December 2020Volume 50, Number 12

In This Issue:AMO 2020: Pandemic dominates, but positive developments occurred

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Page 8: New Safety and Education Plan Course Schedule and Updates

Copyright © 2020 American Maritime Officers H editorial@amo-union.org

Page 12: Trustee subcommittee agrees on fair AMO DC Plan reform

AMO extends contract with American Steamship Company

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AMO onboard as Pacific-Gulf Marine is assignedMARAD training ship General Rudder for USMMAThe U.S. Maritime Administration has appointed Pacific-Gulf Marine (PGM) the general agent to provide full ship manage-ment services for the training ship General Rudder, which is part of the MARAD’s Nation-al Defense Reserve Fleet and is berthed at the Texas A&M Maritime Academy campus in Galveston, Texas.

The General Rudder will be used as a training platform for the United States Merchant Marine Academy, located in Kings Point, New York. As general agent, PGM will be responsible for all aspects re-lated to the vessel’s activation, including engineering, maintenance and opera-tional oversight of the vessel during the training cruises.

PGM worked in close cooperation with American Maritime Officers and the Seafarers International Union during the process of manning the vessel in preparation for the first training cruise in late November, in which approximately 40 Kings Point midshipmen participated.

PGM has a long history supporting both the U.S. Maritime Administration and industry training programs.

“We are extremely pleased to be in-volved with this project as we further our valued and longstanding relationship with MARAD,” said Pacific-Gulf Marine Pres-

ident and CEO Todd Johnson. “Although our team’s role is a small part of this crit-ical training mission, the assignment has our full attention; after all, the founder of

our company was a USMMA graduate and placed a great emphasis on supporting those future generations who will one day be leaders in our U.S. maritime industry.”

AMO officers manning the General Rudder for a training cruise for USMMA midshipmen included Third Assistant Engineer Zack Weaver, Third Mate Bryce MacAndrew, First A.E. Chris Gilman, Second A.E. Andrew Moore, Captain Robert Lansden and Third A.E. Chase Whittmore.

2 December 2020

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www.amo-union.org AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER

AMO 2020: pandemic dominates, butpositive developments occurredBy Paul DoellNational President

What’s the word of the year? “Pandemic,” of course. Now in its ninth month, the COVID-19 crisis jabs persistently at health and human nature, surging in every state, roiling emotion and leaving loss, uncertainty and fatigue everywhere in its wild wake.

When the national health emergen-cy was declared in response to the world-wide coronavirus outbreak in mid-March, one of the immediate consequences was the daily testing of the professionalism and patience of AMO members every-where — relentless hardships like long isolation and short tempers.

Many AMO members and other U.S. merchant mariners are stranded at sea or in port for much longer than anticipat-ed because travel restrictions and other COVID-19 mitigation measures make it difficult if not impossible for relief officers and crewmembers to reach their assigned vessels. Routine rotations and pier-head jumps are no longer because health and safety protocols require virus testing and quarantine lasting 14-21 days before boarding for work and upon heading home after completing shipboard assignments.

AMO members are in many cases restricted to ship, unable to schedule required training, plan a vacation or participate in important family events — often as vendors and contractors come and go at will, free of protocols. Many AMO members may now be providing financial support to loved ones displaced from their jobs or forced to shutter small businesses in this COVID economy.

AMO members endure all of these extraordinary “new normal” circumstanc-es all day every day.

Despite the stress, isolation, exhaustion and often-unavoidable anger triggered by conditions beyond their control, AMO members remain faithful to tradition, principle and responsibility. To an individual, these engine and deck offi-cers continue to do their jobs extremely

well, and we at AMO Headquarters are grateful to them.

Today’s unprecedented, unpredict-able circumstances also forced difficult but necessary and practical adjustment of union policy, all with the specific pur-poses of preventing or at least limiting infection among the seagoing AMO mem-bership and complying with state, county and municipal restrictions.

As we have reported routinely along the way, we have had to cancel nine consecutive monthly membership meet-ings at headquarters to contain the risk to anyone traveling to and from South Florida, a chronic coronavirus hotspot in one of only three states as of December 7 to record more than one million cases since April.

On the economic front, the pandemic’s immediate catastrophic con-sequences included the largest losses ever on Wall Street. Like all institutional investors, AMO — and the defined ben-efit AMO Pension Plan — suffered steep dives, but each unit recovered quickly, and each was doing well as the holiday season began.

One concern at this point is the impact of a prolonged plague on cargo volumes in the deep-sea, Great Lakes and inland waters sectors. This year, Midwest steel mills closed or reduced their output because of COVID-19 — a development that resulted in weak demand for iron ore — the principal cargo hauled under AMO contract by Great Lakes bulk carriers — and the layup of several vessels.

Our union experienced little if any such disruption in deep-sea or inland trades, but every current indication is that slack demand for oil and petroleum products could force tankers and barges from service indefinitely, with layups beginning by the New Year.

As we all know, laid-up vessels mean lost jobs and proportionately fewer employer contributions into AMO Plans, the benefit funds that serve all AMO members and their families.

With COVID-19 commanding the AMO conversation, it is easy to overlook the good news for our union in 2020, including the addition of one ship — the Maersk Misaki — to the AMO deep-sea fleet roster.

In Washington, many Republicans and Democrats who work together to promote the U.S. merchant fleet and American merchant mariners were returned to office in the House of Representatives and in the Senate in the November 3 election.

In the months leading to the nationwide balloting, this broad bipar-tisan political support base sustained and improved the Maritime Security Program, revived the Export-Import Bank as a valued source of heavy lift and project cargo for U.S.-flagged ships, sought to tighten U.S.-flag cargo preference requirements, supported food aid export programs and pursued additional opportunity for U.S.-flag vessel operating companies and the civilian shipboard officers and crews

these companies employ — with AMO reaping much of the benefit.

Perhaps the most significant political point this year was the June 5 centennial of the Jones Act, an increas-ingly important law that has endured on conspicuous merit. Two Senate bills and four House bills targeting the venerable Jones Act in various ways languished for two years with no support, and each will lapse as a new Congress takes office January 1.

Internally, AMO this year was able to forego a 2021 membership dues increase and a hike in initiation fees charged to applicants for AMO membership — 2021 will be the seventh consecutive year in which the line was held on what remain the lowest dues rates among the three merchant marine officers’ unions. This was possible because of a combination of sound asset management and increased payment of dues by AMO members on time — “good standing,” as defined in the AMO Constitution.

This year, we made significant progress on retirement security issues, including a 10-percent increase in month-ly benefits calculated 11 years earlier for active AMO members vested in the AMO Pension Plan, which was suspended for benefit purposes under federal law in December 2009. This increase was the first real relief from pension limbo for AMO members still at work.

Two additional retirement security initiatives — our union’s “first responder” proposal to the Internal Revenue Service and an AMO Defined Contribution Plan rule rewrite — remain pending. Details will be reported to the seagoing AMO membership as circumstances permit.

At this writing, the cautious consensus among public health offi-cials was that the COVID-19 pandemic could ease considerably in the first and second quarters of 2021 as approved vaccines and therapies are applied nationwide. Some analysts agree that the economy could recover completely by the end of 2021.

Meanwhile, AMO officials, represen-tatives and support personnel at head-quarters and in Washington and Toledo will monitor all developments carefully and get vital, accurate information out to the deep-sea, Great Lakes and inland waters fleets and to AMO members at home as quickly as possible.

On behalf of everyone in this administration, I wish every AMO family a happy, healthy holiday season and a far, far better New Year. As always, I welcome your comments, questions and perspectives.

December 2020 3

AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER www.amo-union.org

AMO secures new agreements with contracted operators

Members of American Maritime Offi-cers sailing in the U.S. Shipping Corp.

fleet and serving on the contract negotiating committee included

Chief Engineer Mathew Patten, First Assistant Engineer Justin Reinert,

and Chief Mate Kyle Evans. With them are AMO Contract Analyst Chris

Holmes and AMO National Executive Vice President Mike Finnigan. AMO

recently secured a new agreement with the company.

AMO members sailing aboard the Crowley Commitment Class vessels and serving on the contract nego-tiating committee included (in no particular order) Jordan Dudziak, Patrick Collins, Owen Gallagher, Richard Scales, Kyle Campeau, Kurt Breitfeller and Vincent Guerini. With them are AMO National Executive Vice President Mike Finnigan, AMO Contract Analyst Chris Holmes, AMO National Vice President, Inland Waters, Danny Robichaux, and AMO National Vice President, Great Lakes, John Clemons. AMO recently secured a new agreement with the company.

AMO members sailing aboard tankers operated by Maersk Line, Limited and

serving on the contract negotiating committee included Chris Gill, Cullen

Bozza, Wayne Archer and Philip Ientile. With them is AMO Contract

Analyst Chris Holmes. AMO recently secured a new agreement with the

company.

MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP MEETINGS

Regular monthly membership meetings for American Maritime Officers will be held during the week following the first Sunday of every month beginning at 1 p.m. local time. Meetings will be held on Monday at AMO National Headquarters (on Tuesday when Monday is a contract holiday). The next meetings will take place on the following dates:

January 4, February 8

Newport Group phone number, Webaddress for managing individual AMO Plans retirement accountsIf you have questions regarding your individual AMO Plans retirement accounts — 401(k), Defined Contribution, Money Purchase Benefit — you can contact the Newport Group by phone at 800-650-1065. If you need investment advice, a Newport Group representative can transfer you to a Merrill Lynch advisor.

As before, there will continue to be no fee to consult with a professional in-vestment advisor. You can review your accounts and investment selections online at https://www.newportgroup.com by clicking the “Log In” tab and selecting “Partici-pant Access” from the menu.

4 December 2020

www.amo-union.org AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER

OBITUARIES

Sean McCarthy, who sailed inland waters with AMO, died on October 2, 2019 at age 46.Calvin Fairbanks, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on October 31, 2019 at age 49.Harry Daniels Sr., who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on November 13, 2019

at age 76. He is survived by Sally Daniels.Roger Voliva Jr., who sailed inland waters with AMO, died on November 14, 2019 at age

67. He is survived by Phyllis Voliva.George Adams, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on November 28, 2019 at age 75. He

is survived by Maria Adams.Thomas Millett, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on November 28, 2019 at age 64. He

is survived by Ann Millett.Charles Campbell, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on December 1, 2019 at

age 84. He is survived by Donna Campbell.Milton Kornylak, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on December 3, 2019 at

age 100.Dennis Thomas, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on December 4, 2019 at

age 72. He is survived by Judith Thomas.Joseph Conrad, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on December 14, 2019 at

age 74. He is survived by Natalia Conrad.Roger Merideth, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on December 14, 2019 at age 78. He

is survived by Mildred Merideth.Andrew Connell, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on December 17, 2019 at age 78. He

is survived by Catherine Connell.Elias Ramos, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on December 20, 2019 at age 76. He is

survived by Robin Ramos.Lawrence Jeffries, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on December 21, 2019

at age 69. He is survived by Kim Jeffries.Thomas Boorse, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on December 31, 2019 at age 93.Jerald Berg, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on January 2, 2020 at age

78. He is survived by Darlene Berg.Ciro Dobric, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on January 4, 2020 at

age 74. Kenneth Buelteman, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on January 5, 2020

at age 90. He is survived by Theresa Buelteman.Harmon Strieter, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on January 6, 2020 at age 92. William O’Reilly, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on January 8, 2020 at age 82. He is

survived by Mary O’Reilly.Wen Chow, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on January 12, 2020 at age 90. He is

survived by Ju-Hsien Chow.Grady Keech, who sailed inland waters with AMO, died on January 15, 2020 at age 85.Robert Blumenthal, who sailed inland waters with AMO, died on January 24, 2020 at

age 71.David Brancel, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on February 1, 2020 at

age 70.Thomas Mullen, who sailed inland waters with AMO, died on February 8, 2020 at age 72.

He is survived by Rosemarie Mullen.George Yaworski, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on February 9, 2020 at

age 96. He is survived by Sharon Yaworski.Charles Van Orden, who sailed inland waters with AMO, died on February 11, 2020 at

age 74.George Ebberwein Jr., who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on February 14, 2020 at

age 85.Thomas Craig Jr., who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on February 16, 2020 at

age 81. He is survived by Patricia Craig.Kevin Smith, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on February 21, 2020 at

age 77.James Provci, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on February 23, 2020 at

age 78. He is survived by Barbara Provci.Ronald Foret, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on February 24, 2020 at age 70. He is

survived by Judith Foret.Kenneth Michels, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on February 25, 2020 at

age 67. Willis Zirschky, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on March 2, 2020 at

age 92.Jerry Mach, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on March 4, 2020 at age 85.Kirk Diener, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on March 4, 2020 at age 71.Jon Zondler, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on March 16, 2020 at age 67. He is

survived by Beth Zondler.Ernest Trotter, who sailed inland waters with AMO, died on March 18, 2020 at age 96.Eugene Anderson, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on March 19, 2020 at

age 91. James Boyle, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on April 2, 2020 at age 89. Gordon Meyers, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on April 4, 2020 at age 93.George Santiago, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on April 8, 2020 at age 73. He is

survived by Bernadette Santiago.

Charles Chapman Sr., who sailed inland waters with AMO, died on April 12, 2020 at age 70. He is survived by Patricia Chapman.

Emile W. Heeler Jr., who sailed inland waters with AMO, died on April 12, 2020 at age 84.James Grocholski, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on April 14, 2020 at

age 100.Randy Weathers, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on April 17, 2020 at age 60. He is

survived by Guadalupe Weathers.Douglas Sammons, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on April 19, 2020 at age 50. He

is survived by Amy Sammons.Richard Boston, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on April 23, 2020 at age 97.David Taylor, who sailed inland waters with AMO, died on April 24, 2020 at age 78.Jon Kranzler, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on April 27, 2020 at age 78. He is

survived by Christina Kranzler. Mark Dolan, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on May 5, 2020 at age 58. He

is survived by Cheryl Oslund.Vladimir Nitriansky, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on May 11, 2020 at age 74. John Rousselle, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on May 13, 2020 at age 56. Martin Collins, who sailed inland waters with AMO, died on May 14, 2020 at age 64. He is

survived by Maryellen Connors.Ralph Lewandowski, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on May 21, 2020 at

age 80. He is survived by Jeanette Lewandowski.Gary Longmire Sr., who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on May 24, 2020 at age 74. He is

survived by Paulette Longmire.Gerald Pennisi, who sailed inland waters with AMO, died on June 2, 2020 at age 82.Anthony Mathews Jr., who sailed inland waters with AMO, died on June 5, 2020 at age

56. He is survived by Sherri Mathews.Donald Beever, who sailed inland waters with AMO, died on June 9, 2020 at age 85. He is

survived by Joyce Beever.Alvin Brand, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on June 16, 2020 at age 83.

He is survived by Dolores Brand.James Burke, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on June 17, 2020 at age 64.

He is survived by Cherie Burke.Emery Purslow, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on June 24, 2020 at age 85.Daniel Lober, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on June 29, 2020 at age 84.

He is survived by Carol Lober.Richard Goetze, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on July 1, 2020 at age 84.Charles Spence, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on July 7, 2020 at age 76.Gordon Lovekamp, who sailed inland waters with AMO, died on July 20, 2020 at age 84.

He is survived by Betty Lovekamp.Michael Aversano, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on July 21, 2020 at age 86. He is

survived by Joan Aversano.Michael Deragon, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on July 21, 2020 at

age 73.Jerome Jones, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on July 23, 2020 at age 66. He is

survived by Sylvia Jones.Kenneth Pluff, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on July 25, 2020 at age 86.

He is survived by Sandra Pluff.William McClellan, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on July 28, 2020 at age 79. He is

survived by Maureen McClellan.Paul Hurley, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on July 29, 2020 at age 64. He

is survived by Janet Hurley.Albert Mack Sr., who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on July 31, 2020 at age

74. He is survived by Loretta Mack.William Burns, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on July 31, 2020 at age 77. He is

survived by Ana Burns.David Kortman, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on August 8, 2020 at age

77. He is survived by Kay Kortman.Harold Dean, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on August 9, 2020 at age 91.

He is survived by Gail Dean.Vincent Jones, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on August 11, 2020 at age 53. Douglas Winfield, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on August 13, 2020 at

age 73. He is survived by Glenna Winfield.James Polluch, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on August 13, 2020 at age

60. He is survived by Lace Polluch.Richard Muhleisen, who sailed inland waters with AMO, died on August 14, 2020 at age

73. He is survived by Kim Muhleisen.Peter Moretto, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on August 18, 2020 at

age 90. Eugene Christiansen, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on August 23, 2020

at age 88. Ronnie Adkins, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on September 11, 2020 at

age 65.Leonard Scott, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on September 12, 2020 at

age 62. He is survived by Karen Scott.

December 2020 5

AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER www.amo-union.org

Robert Burggraf, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on September 15, 2020 at age 88. He is survived by Yoon Yae Burggraf.

Kirk Rhoda, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on September 17, 2020 at age 69. He is survived by Deborah Rhoda.

Richard Rider, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on September 17, 2020 at age 85. He is survived by Barbara Rider.

Ray Hebert, who sailed inland waters with AMO, died on September 25, 2020 at age 75. He is survived by Diann Hebert.

Donald Leach, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on October 2, 2020 at age 87. He is survived by Sally Leach.

Marvin Rowland, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on October 2, 2020 at age 77. He is survived by Beverly Rowland.

William Fraley, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on October 3, 2020 at age 90.

Julian Burrows III, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on October 5, 2020 at age 62. Kirk Piper, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on October 6, 2020 at age 66. Andrew Dahll, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on October 10, 2020 at age 30.James Redwine, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on October 17, 2020 at age 95.Terry Fisher, who sailed on the Great Lakes with AMO, died on October 19, 2020 at

age 66.Nick Xenakis, who sailed deep sea with AMO, died on October 20, 2020 at age 92. He is

survived by Dora Xenakis.Joseph Blackmon, who sailed inland waters with AMO, died on October 27, 2020 at age

85. He is survived by Jacquelyn Blackmon.

OBITUARIES

Richard U. Burkhart: January 30, 1947 to October 17, 2020

AMO 401(k) Plan Summary Annual Report for calendar year 2019This is a summary of the annual report for AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICERS 401k PLAN, EIN 11-2978754, Plan No. 002, for period January 01, 2019 through December 31, 2019. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA).

Basic Financial StatementBenefits under the plan are provided by a trust fund. Plan expenses were

$37,677,644. These expenses included $1,229,055 in administrative expenses, $36,106,889 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries, and $341,700 in other expenses. A total of 4,112 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits.

The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $476,641,541 as of December 31, 2019, compared to $394,410,269 as of January 01, 2019. During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $82,231,272. This increase includes unrealized appreciation and depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had total income of $119,908,916, including employer contribu-tions of $3,945,568, employee contributions of $29,911,837, earnings from investments of $83,499,356, and other income of $2,552,155.

Your Rights To Additional InformationYou have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on

request. The items listed below are included in that report:• an accountant’s report;• financial information;• information on payments to service providers;• assets held for investment;

• fiduciary information, including non-exempt transactions between the plan and parties-in-interest (that is, persons who have certain relationships with the plan);

• transactions in excess of 5% of the plan assets;• information regarding any common or collective trusts, pooled separate accounts,

master trusts or 103-12 investment entities in which the plan participates;To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write American Maritime

Officers 401k Plan at 2 West Dixie Highway, Dania Beach, FL 33004-4312, or by telephone at (954) 920-4247. The charge to cover copying costs will be $0.15 per page.

You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompany-ing notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan admin-istrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge.

You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan (American Maritime Officers 401k Plan at 2 West Dixie Highway, FL 33004-4312) and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room N-1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20210.

Paperwork Reduction Act StatementAccording to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (Pub. L. 104-13)(PRA), no persons

are required to respond to a collection of information unless such collection displays a

Richard U. Burkhart, 73, of Tunkhannock, died after a long, valiant battle with cancer October 17 at Hospice of the Sacred Heart, Dunmore. His wife is the former Mary Joivell of Pittston, PA.

Born in Nanticoke, PA, he was the son of the late Frederick and Elinor Kray Burkhart.

He graduated from Kingston High School with the class of 1964. Rick later withdrew from pre-med at Wilkes College to join the United States Marine Corps and served two tours in Vietnam. He was proud to be a Marine.

After the Marine Corps, he started his 40-plus-year career in the United States Merchant Marine and worked his way to the top rank of Chief Engineer. His world travels during that time included mili-tary-supply and support tours in the Middle East during Desert Shield and Desert Storm.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers-in-law John C. Bressler and Edward A. Uranowski, Jr. and by his beloved nephew, godson, and fellow Eagle Scout, Neil L. Bellanca.

In addition to his true love Mary, he is survived by numerous, precious lifelong friends and first cousin Bon-nie Wallace. Additional survivors include brother-in-law John J. Joivell and wife Elizabeth, Calvin, PA; sister-in-law Virginia Joivell Bressler and companion, Kevin A. Jones, Taylor, PA; sister-in-law Elaine Bellanca and husband, Louis, Kingston Twp., PA; brother-in-law Hilary Joivell and wife, Karen, Harveys Lake, PA; sister-in-law Diane Joivell Uranowski, Drums, PA; and nieces Kristin Joivell and Jessica Weber.

401(k) SAR — Continued on Page 12

6 December 2020

www.amo-union.org AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER

Mike Murphy, a powerful AMO member advocate, dies at 73

In this file photo, Mike Murphy and Christian Spain greet Congressman John Garamendi (center) at the Salute to Congress Award ceremony in 2017.

In this file photo, Mike Murphy meets with AMO members Scott Williams, Chris Baril and Morris Mickelson onboard the Cape Island.

J. Michael Murphy — Mike Murphy to all who knew him — our union’s first National Vice President, Government Relations, died at his home in Camarillo, California, November 29, after a long and valiant struggle with pancreatic cancer. He was 73.

“This is a sad time for everyone in American Maritime Officers,” said AMO National President Paul Doell. “Mike was an authoritative, influential force in Wash-ington, where he served the professional interests of the seagoing AMO member-ship on all regulatory matters before the Maritime Administration, the U.S. Coast Guard, Military Sealift Command, the Defense Logistics Agency, the U.S. Agency for International Development and all other appropriate federal agencies.

“Mike was also a familiar, wel-come presence on Capitol Hill, where he discussed the impact of regulation on American merchant mariners and the U.S. merchant fleet in meticulous detail with key members of the House of Representatives and the Senate and with Congressional staff,” Doell added. “His good heart was with the AMO membership in every meeting.”

Christian Spain, who worked with Murphy at sea, and who succeeded him as national vice president, government relations, said: “The industry and AMO have lost a leader and an advocate. The AMO family offers our condolences to his family and, most especially, Mike’s wife of 51 years, Randi.”

Mike graduated from California Maritime Academy in 1968 and shipped as a third mate in South Pacific liner service for a year before being selected for U.S. Navy flight training, where he received his wings and qualified in helicopters.

In 1992, he retired from the Navy as a Captain after serving three operational tours in helicopter squadrons, including command of Helicopter Combat Support Squadron Eleven from 1985 to 1987, and completing two ship’s company tours on USS New Orleans (LPH-11) as air boss and operations officer. Throughout his career, he attended various schools and colleges, including the senior course at the Naval War College, and earned degrees in computer science and international relations. His last Navy tour was in Washington, D.C., on the OPNAV staff.

During his Navy career, Mike put in

the extensive further effort required to upgrade his U.S. Coast Guard license to Master and obtain first class pilotage for San Diego, Los Angeles-Long Beach, and Port Hueneme, Calif.

After his retirement from the Navy, Murphy joined AMO, where he first sailed as second mate for Maersk Line, Limited. By 1994, he was sailing as Master. He com-manded five ships for Maersk over a period of 16 years. During his last 10 years with Maersk, he delivered and put into service three newly built LMSRs: the USNS Bob Hope, the USNS Charlton and the USNS Soderman, which he commanded for six years.

On January 1, 2008, Murphy came ashore to work in the AMO Washington, D.C. office as a government relations representative. He was elected in 2010

and again in 2014 as AMO national vice president, government relations. As an elected official, Mike worked closely with the many government agencies that regu-late the maritime industry and represent-ed the interests of AMO members while participating in meetings with members of Congress. Additionally, he was the chairman of the Maritime Safety Commit-tee of the International Transport Workers’ Federation for more than a decade, and in that capacity, he provided a voice for all seafarers at the International Maritime Organization in London.

Throughout his Navy career and 27 years total working in the U.S. Merchant Marine, Mike and Randi always remained pil-lars of the community of Camarillo, where they both were raised and were well known about the small town.

“Mike quickly became known as an industry authority representing AMO in Washington, as well as for seafarers worldwide at the International Maritime Or-ganization, the International Labor Organi-zation and International Transport Workers’ Federation for more than a decade,” Spain said. “Mike retired from AMO in December 2019, but, even then, continued to advocate for mariners.”

During retirement, Murphy was in frequent contact with Spain and other AMO officials, weighing in on such matters as the Jones Act in developing offshore alternative energy projects and persistent

In this file photo, Mike Murphy and American Maritime Officers National President Paul Doell greet Seafarers International Union President Michael Sacco at AMO headquarters. Mike Murphy — Continued on Page 7

U.S.-flag cargo preference disputes. With the rise of the COVID-19 pan-

demic in mid-March 2020, Murphy com-mented often on such matters as “gang-way up,” restricted to ship, officer relief logistics and the emotional and social consequences of the coronavirus crisis on U.S. merchant mariners coast-to-coast and worldwide.

Murphy’s passing was acknowledged by the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Associa-tion and the International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots.

“Sad to hear,” said MEBA President Marshall Ainley. “I like Mike, enjoyed the conversations — serious and knowl-edgeable. Please pass along M.E.B.A.’s condolences.”

MM&P President Don Marcus said: “Please accept condolences from all of us at MM&P on the sad loss of Mike Murphy. Over the years, many of us worked with or were acquainted with Mike. We recognized and appreciated his many talents. His dedi-cation was not only to the members of AMO, but also to advocating for improvements in the many regulatory issues that impact the working lives of all mariners. He stood out and was a credit to the U.S. merchant marine. Mike’s contributions, attention to detail and ability to get things done made a big difference and will be missed.”

Retired AMO Captain Ryan White, who sailed with Mike on four vessels on and off over a 14-year period, said: “I watched him spend countless hours with ordinary sea-men and steward assistants, working with them to upgrade their positions onboard and in life. This was always with the intent to simply help others achieve more in life. Looking back, he was a very rare figure in our industry. I watched him help steer a handful of deck officers over the years up the ladder — Mark Paine, Chris Spain, Tim Sullivan, Art Burns, Kathleen Friel, and Samaro Bannister are just a few of the names that I remember of mates he helped mentor. All of the above have sailed Master since sailing with Captain Murphy. He had an extremely positive impact on a plethora of developing mariners.”

Captain Samaro Bannister stated: “Saying Captain Murphy was one of a kind is like saying Everest is a mountain. He

December 2020 7

AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER www.amo-union.org

AMO and American Steamship Co. agree to one-year contract extension providing wage increase and all AMO benefits as COVID economy, political uncertainty loomAmerican Maritime Officers and American Steamship Co. will extend their current collective bargaining agreement for one year beyond its scheduled expiration date.

This extension agreement provides for a three-percent wage increase for each vessel officer and continued AMO membership benefits through AMO Plans.

The one-year extension reflects the mutual interests and shared concerns of AMO and American Steamship Co. — specifically, the uncertain economic conditions resulting from a resurgent COVID-19 pandemic and its potential consequence of weak demand for iron ore and other commodities critical to the Midwest steel and automotive industries served by the ASC fleet of Great Lakes bulk carriers.

If demand for raw materials is sufficient to keep the ASC fleet moving safely and prof-itably, it will allow the engineers and mates AMO is privileged to represent in ASC to continue working under standards befitting their valued status as licensed seagoing professionals.

The additional contract year also allows AMO and ASC to assess the impact of mari-time, trade, domestic transportation, infrastructure and economic policies pursued by the

incoming Presidential administration and a deeply divided 117th Congress in 2021.American Maritime Officers and American Steamship Co. have a historic professional

relationship spanning generations. AMO — a responsible, practical union — has contributed much to the success of ASC. I see this contract extension as helpful to ASC while keeping faith with our obligation to serve the legitimate and lasting professional interests of our Great Lakes membership. Our conversation with ASC will continue throughout the extension.

My thanks to the AMO members in the ASC fleet for their patience, and to AMO Great Lakes Vice President John Clemons and AMO Great Lakes Representative Joe Brown for their input and for keeping our ASC constituents informed along the way.

For now, I wish everyone in the fleet a healthy, happy holiday season — such as it is under a raging COVID-19. I welcome your comments, questions and perspectives.

Paul DoellNovember 24, 2020

AMO aboard the Walter J. McCarthy Jr. on the Great Lakes

Members of American Maritime Officers working aboard the M/V Walter J. McCarthy Jr. in October, here in St. Clair, Mich., included Captain Dave Laban and First Mate Richard Gray.

AMO members working aboard the M/V Walter J. McCarthy Jr. in October, here in St. Clair, Mich., included Chief Engineer James Be-land, Second Assistant Engineer Jeff Markarian and First A.E. John Schafer. AMO represents all licensed officers aboard the American Steamship Company vessel.

AMO members working aboard the M/V Walter J. McCarthy Jr. in October, here in St. Clair, Mich., included Third Mate Jake Serifoglu.

In this file photo, Captain Mike Murphy, then master on the USNS Soderman, gathers with AMO officers Greg Mouton, Samaro Bannis-ter, Jason Lake and Helen Freeman.

Mike MurphyContinued from Page 6

was a true gentleman through and through. To me, Captain Murphy was the best among us. He was an accomplished Naval officer, a consummate pro-fessional, a patient mentor and a dear friend. He helped others around him by picking them up and encouraging them, pushing them to be their best and move forward. He expected nothing less.”

Elder statesman of the industry, Captain George Quick, vice president of the MM&P Pilot Group, who worked with Mike at the ITF and IMO for more than a decade, said: “He was a true leader and always set a good example to those around him. He will be missed.”

Retired Director of STAR Center Captain Phil Shullo stated: “I don’t think I have ever worked with anyone like Mike. He was quick to see the implica-tions of whatever was being said or done, wasn’t afraid of hard work or rattling cages and was always looking out for the individual seafarer. He was a good friend.”

The Murphy family will be holding a cel-ebration of life for Mike this summer when the COVID-19 pandemic has hopefully subsided. His family asks that donations be made to the Ameri-can Cancer Society or any Veterans’ organization in his name.

8 December 2020

www.amo-union.org AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER

AMO Safety and Education Plan — Simulation, Training, Assessment & Research Center (954) 920-3222 / (800) 942-3220 — 2 West Dixie Highway, Dania Beach, FL 33004

General CoursesCombined Basic & Advanced Low Flash Point Fuel Operations (IGF Code/LNG Fuel) Course 5 Days 4 January

26 April(ONLINE)

28 June (ONLINE)

Confined Space Entry 3 Days 11 January 19 April

Advanced Fire Fighting 5 Days 22 February 19 April

Advanced Fire Fighting Refresher 2 Days 15 February 28 June

Basic Safety Training — All 4 modules must be completed within 12 months: Personal Safety Techniques (Mon./Tues. — 1.5 days), Personal Safety & Social Responsibility (Tues pm — .5 days), Elementary First Aid (Wed. — 1 day), Fire Fighting & Fire Prevention (Thurs/Fri — 2 days) — not required if Combined Basic & Adv. Fire Fighting completed within 12 months.

5 Days 15 February 28 June

Basic Safety Training — Refresher — required for STCW renewal for those without 360 days of sea service 3 Days 17 February 30 June

Chemical Safety — Advanced 5 Days 11 January

ECDIS 5 Days 22 February 3 May

Environmental Awareness (includes Oily Water Separator) 3 Days Please Call

Fast Rescue Boat 4 Days 19 January 6 April 14 June

GMDSS — Requires after-hour homework 10 Days 8 March 12 July

LNG Tankerman PIC 8 Days 17 February (ONLINE) 21 July

LNG Simulator Training — Enrollment priority in the LNG simulator course is given to qualified member candidates for employment and/or observation opportunities with AMO contracted LNG companies. In all cases successful completion of the LNG PNC classroom course is prerequisite.

5 Days 1 March

Proficiency in Survival Craft (Lifeboat) 4 Days 8 March

Safety Officer Course 2 Days 11 February 22 April 10 June (ONLINE)

Tankerman PIC DL — Classroom 5 Days 1 February (ONLINE)7 June (ONLINE) 12 July

Tankerman PIC DL — Simulator 10 Days 18 January 15 March 12 April 10 May

Tankerman PIC DL — Accelerated Program 10 Days Please Call

Train the Trainer — requires after hours homework 5 Days 11 January 1 March 10 May 21 June

Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties — VPDSD 2 Days Please Call

Vessel/Company Security Officer — Includes Anti-Piracy 3 Days 8 February 7 June (ONLINE)

Proficiency in Survival Craft (Lifeboat) REFRESHER 1 Day 20 February

Electronic Navigation and Watchkeeping Refresher 3 Days 4 January 16 February 17 May 26 July

Basic Training & Advanced Fire Fighting Revalidation (Required by first credential renewal AFTER 1 January 2017) — required by those with 360 days sea service

2 Days 7, 14 January 1, 8 February 1, 22 March 12, 26 April 3, 6, 17, 20 May 7, 10, 28 June 12, 15, 26, 29 July

Leadership & Management (required by ALL management level Deck and Engine officers by 1 Jan 2017) 5 Days 18 January 15 March 10 May 12 July

Maritime Security Awareness 1/2 Day Please Call

Medical CoursesHeat Stress Afloat / Hearing Conservation Afloat 1 day Please Call

Elementary First Aid — Prerequisite for MCP within preceding 6 months 1 day 5, 26 January 23 February 6 April 4 May 8 June 20 July

Medical Care Provider — Prerequisite for MPIC within preceding 6 months. Please fax EFA certificate when registering 3 days 6, 27 January 24 February 7 April 5 May 9 June 21 July

Medical PIC — Please FAX MCP certificate when registering 5 days 11 January 1 February 1 March 12 April 10 May 14 June 26 July

Urinalysis Collector Training 1 day 8 February 8 March 19 April 17 May 21 June

Screening Test Technician — QEDs a.m./Alco Mate 7000 p.m. 1 day 9 February 9 March 20 April 18 May 22 June

Radar CoursesRadar Recertification 1 day 18 January 15 February

Electronic Navigation and Watchkeeping Refresher 3 days 4 January 16 February 12 April 26 July

ARPA 4 days 19 January

Radar Recertification & ARPA 5 days 18 January

Original Radar Observer Unlimited 5 days 11 January

Deck CoursesAdvanced Bridge Resource Management 5 days 22 February 17 May

Advanced Shiphandling for Masters/Senior Deck Officers — (No equivalency) Must have sailed as Chief Mate Unlimited 5 days 4 January 1 March 3 May

Advanced Shiphandling for 3rd Mates — 60 days seatime equiv. for 3rd Mates 10 days 8 February 5 April 7 June

Advanced and Emergency Shiphandling — First Class Pilots, Great Lakes 5 days 8 February

Tug Training — ASD Assist 5 days 12 April

Dynamic Positioning — Induction (Basic) 5 days 25 January 8 March 10 May 19 July

Dynamic Positioning — Simulator (Advanced) 5 days 19 April

Dynamic Positioning — Revalidation 5 days 22 February 24 May

Navigational Watchkeeping Standardization & Assessment Program 5 days 11 January 1 March 26 April 24 May 14 June 26 July

TOAR (Towing Officer Assessment Record) — Third Mate (Unlimited or Great Lakes) or 1600T Master License required AND OICNW required 5 days 22 February 17 May

High Risk and Emergency Shiphandling for Masters (Must have completed Advanced Shiphandling for Masters and sailed as Master) 5 days 11 January 8 March 12 April 10 May

December 2020 9

AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER www.amo-union.org

Deck Upgrade — STCW 2010 — Management Level (NVIC 10-14) — If sea service or training towards management level (Chief Mate/Master) upgrade started ON OR AFTER 24 March 2014 you must adhere to this new program of training. Completion of both required and optional courses listed below will include all Task Assessments required by NVIC 10-14, providing ECDIS, GMDSS and ARPA have been previ-ously completed.

Upgrade: Shiphandling at the Management Level 10 days 4, 18 January 15 March 17 May 7, 21 June 19 July

Upgrade: Advanced Meteorology — Requires after-hours homework 5 days 8 February 15 March 28 June

Advanced Stability 5 Days 4 January 15 March 7 June 26 July

Search & Rescue 2 days 1, 4, 16 Feb. 29 March 24, 27 May

Management of Medical Care 1/2 day 3, 18 February 31 March 26 May

Leadership & Management 5 Days 18 January 15 March 10 May 12 July

Advanced Cargo — Optional for task sign-off 5 Days 8 February 3 May

Marine Propulsion Plants — Optional for task sign-off 5 Days 4 January 22 February 10 May 7 June

Advanced Celestial — Optional for task sign-off 5 Days 8 March 28 June

Advanced Navigation — Optional for task sign-off 5 days 15 February 21 June

Engineering CoursesBasic Electricity 10 days 5 April 26 July

Diesel Crossover 4 weeks 8 February

Engine Room Resource Management (Simulator) 5 days 1 February 3 May

Gas Turbine Endorsement 10 days 8 March

Marine High Voltage Safety Course (Simulator) 5 days 25 January 10 May

Hydraulics / Pneumatics 5 days 18 January 19 April 12 July

Machine Shop 10 days 1, 15 February 10 May

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) 5 days 8 February 3 May

Refrigeration & Air Conditioning 5 days 11 January 12 April 19 July

Refrigeration (Management Level) Universal Refrigeration Recoverycertificate required. Please attach copy with registration. 5 days Please Call

Steam Endorsement 4 weeks 25 January 26 April

Controls and Instrumentation 10 days 19 April

Welding & Metallurgy Skills & Practices — Open to eligible Chief Mates and Masters on a space available basis. Interested participants should apply online and will be confirmed 2 weeks prior to start date. 2 weeks 1 March 7 June 26 July

Engine Upgrade — STCW 2010 — Management Level (NVIC 15-14) — If sea service or training towards management level (1A/E-Chief Eng.) upgrade started ON OR AFTER 24 March 2014, you must adhere to this new program of training. Completion of both required and optional courses listed below will include all Task Assessments required by NVIC 15-14. By completing the series, no expiration limitation will be placed on your STCW credential. See STAR Center’s website for full details: https://www.star-center.com/stcw2010-engine.upgrade.html

Leadership & Managerial Skills (G500 as amended) — REQUIRED 5 days 18 January 15 March 10 May 12 July

ERM (E050 as amended) — REQUIRED (unless previously taken for gap closing or original license) 5 days 1 February 3 May

Upgrade: Electrical, Electronics & Control Engineering (Management Level) (E133 as amended) (UPGRADE with tasks) Required unless previously taken for gap closing or original license

5 days 25 January 8 March 24 May 19 July

STCW Upgrade Task Assessment — General: This class is required by all propulsion types (Motor, Gas and Steam) Licensed engineers — OPTIONAL: Tasks can be signed off onboard

5 days 11 January 22 March 17 May 26 July

STCW Upgrade Task Assessment — Steam (E121 as amended) — OPTIONAL: Tasks can be signed off onboard 5 days 22 February

STCW Upgrade Task Assessment — Gas Turbine (E122 as amended) — OP-TIONAL: Tasks can be signed off onboard 3 days 3 March

MSC Training ProgramBasic CBR Defense — Refresher required every 5 years 1 day 22 January 5 March 13 May 24 June 22 July

Damage Control — Refresher required every 5 years 1 day 21 January 4 March 12 May 23 June 21 July

Helicopter Fire Fighting — Refresher required every 5 years 1 day 20 January 3 March 11 May 22 June 20 July

Marine Environmental Program (with CBRD) — Refresher required every 5 years 1/2 day 22 January 5 March 13 May 24 June 22 July

Heat Stress Afloat/Hearing Conservation Afloat 1 day Please Call

MSC Readiness Refresher — Must have completed full CBRD & DC once in career 2 days 19 January 2 March 10 May 21 June 19 July

MSC Watchstander — BASIC — Once in career, SST grads grandfathered 1 day 1 February 17 May

MSC Watchstander — ADVANCED — Required for all SRF members 1 day 8, 15, 29 January2, 12, 26February

12, 19, 26, 29 March 16, 30 April 7, 18, 28 May 11, 18 June 6, 16 July

MSC Ship Reaction Force — Required every three years for SRF members and must have Basic and a valid Advanced Watchkeeping and a valid Small Arms 3 days 3 February 30 March 19 May 7 July

Small Arms — Initial & Sustainment (Refresher) Training — Open tomembers & applicants eligible for employment through AMO (w/in 1 year) orMSC on MARAD contracted vessels.

4 days 4, 11, 25January8, 22February 8, 15, 22 March 12, 26 April 3, 24 May 7, 14, 28 June 12 July

Self-Study, CDs and Online CoursesAnti-Terrorism Level 1 Online

DOT Hazardous Materials Transportation Training Online

EPA Universal Refrigerant Certification Examination Self Study

Qualified Assessor Online

Vessel General Permit — EPA On Campus in conjunction with other classes

NOTICE: AMO members planning to attend STAR Center in Dania Beach, Florida — either to prepare for license upgrading or to undergo specialty training—are asked to call the school to confirm course schedule and space availability in advance.NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY AS TO STUDENTS: The Simulation, Training, Assessment and Research Center (STAR), established under the auspices of the American Maritime Officers Safety and Education Plan, admit students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin or sex to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the Center. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin or sex in administration of its educational policies, admission policies and other programs administered by the Center.

10 December 2020

www.amo-union.org AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER

register@star-center.com H FAX: 954-920-3140

If possible, please use the secure online course application:https://www.star-center.com/forms/reg.mbr.live.html

NAME: DATE:

ADDRESS:

CITY: STATE: ZIP CODE:

HOME PHONE: ( ) CELL PHONE: ( )

E-MAIL ADDRESS:

MARINER REFERENCE NUMBER:

UNION CARD / APPLICANT NUMBER: SSN (LAST 4 NUMBERS):

MOST RECENT VESSEL:

COMPANY:

CURRENTLY ASSIGNED TO A VESSEL UNDER MSC OPERATIONAL CONTROL (Y/N) ?

DATE ASSIGNED: DATE DISCHARGED:

CURRENT LICENSE: EXPIRATION DATE:

Please call or e-mail to confirm your class at least two (2) weeks prior to course start date. In the event of a Waiting List, your place will be released two (2) weeks before the scheduled start date if we have not heard from you.

To confirm course registration, please call: (800) 942-3220 Ext. 201

For course attendance confirmation, please call: (800) 942-3220 Ext. 200

H YOU MUST BE FIT FOR DUTY TO ATTEND CLASSES H

STAR Center Use Only / Tracking Number:

STAR Center “No Show” Policy for Registered and Confirmed Students: STAR Center students who are enrolled and who have been confirmed are REQUIRED to notify STAR Cen-ter at least 48 hours prior to the start date of a course when a short notice change arises such that they will no longer be able to attend by contacting Student Services by phone at (800) 342-3220 Ext. 201, (954) 920-3222 Ext. 201, or by e-mail: register@star-center.com. STAR Center values all our AMO Plans Participants’ time and efforts and understands issues may arise that will impact schedules and travel. However, “No Show” students impact other AMO Plans Participants who may be on a wait list and could fill the unused seat. We therefore ask that our enrolled and confirmed students respect the needs of their fellow AMO students and contact STAR Center as noted above so their seat may be filled. The circumstances of “No Show” students will be reviewed as necessary. Those who are repeat “No Show” students may have all future STAR Center enrollment applications wait-listed for the requested course(s) until all other AMO participants are accommodated.

Desired Course(s) Preferred / Alternate Start Date

///

STAR Center admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin or gender.

Lodging / Accompanying Guest Information

Check IN Date: Check OUT Date:/ / / /

Students must be “fit for duty” and guests must be capable of performing “activities of daily living” without assistance. All Minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult at all times while at STAR Center. Include ages of all Minors under 18 on list above.

(Day before class starts) (Day after class concludes)

Spouse / Guest / Significant Other Relationship Age (if Minor Under 18)

Lodging Remarks / Requests:[ ] Check if baby crib required

/

ONLINE Blended Management Level Upgrade Classes (Deck and Engine) — STAR Center is offering the following courses ONLINE. WHERE SHOWN, FULLY ONLINE CLASSES INCLUDE ALL ASSESS-MENTS AND TRAVEL TO STAR CENTER IS NOT REQUIRED. By USCG approval requirements, Practical Exercises and Competency Assessments for blended courses will have to be taken at STAR Center. This will be scheduled in a comprehensive 5-day session.

Leadership and Management (Deck and Engine) — FULLY ONLINE 5 Days 5 April

Upgrade: Advanced Meteorology (Deck) 3 Days 12 April

Advanced Navigation (Deck) 3 Days 12 April

Marine Propulsion Plant (Deck) 3 Days 19 April

Advanced Stability (Deck) 3 Days 19 April

Advanced Cargo (Deck) 4 Days 26 April

Advanced Celestial (Deck) 4 Days 26 April

Upgrade: Electrical, Electronics, & Control Engineering (Engine) — FULLY ONLINE

5 Days 5 April

Combined Basic and Advanced Low Flash Point Fuel Operations — FULLY ONLINE

5 Days 26 April 28 June

Tankerman PIC DL — Classroom — FULLY ONLINE 5 Days 1 February 7 June

Vessel Security Officer (VSO) — FULLY ONLINE 3 Days 7 June

Safety Officer Seminar — FULLY ONLINE 2 Days 10 June

Assessments (at STAR Center) DECK and ENGINE

Leadership and Management (Deck and Engine) 1 Day 25, 27, 29 January

1 February 22, 24, 29 March

Upgrade: Advanced Meteorology (Deck) 2 Days 25, 28 January 22, 25 March 17, 20 May 12, 15 July

Advanced Navigation (Deck) 2 Days 26 January 1 February 23, 29 March 19 April 18, 24 May 13, 19 July

Marine Propulsion Plant (Deck) 2 Days 25, 27 January 22 March 17, 19 May 12, 14 July

Advanced Stability (Deck) 2 Days 28 January 25, 29 March 20, 24 May 15, 19 July

Advanced Cargo (Deck) 1 Day 27 January 1 February 24, 29 March 21 April 19, 24 May 14, 19 July

Upgrade: Electrical, Electronics, & Control Engineering (Engine) 1/2 Day 29 January 26 March

Combined Basic and Advanced Low Flash Point Fuel Operations 1 Day 2 February 30 March

Advanced Celestial (Deck) 2 Days 25, 28 January 22, 25 March 17, 20 May 12, 15 July

Tankerman PIC DL — Classroom 1 Day 1, 16 February 29 March

December 2020 11

AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER www.amo-union.org

AMO PLANS CONTACT INFORMATION

AMO Plans normal business hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Eastern.

Phone: (800) 348-6515To request a connection with a specific person, dial “0” for the operator.Medical Customer Service: extension 12Retirement Services (Pension, 401(k), MPB, and DC): extension 14Vacation: extension 15

FAX — Retirement Services: (954) 922-7539FAX — Medical Plan: (954) 920-9482FAX — Vacation Plan: (954) 926-7274E-mail — Medical Plan: amomedical@amoplans.comE-mail — Vacation Plan: amovacation@amoplans.comE-mail — 401(k) Plan: amo401k@amoplans.comE-mail — Retirement Services: amopension@amoplans.com

DIRECTORYTOLEDO, OH 43604One Maritime Plaza, Third FloorFAX: (419) 255-2350John E. Clemons, National Vice President, Great LakesMobile: (419) 346-6193johnclemons@amo-union.org(800) 362-0513 Extension 6003Joseph T. Brown, Great Lakes RepresentativeMobile: (419) 309-1729jbrown@amo-union.org(800) 362-0513 Extension 6007Michelle Moffitt, Dispatcher (mmoffitt@amo-union.org)(800) 362-0513 Extension 6005 / Mobile: (419) 481-3470

NEW ORLEANS / MADISONVILLE, LA 70447P.O. Box 970Daniel J. Robichaux, National Vice President, Inland Waters Mobile: (985) 201-5462drobichaux@amo-union.org(954) 367-1036FAX: (954) 367-1062

SAN FRANCISCO / OAKLAND, CA 946071121 7th Street, Second FloorWilliam Barrere, West Coast RepresentativeMobile: (415) 654-2671wbarrere@amo-union.orgFAX: (954) 367-1064

STAR CENTER

STUDENT SERVICES/LODGING AND COURSE INFORMATION 2 West Dixie HighwayDania Beach, FL 33004-4312(954) 920-3222 Extension 201(800) 942-3220 Extension 201Course Attendance Confirmation: (800) 942-3220 Extension 20024 Hours: (954) 920-3222 Extension 7999FAX: (954) 920-3140

SERVICES

UPDATE CREDENTIALS, DOCUMENTS, TRAINING RECORDSSecure File Upload: https://securetransfer.amo-union.org/E-mail: memberservices@amo-union.orgQuestions: (800) 362-0513 Extension 1050

MEDICAL CLINIC2 West Dixie HighwayDania Beach, FL 33004-4312(954) 927-5213

AMO Coast Guard Legal Aid ProgramMichael RenyMobile: (419) 346-1485(419) 243-1105 / (888) 853-4662MikeReny@BEX.NETFAX: (419) 243-8953

AMO PLANS2 West Dixie HighwayDania Beach, FL 33004-4312(800) 348-6515 / FAX: (954) 922-7539

AMO NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS

DANIA BEACH, FL 33004-4109601 S. Federal Highway(954) 921-2221 / (800) 362-0513Paul Doell, National President Mobile: (954) 881-5651pdoell@amo-union.orgExtension 1001 / FAX: (954) 926-5112Charles A. Murdock, National Secretary-TreasurerMobile: (954) 789-8944cmurdock@amo-union.orgExtension 1004 / FAX: (954) 367-1025Mike F. Finnigan, National Executive Vice PresidentMobile: (386) 986-8495mfinnigan@amo-union.org / contracts@amo-union.orgExtension 1011 / FAX: (954) 367-1064Joseph Z. Gremelsbacker, National Vice President, Deep SeaMobile: (954) 673-0680jgremelsbacker@amo-union.orgExtension 1009 / FAX: (954) 367-1029Todd Christensen, East Coast Representative Mobile: (561) 806-3768tchristensen@amo-union.org / Extension 1007Chris Von Rabenstein, Gulf Coast Representative Mobile: (954) 290-9775chrisvonr@amo-union.org / Extension 1037Robert Silva, Government Liaison Mobile: (954) 765-8149bsilva@amo-union.org / Extension 1013Marie Doruth, Executive Assistant to the National PresidentMobile: (954) 290-8109 / mdoruth@amo-union.orgExtension 1017 / FAX: (954) 926-5112Dispatch: (800) 345-3410 / FAX: (954) 926-5126Brendan Keller, Dispatcher (bkeller@amo-union.org)(800) 362-0513 Extension 1061 / Mobile: (954) 817-4000Roy Emrick, Jr., Dispatcher (remrick@amo-union.org)(800) 362-0513 Extension 1060 / Mobile: (954) 298-7635Member Services: (800) 362-0513 Extension 1050memberservices@amo-union.org / FAX: (954) 367-1066Contract Analysis: Chris Holmescholmes@amo-union.org / contracts@amo-union.orgEditorial Department: editorial@amo-union.org

OFFICES

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20003700 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Suite 530Paul Doell, National President Mobile: (954) 881-5651pdoell@amo-union.orgT. Christian Spain, National Vice President, Government RelationsMobile: (202) 658-8887cspain@amo-union.org(800) 362-0513 Extension 7010FAX: (202) 479-1188

12 December 2020

www.amo-union.org AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICER

Trustee subcommittee agrees on fair AMO DC Plan reformA subcommittee of the joint union-employer AMO Defined Contribution Plan Trustees Decem-ber 1 agreed on a proposed way of relying exclusively on length of AMO service to calculate individual participant benefits.

Details of this fair reform initiative — under which participant age would no longer be a factor in the benefit formula — cannot be released to Plan participants until it is vetted by independent counsel specializing in pension and retirement account law to ensure that the proposal complies fully with the applicable federal statutes and with Internal Revenue Service requirements.

The proposal must also be agreed to by the full union-employer AMO Defined Contribu-tion Plan Board of Trustees.

AMO National President Paul Doell — who serves as chairman of the AMO Plans Boards of Trustees — and AMO National Executive Vice President Mike Finnigan represented the union in the meeting.

“This issue is important to all seagoing AMO members,” Doell said. “I believe this proposal would benefit the greatest number of AMO DC Plan participants at the least cost to employers.”

U.S. mariners welcomed home following Diego Garcia crew rotations

Gathered to greet mariners returning from Diego Garcia on crew rotations at Norfolk International Airport on November 24 were Director, Strategic Programs, Maersk Line, Limited, Chris Fertig; U.S. Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby; Deputy Commander, Military Sealift Command, Rear Adm. Marc Lederer; Director, Maritime Operations, Military Sealift Command, John “Jack” Taylor; AMO Government LiaisonBob Silva; and Director, Ship Management, Military Sealift Command, Chris Thayer.

401(k) SARContinued from Page 5

valid Office of Management and Budget (OMB) control number. The Department notes that a Federal agency cannot conduct or sponsor a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. See 44 U.S.C. 3507. Also, notwithstanding any other provisions of law, no person shall be subject to penalty for failing to comply with a collection of information if the collection of information does not display a currently valid OMB control

number. See 44 U.S.C. 3512. The public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average

less than one minute per notice (approximately 3 hours and 11 minutes per plan). Interest-ed parties are encouraged to send comments regarding the burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of the Chief Information Officer, Attention: Departmen-tal Clearance Officer, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Room N-1301, Washington, DC 20210 or email DOL_PRA_PUBLIC@dol.gov and reference the OMB Control Number 1210-0040.

OMB Control Number 1210-0040 (expires 06/30/2022)

Military Sealift Command Director, Ship Management, Chris Thayer greets American Maritime Officers member Captain Scott Kreger at Norfolk International Airport fol-lowing a chartered flight for crew rotations for U.S. mariners working in Diego Garcia. A defense sealift leadership group was at the airport to meet the flight on November 24, greeting mariners and providing directions and assistance as they exited U.S. Customs and Border Protection in groups of 10 to 15 people after the long flight home.

M/V Jean Anne provides a lift to San Diego for new world record holder

Aurelia “Lia” Ditton is greeted by Captain Mike Richie on the M/V Jean Anne in October, here in the port of Nawiliwili, Hawaii. In September, Ditton set the world record for a woman rowing across the Pacific Ocean from San Francisco to Honolulu — complet-ing the journey in just over 86 days. The Jean Anne transported Ditton and her 21-foot boat back to San Diego.

Chief Mate Kaitlin O’Brien and Lia Ditton pose with Ditton’s boat used to set the women’s rowing world record for a solo voyage across the Pacific Ocean from San Francisco to Honolulu. The Jean Anne is operated by Pasha Hawaii. American Mari-time Officers represents all licensed officers onboard the ship.