Although the year is winding down, this remains a busy and productive time for Seafarers.Once again, our members are answering the call of Operation Iraqi Freedom, this time for OIF3. As with the first two phases of the sealift component of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Seafarers during this current stage are fulfilling their role as part of the nation’s fourth arm of defense.
Rock-solid professionalism, performance, patriotism and reliability are nothing new for the SIU. It has been that way since our founding in 1938. It will always be that way.
I applaud our members who are sailing in support of our troops. You are an ongoing source of pride for your brothers and sisters throughout the union, for merchant marine veterans and for the soldiers and citizens of our nation. You are a vital part of the U.S. effort in Iraq, in Afghanistan and elsewhere overseas.
It goes without saying that this is an enormously important mission, one that continues to involve sacrifice and risk. The same is true with Operation Enduring Freedom, the war against terrorism.
At the same time, Seafarers also are doing an excellent job meeting our obligations in the commercial sector of the U.S.-flag fleet. That, too, is an important mission.
SIU Elections
This month marks the start of balloting in the union’s elections, which take place every four years. The current and previous issues of the LOG contain a list of voting locations and other balloting information, including how to vote by absentee ballot. That same information remains available on the SIU’s web site.
As I’ve said before, the SIU’s direction begins with the individual Seafarer. You elect the officials to lead the way in improving your union. You hold the power to decide the outcome of proposed constitutional amendments like those on this year’s SIU ballot.
That power only works if you vote. Regardless of whom you support in the SIU election, and wherever you stand on the proposed amendments, make the effort to cast your votes. Encourage your brother and sister Seafarers to do the same.
Tonnage Tax
Last month, President Bush signed into law H.R. 4520, the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004.
The new law includes a provision that should help provide a more level playing field for companies operating U.S.-flag fleets. Specifically, the law allows American-flag operators engaged in the international trades to pay a yearly tax based on their fleet’s overall tonnage instead of paying an annual corporate income tax.
This is good news for our industry, in part because most foreign maritime competitors already operate under a similar tax structure.
And once again, the new law reminds all of us that politics in many ways governs our industry. Whether we’re talking about tax structures, training requirements, shipboard and port security procedures, cabotage laws or some other rule or regulation that affects maritime, the bottom line is that we must remain politically active in order to make our voices heard.
Thanksgiving
On a personal note, I extend warmest wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving to all Seafarers, SIU pensioners and their families. I especially want to offer best wishes to our brothers and sisters who are at sea for the holiday. It’s never easy being away from home at this time of year, but, as mentioned, your work is helping ensure America’s national and economic security. That’s no exaggeration, and your commitment is noticed and appreciated.
Professionally, I believe we in the SIU have much to be thankful for as we look back on the year so far. We have organized new vessels, ratified good contracts, and maintained excellent health care benefits at a time when medical coverage is the top, most difficult issue in virtually every contract across the country. We have helped make numerous improvements at our affiliated training center in Piney Point, Md. And of course, we have delivered the goods for U.S. troops overseas.
Again, I wish you a safe and happy holiday.
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