If anyone wants to know what the SIU is all about, check out the comments in this month’s LOG from the newest class of recertified bosuns (page 7). There, you’ll read about how the union and our affiliated training center have helped people find direction and become highly productive workers in a vitally important field. You’ll read about how SIU members have been able to make a good living and provide for their families by taking advantage of opportunities available through the union and the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Last month wasn’t the first time I’ve heard such comments from graduates of the various upgrading programs at Piney Point, but it nevertheless was heartwarming, especially at this time of year. We remain a family in the SIU—union brothers and sisters, united by common goals, including the promotion of America’s national and economic security.
If anyone wants to know what the SIU is all about, read the words of Government Services Division member Billy Bushey on page 9. Brother Bushey understands how and why the SIU looks out for its members. He does a great job explaining it, and just in case anyone’s wondering, the article was totally his idea.
If anyone wants to know what an SIU member is made of, take a look at the “Paint Tacoma” feature on pages 12-13. The union members, employees and friends who volunteered their time and labor to help others didn’t do so because they wanted recognition. But they deserve it, as do all other Seafarers who take part it charitable activities.
As another year winds down, I’ve never been more proud of the SIU and its members—and I’ve never been more grateful for the unwavering support of rank-and-file Seafarers.
Strong Turnout for Elections
Union families came through with another strong turnout last month on Election Day. Even though these were so-called “off-year elections,” they nevertheless were very important to all working families across the country.
The same will be true in 2008, a presidential election year. Once again, it’ll be up to us to help elect or re-elect pro-maritime, pro-worker candidates—and then to follow up by fully educating them about our issues.
I often use this space to discuss politics, and that’s simply because grassroots political action remains crucial to Seafarers’ livelihoods. If you’re new to the SIU, you owe it to yourself to at least understand the basics of how our industry is regulated and how we’re affected by maritime and transportation laws along with government agencies. If you’ve been around, I’m sure you already know how much the U.S. Merchant Marine interacts with those agencies and how much we rely on laws like the Jones Act, cargo preference and the U.S. Maritime Security Program to help sustain America’s fourth arm of defense.
In any case, we have no choice but to remain very active in politics, and we’ll do so in 2008 and the years that follow.
Happy Holidays
With the holidays upon us, on behalf of the union’s executive board, I offer heartfelt best wishes to all Seafarers, retirees and SIU family members for an enjoyable, safe holiday season. I especially want to extend warmest wishes to our SIU brothers and sisters who are spending the holidays at sea, delivering materiel for our armed forces and transporting commercial goods that help sustain America’s economy. It’s never fun being away from home at this time of year, but sometimes it goes with the territory in this industry. Thank you for your dedication and for a job well done.
Last but not least, my thoughts and prayers go out to our troops who are deployed overseas. I wish you success in your missions and a safe return home.
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