Rear Admiral Jody A. Breckenridge

----- Original Message -----

From: Roger Bazeley < Bazeley at comcast dot net >

To: 'Pacific Merchant Marine Council, NLUS'

Sent: Friday, June 19, 2009 5:11 AM

Subject: D-Day Remembered Aboard The SS Jeremiah O'Brien

Phelps and Fellow Sailors of the Seven Seas,

We owe so much to those that have fought for our liberties and freedoms to sustain the light of Liberty as it shins forth from the shores of America. The day aboard the SS Jeremiah O'Brien was not only memorable for those who attended and participated, but a tribute to those participants and heroes of the D-Day Invasion and eventually liberation of Europe from the grips of war and terrorism of the Axis Powers. There ceremony started with patriotic music played by the San Mateo marching Band and welcoming remarks by Carl Nolte Chairman & CEO, National Liberty Ship Memorial. The moving invocation was given by Father Jim Wade, Chaplain of the Jeremiah O'Brien and a Director of the PMMC. A 20 mm Machine Gun 21 Salute was accomplished by the SS Jeremiah O'Brien's crew manned starboard side turret. The colors presentation was by the U.S. Army Color Guard, Parks RFTA from Dublin, California. Speaker introductions were made by Carl Nolte for the incredible Ms. Oudette LePendu, Captain Walter Jafee, and Captain Frank Medeiros who spoke of not only the June D-Day experience on a personal level but of the activities of the participating SS Jeremiah O'Brien which made 8 documented sailings to delivery vital equipment to Normandy and Omaha Beach.

A personal letter with poetry sent to Oudette LePendu from her husband was read detailing D-Day events and the Jeremiah O'Brien's D-Day participation with additional comments about the 1994 return voyage to Normandy in celebration of the 50^th D-Day Anniversary. The speakers added a sense of reality and an experience for those that attended the ceremony a sense of reliving the D-Day experience and significance. As an added touch of San Francisco celebration and participation there was a water display and salute presented by the San Francisco Fireboat, The Phoenix as it came along the port side a beam of the speaker podium positioned on top of the cargo hold cover. We extend our thanks to the SFFD Phoenix Crew members as everyone waved and were awed by the display.

The British Consul General, the honorable Julian Evans was in attendance at the ceremony representing Britain's key participation in the preparation and participation in the D-Day, Operation Overlord. Following the close of the ceremony's proceedings a wonderful box lunch and refreshments were made available by the SS O'Brien's crew and staff, with open tours of the ship. I personally had a terrific time visiting the amazing engine room with explanations about the workings and engineering by knowledgeable crew volunteers. Simply amazing and a must see for anyone visiting a true living Icon of the Merchant Marine, Liberty shipbuilding, and of World War II D-Day history.

I have pictures of the Day's Memorial Service I can E-mail to those interested.

Roger Bazeley

______________________________________

Thanks Roger and thanks for coming on board as a Director.

Phelps

_________________________________

--- In PMMC-NLUS@yahoogroups.com, "Pacific Merchant Marine Council, NLUS" <pmmc@...> wrote:

Dear Members and Friends,

June 6 come join the officers and crew of the SS JEREMIAH O'BRIEN in a special ceremony aboard the ship to celebrate D-Day, and to honor the heroism and sacrifices of the soldiers, sailors, airmen and seamen who made possible the successful invasion of Normandy and the eventual liberation of Europe.

Phelps
Phelps Hobart, President
Pacific Merchant Marine Council, NLUS

#452

From: "Phelps Hobart" <nlsac@...>
Date: Fri Jun 19, 2009 5:25 pm
Subject: Fw: Details on the future impact on the import and export capacity of our communities - State of the Sea Ports

usaseapower

----- Original Message -----

From: Michael Faust

Sent: Friday, June 19, 2009 9:55 AM

Subject: Details on the future impact on the import and export capacity of our communities - State of the Sea Ports

Good Morning,

As we close in on the State of the Sea Ports event being held on Thursday, June 25^th, I wanted to give you a few more details and invite you to attend this event. (you may register by clicking here) This event will provide you a first hand briefing on the container barge service that the three ports (Oakland, West Sacramento and Stockton) are working to bring to life. This coordinated and integrated container shipping service has the potential to radically change the type and volume of cargo that is imported and exported into the Central Valley and in the process create and refocusing 1,000�s of jobs in California.

At this event you will hear from John V. Hummer the new U.S. Department of Transportation, Maritime Administration, Northern California and Mid Pacific Gateway Director and from leadership from each of the sea ports of Oakland, West Sacramento and Stockton. You will hear how they believe this effort will effect the operations at their ports and in the region. Mike Bowden, President, Eco-Transport will provide additional details on how his company will provide the service that will link the three ports

This event will also present other innovative projects that are currently under development or have been included in the President's budget or may receive funding through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of. 2009. Each of these opportunities are having and will have a future impact on the import and export capacity of not only our communities, but also our nation.

The Northern California World Trade Center is proud to present the State of the Sea Ports at West Sacramento City Hall on June 25th and would be honored if you would join us or would be interested in sponsoring the event. (Click here to sponsor the event) For Sponsorship Information, please contact Dion Dwyer at ddwyer@... or 916-319-4276

I look forward to seeing you June 25th at The Northern California World Trade State of the Sea Ports event.

Thank you

MICHAEL FAUST
CEO & PRESIDENT
_______________________________________________
NORTHERN CALIFORNIA WORLD TRADE CENTER

EDUCATION | CONNECTIONS | RESOURCES
One Capitol Mall, Suite 300
Sacramento, CA 95814
916-321-9115 fax 916-443-2672
mfaust@...

#453

From: "Phelps Hobart" <nlsac@...>
Date: Mon Jun 29, 2009 5:02 pm
Subject: Fw: Fighter Aces Symposium, San Carlos, 1215 July 19

usaseapower

7-19-09 Announcement-Electronic.pdf

----- Original Message -----

From: Don Hale

Sent: Friday, June 26, 2009 10:28 AM

Subject: Fw: Fighter Aces Symposium

Cool event coming up...

--- On Fri, 6/26/09, Oakland Navy League wrote:

From: Oakland Navy League <presidentoaklandnavyleague at yahoo dot com>
Subject: Fighter Aces Symposium
Date: Friday, June 26, 2009, 9:20 AM

FYI; as usual we're just passing the info.

If interested respond per the flier.

Greg Brazil, by direction
Lou Lozano, President

Oakland Navy League

No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
Version: 8.5.339 / Virus Database: 270.12.90/2200 - Release Date: 06/24/09 12:49:00

1 of 1 File(s)

#454

From: "Phelps Hobart" <nlsac@...>
Date: Mon Jun 29, 2009 5:43 pm
Subject: Re: Fw: Details on the future impact on the import and export capacity of our communities - State of the Sea Ports

usaseapower

http://sacramento.dbusinessnews.com/shownews.php?newsid=185862&type_news=latest

Sacramento region gears up for `marine highway' system: Cargo to be shipped by barge between Port of Oakland and Port of West Sacramento

Sacramento -

Very soon, barges loaded with containerized cargo sailing into the Port of West Sacramento. This movement of goods is called the "marine highway" and it will help bring hundreds of new jobs to the region while improving air quality and reducing highway congestion by taking more than 1 million truck trips off area roads.

More than 100 business and civic leaders heard details of the "marine highway" outlined during the Northern California World Trade Center's annual State of the Sea Ports event, held June 25 in West Sacramento.

The company expecting to begin shipping containerized cargo from the Port of Oakland to West Sacramento and Stockton is Denver-based The Broe Group and San Francisco-based Eco-Transport. Company vice president Alex Yeros said he hopes operations will start this year.

The "marine highway" concept offers many positive contributions to the region's economy, Yeros said, including creating new family wages jobs in the San Joaquin Valley, reducing harmful air emissions, improving traffic congestion and safety and reducing wear and tear on highways and infrastructure.

"The operational concepts are in place, and there's enough shippers support to begin an entry level service," Yeros said.

Currently, more than 25 percent of the Port of Oakland's import and export freight travels to and from the Valley over the road, so the marine highway is an environmentally sustainable alternative, he said, citing figures that show one container barge equals two stack trains or 350 container trucks.

The marine highway also offers advantages of reducing harmful air emissions�more than 660 tons per day�and reliance on foreign oil as one gallon of fuel can move one ton of cargo 60 miles by truck, 426 miles by train but 500 miles by ship.

Michael Faust, president & CEO of the Northern California World Trade Center, calls the marine highway development potentially a huge economic engine for the Central Valley and our community.

"This will help make Sacramento, Yolo County and the Port of West Sacramento a gateway to Asia," Faust said. "It will create hundreds�if not thousands of new jobs over time�and also help our agriculture and manufacturing industries stay competitive as shipping costs can be reduced."

Other positive business developments at the Port of West Sacramento were outlined by Port Director Mike Luken:

� Rice shippers ADM and Farmers Rice exported nearly 360,000 metric tons in 2008-09 to Japan, Korea, Papua New Guinea, in bagged rice. Connell Rice & Sugar sent 20,000 tons of bulk milled rice to Puerto Rico. Increased rice export is helping the port during the recession.

� The Port of West Sacramento is positioned and equipped to help clean energy technology advance at several of the region's windfarms: 75 complete windmill units and related project cargo arrived in the port June through October 2008 for Solano County.

� Germany-based Enligna is completing one of the world's most modern commercial wood pellet facilities at the Port of West Sacramento. The project will have a "zero carbon footprint" and create wood pellets from forest wood slash, orchard waste from Valley farms and wood waste from construction projects. The wood pellets are designed to replace coal in coal-fired power plants throughout the Pacific Rim. Exports are expected to be in excess of 235,000 metric tons a year.

� West Coast Recycling is building a plant to shred crushed automobiles, planning on shipping 200,000 metric tons a year.

� Deepening of the Sacramento Deep Water Ship Channel 35 miles from West Sacramento to Collinsville will begin thanks in part to the Metro Chamber's Cap-to-Cap efforts that have secured $10 million in federal funds for the $80 million total project cost.

____________________________________

Subject: Details on the future impact on the import and export capacity of our communities - State of the Sea Ports

Good Morning,

As we close in on the State of the Sea Ports event being held on Thursday, June 25th, I wanted to give you a few more details and invite you to attend this event. This event will provide you a first hand briefing on the container barge service that the three ports (Oakland, West Sacramento and Stockton) are working to bring to life. This coordinated and integrated container shipping service has the potential to radically change the type and volume of cargo that is imported and exported into the Central Valley and in the process create and refocusing 1,000's of jobs in California.

#455

From: "Phelps Hobart" <nlsac@...>
Date: Wed Jul 1, 2009 2:35 pm
Subject: Re: World's Largest Cargo Ship - Emma Maersk

usaseapower

Someone recently reminded me about the Emma Maersk and its mission to bring goods from China to California.

There is some updated information on the internet. Check out http://us.yhs.search.yahoo.com/avg/search?fr=yhs-avgb&p=Emma%20Maersk.

Wonder how loaded it is leaving California - that is with containers that are not empty.

Phelps

______________________

--- In PMMC-NLUS@yahoogroups.com, "Phelps Hobart" <nlsac@...> wrote:
>
> World Largest Cargo Ship - Emma Maersk
>
> Visit one or more of the referenced websites and get a load of this ship! 15.000 containers and a 207' beam! And look at the crew size (13) for a ship longer than US aircraft carriers, which have complements of 5,000 men and officers. Think it's big enough? Notice that 207' beam means it was NOT designed for the Panama or Suez Canal. It is strictly transpacific. Check out the "cruise speed". 31 mph means the goods arrive four days before the typical container ship traveling at 18 to 20 mph on a China-to-California run. So this behemoth is hugely competitive when carrying perishable goods.
>
> The Emma Maersk was built in three, perhaps as many as five sections. The sections floated together and then welded. The command bridge is higher than a ten story building and has eleven rigs that can operate simultaneously. The silicone paint applied to the ship's bottom reduces water resistance and saves 317,000 gallons of diesel per year.
>
> Additional info:
> Country of origin - Denmark
> Length - 1,302 ft
> Width - 207 ft
> Net cargo - 123,200 tons
> >2500 Containers
> Engine - 14 in-line cylinders diesel engine (110,000 BHP)
> Cruise Speed - 31 mi/h
> Cargo capacity - 15,000 TEU (1 TEU = 20 ft3 container)
> Crew - 13 people
> First Trip - Sept. 08, 2006
> Construction cost - US $145,000,000+
>
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
>

#456

From: "Phelps Hobart" <nlsac@...>
Date: Thu Jul 2, 2009 3:08 am
Subject: Re: World's Largest Cargo Ship - Emma Maersk

usaseapower

Thanks John and thanks for coming on board as a council director.

Phelps

________________

Vox Oceanus

Big Ships Equal Big Problems

By John G. Denham

jdenham at pacmar dot com

Most of us have heard the term "speed kills", yet as a society we are constantly attempting to shorten travel time, increase computer speed and catch up with sound.

In the world of ships, boats and barges, anything that restricts a vessel's progress through water is given serious study. Engineers constantly investigate minimizing the factors that cause friction and are busy developing processes and procedures to improve efficiency. As water cannot be compressed it's either pushed, sucked or by-passed to increase the speed of advance.

Maritime operations essentially consist of two major players, wet and dry carriers, both mostly using the same propulsion source; the marine diesel engine. Maritime operators are eager to increase cargo-carrying productivity. The container ship people are inclined to also want more speed. Great attention has been given to the hull form ofthe vessel and its ability to slip through the water and sail through air. The builders are faced with a series of constraints and conflicts. To increase payload more efficiently they use larger vessels, that require more powerful propulsion systems, that use more fuel, that create exhausts that may irritate people.

The public has recently been exposed to the hint of a situation that may be the next problem: a growing population of gigantic sized commercial vessels propelled by monster engines. Many of us have become accustomed to large naval aircraft carriers. The USS Ronald Reagan (CVN76) is 1,086 feet LOA (332 meters) and she is one often in her class. Recognizing their special need for handling, the government has provided appropriate maneuvering and berthing facilities for them.

Regardless of size, vessels can be put together in relatively short periods of time, but facilities such as ports, harbors, channels, berths and other infrastmcture require political action, concessions, environmental impact studies and money. Meanwhile, the big ships are already here, and they are not slow.

The big boats are just a lot more of the same except for their maneuvering characteristics, which are related to their propulsion system. Right. mdder turns one to starboard and stopping the engine slows one, eventually, and that may be a problem. The Cosco Busan, not in the super category, but large enough to be of concern, requires 16 minutes to operate her 77 ,000 BHP engine from full ahead to full astern and has 9 engine air starts.

At present there are four accepted motor propulsion systems used:

A purely mechanical propulsion system (propeller, shaft, gear box, prime mover).

Combined mechanical propulsion system (propeller, shaft, dual gear box, diesel and gas/steam engine).

Electric propulsion system (propeller, electric motor, cable, generator, prime mover).

Parallel hybrid propulsion system (propeller, shaft, dual input gear box, separate clutches from either a prime mover/generator or an electric motor, battery bank/generator powered by an auxiliary engine).

Once these I ,OOO-plus- foot ships enter port the safe maneuvering and operation is normally in the hands of a state and or federally licensed pilot. Pilots must verify their knowledge of the vessels characteristics and capabilities because at any moment it may be needed.

Of concern are the "purely mechanical propulsion systems," also referred to as direct drive motor vessels; a majority of the world's fleet. The number of air starts must be known; if the engine is stopped or stalls it must be restarted, usually with compressed air. Any speed below a minimum can cause stalling. Some newer vessels have greater air starts than others. The route to a berth should be pre-determined as harbor operations and safety may require a slower speed and or frequents stops.

A major consideration and safety feature is the support equipment i.e., tugs, and berthing facilities. As of now the ship operators use what is available and hopefully it will suffice. However using the NYK Vega as an example, professionals must determine if turning a 338.2-metership 180 degrees in a tuming basin designed for 276-meter ships is appropriate.

Experienced pilots have developed procedures to reduce the speed over the bottom in restricted areas and although costly in tug assistance, so far have been effective. Maximum turns, backing and "dead slow" maneuvers may not be feasible, with or without the use of the big engines. Therefore, managers and those responsible for safety must be aware of these limitations. As vessel size increases, support capability must be adequate.

Is bigger better? I feel yes, but owners and managers should not forget to inform their insurance suppliers and port officials of any and all operational limitations involved. The doctrine of Uberrimae Fidei is alive and well in every adjuster's mind. Port officials and those mariners "directing the movement of vessels" must be knowledgeable and prepared. There is still a law of averages, and there is good and bad luck. It is rummored that Murphy was a pilot. ~

54 Pacific Maritime � December 2008 � www.pacmar.com
__________________________________________________________

--- In PMMC-NLUS@yahoogroups.com, "Phelps Hobart" <nlsac@...> wrote:
>
> Someone recently reminded me about the Emma Maersk and its mission to
> bring goods from China to California...

#457

From: "Pacific Merchant Marine Council, NLUS" <pmmc@...>
Date: Thu Jul 2, 2009 4:28 am
Subject: 65th Anniversary Port Chicago Explosion 1000 - 1230 July 18

pmmc@...

On the night of 17 July 1944, two transport vessels loading ammunition at the Port Chicago, California naval base were suddenly engulfed in a massive explosion. The blast destroyed everything within a one-mile radius, including the two ships, the pier and the dock. It killed 320 men on the base, and injured nearly 400 more. Also almost completely destroying the town of Port Chicago 1.5 miles away, it was the worst home-front military disaster of World War II.

Now 65 years later, there is a commemoration memorial event at the Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial 1000 Saturday, July 18. Seating is limited to less than 200 and as of July 1, twenty places remain unreserved. If you are going to attend, call the National Park Service immediately, (925) 228 8860 x 26. Arrive early! Parking will be at the Military Ocean Terminal Concord at the north end of Port Chicago Highway and transportation to the site from the Terminal is by National Park Service mini-bus.

For event details see http://www.nps.gov/poch/upload/2009%20Invitation%20for%20POCH.pdf. For more on the Memorial http://www.nps.gov/poch. For information on the horrific event see http://us.yhs.search.yahoo.com/avg/search?fr=yhs-avgb&p=Port%20Chicago%20Explosion.

The Pacific Merchant Marine Council will place a wreath at the memorial site.

Members afterwards will have lunch together - possibly a picnic pot-luck - and those who can will continue on to the Eugene O'Neill Tao Home in Danville open Saturdays this summer. The playwright served in the Merchant Marine and memorabilia is in the home and his experiences are incorporated into some of his plays. Those going direct to the home should head to the Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Avenue (at Prospect Avenue), Danville. At 1000, 1100, 1300. and 1400. a National Park Service van will bring visitors up to and down from the O'Neill home. No reservations are needed on Saturdays this summer. For park information call (925) 838-0249. For information more... " http://www.eugeneoneill.org, http://www.nps.gov/euon.

Navy Leaguers and friends are welcome to join for the morning or make a day of it.

Phelps

Phelps Hobart, President

Pacific Merchant Marine Council, NLUS

(916) 739-6949

#458

From: "Sam Sause" <grandtrans2000 at sbcglobal dot net>
Date: Thu Jul 2, 2009 6:08 am
Subject: RE: Re: World's Largest Cargo Ship - Emma Maersk

grandtrans20...

Great article John –You raise some really good points, but I couldn’t help but think about how this modern technology in creating a much faster turnaround has affected the human factor -- the seafarer -- who sails both the “wet” and the “dry” vessels and who through this modernization and advanced technology are faced with shorter and shorter times in port, sometimes as little as 8 – 10 hours. I totally support faster ships, new efficiencies and new cranes that are all essential to reducing the turnaround time and lay time (“time is money”), but who is around to care for the seafarer who often signs a 300 day contract and may spend up to 250 days at sea, with the remaining 50 days in port that is broken up into 10 to 20 hour port calls. It is mostly the seafarers centers around the world, who step in to meet and greet the seafarers when they arrive in port and to provide support services to them that include, but not limited to, counseling, meals recreational activities, telephones, internet access, transportation and advocacy.

One of these seafarer’s centers is the Oakland International Maritime Center (website: sfbayfarer.org) which is currently being operated by the Bay Area Seafarers Service (BASS) who have just merged their operation with the Seamen’s church institute (SCI) of New York (seamenschurch.org). SCI will be taking over the entire BASS operation later this month. I invite you to look at these two websites, especially the SCI one (seamenschurch.org) to see what the waterfront ministry is all about. Keep in mind that it is about caring for seafarers, not about proselytizing.

Sam

================================================================================

#459

From: capt.ob@...
Date: Thu Jul 2, 2009 4:21 pm
Subject: RE: Re: World's Largest Cargo Ship - Emma Maersk

capt.ob@...

I went to sea for many years, both in the foc'sl and on the bridge. I sailed in only American Flag, Union contract vessels. I was paid well for my labor and knowledge. When one goes to sea, one should be aware of the hardships.
I enjoyed great benefits and plenty of paid vacation time off. Our contract (MM&P) called for only 120 day assignments, with usually 120 paid vacation to follow. Sailing Bosn, Carpenter ,Quartermaster and A.B. I was limited to 210 days assignments...As far as 300 day assignments, I say "more days=more dollars" If one can't take the hardships, one should go ashore and be a ribbon clerk.The seais a calling, not a job.

Captain K.C. O'Brien,MM&P (ret)

----- Original Message -----

From: Sam Sause

To: PMMC-NLUS@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Thu, 2 Jul 2009 06:08:32 +0000 (UTC)

Subject: RE: [PMMC-NLUS] Re: World's Largest Cargo Ship - Emma Maersk

Great article John

–You raise some really good points, but I couldn’t help but think

about how this modern technology in creating a much faster turnaround has

affected the human factor -- the seafarer -- who sails both

the “wet” and the “dry” vessels and who through this modernization

and advanced technology are faced with shorter and shorter times in port,

sometimes as little as 8 – 10 hours. I totally support faster

ships, new efficiencies and new cranes that are all essential to reducing

the turnaround time and lay time (“time is money”), but who is

around to care for the seafarer who often signs a 300 day contract and may

spend up to 250 days at sea, with the remaining 50 days

in port that is broken up into 10 to 20 hour port calls. It is mostly the

seafarers centers around the world, who step in to meet and greet the

seafarers when they arrive in port

and to provide support services to them that include, but not limited to, counseling,

meals recreational activities, telephones, internet access, transportation and

advocacy.

One of these seafarer’s

centers is the Oakland International Maritime Center (website: sfbayfarer.org)

which is currently being operated by the Bay Area Seafarers Service (BASS) who

have just merged their operation with the Seamen’s church institute (SCI)

of New York (seamenschurch.org). SCI will be taking over the entire BASS operation

later this month. I invite you to look at these two websites,

especially the SCI one (seamenschurch.org) to see what the waterfront ministry

is all about. Keep in mind that it is about caring for seafarers, not about

proselytizing.

Sam

================================================================================

#460

From: Nelson Combs <drjazzcom at sbcglobal dot net>
Date: Thu Jul 2, 2009 11:12 pm
Subject: RE: Re: World's Largest Cargo Ship - Emma Maersk

Nelson Combs <drjazzcom at sbcglobal dot net>

I worked on some Marine Firemen's Union and SIU benefit plans over a period
of twenty years.  What the old timers seemed to complain about was the lack of
the romance of the fast turn world of shipping.  Gone are the copra runs and the
slow turn in some ports in Asia where a nice long liberty could produce
adventures.  (I don't know if "liberty" is the right word in the merchant
marines, but that's what we used to call "time enough in a port of call to go
ashore and get into trouble" in the Navy.
      Nelson Combs

#461

From: "Phelps Hobart" <nlsac@...>
Date: Fri Jul 3, 2009 12:23 am
Subject: Re: World's Largest Cargo Ship - Emma Maersk

usaseapower

----- Original Message -----
From: Captain K. C.O'Brien, (MM&P Ret)

To: Pacific Merchant Marine Council, NLUS
Sent: Thursday, July 02, 2009 4:58 PM
Subject: Re: [PMMC-NLUS] Re: World's Largest Cargo Ship - Emma Maersk

In 50 years of seafaring, I don't think I ever sailed in a ship that didn't have
Filipino seamen. They are the most seafaring people to be found in all nations
flags ships.

They always have been known to be sober, industrious and honest. Many have been
terribly abused by some shipowners....They are also known to undercut the wages
of mariners everywhere......In the last few years, the shipowners have been able
to undercut the Filipino seamen's wages by hiring Chinese from the People's
Republic of China.

I have been a generous contributor to Oakland Center(mostly Filipino seamen) and
for over 40years the Seaman's Church Institute of New York (Elizabeth,NJ).

I bought and donated the doors, hardware and other construction material for
Oakland.

I have heard that the Chinese seaman are contracted for a year....largely from
the inner country..They are paid $100.00 in advance for one year on the
ship.Their wives accompany them to the sign in and receive the money.

I have heard horror stories of forign seaman being stranded in foreign ports,
not paid, just abandoned.

Thank God I am an American, and sailed only Union Contracted, US Flag ships.

Captain K. C.O'Brien, (MM&P Ret)

#462

From: capt.ob@...
Date: Fri Jul 3, 2009 3:18 am
Subject: RE: Re: World's Largest Cargo Ship - Emma Maersk

capt.ob@...

Dear Brother Combs,

I heartily agree!...When I started out in    Knot Ships,Libertys , Victorys, and other "boom" ships, we would sometimes stay in port for as long as 1-2 weeks.I remember laying at Vung Tau (Cape St.Jaques) Viet-Nam for as long as two weeks,waiting for our turn to go up the river to Saigon.Even if we couldn't go alongside right away,   we     sometimes would anchor outside the river bar in Bangkok for a week, where a plethora of "bum boats" swarmed around the ship, loaded with fruits, veggies, fish, girls and booze. During a shuttle from Viet-Nam to Japan and Tawan, we kept ending up in Keelung, where the old man had a girlfriend. We would make fast to another ship and wait for orders from the US Navy, sometimes for a week or ten days.Retiring from container ships....20-24 hours turn around was about right.Once after a hurricane, we entered SanJuan PR to find all the cranes but one turned over. The one standing didn't work.
It took us two weeks to discharge all our boxes, and load mt's.The longshoremen begin with a cherry picker to    take off all the high boxes, sowe could move down the pier to the straight, horizontal crane that was used to load/disch boxes from barges.

Today it seems all the romance of old is gone...Container ports are oftenl ocated far from town, and are bleak, dangerous, depressing places to be.(Oakland, Newark, Elizabeth, etc) Many of us didn't even bother to go ashore, but stay aboard to catch up on our sleep...

Gone are the days of port calls at Port Moresby,New Guinea, Rabual, Kaveing,Townsville, Cairns, Thursday Island, Madang,Christ Church New Zealand,
Rio, Buenos Aires, Montivadao,Valpariso, Maricibo, Aruba...and more forgotten.

Excuse my spelling and puncuation as I am tired.

Steady As She Goes,   OBie

----- Original Message -----

From: Nelson Combs

To: PMMC-NLUS@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Thu, 2 Jul 2009 23:12:30 +0000 (UTC)

Subject: RE: [PMMC-NLUS] Re: World's Largest Cargo Ship - Emma Maersk

I worked on some Marine Firemen's Union and SIU benefit plans over a period of twenty years. What the old timers seemed to complain about was the lack of the romance of the fast turn world of shipping. Gone are the copra runs and the slow turn in some ports in Asia where a nice long liberty could produce adventures. (I don't know if "liberty" is the right word in the merchant marines, but that's what we used to call "time enough in a port of call to go ashore and get into trouble" in the Navy.

Nelson Combs

#463

From: "Pacific Merchant Marine Council, NLUS" <pmmc@...>
Date: Fri Jul 3, 2009 12:26 am
Subject: S.S. JEREMIAH O'BRIEN celebrates Independence Day, dockside on Pier 45

pmmc@...

Ahoy Navy League Members and Friends,

For Independence Day, here is a San Francisco evening opportunity that is hard to beat. Have something to eat, enjoy the fireworks show, support our "adopted" ship, and meet perspective Navy League members.

Be sure to greet and chat with the Arkansas Division Sea Cadets,  www.arkansasdivision.org, and their leaders. The Pacific Merchant Marine Council has just begun a supportive relationship with the Division. We want to get to know them.

Our council luncheon aboard Monday September 21 will be complementary to the individuals who collect the signatures of every last one of the Sea Cadets, League Cadets, and their officers and instructors on duty the evening of the 4th! It is also complementary to any new Navy Leaguers you recruit, http://www.navyleague.org/membership/index.php, or existing members who transfers council affiliation to the Pacific Merchant Marine Council.

Note there is a cruise Saturday, July 18. Always special to get underway aboard the O'BRIEN.

Come aboard July 4 and July 18!

Phelps

Phelps Hobart, President

Pacific Merchant Marine Council

________________________________

http://www.ssjeremiahobrien.org

Join the O'Brien on July 4th
The S.S. JEREMIAH O'BRIEN celebrates Independence Day, dockside on Pier 45 and invites the entire Bay Area for the best seats in the house for the annual fireworks display on July 4.
Tickets are $15 for Adults, $8 for Children (6 to 12). Includes hot dogs, chips and drinks, and entertainment by Kids Are Music singing patriotic songs.
Download the July 4th Event Printable Order Form HERE

Cruise the O'Brien on July 18th
On July 18, take a four-hour cruise and visit the waterfront of the old Kaiser Shipyards in Richmond with historical narrative by our Captain. Tour includes Broadway show tunes as well as patriotic songs by San Mateo Elks Concert Band and a picnic lunch.
For more information about all of the O'Brien's cruises, CLICK HERE

DAILY TOURS AVAILABLE ON THE O'BRIEN
The S.S. JEREMIAH O'BRIEN is one of two remaining fully functional Liberty Ships of the 2,710 built and launched during WWII. The S.S. JEREMIAH O'BRIEN has the distinction of being the last unaltered Liberty Ship and remains historically accurate. Moored at Pier 45, Fisherman's Wharf (Google Map), she is a premier San Francisco attraction.

A living museum on the National Register of Historic Places and a National Historic Landmark, the O'Brien transports you back almost seven decades to when sailors braved the harshest of high seas and threat of enemy attack.
For hours of operation and admission fees, please click HERE.

UPDATED: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

________________________________________________

From: Guilherme Freitas, Operations Officer
Date: Thursday, July 2, 2009, 8:03 AM

All Hands,

Arkansas Division cadets, officers and parents have been invited to assist aboard the SS Jeremiah O'Brien on Saturday 4 July. Muster 1730 at the entrance. Meeting and Assignments from JOB staff at 1800. Cadets need to be in Service Dress Whites. We will assist as directed. Duties will include passing out fliers dockside, take tickets, assist with some security (just watching-observing guests). Cadets will be in pairs of two at all times.

In exchange for your services cadets will be able to enjoy a hot dog dinner. Family members (your parents and siblings) are invited. Everyone will be able to view the Fireworks. No Admission Fee will be charged in exchange for your services. That includes family members.

What a great opportunity to do service and enjoy the fireworks from the best viewing point in the bay!

By Direction,

Karen Freitas, Instructor

#464

From: "Pacific Merchant Marine Council, NLUS" <pmmc@...>
Date: Fri Jul 3, 2009 4:14 am
Subject: S.S. JEREMIAH O'BRIEN celebrates Independence Day, Pier 45

pmmc@...

Ahoy Navy League Members and Friends,

For Independence Day, here is a San Francisco evening opportunity that is hard to beat. Have something to eat, enjoy the fireworks show, support our "adopted" ship, and meet perspective Navy League members.

Be sure to greet and chat with the Arkansas Division Sea Cadets,  www.arkansasdivision.org, and their leaders. The Pacific Merchant Marine Council has just begun a supportive relationship with the Division. We want to get to know them.

Our council luncheon aboard Monday, September 21, will be complementary to the individuals who collect the signatures of every last one of the Sea Cadets, League Cadets, and their officers and instructors on duty the evening of the 4th! It is also complementary to any new Navy Leaguers you recruit, http://www.navyleague.org/membership/index.php, or existing members who transfers council affiliation to the Pacific Merchant Marine Council.

Note there is a cruise Saturday, July 18. Always special to get underway aboard the O'BRIEN.

Come aboard July 4 and July 18!

Phelps

Phelps Hobart, President

Pacific Merchant Marine Council

________________________________

http://www.ssjeremiahobrien.org

Join the O'Brien on July 4th
The S.S. JEREMIAH O'BRIEN celebrates Independence Day, dockside on Pier 45 and invites the entire Bay Area for the best seats in the house for the annual fireworks display on July 4.
Tickets are $15 for Adults, $8 for Children (6 to 12). Includes hot dogs, chips and drinks, and entertainment by Kids Are Music singing patriotic songs.
Download the July 4th Event Printable Order Form HERE

Cruise the O'Brien on July 18th
On July 18, take a four-hour cruise and visit the waterfront of the old Kaiser Shipyards in Richmond with historical narrative by our Captain. Tour includes Broadway show tunes as well as patriotic songs by San Mateo Elks Concert Band and a picnic lunch.
For more information about all of the O'Brien's cruises, CLICK HERE

DAILY TOURS AVAILABLE ON THE O'BRIEN
The S.S. JEREMIAH O'BRIEN is one of two remaining fully functional Liberty Ships of the 2,710 built and launched during WWII. The S.S. JEREMIAH O'BRIEN has the distinction of being the last unaltered Liberty Ship and remains historically accurate. Moored at Pier 45, Fisherman's Wharf (Google Map), she is a premier San Francisco attraction.

A living museum on the National Register of Historic Places and a National Historic Landmark, the O'Brien transports you back almost seven decades to when sailors braved the harshest of high seas and threat of enemy attack.
For hours of operation and admission fees, please click HERE.

UPDATED: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

________________________________________________

From: Guilherme Freitas, Operations Officer
Date: Thursday, July 2, 2009, 8:03 AM

All Hands,

Arkansas Division cadets, officers and parents have been invited to assist aboard the SS Jeremiah O'Brien on Saturday 4 July. Muster 1730 at the entrance. Meeting and Assignments from JOB staff at 1800. Cadets need to be in Service Dress Whites. We will assist as directed. Duties will include passing out fliers dockside, take tickets, assist with some security (just watching-observing guests). Cadets will be in pairs of two at all times.

In exchange for your services cadets will be able to enjoy a hot dog dinner. Family members (your parents and siblings) are invited. Everyone will be able to view the Fireworks. No Admission Fee will be charged in exchange for your services. That includes family members.

What a great opportunity to do service and enjoy the fireworks from the best viewing point in the bay!

By Direction,

Karen Freitas, Instructor

#465

From: "Pacific Merchant Marine Council, NLUS" <pmmc@...>
Date: Tue Jul 7, 2009 12:35 am
Subject: Oakland Navy League Golf Tournament September 13

pmmc@...

Ahoy Members and Friends,

Same as last year, we will have a Pacific Merchant Marine Council, Navy League, "hole sponsor" sign on the course, hopefully the 1st hole. We are always willing to support Fleet Week activities and the Oakland Council always does a great job!

Please contact me if interested in a round of tournament golf; we will put together a council foursome or two. More sign sponsors are also welcome.

Phelps

___________________________________

----- Original Message -----

From: Phelps Hobart

To: PCR-NLUS at yahoogroups dot com

Sent: Monday, July 06, 2009 5:18 PM

Subject: Fw: ONL Golf Tournament

----- Original Message -----

From: Don Hale

Sent: Monday, July 06, 2009 4:16 PM

Subject: Fw: ONL Golf Tournament

Please pass this information to all your council, friends, neighbors and golfing friends who might be interested in supporting the Oakland Council event.

All the best to all,

Don Hale

--- On Thu, 7/2/09, Lou Lozano <lslozano at sbcglobal dot net> wrote:

From: Lou LozanoSubject: ONL Golf Tournament
To: Don Hale <samhaleceo at pacbell dot net>
Date: Thursday, July 2, 2009, 8:52 AM

Don,

Please send out the attached flyer regarding our 3rd Annual Golf Tournament.

Lou

_________________________________

NAVY LEAGUE OF THE UNITED STATES

OAKLAND COUNCIL

We invite you to join us in a round of golf.

Funds raised support our adopted Navy, Marine & Coast Guard units and our Annual Fleet Week BBQ (Co-Hosted with Bay Area Law Enforcement Associations and the Oakland A�s).

WHEN: Sunday, September 13, 2009

WHERE: Lake Chabot Municipal Golf Course, 11450 Golf Links Road, Oakland, CA, (510) 351-0393

TIME: 10:00 AM

COST: $95.00 per player

$75.00 Active Duty Military

(includes tee prizes, round of golf, cart, BBQ lunch and awards following the tournament) and great raffle.

This will be a blind bogie tournament with 1^st, 2^nd & 3^rd place awards. Also closest to the hole on all par 3�s and longest drive will be presented at the luncheon.

NAME(S)

___________________________________

HOLE SPONSER $50.00 (LIST NAME OR COMPANY FOR SIGN)

___________________________________

Make check payable to: Oakland Navy League

Mail to: Kurt Libby, Captain, SC, USN (Ret)

1715 Broadway

Alameda, CA. 94501

Any questions call: Lou Lozano, President, Oakland Navy League (510) 461-0413

DEADLINE: August 30, 2009

1 of 1 File(s)

Golf 09.wps

#466

From: "Pacific Merchant Marine Council, NLUS" <pmmc@...>
Date: Tue Jul 7, 2009 9:56 pm
Subject: Pacific Central Region Awards Luncheon 1130 August 14

pmmc@...

Dear Members and Friends,

Couple of special Navy League days coming up Friday August 14 and Saturday August 15. All invited!

It starts Friday August 14 with the Pacific Central Region's 2009 Annual Coast Guard Luncheon and Awards Presentation. Awardees within the 11th Coast Guard District at various commands ashore and afloat. Possibly a special award or two as well. See the information provided by Jeanne Sharkey below.

Next the Pacific Central Region will hold its annual National Directors Nominating Committee meeting to select nominees for 2010 National Directors from this region. If interested talk to Don Hale or myself. It means attending the National Convention in 2009 and Board of Directors meeting in 2010 and serving on a national committee. This meeting takes place in an adjoining room to luncheon and if interested you need to get a Navy League biography into Evan Baker then be there for an interview. A tried and proven procedure; like I say talk to Don or myself if you desire more information. Don't hesitate if you can make the commitment.

We will figure out something to do for the rest of the afternoon for those attending - USS HORNET Museum a possibility. Maybe see the MARAD and MSC ships also located in Alameda. Maybe find a motel room and check in.

Then that evening at Pacific Merchant Marine Council Director and Alameda Council President Sam Sause's home in Alameda will be the Pacific Central Region Reception. Always a fine social occasion and great opportunity to talk with officers, directors, and active members of other councils. Usually enough food and drink to make it not necessary to go out for dinner afterwards.

Then early Saturday morning the Pacific Central Region meeting takes place nearby with various speakers and workshops. This too is worth attending. It concludes with a luncheon and speaker. More details on these as information is obtained.

Right now, calendar them on your personal calendar and send in the luncheon money for the Coast Guard Awards Luncheon as presented below.

Anchors Aweigh,

Phelps

______________________________

----- Original Message -----
From: Jeanne Sharkey
Sent: Tuesday, July 07, 2009 12:17 PM
Subject: Region Awards Luncheon

Dear Navy Leaguers:

The Region has planned the region meeting to be the day after the awards luncheon. The Nominating Committee will take place following the Awards Luncheon. So we are hoping you all will be able to attend. It is a very special event to be able to see what the CG does for us everyday.

Please let your members know about the luncheon as we want a lot of Navy Leaguers there to show our support.

Looking forward to seeing you there,

Jeanne
___________________________________

PACIFIC CENTRAL REGION
Navy League of the United States

Proudly Hosts Annual Coast Guard Awards Luncheon Recognizing "The Best of the Best
Rear Admiral Joseph R. Castillo, USCG Commander, District Eleven Presenter and Speaker
Friday, August 14, 2009
Point Welcome Room, Coast Guard Island Alameda
Time: Social Hour 1130 Luncheon 1200
Cost: $12.50 per person
Navy Leaguers should show their appreciation by attending!
For Information please call Jeanne Sharkey
(925) 228-1375
Reservations a MUST. Deadline Friday, Aug. 7, please!!
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
Please make checks payable to PCR NLUS and mail to:
Lorraine Hughey, 1650 Candelero Court, Walnut Creek, CA 94598-1020
Enclosed is check for $_________ for ______ attendees.
Attending will be ________________________________________________________Phone ___________
(Note: all non-military attendees MUST be placed on a Gate List and have photo ID)
　

#467

From: "Phelps Hobart" <nlsac@...>
Date: Fri Jul 10, 2009 5:21 am
Subject: Lake Merrit Council Fundraiser Sausage and Suds, 1130 Wednesday August 19

usaseapower

----- Original Message -----

From: Don Hale

Sent: Thursday, July 09, 2009 9:37 PM

Subject: Fw: Navy League LMC Flyer

Please pass along this information to members on your lists..Don

--- On Thursday, 7/9/09, Carey Barnecut <barnecut at sonic dot net> wrote:

Lake Merrit Council Members and Friends,

Attached please find the flyer for our August 19, 2009 Sausage and Suds, Wine and Cheese Fund Raiser event sponsored by the Lake Merritt Council of the Navy League of the United States. Please contact me if you have any questions. Hope to see you all at the event.

Carey Barnecut, President
Lake Merritt Council, NLUS
510.351.8107

Navy League of the United States

Lake Merritt Council

Sausage and Suds - Wine and Cheese Fund Raiser

1130 - 1330, Wednesday, August 19

Point Welcome Room, Coast Guard Island, Alameda

Fun and Fundraising Event

LIVE AND SILENT AUCTIONS SUCH AS (and much more): Recreation Opportunities, Restaurant Gift Certificates, Wine Tasting, Vacation Opportunities

PRIZE DRAWINGS FOR SUCH AS (and much more):Gift Baskets, Fine Wines, Curios, Foodstuff

Proceeds benefit: U. S. Coast Guard ISC, Alameda; U. S. Coast Guard Cutter SHERMAN; Hancock Squadron Sea Cadets; & U.C. Berkeley ROTC.

FREE to Uniformed Military Personnel and their Spouses

$12.50 for everyone else (pays for you & our guests!)　

RSVPs are required for non-military personnel to gain access to Coast Guard Island

Make checks payable to Lake Merritt Council

Send to Carey Barnecut, 867 Juana Avenue, San Leandro CA 94577

___________________________________________________________

Yes we will attend:

__________________________________ Phone: __________________

1 of 1 File(s)

flyer.doc

#468

From: "Phelps Hobart" <nlsac@...>
Date: Sat Jul 11, 2009 5:29 pm
Subject: Coast Guard 11th District Change of Command July 2

usaseapower

http://www.piersystem.com/go/doc/823/285202

DATE: July 06, 2009 07:36:42 PST

Document Number: 2475

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

New Commander will lead Eleventh Coast Guard District following change of command on Coast Guard Island

		Eleventh Coast Guard District
NEWS RELEASE	DATE: CONTACT:	July 2, 2009 Public Affairs (510) 437-3325
New Commander will lead Eleventh Coast Guard District following change of command ceremony on Coast Guard Island
ALAMEDA, Calif. � The Eleventh Coast Guard District changed leadership today during a change of command ceremony at Coast Guard Island. Rear Adm. Joseph Castillo has assumed command of the district from Rear Adm. Paul F. Zukunft. Castillo, the first Hispanic-American to be named a district commander, arrives from the service's Headquarters in Washington, where he was the Director of Response Policy. He oversaw the development of strategic doctrine and accomplished operational maritime missions in the areas of law enforcement, search and rescue, counter-terrorism and defense operations, incident management and preparedness, and the contingency exercises program. His previous duty assignments include Chief of Staff of the Ninth Coast Guard District in Cleveland, Ohio, and commander of Group New Orleans where he helped lead the Coast Guard's rescue and evacuation efforts of more than 33,500 people during Hurricane Katrina. He was also officer in charge of Forward Operating Base, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba during Operation Able Manner, and Coast Guard liaison officer on the Multi-National Force in Haiti during Operation Uphold Democracy Castillo is a 1978 graduate of the Coast Guard Academy in New London, Conn., with a Bachelor of Science degree in management. He also earned his Master of Science degree in Industrial Relations and a Professional Certificate in Human Resources Management from the University of New Haven in Conn. Castillo is also a Distinguished Graduate of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center. His military awards and decorations include three Legion of Merit Medals, two Meritorious Service Medals, six Coast Guard Commendation Medals, the Army Commendation Medal, the 9-11 Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, and numerous others. He also permanently wears the Coast Guard's boat forces pin. During the past year under Zukunft's leadership, the Eleventh District successfully prosecuted 3,022 search and rescue case and saved 576 lives and $14.1 million in property. He directed law enforcement actions in the Eastern Pacific, including the use of armed helicopters to stop drug smuggling vessels, preventing some 125 tons of cocaine valued at $3.5 billion from reaching the United States. Zukunft also directed the covert take down of two self-propelled semi-submersible vessels which provided valuable intelligence to combat a growing threat, and which led to new sweeping legislation allowing the U.S. government to prosecute crews who operate these vessels. Zukunft will become the Assistant Commandant of Capability at Coast Guard Headquarters. He will be in charge of identifying and providing capabilities, competencies and capacity for the staffing, training, equipping, sustaining and employing Coast Guard forces to meet mission requirements. The change of command ceremony is a time-honored tradition which formally restates to the officers and enlisted personnel of the command, the continuity and authority of command. It is a formal ritual conducted before the assembled company of the command and it confirms to the men and women of the unit that the authority of the command is maintained. The ceremony is a transfer of total responsibility, authority and accountability from one individual to another. The Eleventh Coast Guard District encompasses the states of Calif., Ariz., Nev., and Utah, the coastal and offshore waters out over one thousand miles and the offshore waters of Mexico and Central America down to South America. Photo of the ceremony Video of the ceremony Ceremony pamphlet with the biographies of Rear Adm. Zukunft and Rear Adm. Castillo. ###

#469

From: "Phelps Hobart" <nlsac@...>
Date: Sat Jul 11, 2009 5:30 pm
Subject: 11th USCG District Command Master Chief Patricia Stolle Retires

usaseapower

Document Number: 2486

http://www.piersystem.com/go/doc/823/286270

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Coast Guard master chief retires after long service

Eleventh Coast Guard District

NEWS RELEASE
DATE:

CONTACT:

June 9, 2009

Petty Officer Erik Swanson (510) 772-8865

Coast Guard master chief retires after long service

COAST GUARD ISLAND, ALAMEDA, Calif. � Master Chief Petty Officer Patricia A. Stolle, a Petaluma, Calif., native, retired from the Coast Guard June 26, after serving for more than 35 years as an enlisted member.
A retirement ceremony was held for Stolle immediately following a change of watch ceremony where Master Chief Petty Officer Terence F. Vanderwerf relieved her as the command master chief of the Eleventh Coast Guard District located here.

Stolle joined the Coast Guard June 1974, just shortly after legislation was passed allowing women to join the regular Coast Guard in 1973. She attended basic training at Cape May, N.J., and upon graduation, attended Yeoman �A� School in Petaluma, Calif.

She totes a long list of historical accomplishments including, the first chief petty officer woman to serve at sea on a Coast Guard cutter and the first enlisted woman since the SPARS to be advanced to master chief petty officer. Stolle and Master Chief Petty Officer Diane Bucci were the first women to be selected for command master chiefs.

Stolle assumed the duties as command master chief for the Eleventh Coast Guard District in June of 2006. She previously served as a command master chief for both the Eighth Coast Guard District in New Orleans, and the Maintenance and Logistics Command Pacific located here. On July 1, 1993, Stolle was advanced to master chief petty officer while serving at the Personnel Reporting Unit in Yorktown, Va. Prior to becoming a command master chief, she was stationed at Coast Guard Training Center Petaluma, where she served as an instructor at the Chief Petty Officer Academy for five years.

Her awards include two Coast Guard Meritorious Service Medal, Coast Guard Commendation Medal, two Commandant Letter of Commendation Ribbons with �O� device and a host of many others, including a letter of appreciation from President Barack Obama.

Stolle and her husband Douglas will be enjoying the next chapter of their life in Bothell, Wash.

Photo 1 of Master Chief Patricia A. Stolle

Photo 2 of Master Chief Patricia A. Stolle
Photo 3 of Master Chief Patricia A. Stolle
Photo 4 of Master Chief Patricia A. Stolle
Photo 5 of Master Chief Patricia A. Stolle

###

#470

From: "Phelps Hobart" <nlsac@...>
Date: Sat Jul 11, 2009 5:28 pm
Subject: VADM Jody A. Breckenridge takes command of USCG Pacific Area and Defense Force West

usaseapower

Document Number: 2489

http://www.piersystem.com/go/doc/823/280892

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Coast Guard Pacific Area holds Change of Command

Pacific Area Public Affairs

Alameda, Calif.

Press Release

Date: July 8, 2009

Contact: PA3 Melissa Hauck (510) 437-3375

Coast Guard Pacific Area holds Change of Command

ALAMEDA, Calif. -- A former Commander of the 11th Coast Guard District here assumed command of the Coast Guard's Pacific Area and Coast Guard Defense Forces West during a change of command ceremony held at 10:30 a.m. today at the base pier.

Vice Adm. Jody A. Breckenridge, who spent the last two years as the Coast Guard's Director, Strategic Transformation Team, Washington, D.C., replaced Vice Adm. David Pekoske, who is assuming the position of Vice Commandant of the Coast Guard.

During her tenure as commander, the Eleventh Coast Guard District stepped up its interagency collaboration leading to record drug seizures including the motor-vessel Gatun, the largest maritime interdiction in U.S. history, and the arrest of Francisco Javier Arellano Felix, head of the Arellano Felix Drug Cartel. Her prior flag assignment was as Commander Coast Guard Maintenance and Logistics Command Pacific, with responsibility for all mission support in the Pacific Theater.

For photos of today's change of command ceremony visit:

http://cgvi.uscg.mil/media/main.php?g2_itemId=603972

http://cgvi.uscg.mil/media/main.php?g2_itemId=603975

http://cgvi.uscg.mil/media/main.php?g2_itemId=603978

###

Saving Lives and Guarding the Coast Since 1790.
The United States Coast Guard -- Proud History. Powerful Future.

She was just promoted to Vice Admiral.

http://www.uscg.mil/flag/cg01t.asp

Rear Admiral Jody A. Breckenridge

Director, Strategic Transformation Team
US Coast Guard

Download Rear Admiral Jody A. Breckenridge assumed duties as the Director, Strategic Transformation Team on July 16, 2007. She is responsible for aligning and synchronizing the efforts to transform and modernize the Coast Guard. Rear Admiral Breckenridge also assumed the duties of the Assistant Commandant for Human Resources on May 30, 2008. The Human Resources Directorate is made up of HR professionals, military and civilian, with one distinct mission: to meet the people needs of the Coast Guard while meeting the needs of Coast Guard people.
Prior to reporting to her current billet, RADM Breckenridge served as Commander of the Eleventh Coast Guard District in Alameda, CA overseeing Coast Guard operations in the SW and the Eastern Pacific. During her tenure, the Eleventh District stepped up its interagency collaboration leading to record drug seizures including the M/V GATUN, the largest maritime interdiction in US history, and the arrest of Francisco Javier Arellano Felix, head of the Arellano Felix Drug Cartel. Her prior flag assignment was as Commander, Maintenance and Logistics Command Pacific with responsibility for all mission support in the Pacific Theater.

Rear Admiral Breckenridge�s other career assignments include Coast Guard Deputy Chief of Staff, Commanding Officer of the Recruiting Command, Personnel Command (Officer Personnel Assistant and Division Chief, Officer Assignments Chief), Executive Officer Integrated Support Command Seattle, Executive Officer Base Seattle, Chief, Officer Candidate School, Coast Guard Pay and Personnel Center, Group Seattle Operations Officer, Group/COTP Seattle Assistant Port Safety Officer, Headquarters Marine Environmental Protection Division and National Response Center. While serving at Headquarters, Rear Admiral Breckenridge also served as a White House Social Aide.

Rear Admiral Breckenridge was commissioned upon completion of Officer Candidate School in June, 1976. She holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology from Virginia Tech. She earned a Masters in Public Policy from the University of Maryland in 1991 and a Masters of Science in National Resource Strategy from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces in 1997. While attending the University of Maryland, she was elected to the honor society of Phi Kappa Phi and was presented an Excellence in Scholarship Award, graduating with honors.
Rear Admiral Breckenridge's personal awards include three Legion of Merits, three Meritorious Service Medals, four Coast Guard Commendation Medals, Achievement Medal, and the Commandant's Letter of Commendation.

#471

From: "Phelps Hobart" <nlsac@...>
Date: Sat Jul 11, 2009 5:31 pm
Subject: Coast Guard Foundation Annual Pacific Area Awards Dinner, Tuesday August 4 San Francisco

usaseapower

https://secure.www.memberconnections.com/olc/pub/CSG/events/event_order.cgi?tmpl=events&event=2218450

Coast Guard Foundation

The Coast Guard Foundation, www.coastguardfoundation.org, a non-profit organization committed to the education, welfare and morale of all Coast Guard members and their families, announced July 10 that its Annual Pacific Area Awards Dinner will take place on Tuesday, August 4, 2009 in San Francisco.

In conjunction with the Coast Guard Foundation�s 40th anniversary celebration of service to the United States Coast Guard, the gala will honor the heroic efforts of Coast Guard men and women in the Pacific area over the past year.

Guest speakers will include Master of Ceremonies James Gabbert, radio and television broadcast legend; Ron Landmann, former customs representative to the Organized Crime, Drug Enforcement Task Force and the Interagency Task Force West, and law enforcement trainer; and VADM Jody Breckenridge, the newly appointed Pacific Area Commander.

In addition to recognizing the guardians who enforce maritime law, protect our homeland and preserve the environment, the event will raise funds to support the Coast Guard Foundation�s important projects and programs that seek to improve the lives and performance of Coast Guard members, their families and Coast Guard Academy cadets, including college scholarships for children, as well as grants for enlisted members.

The Coast Guard Foundation�s Annual Pacific Area Awards Dinner will take place at 7:30 PM, Tuesday, August 4, 2009 at the Westin St. Francis Hotel, 335 Powell Street, San Francisco, California.

Individual dinner ticket $250, couples $350. Various sponsor levels.

Online registration is open for the
Pacific Area Awards Dinner
August 4, 2009
in San Francisco

Please click here to proceed to the registration page for this event.

For information on special hotel rates for dinner attendees at the Westin St. Francis, please click here.

Table seating lists can now be submitted electronically - click here to submit your list online!

#472

From: "Pacific Merchant Marine Council, NLUS" <pmmc@...>
Date: Sat Jul 11, 2009 5:31 pm
Subject: Cutter Bertholf breaks up major cocaine smuggling operation

pmmc@...

DATE: July 10, 2009 09:25:16 PST

Document Number: 2488

http://www.piersystem.com/go/doc/823/287494

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf breaks up major cocaine smuggling operation

Eleventh Coast Guard District

NEWS RELEASE
DATE:

CONTACT:

July 10, 2009

District 11 Public Affairs (510) 772-8865

Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf breaks up major cocaine smuggling operation

ALAMEDA, Calif. -- The Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf seized two suspected drug smuggling boats, detained four suspected smugglers and recovered a bale of cocaine as evidence after disrupting a major drug smuggling operation in international waters some 80 miles off the coast of Guatemala late Wednesday night.

This seizure is the first drug bust conducted by the crew of the Bertholf. The ship, home ported here and commissioned less than one year ago, is the first of eight planned National Security Cutters being built as part of the Coast Guard's deepwater major-acquisition and modernization program to replace the 378-foot Hamilton-class high endurance cutters which entered service during the 1960s.

�I am proud of the Bertholf�s crew and congratulate them on this milestone achievement for the Coast Guard�s newest cutter,� said Adm. Thad Allen, commandant of the Coast Guard. �The cutter is serving in the Southern approaches to stop the flow of drugs across the Southwest Border along with some of the very Coast Guard ships she was designed to replace -- and she�s living up the to a high standard set by her predecessors. The Bertholf�s management of this very dynamic law enforcement situation shows the usefulness and importance of launching a new generation of modern, well equipped cutters to protect the American people.�

The incident began when a group of four suspicious �pangas� were spotted by a maritime patrol aircraft and the Bertholf, which was in the area on patrol as part of an ongoing interagency and international counter drug effort, was alerted to the situation. A marksman aboard a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter, operating from the cutter, shot out the engines of two speedboats and fired warning shots at two others in a pursuit during which bales were seen being thrown overboard from all four boats. The seized boats and suspects were apprehended a short time later by crews aboard two of the Bertholf�s interceptor boats.

A search for additional jettisoned bales is on-going. The four apprehended individuals and evidence are being detained aboard the Bertholf until final disposition of the case can be determined. The Coast Guard worked closely with Guatemalan officials during the interdiction.

Photo of suspected drug smuggling boat intercepted by the Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf

File photo of the Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf

#473

From: "Pacific Merchant Marine Council, NLUS" <pmmc@...>
Date: Fri Jul 17, 2009 10:35 pm
Subject: PCR Social Friday August 14 PCR Meeting Saturday August 15 Alameda

pmmc@...

PCR Region meeting flyer for May 10,2008.doc

Ahoy Members and Friends,

On July 7, I advised you of the activities at Coast Guard Island August 14 and that there was more to come. Well, here is the complete Pacific Central Region program - the latest message and the July 7 message repeated.

I will be attending everything and encourage you to do so as well (except for the Nominating Committee meeting). All Navy League members are welcome! Officers and Directors of our Pacific Merchant Marine Council are particularly encouraged. These Pacific Central Region events August 14 and 15 are special and several including our own Sam Sause have put a lot of effort into them to make them rewarding.

Please fill out the forms below or a copy of them and mail them in with your check. The earlier the better. Thank you.

Anchors Aweigh,

Phelps
Phelps Hobart

President, Pacific Merchant Marine Council

National Director

Navy League of the United States

http://navyleague.org

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PMMC-NLUS < 1st place NLUS award winning website - no charge to subscribe

PO Box 191403

Sacramento CA 95819-1403

(916) 739-6949 | (916) 955-3972 Cell | PMMC@...

The Navy League of the United States, founded with President Roosevelt's encouragement in 1902, is a civilian organization with approximately 60,000 members. The League is focused on reminding the American public and government officials that the United States is a maritime nation and that its national defense and economic well being are dependent upon strong sea services - the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and U. S. Flag Merchant Marine. NLUS and its 270 councils sponsor activities, events, and awards along with supporting military and Sea Cadet units. Its monthly magazine Sea Power covers United States maritime defense news. The council newsletter is Captain's Call.

The Pacific Merchant Marine Council, chartered 11 December 2006, is specifically focused on the United States maritime industry. Luncheon meetings are quarterly. Monday, June 15 we returned to Quinn's Lighthouse Restaurant and Pub, Oakland, for a delicious luncheon and excellent panel presentation on Short Sea Shipping out of Oakland. September 21 we are aboard the O'BRIEN ($20 in advance).

_____________________________________

----- Original Message -----

From: Don Hale

Sent: Thursday, July 16, 2009 9:23 PM

Subject: Fw: Region Meeting Flyer

*******************************************************************************************************

The next PACIFIC CENTRAL REGION MEETING is my last one as your president, so please spread the word to everyone and get your reservation sent in as soon as possible so we have an idea about numbers.

Thanks to many people for their work setting this up. Alameda Council members and the Sharkey family are prime contributors, and "Duty Driver" put the attached announcement together through several drafts without complaint. Thanks to all.

We have several presentations and speakers who are expert in their fields of work. I know you'll enjoy the gathering, so please join us there.

PCR region meeting in Alameda with Welcome Aboard on Friday, August 14 and great Region meeting on Saturday, August 15.

I remind the nominating committee to be at Coast Guard Island on Friday, 14 August at 1330 following the Annual Coast Guard Awards Luncheon. The committee will meet in the Point Welcome Room near the Galley area.  Each Council should be represented by the President or a designated 'stand in'.

Reminder.....everyone needs proof of insurance and registration papers for your car to get onto Coast Guard Island.

I'm looking forward to a great couple meetings.  See you there.

Best regards.

Don Hale, President

Pacific Central Region

It�s Coming Saturday, August 15 !!!!! Region Meeting!!!

At the lovely OTAEZA Restaurant in Downtown Alameda 1619 Webster Street, Alameda

WELCOME ABOARD on Friday evening the 14^th

^{A Region meeting for EVERYONE who wants/needs to learn more about Navy League activities underway, more about Council operations, more about accomplishing our vital mission of supporting the SEA SERVICES. ALL are welcome to join us. How are our Navy League Councils accomplishing their mission and goals? Good??}

Not outstanding?? Need ideas on how to improve?? This is the opportunity!!! Council Presidents, Treasurers, Newsletter Editors, Legislative Liaisons. Special

sessions will address issues you need to do your job and meet requirements. The day starts at 0830 with a continental breakfast. Meeting starts at 0900 with welcome remarks by Region President Don Hale, followed by a presentation on security issues we face in our ports today. Breakout sessions will be held on newsletters, current tax requirements for Council and National�s Legislative Initiative with Congress

Dr. William Dunlop from the Lawrence Livermore Lab will discuss the current innovations and developments on the interdiction of nuclear materials and explosives to secure and safeguard our ports.

Captain Martin McNair, USN (ret), a former Navy SEAL, will speak at lunch. He has stories to tell about his career experiences.

On Friday Evening�.(August 14th) Welcome Aboard at the lovely home of Sam Sauce, Alameda Council President. Begins at 1800 Hours at 816 Grand Street, Alameda. (Directions to follow)

Staying overnight?? A couple suggestions: (Mention NAVY LEAGUE)Coral Reef Inn & Suites, 400 Park Street, Alameda, CA 94501. Doubles and Queens

at $85 + tax. Call (510) 521, 2330 or (800) 533-2330. Deadline August 1st.

Hawthorne Suites, 1628 Webster St, Alameda, across from the Otaez Restaurant.

Rate is $94 + tax. Includes warm breakfast for two. No deadline..

Call (510) 522-1000. Ask for San Deep. Also, mention Barbara Price.

Page Two

Cost for Saturday event: $ 25 per person includes Continental Breakfast & Lunch

Cost for Friday evening: $ 15 per person includes heavy hors d�oeuvres, wine, margaritas and beer.

Cost for Friday and Saturday events: $40

For information please call Jeanne Sharkey at 925-228-1375

OTAEZ RESTAURANT, 1619 Webster Street, Alameda. (Parking in rear)

Webster Street is the street which enters the Webster Tube from Oakland and passes under the

estuary which separates Oakland and Alameda. Enter tube on Webster Street in Oakland.HAWTHORNE SUITES is located at 1628 Webster Street, across from the OTAEZ Restaurant.

CORAL REEF INN & SUITES is located at 400 Park Street in Alameda. Use 23rd Street Bridge (off

Highway 880) which becomes Park Street in Alameda.

The Sauce�s Home is at 816 Grand Street. Alameda. Can be reached from Webster Street (through the Tube), or from Park Street Bridge. Turn right off Park Street onto Lincoln, or left off Webster onto Lincoln. Go to Grand Street. Turn right, if coming from Webster, or left if coming from Park Street. Sam is at 816 Grand just short of a mile from Lincoln on the left.

___________________________________________________________________________

RSVP Deadline Friday, August 7, please!!

Checks payable to PCR NLUS. Send to Lorraine Hughey, 1650 Candelero Court, Walnut Creek, 94598-1020

Enclosed is $ _______ for both events; or $________ for Saturday only at OTAEZ RESTAURANT

Attending will be: ________________________________________________________________________

Phone number _______________________________ Email ________________________________________

----- Original Message -----

From: Pacific Merchant Marine Council, NLUS

To: PMMC-NLUS@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Tuesday, July 07, 2009 2:56 PM

Subject: [PMMC-NLUS] Pacific Central Region Awards Luncheon 1130 August 14

Dear Members and Friends,

Couple of special Navy League days coming up Friday August 14 and Saturday August 15. All invited!

Right now, calendar them on your personal calendar and send in the luncheon money for the Coast Guard Awards Luncheon as presented below.

Anchors Aweigh,

Phelps

______________________________

PACIFIC CENTRAL REGION
Navy League of the United States

1 of 1 File(s)

#474

From: "Pacific Merchant Marine Council, NLUS" <pmmc@...>
Date: Mon Jul 20, 2009 3:48 am
Subject: Merchant Marine veterans in the news

pmmc@...

Ahoy Members and Friends,

Always enjoy serching the web for Merchant Marine news. This week seems to be an emphasis on our World War II veterans.

How about this first article with a fine photo in the O'BRIEN's engine room?

Other interesting reading below.

Anchors Aweigh,

Phelps

PS Circle Monday September 21 for our 3rd quarter luncheon - back on board the O'BRIEN but not in the engine room. We will hold the cost at $20 per person - with advance reservations. Firming up an interesting program.

_______________________________________________________________

http://www.thevalleychronicle.com/articles/2009/07/17/news/doc4a60bd316a52e397296412.txt

Merchant Marine had role in WWII too

Courtesy Photo
HIDDEN HEROES: Duncan Bergeron, who was a Merchant Marine right before World War II ended, stands inside the boiler room of a Liberty ship in San Francisco that�s a national historic monument. Bergeron, of San Jacinto, worked in the boiler rooms of Liberty ships like this one when he was a mariner.

By LYNN WEBB/The Valley Chronicle

Published: Friday, July 17, 2009 1:35 PM CDT

Duncan Bergeron of San Jacinto thinks the Merchant Marine is too often forgotten.

Bergeron, who served in the Merchant Marine for more than six years, said he got upset when he found out that the monuments in San Jacinto�s Druding Park representing each of the branches of the U.S. military did not include one for the Merchant Marine.

The Merchant Marine is a fleet of civilian-owned ships responsible for transporting cargo and passengers during peace time. In time of war, as the Wikipedia states, the Merchant Marine is an auxiliary to the Navy and can be called upon to deliver troops and supplies for the military.

The Merchant Marine was a �quasi� operation of the military during World War II, Bergeron said.

Because the Merchant Marine wasn�t considered a branch of the service, mariners after the war were denied benefits; unemployment pay; education, home or small business loans; priority for postwar jobs; and medical care for disabilities.

�After the war, other branches of the service got first choice for jobs, medical benefits, but we had no medical benefits, no jobs,� Bergeron said.

Bergeron served in the Merchant Marine toward the end of World War II � 1945 � until 1951.

�We carried all the cargo � trucks, tanks, Jeeps, steam engines for trains, ammunition, supplies, and the troops, and hauled it into the port,� Bergeron said.

�We made trip after trip. One trip, we carried grain, fruits, canned goods, and surplus military spinach on a C2 ship.�

Each trip would take between three and six months, depending on where supplies needed to be delivered, Bergeron said.

In 1967, Bergeron had a hankering to go back to the sea after he heard mariners were need to transport cargo to Vietnam at Christmastime.

Their first stop was Cameroon Bay to deliver river boats. Then they went down the Saigon River to discharge air cargo and back-loaded other cargo to Da Nang.

On Christmas Day, evangelist Billy Graham happened to be speaking at a U.S. Marine base in Da Nang.

Bergeron was able to go hear him speak.

�I spent Christmas with 5,000 Marines and heard Bill Graham,� he said.

Bergeron wanted to serve his country because he had two brothers who did.

One brother served as an Army paratrooper in the 101st Airborne, and the other one served in the Navy.

Because of his young age, Bergeron joined the Merchant Marine.

�The Merchant Marines took you at age 16 with parental consent. The other branches were 17 with parental consent,� said Bergeron.

Actually, at 15 1/2 years old, Bergeron didn�t meet the age requirement for the Merchant Marine.

�I forged my baptismal certificate, and my dad signed me. He was glad to get rid of me!�

Bergeron worked in the fire room, or boiler room, which makes the steam that runs the generators.

Sometimes, it got unbearably hot in the boiler room, said Bergeron, where temperatures could reach 135 degrees.

Bergeron also was an oiler.

Marine oilers keep the vessel in proper running order in the engine spaces below decks, including lubricating gears, shafts, bearings, and other moving parts of engines and motors. They also read pressure and temperature gauges, record data, and assist with repairs and adjust machinery.

At that time, armed forces were segregated, but the Merchant Marine was not.

�We were the only integrated service,� Bergeron said. �We had whites, blacks, Chinese, and Filipinos.�

Bergeron, who is 80, said his experience in the Merchant Marine was a adventure.

�To me, it was an exciting adventure.�

One thing he never saw was war.

�I never saw an enemy ship, that I could see, and I never fought,� Bergeron said, �because by the time I joined, the war was almost over.�

But a lot of those who served in the Merchant Marine during World War II weren�t as lucky.

During World War II, mariners were subject to attack by submarine, surface radar, mines, bombers, kamikaze, and land-based artillery. The official Merchant Marine Web site states it suffered the highest casualty rate of any service during World War II, with 1 in 26 killed.

�Up to the mid-1940s, they really got nailed,� Bergeron said, adding: �For me, it was a cakewalk.�

In 1988, President Ronald Reagan signed a bill granting veteran status to merchant mariners who served in war. Before, they were considered civilians and did not receive the veterans benefits given to members of the armed forces.

�For veteran status, you get a flag for $10 and you can get buried in a national or military cemetery,� Bergeron said. �I never bothered applying for it. I want to be cremated and my ashes taken to Oregon.�

Bergeron said if the Merchant Marine wasn�t around during World War II, vital equipment would not have gotten to where it needed to be.

�If they didn�t have the Merchant Marine, we wouldn�t have won the war,� he said.

And here in the Napa Valley:

An artist's rendering of the coming Calistoga Veterans Memorial, to be dedicated Nov. 11. Construction could begin in less than a month.

Veterans ready to build Logvy Park memorial

Uphill battle ends, groundbreaking at noon Monday

http://www.weeklycalistogan.com/articles/2009/07/15/news/local/doc4a555d056b71c501499898.txt

By John Waters Jr.
Editor

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Monday will mark the end of an 11-year-struggle by Calistoga�s veterans to build a memorial to all of America�s veterans, living and dead.

The veterans are inviting the community to a ceremonial groundbreaking event at noon Monday to celebrate the beginning of a project that has taken the vets� efforts for 10 years � through four different city councils.

�The efforts to build a memorial to veterans started in June 1999 while Mario Calligari was mayor,� said veteran Jim Barnes recently. �So, it�s been through the Calligari administration, two Alexander administrations and now the second Gingles administration.�

The building of a memorial was finally approved for Logvy Park during the second term of Dr. Andrew Alexander, who has since moved to Washington state.

The memorial park will be located just to the south of the entrance to Logvy Park, �along where the third base line is today,� Barnes said.

It will consist of six marble covered columns with an emblem representing each of the six branches of service � the United States Marine Corps, the U.S. Navy, the U.S. Army, the U.S. Air Force, the U.S. Coast Guard and the branch Barnes said many consider surprising, �the Merchant Marines.�

�Many people don�t realize it, but the Merchant Marines sustained heavier losses than just about any other branch of military service during World War I,� he said. �They would travel in packs on the oceans with no military escorts, and were just sitting ducks for the German attack.�

The memorial also will be home to about 200 bricks, about 10 percent of which will be inscribed with the names of veterans who have served the nation.

Barnes said anyone who would like to dedicate a brick to a veteran may still do so. The 8-inch, by 8-inch ceramic bricks may be inscribed for $135, for now. After the August the price goes up to $165 because the veterans� group will lose their bulk engraving discount.

For additional information regarding the bricks or the memorial, contact Barnes, 942-2241 or American Legion Commander Paul Coats, 942-5268.

An official dedication ceremony for the new memorial is slated for Nov. 11, appropriately, on Veteran�s Day.

Back east:

http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=20346610&BRD=1282&PAG=461&dept_id=182121&rfi=6

07/17/2009

Merchant Marine vets share memories

By ERIC SLAGLE , Daily News Staff Writer

Frank Knezovich, left, of Elizabeth, and George Bucy, of Forward Township, share memories during the annual Merchant Marines veterans picnic at West Mifflin Community Park. (Jennifer R. Vertullo)
It was a beautiful day for a picnic.
Members of the Mon Valley Chapter of the U.S. Merchant Marine Veterans had plenty of sunshine Thursday for their annual gathering in West Mifflin Community Park. As always, there were plenty of old memories to go around along with the snacks, cold drinks and music.
"I had five different ships. One sunk. That was coming out of Russia in '44," George Bucy, 87, of Forward Township, recalled of the day his liberty ship was sunk by Germans off the coast of Greece, leaving him and his crew mates to escape by lifeboat. "I can remember because my pay stopped the same day."
The abrupt loss of income was but one example of the difficulties Merchant Marines underwent during and after World War II because of their status as sailors on civilian, rather than military, owned merchant ships. Though Merchant Marines were considered military personnel (and they certainly saw plenty of military action during the war) they were not recognized by the U.S. government as veterans until 1988.
There's been talk in the U.S. Senate for years of making Merchant Marines eligible for federal veteran benefits of $1,000 per month, but the bill that would do that has never made it out of committee.
The slight by the government is still a lively topic of conversation among Merchant Marines.
"Give them the general right to see that they're classified as veterans during the time of armed conflict," said member Bill Joyce of Munhall. Joyce brought with him to the picnic a stack of governmental statistics that he contends help prove the old sailors deserve greater recognition from the government.

#475

From: "Pacific Merchant Marine Council, NLUS" <pmmc@...>
Date: Tue Jul 21, 2009 10:40 pm
Subject: Re: Merchant Marine veterans in the news

pmmc@...

----- Original Message -----

From: capt.ob@...

To: PMMC-NLUS@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Tuesday, July 21, 2009 2:45 PM

Subject: Re: [PMMC-NLUS] Merchant Marine veterans in the news

Dear Brother & shipmate,

It was good to read about your experiences at sea....a couple of corrections:

1.Cam Rahn Bay instead of Cameroon Bay
2. Veterans are entitled to a FREE FLAG for their memorial, whether cremated or not.The Flag is usually presented to the widow by the branch(Navy, Army,Merchant Marine) in which the veteran served. If no widow, the daughter, son or next of kin.
Most funeral directors provide the flag, if requested, otherwise your local post office will provide the flag gratis, if proper documentation of service(DD-214) is provided.
3. I have performed some 60 Memorial services in my life...Am doing one tomorrow....buried 5 men and 2 women at sea also.
4. During WW II the Merchant Marine (usually Dept of Commerce) and the US Coast Guard (usually Dept of Treasury) were BOTH transferred to the Department of NAVY. Later, after the war , the Merchant Marine and Coast Guard WERE BOTH TRANSFERRED to the Department of Transportation. After 911 the Coast Guard was transferred to Department of Homeland Security, and will never be subordinate to the Dept of Navy again.

The Highest Military Officer that the Merchant Marine is under, is a 4 star General in the US Air Force, at Scott Air Force Base in St.Louis. This man is always Air Force and commands TRANSCOM, which includes all airplanes and ships in the private sector. Many steamship companies receive about 1 million dollars a year subsidy for each of their ships that are "on call."
The CINC (Commander in Theater, 4 star, Navy, Marine,Army or Air Force) requests transportation assets from TRANSCOM...the order for merchant ships (e.g. ammo) is forwarded to Dept of Navy, from Transcom, down the chain to MCS (Military Sealift Command) down the chain to MARAD (Maritime Administration) down to the private Steamship Co that is ordered to crew up and sail. The steamship co (e.g. APL) has the fiduciary responsibility to victual and call the hall, and be ready to sail in X number of hours.Some of these ships are RRF (Ready reserve Fleet) with a skeleton crew aboard....Some are loaded as we speak, full and down with beans, bullets and bombs, at Diego Garcia, Guam, and the Med and East Coast.
I have visited Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean. One of the largest ammo stores in the world, and the longest airplane runway in the world.I have served as Chief Mate in several reserve ships.....In the Deck Dept. there is Only a Chief Mate, Bosn and one Ordinary Seaman are in these ship on standby.
Hope this is enlightening and interesting.

Captain K.C. O'Brien, USMM (Ret)

Life Alum, Naval War College

#476

From: "John Denham" <jdenhamone@...>
Date: Wed Jul 22, 2009 5:19 am
Subject: Re: Merchant Marine veterans in the news

jdenhamone@...

Phelps: I note an inaccuracy in K.C. OBrien's piece. By definiton the Merchant Marine is not a unit or service, but a business and therefore not transferable. Some have referred to it as the "merchant service." Control and wartime,/emergency acquisiton is feasible. The M.M. is not an academic or has any heraldry signifiance, but has been a popular, but as yet not recognized, indicator of Master Mariner. Refer" A CAPTAIN BY ANY OTHER NAME" Vox Oceanus, Pacific Maritime Magazine July 2008.JGD

#477

From: capt.ob@...
Date: Fri Jul 24, 2009 7:59 pm
Subject: Re: Merchant Marine veterans in the news

capt.ob@...

The Merchant Marine represents the civilian shipping flying that country's flag.

I repeat: In time of war, the US Merchant Marine (American flag vessels) are under the Department of Navy, which answers to TRANSCOM at Scott Air Force Base.If one sails in an American Flag Merchant Vessel, he or she is an American Merchant Mariner, sailing in the United States Merchant Marine.

The United States Maritime Service, or USMS is under MARAD. Officers like Adms. Tom Patterson, George Jahn,and Frank X. Johnston received their Commissions from this Enity. I have several United States Maritime Service Commissions in my office beside me that I would be willing to share with anyone one disputes this. They state that the Merchant Marine Officer named is hereby commissioned a Lt. Cdr in the US Maritime Service.

Reference: United States Naval War College.

Captain K.C. O'Brien, United States Merchant Marine(ret MMP)

#478

From: "Pacific Merchant Marine Council, NLUS" <pmmc@...>
Date: Sat Jul 25, 2009 12:07 am
Subject: The Mare Faire, Mare Island, August 8 and 9

pmmc@...

The Mare Faire has quite a program of scheduled activities, displays, exhibits, music, and food the weekend of August 8 and 9. The hikes and tours provide access to areas that have been off-limits for 150 years. The views can be breathtaking from a hilltop vantage point.

Second Saturdays the preserve is open but this weekend is going to be extra special, http://www.mareislandpreserve.org especially http://www.mareislandpreserve.org/Visit/Events_files/MareFaire2-pageSchedule2008.pdf.

Of special note is the 65th Anniversary Commemoration of the "Port Chicago Mutiny" 1400-1530, Sunday, August 9, at Berth 24, south end of Railroad Avenue. There is a book on this historic US Navy event and much can be found on the Internet, http://www.google.com/search?sourceid=navclient&ie=UTF-8&rlz=1T4RNWE_enUS327US327&q=Port+Chicago+mutiny+book.

For more on Mare Island see: http://www.google.com/search?sourceid=navclient&ie=UTF-8&rlz=1T4RNWE_enUS327US327&q=Mare+Island.

Phelps Hobart

Web Yeoman

Pacific Central Region, NLUS

______________________________________________

The Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve is a 215 acre parcel located at the south end of Mare Island in Vallejo California on land that formerly served as the U.S. Navy's first Naval Ammunition Depot, founded in 1857. Until now, the property has been off-limits to the public due to past sensitive Navy munitions production and storage operations and more recent environmental cleanup. The property was granted by the California Legislature through the State Lands Commission to the City of Vallejo for development as a historic and nature focused park for all Californians in 2002.

Regular, but limited access to the 98-acre first phase of the regional park that includes the oldest naval cemetery in the Pacific founded in 1858 and a 1-mile scenic trail along a paved road leading to the hilltop vista point, is provided through open days, guided outings and tours and special events hosted by local non-profit groups. Planning is underway to open this acreage on a more frequent basis following careful analysis of the existing cultural and natural resources and fund-raising to make safety and public serving improvements and cover the costs of daily operations.

For outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, photographers and artists, the southern "original" hill and shoreline of Mare Island is an unique attraction. On behalf of Arc Ecology, I invite you to hike, bike, explore, paint, contemplate, picnic and participate in tours, outings and events during our monthly Second Saturday Public Access Day. The Sierra Club-Solano Group offers guided hikes to the Historic Southshore. The Mare Island Historic Park Foundation offers pre-arranged tours of Mare Island that includes a stop at the cemetery for a fee. These groups provide public access through arrangements with the U.S. Navy and the City of Vallejo.

Our annual summer gathering at The Preserve, the Mare Faire, was Friday, August 8 and Saturday, August 9, 2008. We commemorated the 150th anniversary of the founding of the Mare Island Naval Cemetery and the 64th anniversary of the Port Chicago Mutiny, an important event in American military history which took place in Vallejo just across the Strait while the men were under the command of the Mare Island Naval Ammunition Depot. See the slide show link to the left by Sue Wilson. Mark your calendar! Plan to participate in our August 8-9, 2009 2nd Annual Mare Faire.

#479

From: "Pacific Merchant Marine Council, NLUS" <pmmc@...>
Date: Sat Jul 25, 2009 12:54 am
Subject: SEAPOWER NLUS 2009 Digital Edition P. 66 Pacific Merchant Marine Council to support Sea Cadet Unit

pmmc@...

Members and Friends,

Another fine issue of SEAPOWER has hit the Internet. In a few more days it will be in your mailbox.

Of special note is mention of our council and its intended support for the Arkansas Division Sea Cadets on pages 66 and 67..

For more information on the Division see post http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PMMC-NLUS/message/448.

The Division's Commanding Officer, Captain Tim Cogan, has accepted our invitation to be our guest speaker at our Monday, September 21 luncheon onboard the S.S. JEREMIAH O'BRIEN. His topic will focus on the Military Sealift Command vessels plying San Francisco Bay. When he is not working for the Maritime Administration as a Marine Engineering Inspector he has likely taken command of one of the MSC ships berthed near the U.S.S. HORNET in Alameda. He will also give us his perspective on his Sea Cadets unit. It is a luncheon you don't want to miss; start inviting friends now. $20 pp or free with a new Navy League membership, http://www.navyleague.org/membership/individual_membership.php, and affiliation with our council. We will be extending the offer to existing Navy League members who choose to affiliate with our council.

Keep in touch,

Phelps

Phelps Hobart, President

Pacific Merchant Marine Council, NLUS

____________________________________________

----- Original Message -----

From: SEAPOWER Editor

To: pmmc@...

Sent: Wednesday, July 22, 2009 10:03 AM

Subject: SEAPOWER NLUS 2009 Digital Edition

The August 2009 Issue of SEAPOWER

NOW AVAILABLE AS A DIGITAL EDITION

P. 3 President�s Message. Reverse the Trend.

P. 61 Branch named president-elect; Phillips Accepts Burke Award at Board meeting.

P. 64 Atlanta Metropolitan Council presents Annual Youth Awards.

P. 65 NJROTC programs honored after national competitions.

P. 65 Navy League presents awards to service academy graduates.

P. 66 Massachusetts Bay Council hosts Sea Cadet leaders.

P. 66 Pacific Merchant Marine Council to support Sea Cadet Unit.

P. 67 NSCC Unit launches in Colorado Springs .

P. 67 St. Augustine co-hosts international reception aboard USS John L. Hall.

P. 68 Sen. Feinstein given ship�s plank as honorary chair of Bertholf Commissioning Committee.

P. 69 Hampton Roads Council participates in Joint Warfighting Conference.

P. 12 Afghanistan Reset. Army Materiel Command sees unprecedented cooperation among services in shift from Iraq .

P. 16 Interview. Maersk Alabama�s Capt. Richard Phillips reflects on career, discusses plan for improved security on the high seas.

P. 22 Deepwater Progress. With new processes in place, Coast Guard program delivers assets.

P. 26 Return to the Arctic . Longer-range helicopters, lighter boats take part in summer mission.

P. 28 Critical Gaps. Agencies struggle to coordinate nuclear-detection architecture.

P. 32 Jayhawk Facelift. Upgrades expand capabilities of Coast Guard�s H-60 helicopter.

P. 36 The Overseer. With Coast Guard now in control, vice commandant sees service marching smartly forward on Deepwater.

P. 39 The Director. New Coast Guard acquisition chief sharpens focus on Deepwater priorities.

P. 44 Super Ferry. JHSV leverages proven technology to low-risk development.

P. 48 Expansion Plans. Marine Corps wants more land for combat training at Twentynine Palms.

P. 6 Washington Report

* How Navy Will Buy Super Hornets Is a Sticking Point for Lawmakers.

* GAO: Alternatives Analysis for V-22.

* Second State-Class Ship Delivered by NASSCO.

P. 7 Intercepts

�Cyber security may have more attention and it may be in a higher priority status, but I�m not certain that it is getting due consideration in spite of the fact that we are at war.�

Richard Etter

Senior information assurance officer for the Navy

On the road ahead for military cyber security.
Click here www.seapower-digital.com/seapower/ for the complete contents of SEAPOWER's August issue. If that link doesn�t work, click on the magazine cover found at www.navyleague.org. To subscribe, call 800-356-5760.

This message was sent from SEAPOWER Editor to pmmc@.... It was sent from: Navy League of the United States, 2300 Wilson Blvd. Ste. 200, Arlington, VA 22201. You can modify/update your subscription via the link below.

#480

From: "Pacific Merchant Marine Council, NLUS" <pmmc@...>
Date: Mon Jul 27, 2009 10:54 pm
Subject: Fw: Try SNAME membership for Half Price!

pmmc@...

I am going to pass on this offer but possibly you or someone you know may be interested.

Phelps

Phelps Hobart, President

Pacific Merchant Marine Council, NLUS

----- Original Message -----

From: SNAME

To: pmmc@...

Sent: Monday, July 27, 2009 1:41 PM

Subject: Try SNAME membership for Half Price!

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These special new member benefits are only available when you join online through August 7, 2009. And the best news, there is much, much, more to SNAME membership ... This $75 membership entitles you to pay member prices for the 2009 SNAME Annual Meeting and Expo, October 21-23, 2009 in Providence, RI. This alone will save you the cost the trial membership ($150 value).

The NEW SNAME website, www.SNAME.org, which is your portal to a wealth of maritime information. The SNAME library is a searchable database of more than 10,000 articles, papers and presentations, from over 4,000 authors on 500 subjects. This database is searchable by subject, by author and date with new features being added over the next 12 months. New tools allow for Professional Networking, Collaborative work environments, add content and engage in the technical conversations and work which defines our industry,

The opportunity to participate in the SNAME Technical & Research Program: Over 1,000 SNAME members, in cooperation with government and regulatory agencies, research laboratories, academic institutions, and other sectors of the marine and offshore industries participate in the internationally recognized SNAME T&R program. Our T&R program is currently going through a re-engineering, be part of the change.

DISCOUNTS ON PUBLICATIONS: Members get significant discounts on all books, technical papers, journals, T&R bulletins and other documents produced by SNAME. Visit the SNAME website to view the extensive listing of published materials.

LOCAL SECTION MEMBERSHIP: As a member you are automatically a member of your local section, a valuable forum for professional networking and remaining up-to-date on what is going on at the local level and learning about new industry developments. Local Section meetings offer a valuable opportunity to learn more about current technical advances, upcoming conference and symposium content, have interaction with Student Sections and are developing a Young Professionals program. Outside North America, SNAME has a section in Greece; new programs include a series of International Collegia around the globe, and are actively reaching out to other international communities.

IMPORTANT SYMPOSIA, CONFERENCES & EXPOSITIONS: The SNAME Annual Meeting and Expo attracts professionals and exhibitors from around the world who deliver technical papers on a wide variety of subjects. The 2009 Annual Meeting and Expo will be held in Providence RI, October 21-23, 2009 is a MUST ATTEND event for professionals in the maritime trades. New Continuing Education programs, more networking, new panels and special sessions have been added to the ALL NEW program. Click here for more information: www.snameexpo.com.

Other key meetings include the Propeller/Shafting Symposium, Ship Structures Committee, and numerous symposia by local sections. As well as member pricing with the 23 international societies SNAME has signed collaborative agreements. Substantial discounts will apply to you � as a SNAME member. Members save more than the cost of enrollment on the Annual Meeting alone!

Free MARINE TECHNOLOGY � a $160 value: Marine Technology and SNAME News is a quarterly journal dedicated to covering the latest technological advances, concepts and discoveries in the maritime, offshore oceanographic and small craft industries.

Other Benefits Include: Professional Liability � Errors & Omissions Insurance, Listing in the on-line SNAME Members directory, Group Insurance Rates, Members Only access to the SNAME website as well as support of the industry through scholarship and student programs, outreach (SeaPerch www.seaperch.org), and advocacy.

Please accept as soon as possible, but no later than August 7, 2009

With all the challenges and changes taking place in the industry today, there has never been a more exciting time to be part of SNAME. As the Society works to advance the profession, you can tap into its benefits to enrich your knowledge and interests in ways that suit your own personal and professional needs.

Sincerely,

Philip B. Kimball
Executive Director

To take advantage of this special offer just click on the following link and complete the application:
https://mars.sname.org/membership/membership_application_MR2009.htm
If you have questions or need assistance, contact aanderson@...