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

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THE SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION WASHINGTON, D.C. 20590 To the Class of 2000 My heartiest congratulations to each of you on your graduation from the United States Merchant Marine Academy. Your degree represents four years of discipline and hard work in a most rigorous program. As graduates of the Academy's Class of 2000, the spirit and enthusiasm you possess today will prepare you to lead the nation with vision and vigilance as we embark on the new century. We are all counting on you to ensure that the American flag will continue to sail in the sea lanes of the world. I am delighted that a good many of you have elected to move directly into positions in the Armed Forces, while others will serve the maritime industry, at sea and ashore. An increasing number of you will take up careers in the all- important intermodal transportation field. Kings Point has prepared you well. Your parents and loved ones have cheered you on. I am proud of you, and I bid you fair wind and following seas. Rodney E. Slater

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★ ★ pfr Sf« ★ THE VICE PRESIDENT WASHINGTON May 1,2000 Class of 2000 United States Merchant Marine Academy Kings Point, New York 11024 Dear Graduates: I am pleased to have this opportunity to send greetings as you graduate from the United States Merchant Marine Academy. While I regret that I am unable to join you for today's ceremony, I want to add my congratulations to those of your family and friends at this special time. Certainly, you should be proud of this outstanding accomplishment. As you have gained knowledge, you have gained opportunities for yourself and for the country. In addition, I particularly want to commend you for the commitment you have made to serving in the United States military. All Americans are truly fortunate to have someone of your caliber working on behalf of their interests. Once again, please accept my congratulations along with my warmest hopes for your continued success in the years to come. Sincerely, A1 Gore AG ewb

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Message to the Class of 2000 The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy's Class of 2000 holds a unique place in the history of this wonderful institution. The some 220 men and women who graduated in June make up the first class of the new century. And what a century it promises to be! Technology that could only be described as science fiction a generation ago is now coming to fruition on your watch. Electric drive propulsion, alternative fuels, technical interoperability and electronic navigation charts - these are just a few of many exciting areas opening to you as you begin your careers. By now you have transitioned to the working world - civilian or military - and I am confident that you are putting to good use the superb education and training that Kings Point provided. Whatever specific field you ultimately make your life's dream, set your sights above the common mean. Kings Pointers have stood out from the beginning class because they possess a rare quality in addition to technical aptitude and shills - leadership. America will need maritime leaders to confront unending challenges at sea, on inland waterways and in port terminals as cargo and passenger traffic increase dramatically in the first decades of the 21st century. I am confident that this class of 2000 will stand tall and deliver on this and as yet unknown future challenges. Sincerely, Maritime Administrator