AMO Currents - American Maritime Officers on the ‘Maersk Alabama’ incident

AMO Currents - Posted: April 9, 2009

American Maritime Officers on the ‘Maersk Alabama’ incident

On behalf of the executive board and seagoing membership of American Maritime Officers, I salute the officers and crew of the Maersk Alabama for their heroic actions in response to an attack upon their vessel by pirates off the Somalian coast. The armed thugs who boarded the ship and claimed control for a brief time had not counted on the courage and resolve of the American merchant mariner.

While we do not know in specific detail how the Maersk Alabama’s unarmed complement regained control of their ship, we do know for certain that the actions of the officers and crew exemplified the singular spirit of the civilian American seafarer during a crisis.

We also know for certain that all U.S. merchant mariners will continue to ply perilous waters worldwide without fear and without hesitation in service to our nation’s economy, in support of U.S. Armed Forces, and — as in the case of the Maersk Alabama — on humanitarian missions that reflect the generosity and good will of the American people and the U.S. government.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Maersk Alabama Captain Richard Phillips and his family. By all accounts, Captain Phillips offered himself as a hostage and was prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice to protect his shipmates. This brave and honorable man must be released unharmed — a point we hope his captors will understand as the U.S. Navy destroyer USS Bainbridge arrives on the scene.

Our union stands ready to assist the Seafarers International Union, the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association and the International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots as they work with U.S. officials through diplomatic, military and political channels to reunite Captain Phillips safely with his family and his shipmates.

Tom Bethel
National President
American Maritime Officers
April 9, 2009