Our Thanksgiving Day finds its origins in Plymouth, Massachusetts in the harvest celebration of 1621 and the declaration of an observed day of thanksgiving two years later in Plymouth Colony, established by the passengers of the Mayflower. With 102 passengers and a crew of about 30 onboard, the crossing had taken 66 days in the wooden vessel of approximately 105 feet in length.
In the centuries since, our nation has relied upon the sea for food, transportation, commerce, and national defense. We continue to do so now and will into the future. Together, the nearly 3500 members of our union, American Maritime Officers, exemplify and proudly carry out the traditions of our nation’s maritime heritage.
Many AMO members are at work aboard their vessels, moving commercial cargo or assisting our Armed Forces, while others are on vacation. On behalf of the AMO Executive Board, officials, and staff, I thank each and every one of you for your professionalism. We wish all of you the very best throughout the holiday season as it comes over the horizon.
Safe travels wherever you are this Thanksgiving, and may this be a wonderfully memorable time of year for all.
Willie Barrere
National President