A dozen members of American Maritime Officers and volunteers from Seafarers International Union pitched in to sail the historic Liberty ship SS Jeremiah O’Brien during a Memorial Day event in San Francisco on May 30. The Liberty ship, named after a Revolutionary War sea captain, sailed in World War II delivering cargo to American and Allied troops and is one of the last operational ships of its make in the world.
Third Mate Frederick Sutton, who works aboard the Cape Henry, took the time out to volunteer to sail the SS Jeremiah O’Brien. With him is AMO West Coast Boarding Representative Alex Butler.
Frederick Sutton watches as Chief Mate Stefan Goad, Third Mate John Gibbons and SIU Bosun Gheorghe Savencu make fast the after tug as the SS Jeremiah O’Brien gets underway.
Second Assistant Engineer Mike McMillan greets an SIU member volunteering with him on the SS Jeremiah O’Brien.
SIU Bosun Gheorghe Savencu waves to the crowd gathered on the dock as the SS Jeremiah O’Brien departs into San Fransisco Bay.
AMO Rep. Alex Butler poses with a Rosie the Riveter-inspired crew visiting the steam ship on its Memorial Day voyage.
Third Mate John Gibbons takes a break from his tasks to enjoy some scenic views from the SS Jeremiah O’Brien.
Liberty built over 2,700 vessels during World War II, but only three are still in existence. SS Jeremiah O’Brien, which launched in 1943, is the lone ship still active to remain unaltered and serves as a museum most of the year at dock, but sails twice a year.