Seafarer Paul Weil has found an unusual, eye-catching way to raise the profile of the U.S. Merchant Marine.The QMED-electrician recently secured a custom-built chopper (pictured at left and below) featuring artwork that promotes the industry, the SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education.
“I figured it would help bring attention,” said Weil, a 1999 graduate of the Paul Hall Center’s unlicensed apprentice program who has sailed in Operation Iraqi Freedom. “It’s also a way of giving back to the union and the school,” which together helped him find his niche.
A longtime motorcycle enthusiast, Weil, 32, said the chopper features a 1500cc Super Sport engine and a hydraulic clutch and brake system that helps maintain “a clean look.” It has six gears and – theoretically – would top out around 160 mph or more.
Weil, a frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Center, also said he plans to add custom rims and a few other odds and ends to his new chopper, which was built in Prince Frederick, Md.
A lengthier feature on the Seafarer and his artistic ride will be included in an upcoming issue of the Seafarers LOG.
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