United States Merchant Marine Academy - Midships Yearbook (Kings Point, NY)

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 SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION m w J'4rES THE SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION WASHINGTON. D.C. 20590 May 26, 1995 To the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Class of 1995 It is a great pleasure to extend my congratulations to each member of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Class of 1995. It is an exciting time for the American maritime industries. For the first time in over 25 years, American shipyards are showing signs of revitalization as a result of the Administration's shipbuilding and shipyard initiatives. In addition to our shipbuilding efforts, we are also pursuing a program to keep our U.S.-flag commercial fleet operating on the high seas in support of America's national and economic security. With the full support of President Clinton, I have submitted the Maritime Security Program of 1995 to the 104th Congress. Our U.S.-flag fleet is at the most critical juncture in our Nation's history, and this vital legislation will assure America's future as a maritime nation. As we continue to honor the monumental sacrifices and celebrate the achievements of our U.S. merchant sailors during World War II, we must also look to the future. It is more important than ever that we pass maritime revitalization legislation this year. It would be a fitting tribute to those merchant seafarers who served the Nation so honorably throughout our history. I wish you all the very best as you begin what I know will be a rewarding and exciting career. God bless you and Godspeed. Federico Pena ii 1 ti

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VICE PRESIDENT Albert Gore N the vice president . WASHINGTON June 1, 1995 The Class of 1995 United States Merchant Marine Academy Kings Point, New York 11024 Dear Students: I am pleased to have this opportunity to send my personal greetings as you graduate from the United States Merchant Marine Academy. Certainly, you should be proud of this outstanding accomplishment, and I am glad to add my congratulations to those of your family and friends at this special time. Education is one of the most important ingredients for success, not only on an individual level but for our nation as a whole. I particularly want to commend you for the commitment you have made to serving the United States. All Americans are truly fortunate to have individuals of your caliber working on behalf of their interests. Once again, please accept my congratulations along with my warmest hopes for your continuing success in the years to come. Sincerely, A1 Gore AG mrm 89

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MARITIME ADMINISTRATION Albert Herberger US Department Administrator 400 Seventh street S w Of Transportation Washington DC 20590 Maritime Administration To the Class of 1995 I congratulate each of you on your graduation from the United States Merchant Marine Academy. You have completed four rigorous years of training and education and now stand ready to join a proud profession. The United States owes much to our merchant sailors, who opened new avenues of commerce and helped nurture a fledgling nation, built on principles of individual freedom, into the world's greatest superpower. You follow the path of our Country's maritime leaders and innovators, such as DeWitt Clinton (1769-1828) who guided the development of the Erie Canal, Matthew Fontain Maury (1806-1873) who was instrumental in shortening voyage times and improving safety of navigation, and Captain Nettie Johnson (1866-1921), who pioneered the early design of towboats and river vessel operations on the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. In recent years, there has been dramatic change in the efficiency and productivity in ocean transportation. The prime innovators continue to be our American carriers. They have pioneered specialized ships, containerization, double stack rail cars, specialized containers, electronic equipment identification, and satellite tracking of containerized freight, all services that American businesses demand today. You follow this long tradition of excellence and I know you stand ready to continue that tradition. The merchant marine remains vital to our Nation's security and economy. I am committed to continue supporting the important industry you have chosen for your careers. Class of '95, forty years ago I graduated from Kings Point and so I share a special bond with each of you. By adding your skills, energy and professionalism to this industry you will help maintain its value. You must take on the challenge of keeping a skilled American maritime presence on the high seas. I extend my best wishes for fulfilling careers, fair winds and following seas. • ■% V A ' —- c-f A.J. Herberger Maritime Administrator Class of 1955