The Patriot State was christened on Sept. 9 and will be delivered to Massachusetts Maritime Academy as its new cadet training ship.
American Maritime Officers members will work aboard the first three National Security Multi-Mission vessels (NSMVs) when activated for a national defense, emergency relief or natural disaster mission by the U.S. Maritime Administration. While each maritime academy will be responsible for staffing the vessels during normal operations, AMO members will be used for cadet training cruises if needed.
On September 9, TOTE Services, LLC and Philly Shipyard christened the second of five National Security Multi-Mission vessels (NSMVs), Patriot State, with the Secretary of Transportation, the Secretary of the Navy, and other key officials on hand to celebrate this milestone for U.S. maritime.
The NSMV program marks a new era in vessel construction in the United States. These next generation ships are the result of a strategic public-private partnership that leverages the design, construction and management of the private sector with the dynamic needs of the US government. The use of TOTE Services as the vessel construction manager provides financial and schedule stability and, in the case of the NSMV program, will result in delivery of all five vessels within six years of the contract award.
Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg and Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro both attended the christening – a reflection of the importance of this program to country at large.
“America is a proud maritime nation, a global power largely because of our relationship with the seas,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “Today, as the Biden-Harris Administration celebrates the new vessel NSMV II Patriot State, we mark a new moment in our seafaring history, including the jobs and opportunities this program has created for the skilled workers of the Philly Shipyard.”
Jeff Dixon, President of TOTE Services noted “The Patriot State is the second of the five NSMVs constructed at Philly Shipyard under TOTE Services’ oversight and management. These vessels not only represent a critical US investment in the future of our maritime industry but exemplify what is possible when we leverage the right expertise and resources to the benefit of our country and the next generation. Serving as the vessel construction manager for these ships is a reflection of TOTE Services’ 49-year history as a leader in the American maritime industry.”
“The Patriot State is the 32nd vessel built with a Philly Shipyard birth certificate,” remarked Steinar Nerbovik, Philly Shipyard President and CEO, during the naming ceremony today. “On behalf of our entire workforce, we are honored to provide MARAD with a safe and quality vessel to carry the Massachusetts Maritime flag for generations to come.”
“The National Security Multi-Mission Vessel (NSMV) Patriot State represents a significant leap forward in maritime training and disaster response capabilities. This vessel will not only equip our cadets with the hands-on experience necessary to become the next generation of skilled mariners, it also stands ready to serve our nation in times of crisis, providing critical support in disaster relief operations,” noted Rear Admiral Francis X. McDonald, President, Massachusetts Maritime Academy.
Following the christening ceremony, the vessel will be delivered to Massachusetts Maritime Academy in the coming weeks.
About the National Security Multi-Mission Vessel (NSMV) Program
The U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration’s (MARAD) NSMV program is designed to provide a purpose-built, state-of-the-art training platform for the state maritime academies in New York, Massachusetts, Maine, Texas, and California, respectively.
This next-generation training fleet will address a critical shortage of qualified officers necessary to crew government and commercial owned sealift ships. In addition to providing world-class training for America’s future mariners, the NSMVs will be available to support humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions in times of need.
The NSMV will feature numerous instructional spaces, a full training bridge, and have space for up to 600 cadets to train in a first-rate maritime academic environment at sea. State maritime academies graduate more than half of all new officers each year – the merchant mariners who help keep cargoes and our economy moving. Many also support U.S. national security by crewing government sealift vessels.
In addition to being a state-of-the-art training and educational platform, each ship will feature modern hospital facilities, a helicopter pad, and the ability to accommodate up to 1,000 people in times of humanitarian need. Adding to the NSMV’s capability, it will provide needed roll-on/roll-off and container storage capacity for use during disaster relief missions.
About TOTE Services
TOTE Services, LLC (“TOTE Services”) is a leading U.S.-based company that provides ship management, vessel construction management and technical consulting services to governmental and commercial parties. Since 2015, TOTE Services has been a first-mover in clean alternative fuels, having overseen the construction and management of the nation’s first LNG-powered container ships and the first LNG bunker barge. TOTE Services, along with TOTE Maritime Alaska, LLC and TOTE Maritime Puerto Rico, LLC, are part of the TOTE Group. TOTE Group is a member of the Saltchuk family of companies.
For more information about TOTE Services, please visit www.toteservices.com.
About Philly Shipyard
Philly Shipyard, Inc. (PSI) is a leading U.S. shipbuilder that is presently pursuing a mix of commercial and government work. It possesses a state-of-the-art shipbuilding facility and has earned a reputation as a preferred provider of oceangoing merchant vessels with a track record of delivering quality ships, having delivered around 50% of all large ocean-going Jones Act commercial ships since 2000. PSI is the sole operating subsidiary of Philly Shipyard ASA. Philly Shipyard ASA is listed on the Euronext Expand Oslo (Oslo: PHLY) and is majority-owned by Aker Capital AS, which in turn is wholly-owned by Aker ASA (Aker). Aker is an industrial investment company that exercises active ownership to create value. Aker has ownership interests in oil and gas, renewable energy and green technologies, maritime assets, marine biotechnology, and industrial software, and its portfolio includes companies like Aker BP, Aker Horizons, Aker BioMarine, Cognite, and Aker Solutions.
For more information about Philly Shipyard, please visit www.phillyshipyard.com.
Access information for reviewing proposed amendments to the AMO National Constitution and casting an online vote was sent by email by TrueBallot to American Maritime Officers members and applicants over Labor Day weekend. On September 10, TrueBallot will send the same information again by email to all AMO members and applicants who have not yet voted in the referendum.
A copy of the AMO National Constitution detailing the proposed amendments in red and green type is available on the AMO website and on the TrueBallot landing page. Additionally, on September 5, a copy of the AMO National Constitution detailing the proposed amendments in red type with strikethrough markings and bold green type was added to the TrueBallot landing page for the referendum and to the AMO website based upon a request.
If you did not receive the original email from TrueBallot in your “inbox,” please check your “spam” or “junk” email folder. If you have not voted and do not receive the follow-up email from TrueBallot in your “inbox” by the end of the day on September 10, please check your “spam” or “junk” email folder.
If you did not receive an email at all from TrueBallot in your “inbox” or your “spam” or “junk” folder, please .
In your message, please include your full name and book or applicant number, and a note that you did not receive a balloting email from TrueBallot. If possible, please send the email using the email account you have on file with AMO, which will be the same email address TrueBallot is using to contact you with voting access.
The online referendum will conclude September 30. Only votes cast by those who are AMO members in good standing at the conclusion of the referendum will be counted.
All AMO members will need to have their dues paid in full through the current quarter to establish good standing and for their ballots to be counted.
AMO applicants who wish to have their votes counted must establish status as members in good standing with the union prior to September 30, 2024.
For all who wish to have their vote counted in this referendum, it is highly recommended the requirements to establish status as an AMO member in good standing be completed as soon as possible and well in advance of September 30, 2024.
Crews of the USNS Stockham and USNS Lopez gather for a “Welcome Home” photo when they arrived in Jacksonville in August.
In late August, the crews of the USNS GYSGT Fred W. Stockham, USNS 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez and M/V Roy P. Benavidez returned home more than four months after deploying to the Gaza region to participate in a mission to deliver critical humanitarian aid to the conflict-ravaged area.
The ships successfully served in a Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore (JLOTS) operation dubbed Operation Neptune Solace, transporting components for a floating pier. Due to the diligent efforts of the crews in daunting circumstances, more than 20 million pounds of desperately needed supplies were delivered over the floating pier to residents in the region.
American Maritime Officers represents all licensed officers on each vessel.
The crew of each vessel received a Bravo Zulu from Rear Admiral Philip Sobeck, Commander of Military Sealift Command, welcoming them home and thanking them for their unwavering service to the nation and the people of the Gaza region.
“Your efforts demonstrated impressive adaptability and were instrumental in facilitating and transferring humanitarian assistance into Gaza,” Rear Adm. Sobeck wrote. “Your crew did an outstanding job responding to a global crisis and prevailed in a dangerous and unpredictable area of the world. You return to a grateful nation. As you arrive home from your deployment, please accept my deepest thanks and appreciation for your continued service as you enjoy well-deserved time with family and friends.”
In total, the crew of each vessel spent between 112 and 120 days on mission thousands of miles away from home. In addition to performing the JLOTS mission, the ships housed military personnel and served as a staging area for military equipment and supplies. The USNS Stockham and USNS Lopez, operated by Crowley Government Services for MSC, returned to Jacksonville, Fla. on August 21 and 22 and were greeted by American Maritime Officers National President Willie Barrere.
The Benavidez, operated by Ocean Duchess, was first to arrive in Gaza and returned to Norfolk, Va. on August 29.
“Our AMO officers proved once again that, even in a hazardous and contested environment, the United States Merchant Marine will deliver the cargo,” Barrere said. “I’m proud of our officers who completed their mission in the face of dangerous conditions and honorably assisted a people in deep crisis. This proves, once again, no matter the circumstance, we will deliver the goods.”
Captains Paul Ginnane (USNS Stockham) and Pete Clark (USNS Lopez) received commendations from MSC and Crowley for their efforts during the humanitarian mission to Gaza.
The USNS Stockham and USNS Lopez arrived back in Jacksonville, Fla. in August after more than four months away on a mission to Gaza.
Amazing footage of American Maritime Officers members on the M/V Shenandoah Trader discussing how it feels to perform CONSOL operations for Military Sealift Command can be viewed on the AMO YouToube channel.
The minutes for the regular monthly American Maritime Officers membership meeting held August 7 at AMO Headquarters have been posted in the secure section of the AMO website, which is accessible to active AMO members and applicants.
AMO members will need to click on the “MEMBER LOGIN” tab on the AMO website (LOGIN on mobile devices) and log into the member portal of the AMO website. Members and applicants using the updated AMO website for the first time will need to register a new account for the member portal, a link for which is featured on the MEMBER LOGIN page.
The following is an article published by the American Maritime Partnership featuring Jones Act vessels manned in all licensed positions by American Maritime Officers.
Tropical Storm Ernesto hit Puerto Rico earlier this August, bringing 60-mph winds and heavy rain. Despite the impact, American Maritime carriers like Crowley and TOTE Maritime maintained the vital supply chain between the U.S. mainland and Puerto Rico, ensuring no service delays.
Crowley swiftly reopened service through careful preparation and safety measures. The company’s hurricane plan secured facilities and pre-positioned vessels, enabling a quick response. Crowley’s fleet, including two LNG-fueled container ships and the Isla Grande Terminal, part of a $500 million investment in supporting the Island’s supply chain, was ready for post-storm operations.
Crowley also supported its 300 Puerto Rican employees with safety guidance and essential supplies, enabling them to resume terminal operations as soon as conditions allowed.
The Jones Act plays a key role in enabling reliable deliveries to and from Puerto Rico during crises like tropical storms and hurricanes. The act, which mandates that goods shipped between U.S. ports be carried on vessels that are U.S.-flagged, U.S.-built and crewed by U.S. citizens, ensures that the island’s maritime connections remain robust and responsive.
Thanks to the Jones Act, Puerto Rico benefits from dedicated, resilient services that are crucial during emergencies – unlike foreign carriers, which can be days late. American maritime carriers have substantial operations on the mainland to ensure this dedicated service. In particular, Florida stands out as a maritime bridge for the Island.
David Wood, president of the Florida Maritime Partnership, highlighted the importance of American maritime companies in ensuring cargo is ready for quick delivery during storms in MarineLog. He noted that the Port of Jacksonville (JAXPORT), which handles nearly 90% of Puerto Rico’s maritime cargo, plays a vital role in this effort.
“Three ocean carriers serve the island from Jacksonville, providing competitive, dedicated service for people and businesses on Puerto Rico, especially during hurricane season,” Wood wrote. “They carry food, supplies, vehicles, and industrial equipment, ensuring the island’s needs are met.”
By the time San Juan Harbor reopened for vessels on Aug. 15, Crowley’s Isla Grande Terminal had resumed normal hours and the 2,400-TEU container ship Taíno was ready to discharge supplies as scheduled.
“This was a team effort at Crowley because we understand how important and reliable the U.S. domestic maritime industry is for the people of Puerto Rico,” said Jose Nazario, senior director of operations for Crowley Logistics in Puerto Rico. “Our hurricane planning is done in collaboration with leaders on the island, federal agencies and ports to ensure we are resilient and responsive in an emergency. The dedication of our employees is something we bring every day on the island because it’s our home, too.”
American Maritime’s preparedness and quick action in the wake of Tropical Storm Ernesto underscored the domestic industry’s critical role in providing unmatched service for Puerto Rico, particularly during hurricane season.
American Maritime Officers members aboard the El Coquí, here in Jacksonville, Fla. in August, included Chief Engineer Eric Blanchard, Captain Nick St. Jean and First Engineer Frank Luke. The liquefied natural gas-fueled Jones Act vessel was loading much needed goods and supplies headed for Puerto Rico and the ship was one of the first to respond to the island after Tropical Storm Ernesto hit in early August.
Second Mate Mike Panettieri lowers the stern ramp to load cargo on the El Coquí as the crew prepares for its voyage to Puerto Rico.
Second Engineer Vladimir Daviddochkin is greeted by AMO National President Willie Barrere during a ship visit in Jacksonville.
Captain Nick St. Jean and Chief Mate Jaime Torres oversee loading operations at JAXPORT before departing for Puerto Rico.
Access information for reviewing proposed amendments to the AMO National Constitution and casting an online vote was sent by email by TrueBallot to American Maritime Officers members and applicants.
A copy of the AMO National Constitution detailing the proposed amendments in red and green type is available on this website and on the TrueBallot landing page. Additionally, a copy of the AMO National Constitution detailing the proposed amendments in red type with strikethrough markings and bold green type is available on this website and on the TrueBallot landing page.
If you did not receive the email from TrueBallot this weekend in your “inbox,” please check your “spam” or “junk” email folder.
If you did not receive an email at all from TrueBallot over the weekend in your “inbox” or your “spam” or “junk” folder, .
In your message, please include your full name and book or applicant number, and a note that you did not receive a balloting email from TrueBallot. If possible, please send the email using the email account you have on file with AMO, which will be the same email address TrueBallot is using to contact you with voting access.
Based upon a request, a separate version of the proposed amendments to the AMO National Constitution (with changes marked in red and green) will be made available by September 5 both on the AMO website and on the TrueBallot voting page. This separate version will include strikethrough marking for text proposed for redaction. Text proposed for addition will remain bold green type.
The online referendum will conclude September 30.
All AMO members will need to have their dues paid in full through the current quarter to establish good standing and for their ballots to be counted.
AMO applicants who wish to have their votes counted must establish status as members in good standing with the union prior to September 30, 2024.
For all who wish to have their vote counted in this referendum, it is highly recommended the requirements to establish status as an AMO member in good standing be completed as soon as possible and well in advance of September 30, 2024.
View the AMO newspaper online in News and Bulletins.
Greetings AMO Members and Applicants,
The National Executive Board of American Maritime Officers, in accordance with Article XXV, is proposing a series of amendments to the AMO National Constitution. This notice and the copy of the AMO National Constitution detailing the proposed amendments available online are provided here for informational purposes only.
These proposed amendments are subject to approval by the AMO membership in a union-wide referendum, which is being conducted online by TrueBallot. AMO members and applicants will be contacted directly by TrueBallot via email at their email addresses on file with the union. TrueBallot will provide access to information for reviewing the proposed amendments online and instructions for casting an online vote.
The online referendum commences August 31 and will conclude September 30. Only votes cast by AMO members in good standing will be counted at the conclusion of the referendum. AMO applicants who wish to have their votes counted must establish status as members in good standing with the union prior to September 30, 2024.
The amendments we are recommending will update the AMO National Constitution to ensure governance of American Maritime Officers by our National Executive Board and more clearly define the responsibilities of our National Executive Board and AMO National President.
We are recommending the amendments described above to preclude many possible unilateral actions by any person holding the office of National President that may be in contradiction to the best interests of the AMO membership and the union as a whole. Without these amendments, the office of the National President would retain the authority of unilateral action in several areas, and little or no practical recourse or remedy for such action would be available to the AMO membership or National Executive Board.
Many of the proposed amendments will modernize the AMO National Constitution by clarifying items about which there have been disputes over meaning and intent in the past. Several of the updates will allow for actions and notifications to be carried out and transmitted via electronic means rather than via USPS or courier services.
Several of the proposed amendments will allow for a transition to modern means of communication. In order to ensure the ability to maintain effective communications between the AMO membership and the National Executive Board, updates would be made to the responsibilities of members and applicants for keeping the union informed of their current mobile numbers, email addresses and physical addresses, as detailed in the proposed amendments.
Some of the proposed amendments were included at the recommendation of our General Counsel. Some of the proposed amendments are grammatical or typographical corrections.
As noted in the online document detailing the proposed amendments, the AMO National Constitution currently exists in obsolete software that does not function on newer computer operating systems. Membership approval of the proposed amendments would also be considered consent to transfer the AMO National Constitution to contemporary software, including Microsoft Word and Adobe InDesign.
The last union-wide referendum on amendments to the AMO National Constitution was conducted in 2009.
On behalf of the AMO National Executive Board, I strongly encourage all AMO members to review the proposed amendments and participate in this online referendum. I also urge all AMO applicants who want to participate and have their votes counted to complete the process to become AMO members in good standing well in advance of September 30.
Willie Barrere
National President