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

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amwwwMry Vice President OF THE United States Albert Gore THE VICE PRESIDENT WASHINGTON June 15, 1998 Class of 1998 United States Merchant Marine Academy- Kings Point, New York 11024 Dear Graduates: I am pleased to have this opportunity to extend my personal greetings as you graduate from the United States Merchant Marine Academy. While I regret that I am unable to join you in person, I would like to add my congratulations to those of your family and friends at this special time. Certainly, you can be proud of this outstanding accomplishment. As you have gained knowledge, expertise, and leadership skills, you have also gained opportunities for yourself and for the country. I appreciate your commitment to America, and I am confident that you will enjoy continued success in the future. Tipper joins me in sending our warmest congratulations on this exciting occasion. Again, please accept my best wishes. AG evk 15

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President OF THE United States Bill Clinton THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON March 4, 1998 I am delighted to extend congratulations to the United States Merchant Marine Academy's Class of 1998. Throughout America's history -- from the Revolutionary War to today's global challenges -- our United States merchant marine has fulfilled its mission with patriotism and efficiency, trans- porting our nation's cargoes in times of both peace and conflict. As we look to the future, we recognize the continuing importance of our maritime fleet to the maintenance of our commercial and defense maritime interests. I commend each of you for your willingness to carry on this legacy of service and to make your own contributions to America's great merchant marine tradition. The knowledge and experience you have earned at Kings Point will help you play a vital role in preparing our nation for the challenges and possibilities of the 21st century. Best wishes for every success in the years ahead. 14

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Secretary OF Transportation Rodney E. Slater THE SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION WASHINGTON, D.C. 20590 April 28, 1998 MESSAGE TO THE U.S. MERCHANT MARINE ACADEMY CLASS OF 1998 It is an honor to congratulate each of you upon your graduation from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. Your time at Kings Point has given you the knowledge, skills and abilities to be outstanding professional mariners and leaders in the U.S. transportation industry. As the world stands at the threshold of the 21s' century, we look to you to maintain the finest traditions of America’s seafarers. We stand ready to watch and to cheer as your vision for America transcends our vision. We stand ready for you to complete reengineering the American maritime industry begun with implementation of the Maritime Security Program. And, we stand ready to follow the blueprint for a transportation industry that is about more than concrete, asphalt, and steel. In your careers, you will be expected to execute diverse tasks with every ounce of your energy. These tasks will require all the competence you can muster, all the caring for your team and all the strength of character you possess. Your time at Kings Point has prepared you to face the challenges, opportunities, and, yes, frustrations, you will inevitably confront as your careers progress. The secret is to always go forward; seeing the good in people, taking on a challenging job, or righting wrongs. To the Class of 1998,1 say thank you for your commitment to upholding the Academy’s motto, Acta Non Verba - “Deeds not Words.” Godspeed. Rodney E. Slatj 16