The Merchant Marine Express

Toledo, Ohio
American Maritime Officers Union

Folks-
As many of you who have been following my Merchant Marine Express e-journals over the past few years..I usually write from a ship as events happen from time to time. This time, I have been quite busy while away from the home but not aboard a ship.

I just passed my 2nd Officer’s examination (2nd Mate in maritime lingo) today, Tuesday, after spending over three rigorous weeks studying and testing at the local Union facility, in Toledo, Ohio!!!

This is a promotion, if you will- as it is a step above 3rd Mate

In addition, I tested to receive an additional stamp of “Master of 1600 tons” which is a supplement to my Mate’s license.

I’ve prepared for these test for six months which consisted of three seperate tests over the course of three days. It, somewhat, was the equivalent of passing the ‘Bar’ (law test). I think I put in over 200 hours of studying within the past six months with 100 hours in the last month, alone.

The local Union hall- American Maritime Officers Union in Toledo has been my home for these past few weeks. There, I have had a lot of personal study time and beaucoup amounts of professional tutoring.

Achieving such a feat wasn’t easy, and giving up wasn’t an option. Most of what I’ve had trouble with comprehending was the very subject I’ve tutored young adolescents in recent past: Math. But, patience and lots of practice sure paid off!

This promotion on my License will enable me to work at the capacity of a 2nd Mate OR 3rd Mate as the hierarchy dictates.
Yet, If it wasn’t for family and friends, this ‘voyage’ of becoming a 2nd Mate couldn’t have happened.

And a special thanks to my wife, Michelle who had to put up with my stubbornness at the same time she’s changing careers of becoming a Medical Assistant.

Her folks also have helped tremendously, as well - Christine and Samuel. Really spectacular people with a lot of love and support!

Thank to all.

If you have a story to share, please feel free to respond. I would love to hear it!

Have a great Day!
- Nadir

Tags: Michigan – Home Port