The following letter was sent by Elizabeth Finnigan to American Maritime Officers National President Paul Doell.

Thank you so much for your tribute to my son Michael Finnigan and your kindness to his wife Susan. I am forever indebted for the genuine and heartfelt account (Mourning Mike Finnigan) you wrote in AMO Currents. I gained a previously unknown understanding of some of his maritime related activities and responsibilities. It was no surprise however to know of his relentless energy and concern for each of the union members and Officers of the Executive Board. Everyone mattered to him and he sought to encourage the personal growth and good qualities of all.

When Michael was just three years old he told me he wanted to be the Captain of a Ship and he never waived from that goal during his young years. He continued to work and study "climbing the hawsepipe" to achieve the success he eventually accomplished. It was such a proud occasion for his father and I when he took command of the USNS Pomeroy in San Diego. His concern for the ship, its crew, and the Pomeroy Family was legendary. One of the first things he did was to visit the relatives, the town, and the grave-site of Ralph Pomeroy so as to enhance his knowledge of this hero. In addition he enlivened the ship's passageway with framed pictures of the ship, letters from Ralph Pomeroy, maps, documents, and pictures of the Korean War. Later when opportunity arose he left as Pomeroy Master to accept the position of Executive Vice President of the AMO. He felt that he could make meaningful contributions regarding contracts, benefits, and the future of the union.

During my winter Florida stays Michael always kept contact with visits, flowers, calls, and solicitation for my welfare. He was kindness personified. When I inquired if his dedicated extension of his scheduled union duties was not totally overwhelming he answered, "Mom I love my job!"

The loss of my son, Michael is tremendous and my tears are shared with all those who knew, loved, and still honor his memory.