The following is a letter from SIU President Michael Sacco to the SIU crew of the Maersk Alabama. The crew is expected to return to the U.S. later this week.Message to SIU Crew of Maersk Alabama
April 13, 2009
Dear SIU Brothers:
First and foremost, the entire SIU family is overjoyed to know that all of the mariners from the Maersk Alabama are now safe. On behalf of your union, welcome home!
Already, you have received many accolades from all across the nation and around the world, including comparisons to the American heroes aboard Flight 93 on September 11. Those tributes are well-deserved and completely appropriate. You risked your lives to stand up for yourselves, for your shipmates, for your vessel and for the American flag. You stood tall under harrowing circumstances which only may be fully understood by those who’ve experienced them.
You showed the whole world what the U.S. Merchant Marine is all about.
At this time, I’m also in the process of conveying my thanks and appreciation to the Navy, the F.B.I. and our brothers and sisters at the MM&P and MEBA. This saga was, to say the least, a team effort. Naturally, I include a special acknowledgement for Captain Phillips, whose strength and selflessness are truly remarkable.
There is much more I’d like to say, but I’m sure you’ve got a lot of catching up to do with family and friends. For now, please know that I couldn’t be more pleased to see that you’re safe, and I couldn’t be more inspired by your patriotic spirit. You have written a remarkable chapter in the history of a union whose background features many examples of bravery and sacrifice. Your story takes a back seat to none of them.
Fraternally,
Michael Sacco
President
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