
16 and older. This is the first coronavirus vaccine to receive full approval from the
FDA.
Vaccine makers originally applied for emergency use authorizations because the
process takes less time than is required for full approval. The Pfizer/BioNTech
vaccine has been authorized for emergency use in the US since mid-December
for people 16 and older. In May, the FDA extended the authorization to those
12 and older.
Out of more than 170 million people in the US who are fully vaccinated,
more than 92 million have received the Pfizer vaccine.
Among the two other coronavirus vaccines authorized for emergency
use in the US, Moderna has begun applying for full approval for its
Covid-19 vaccine in people 18 and up. Johnson & Johnson had not yet
filed for full FDA approval of its vaccine as this issue of The Master,
Mate & Pilot was going to press.
Full approval of the Pfizer vaccine comes days after the Biden administration announced plans to offer booster doses to vaccinated adults
starting Sept. 20, pending approval by the FDA and recommendation from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Pentagon
plans to make the vaccine mandatory for all active duty members of the US military by the middle of September, or sooner.
MM&P and Matson Negotiate Implementation of
Company’s Vaccine Policy
MM&P Vice President–Pacific Ports J. Lars Turner negotiated the first
MM&P agreement with an Offshore division employer that required
vaccination of all MM&P members working aboard company vessels.
MM&P President Don Marcus signed the agreement Aug. 26, 2021 and
the terms go into effect Oct. 1.
“When eligible persons are vaccinated,” Turner said, “it can be a
power tool against the spread of coronavirus, in conjunction with social
distancing, masking when appropriate and keeping good hygiene.”
“MM&P and Matson negotiated an agreement on the implementation
of the company’s vaccine policy. It was difficult, but we reached terms
which helped protect our members working aboard Matson vessels.”
The law gives private employers the right to mandate vaccination as a
condition of employment, whether employees agree or not. The Union
does have the right to bargain over how the mandate is implemented,
which MM&P did in this case and will continue doing.
“MM&P and Matson negotiated an agreement on the
implementation of the company’s vaccine policy,” said
Vice President–Pacific Ports J. Lars Turner. “It was
difficult, but we reached terms which helped protect our
members working aboard Matson vessels.”
10 The Master, Mate & Pilot - Fall 2021RESOLUTIONS
Two Resolutions honoring Richard L. Trumka have been posted in every MM&P Union Hall.
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, on August 5, 2021, Our Grand Captain, in His all-wise
judgement, piloted across the last Bar of earthly life, into that Peaceful Harbor,
where the wicked cease from troubling and the weary are at rest, our esteemed
and beloved Brother, Richard L. Trumka, President of the American Federation of
Labor–Congress of Industrial Organizations; and
WHEREAS, in the death of Brother Trumka, the members of the
International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots and the working people of
the world have suffered a tremendous loss in the passing of a brother, who was a
faithful and devoted leader, one on whose fidelity, all who knew him could with
confidence rely; and
WHEREAS, as Captain of the Ship of Labor, Brother Trumka nobly
responded to his calling in the performance of his duty, and as a husband, father,
grandfather mentor, citizen and leader was faithful and loyal to his trust.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that these resolutions
be conveyed to the family of our deceased Brother; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Charter of our Union be
draped in mourning for a period of 30 days; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we, the members of our
Union unite with his grief-stricken family, in bowing in humble submission, to
the Will of our Supreme Captain.
Respectfully Submitted,
General Executive Board
www.bridgedeck.org - The Master, Mate & Pilot 11RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION
Richard L. Trumka, President AFL-CIO
Union Brother: Captain of Our Ship
WHEREAS, as Captain of the Ship of Labor Richard L. Trumka protected and advanced the
cause of working people and their families with great passion, personal integrity, and skill; and
WHEREAS, Richard L. Trumka was a man of action and a true believer in justice; and
WHEREAS, Richard L. Trumka pursued the objectives of workers in the finest traditions of all
that is right and good in the labor movement; and
WHEREAS, as President of the AFL-CIO, Secretary-Treasurer of the AFL-CIO and President
of the United Mine Workers of America, Richard L. Trumka, with his strong and eloquent voice
united workers of all stripes and proudly carried a bright and vibrant torch during an era of stress and
transition for the labor movement; and
WHEREAS, in the midst of a global pandemic and grave social unrest, when the Washington,
D.C. offices of the AFL-CIO were shut down and innumerable pressing issues required attention
and action, President Richard L. Trumka, notwithstanding all the other critical demands on his time,
carefully and equitably considered all points of view pertaining to the recognition of the AFL-CIO
Charter for MM&P’s 5300 members, validating the critical importance of the issue to our Union; and
WHEREAS, after considering the words of former MM&P member and AFL-CIO President
Lane Kirkland, who stated “[a]ll sinners belong in church and all Unions belong in the AFL-CIO,”
President Trumka in full accordance with the Constitution of the AFL-CIO recognized MM&P as a
direct affiliate of the AFL-CIO and the holder of its original AFL-CIO Charter. Further, in his decision
of August 21, 2020, President and Brother Trumka stated:
“I congratulate you and the members of the MM&P for your 104 years of affiliation with the AFL
and AFL-CIO and thank you for your continued support for the House of Labor.”
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, in accordance with Article III, Section 7
of the International Constitution, we hereby grant Richard L. Trumka honorary membership in the
International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots and deem him Brother and Captain Richard L.
Trumka.
In Solidarity,
Submitted by General Executive Board
12 The Master, Mate & Pilot - Fall 2021Masters, Mates & Pilots Plans
Administrator’s
Column
PATRICK MCCULLOUGH
Schedule of Meetings 2022-23 Offshore Scholarship Applications
The second Trustee meeting for 2021 took place June 1–2, 2021 Eligible dependent children of eligible Offshore members and
in the Masters, Mates & Pilots’ conference room in Linthicum co-pay pensioners in good standing are reminded to request an
Heights, Md., via video conference. application for the scholarship program. Applicants must be
high school seniors during the 2022-23 school year. Completed
Health & Benefit Plan applications must be returned to the Plan Office by Nov. 30, 2021.
For more information, please contact Madeline Petrelli in the Plan
Important Reminders
Office at 410-850-8615 or mpetrelli@mmpplans.com.
Please contact an MM&P Health & Benefit Plan advisor if:
• your address has changed;
• you have been legally separated or divorced; or Pension Plan – Adjustable Pension Plan
• your spouse is working and is now covered by that employer’s
health benefit program. Annual Funding Notice
And please remember: As required by federal law, at the end of April 2021, the Plan
• report any accidents aboard ship to the Plan Office; mailed the Annual Funding Notice for Plan Year Jan. 1, 2020
• once you retire and become eligible for Medicare Part B, you through Dec. 31, 2020 to: all participants and beneficiaries;
must submit a copy of your Medicare card to the Plan Office; participating employers; and the International Organization
• dependent children over the age of 19 must complete the of Masters, Mates & Pilots. The notice was also emailed to the
Adult 19-26 form and return it to the Plan Office to be Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC).
covered under the Health & Benefit Plan. In the notice, the Plan is required to report how well funded
it is on the basis of what is called the “funded percentage.” The
Scholarship Program percentage is calculated by dividing the Plan’s assets by its liabilities
The Trustees ratified the action of the Chairman and Secretary in as of the Valuation Date for the Plan Year.
approving the five MM&P Offshore scholarship awards for the The notice is required to include the Plan’s funded percentage
year. The winners are: for the Plan Year and for each of the two preceding Plan Years. The
Anuk Gutman – daughter of Jorge Gutman notice also includes the year-end Fair Market Value of Assets as of
Eve Thompson – daughter of David Thompson* the last day of the Plan Year and each of the two preceding Plan
Marlon Flick – son of Kent Flick Years.
Nicole Reynolds – daughter of John Reynolds* The notice includes the total number of participants in the
Kira Baker – daughter of Niles Baker* Plan and a breakdown of how many were active, retired or
*Co-pay pensioner separated from service and receiving benefits, as well as how many
We will profile the winners in an upcoming issue of The Master, participants are separated from service and entitled to future
Mate & Pilot. Under the provisions of the Plan, International benefits.
Scholarship & Tuition Services Inc. in Nashville, Tenn., reviews all The last chart on the notice shows how the Plan’s assets were
applications submitted by sons and daughters of eligible Offshore allocated in accordance with the Plan’s investment policy. The chart
members/co-pay pensioners and selects the winners and alternates. shows allocation as percentages of total assets.
www.bridgedeck.org - The Master, Mate & Pilot 13Masters, Mates & Pilots Plans
MM&P members can view a copy of the Annual Funding Plan Amendments
Notice in PDF format by going to www.bridgedeck.org and
entering the Members’ Only pages. (You must have an account to AMENDMENT NO . 153 TO THE
log in). Scroll down to “Plans Documents,” click on these words, M.M.&P. HEALTH AND BENEFIT PLAN
then scroll down to “MM&P Offshore Pension Plan,” then click on RULES AND REGULATIONS
“Offshore Pension Plan Annual Funding Notice for the year 2020,
mailed in April 2021.” Also posted for your reference are notices 1) Article III (Eligibility), Section 8 (Continuation of
for prior years. Coverage for Pensioners) is amended by substituting
the references to “June 30, 2021” with “June 30, 2022”
Pension Plan Missing Participants therein.
The Plan has been trying to get in touch with the following
participants, and they have not responded to the Plan. AMENDMENT NO. 10 TO THE
M.M.& P. PENSION PLAN
2019 Annual Pension Confirmation Forms Needed for
FOURTH RESTATED REGULATIONS
Plan Year 2018
The M.M.&P. Pension Plan is hereby amended, effective June 1,
Jackson Miller II
Antoine Tedmore 2021, as follows:
1) Article V (Participant and Spouse Pension and Benefits to
2020 Annual Pension Confirmation Forms Needed for Survivors), Section 5.04 (Pre-retirement Surviving Spouse
Plan Year 2019 Pension - Before Age 55), subsection (d) shall be amended
John Moralis by replacing the words “age 70 ½” with the phrase “70 ½
Roland Nalette (age 72 for Participants who attain age 70 ½ on or after
Dolores Hoffman January 1, 2020).”
2021 Annual Pension Confirmation Forms Needed for 2) Article V (Participant and Spouse Pension and Benefits
Plan Year 2020 to Survivors), Section 5.04 (Pre-retirement Surviving
Konstantinos Catrakis Richard English Spouse Pension - Before Age 55), subsection (g)(ii)
Judith Fanning Xinia Fillare shall be amended by replacing the words “age 70 ½” with
Gordon Gimbel Victor Gonzalez the phrase “70 ½ (age 72 for Participants who attain age
Patricia Hartle Franklin Knutsen 70 ½ on or after January 1, 2020).”
Effie Koukeas Virgil Spearman
3) Article V (Participant and Spouse Pension and Benefits
Margaretha Vanpietersom Robert Vasko
to Survivors), Section 5.05 (Pre-retirement Surviving
Earnings Limitation for Pensioners and/or Spouse Pension - After Age 55), subsection (c) shall
Dependents Under the Age of 65 for Plan Year 2021 be amended by replacing the words “age 70 ½” with the
Frank Colebrissi phrase “70 ½ (age 72 for Participants who attain age 70
Mark Jones ½ on or after January 1, 2020).”
Robert Murphy 4) Article VI (Applications, Benefit Payments, and
Paul Savasuk Retirement), Section 6.07 (Commencement of Benefits),
Kyle Standfield subsection (c)(ii) is replaced with the following:
Harold Walsh
(ii) A Participant’s “Required Beginning Date” is
If you know where these individuals have moved, or if you have
April 1 of the Calendar Year following the year the
a phone number, please contact the Pension Plan benefit staff at the
Participant reaches age 70 ½ (age 72 for Participants
Plan Office at 410-850-8636.
who attain age 70 ½ on or after January 1, 2020)
provided that, for a Participant who reaches age 70
½ before 1988 other than a 5% owner, the Required
14 The Master, Mate & Pilot - Fall 2021Beginning Date is April 1 of the calendar year 2. Article V (Pension Benefits), Section 5.09.A (Mandatory
in which the Participant ceases work in Covered Distributions) of the Masters, Mates & Pilots Adjustable
Employment if that is later. Any additional benefits Pension Plan shall be amended by replacing the words
earned by a Participant in Covered Employment after “age 70 ½” with the phrase “70 ½ (age 72 for Participants
age 70 ½ (age 72 for Participants who attain age 70 who attain age 70 ½ on or after January 1, 2020).”
½ on or after January 1, 2020) will be determined 3. Article VII (Death Benefits), Section 7.01.A.4 (Qualified
at the end of each Plan Year and will be payable as Pre-Retirement Survivor Annuity), of the Masters, Mates
of February 1 following the end of the Plan Year in & Pilots Adjustable Pension Plan shall be amended by
which it accrued. replacing the words “age 70 ½” with the phrase “70 ½
Effective January 1, 1999, a Participant’s “Required (age 72 for Participants who attain age 70 ½ on or after
Beginning Date” is the later of April 1 of the January 1, 2020).”
Calendar Year following the year the Participant 4. Article VII (Death Benefits), Section 7.01.B.3 (Qualified
reaches age 70 ½ (age 72 for Participants who attain Pre-Retirement Survivor Annuity), of the Masters, Mates
age 70 ½ on or after January 1, 2020) or date of & Pilots Adjustable Pension Plan shall be amended by
retirement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the replacing the words “age 70 ½” with the phrase “70 ½
“Required Beginning Date” of a Participant who is a (age 72 for Participants who attain age 70 ½ on or after
5% owner is April 1 of the Calendar Year following January 1, 2020).”
the year in which the Participant reaches age 70 ½
(age 72 for Participants who attain age 70 ½ on or AMENDMENT NO. 12 TO THE
after January 1, 2020). M.M.&P. INDIVIDUAL RETIREMENT ACCOUNT PLAN
FOURTH RESTATED REGULATIONS
AMENDMENT NO. 6 TO THE
M.M.& P. ADJUSTABLE PENSION PLAN The M.M.&P. Individual Retirement Account Plan is hereby
FIRST RESTATED REGULATIONS amended, effective June 1, 2021, as follows:
1. Article VI (Payment of Benefits and Eligibility), Section
The M.M.&P. Adjustable Pension Plan is hereby amended, effective 6.8 (Benefit Payments Generally) of the Masters, Mates
June 1, 2021, as follows: & Pilots Individual Retirement Account Plan shall be
1. Article I (Definitions), Section 1.30 (Required Beginning amended by replacing subsection (a) in its entirety with
Date) of the Masters, Mates & Pilots Adjustable Pension the following:
Plan shall be replaced with the following: Except as otherwise provided in this Section or in Article
For Participants who attain age 70 ½ between January 1, VII, benefits shall be payable as soon as practicable
1999 and December 31, 2019, the “Required Beginning after the claimant has fulfilled all the conditions for
Date” means April 1 of the calendar year following the entitlement, including the requirement for filing an
year such Participant reaches age 70 ½ or the Participant’s application with the Trustees. The filing of an application
Retirement. For Participants who attain age 70 ½ on or for benefits shall constitute consent by the Participant to
after January 1, 2020, the “Required Beginning Date” the payment of benefits and, if the Participant is married,
is April 1 of the calendar year following the year such the filing of the Spouse’s written consent to waive the
Participant reaches age 72 or the Participant’s Retirement. 50% Participant and Spouse Annuity shall constitute the
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Required Beginning Spouse’s consent to the payment. Commencement of
Date of a Participant who is a 5% owner is April 1 of the payments from a Participant’s Accumulated Share will not
calendar year next following the calendar year in which begin earlier than the month following the date that the
the Participant reaches age 70½ (age 72 for Participants Participant retires and submits an appropriate application,
who attain age 70 ½ on or after January 1, 2020). as described in Section 8.01.
www.bridgedeck.org - The Master, Mate & Pilot 15Masters, Mates & Pilots Plans
Notwithstanding the above, Participants must begin child is born or on the date that the legal adoption
to receive their benefits no later than their Required by the Participant of an Eligible Adoptee is finalized.
Beginning Date, as defined in Section 6.09(b), or as soon An “Eligible Adoptee” means any individual (other
as practicable after the Required Beginning Date as the than a child of the Participant’s spouse) who has not
Trustees are able to locate the Participant, his heirs or his attained age eighteen (18) or who is physically or
legal representative. mentally incapable of taking care of himself or herself
2. Article VI (Payment of Benefits and Eligibility), Section as defined in Code Section 72(m)(7).
6.9 (Mandatory Commencement of Benefits) of the Qualified Birth or Adoption Distributions are not
Masters, Mates & Pilots Individual Retirement Account limited to the amount necessary to pay for actual
Plan shall be amended by replacing subsection (b) in its expenses related to the birth or legal adoption. A
entirety with the following: Qualified Birth or Adoption Distribution shall not
(i) For Participants who attain age 70 ½ before January be treated as an eligible rollover distribution from the
1, 1999, the “Required Beginning Date” is April 1 of Plan.
the calendar year following the year such Participant b) Recontribution: A Participant who receives a
reaches age 70 ½. For Participants who attain age Qualified Birth or Adoption Distribution from the
70 ½ between January 1, 1999 and December 31, Plan may recontribute any portion of it back to the
2019, the “Required Beginning Date” is April 1 of Plan (up to the entire amount of the distribution)
the calendar year following the year such Participant if the Participant is eligible to make a rollover
reaches age 70 ½ or the date the Participant retires. contribution to the Plan at the time the Participant
For Participants who attain age 70 ½ on or after wishes to make a recontribution to the Plan. Such
January 1, 2020, the “Required Beginning Date” is recontribution shall be treated as a 60-day rollover in
April 1 of the calendar year following the year such a direct trustee-to-trustee transfer.
Participant reaches age 72 or the date the Participant c) Certification: The Trustees may rely on a Participant’s
retires. reasonable representations that he is eligible for a
3. Article VI (Payment of Benefits and Eligibility) of the Qualified Birth or Adoption Distribution unless the
Masters, Mates & Pilots Individual Retirement Account Trustees have actual knowledge to the contrary but
Plan shall be amended by adding new Section 6.14 in no event do the Trustees have an obligation to
(Qualified Birth and Adoption Distributions) as follows: investigate whether the Participant’s certification is
a) Distribution: Effective June 1, 2021 and as permitted accurate. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Trustees
under Code Section 72(t)(2)(H) and regulations retain discretion to require such documentation as
thereunder, a Participant may receive one (1) or they deem appropriate under the circumstances.
more Qualified Birth or Adoption Distributions
AMENDMENT NO. 13 TO THE
in accordance with procedures established by the
M.M.&P. INDIVIDUAL RETIREMENT ACCOUNT
Board of Trustees. The aggregate amount of such
PLAN/401(k) ARRANGEMENT
distributions to the Participant from their vested
FOURTH RESTATED REGULATIONS
Accumulated Share shall not exceed five thousand
dollars ($5,000) (or, if the Participant’s Accumulated The M.M.&P. Individual Retirement Account Plan/401(k)
Share is less than $5,000, then the full amount of Arrangement is hereby amended, effective June 1, 2021, as follows:
the Accumulated Share) from the Plan combined 1. Article IV (Benefit Payments), Section 4.7 (Benefit
with all other eligible retirement plans in which the Payments) of the Masters, Mates & Pilots 401(k)
Participant is a participant. A Qualified Birth or Arrangement shall be amended, by adding the following
Adoption Distribution must occur within the one (1) new subsection (c) (Required Minimum Distributions):
year period beginning on the date the Participant’s
16 The Master, Mate & Pilot - Fall 2021(i) In general, commencement of payments from a with all other eligible retirement plans in which the
Participant’s Pre-Tax Contribution Account, Roth Participant is a participant and must occur within
Account, or Matching Contribution Account shall the one (1) year period beginning on the date the
begin the month following when the Participant Participant’s child is born or on which the legal
retires and submits an appropriate application. adoption by the Participant of an Eligible Adoptee
Notwithstanding the above, Participants must begin is finalized. An “Eligible Adoptee” means any
their benefits by their Required Beginning Date or individual (other than a child of the Participant’s
as soon as practicable after the Required Beginning spouse) who has not attained age eighteen (18) or
Date as the Trustees are able to locate the Participant, who is physically or mentally incapable of taking
his heirs or his legal representative. care of himself or herself as defined in Code Section
72(m)(7).
For Participants who attain age 70 ½ before January
1, 1999, the “Required Beginning Date” is April 1 of Qualified Birth or Adoption Distributions are not
the calendar year following the year such Participant limited to the amount necessary to pay for actual
reaches age 70 ½. For Participants who attain age 70 expenses related to the birth or legal adoption. A
½ between January 1, 1999 and January 1, 2020, the Qualified Birth or Adoption Distribution shall not
“Required Beginning Date” is April 1 of the calendar be treated as an eligible rollover distribution from the
year following the year such Participant reaches Plan.
age 70 ½ or the date the Participant retires. For b) Recontribution: A Participant who receives a
Participants who attain age 70 ½ on or after January Qualified Birth or Adoption Distribution from the
1, 2020, the “Required Beginning Date” is April 1 of Plan may recontribute any portion of it to the Plan
the calendar year following the year such Participant (up to the entire amount of the distribution) if the
reaches age 72 or the date the Participant retires. Participant is eligible to make a rollover contribution
2. Article IV (Benefit Payments) of the Masters, Mates to the Plan at the time the Participant wishes to make
& Pilots 401(k) Arrangement shall be amended by a recontribution to the Plan, and such repayment
adding new Section 4.10 (Qualified Birth and Adoption shall be treated as a 60-day rollover in a direct
Distributions) as follows: trustee-to-trustee transfer.
a) Distribution: Effective June 1, 2021 and as permitted c) Certification: The Trustees may rely on a Participant’s
under Code Section 72(t)(2)(H) and regulations reasonable representations that he or she is eligible
thereunder, a Participant may receive one (1) or for a Qualified Birth or Adoption Distribution unless
more Qualified Birth or Adoption Distributions the Trustees have actual knowledge to the contrary
in accordance with procedures established by the but in no event do the Trustees have an obligation to
Board of Trustees. The aggregate amount of such investigate whether the Participant’s certification is
distributions to the Participant from their Pre-Tax accurate. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Trustees
Contribution Account, Roth Account, or Matching retain discretion to require such documentation as
Contribution Account (both elected deferrals and they deem appropriate to the circumstances.
Employer Contributions) shall not exceed five
thousand dollars ($5,000) from the Plan combined
www.bridgedeck.org - The Master, Mate & Pilot 17NEWS B RIEFS (CONTINUED)
MITAGS Business Development Director
Bob Becker Retires
When Bob Becker retired from MITAGS in June, he turned the page on his second career
in maritime: the first was 26 years spent sailing, most of them as permanent chief mate and
master aboard Sealand and USSM ships.
He entered the maritime industry almost by chance, when he chose Kings Point out of a
number of schools that had offered him a football scholarship. “And it was the best thing that
ever happened to me,” he says. He joined MM&P after graduating and went to the union
hall to ship out.
“I thought I’ll sail for a little while, save some money and then go do something else,” he
says. “It was pretty soon after I started sailing that I realized I enjoyed the work.”
When the business development manager job opened up at MITAGS, Glen Paine asked
him to apply. He got the job and was promoted to business development director.
Bob says he’s looking forward to spending
“The people are what makes this job great,” he says. He’ll miss the MITAGS team, as well
time with his 10-year-old grandson and
as the students. But he’s looking forward to spending time with his 10-year-old grandson. playing a little golf, but he will miss the
“He’s really a good athlete,” Bob says. “Plays football, basketball, baseball… and he’s very team at MITAGS. “The people are what
good at all of them.” makes this job great,” he says.
Virtual Azipod Training for Mercy Ships Captains “a Big Success”
MITAGS West conducted a virtual azipod training session recently for deck officers who sail
for the international charity Mercy Ships. Puget Sound Pilot Blair Bouma donated his time
for the training session, and MITAGS donated use of the simulator.
Mariners who volunteer for Mercy Ships tuned in to the training session from sites in the
Canary Islands, the Netherlands and China. Among the participants were the captain and
chief officer of the Global Mercy, the world’s largest civilian hospital ship. The new vessel
will allow Mercy Ships to more than double its capacity to deliver surgical care and medical
training in Africa.
Captain Blair Bouma in the wheelhouse of the
simulator at MITAGS West. “The information
was perfectly tailored to our ship and the
situations we may encounter,” one participant
said. “The fact that the training was not on
site did not detract from its effectiveness.”
Simulation engineer Pasha Amigud running
the controls for the azipod training at
MITAGS West. “Special thanks to our
amazing sim team for once again blowing
it out of the park for a great cause,” said
MITAGS Assistant Director Emily Hopkins.
18 The Master, Mate & Pilot - Fall 2021You can also read
