http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ The Merchant Marine Express: Last 35 Posts en Thu, 29 Jul 2010 16:07:05 +0000 http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=1174#post-1230 Wed, 12 May 2010 17:41:07 +0000 mikez76sp 1230@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>I Recently received my AB Special my MMD does not have my stcw-95 endorsement or RFPNW(lookout only) Do i need to contact the USCG and have that put on or is all of those certificates meshed into the AB-Special. I would really appreciate any reccomendations.</p> <p>Thank you </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=22#post-1229 Sat, 27 Mar 2010 21:12:50 +0000 sailorsgirl 1229@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>Since the Somali pirate/U.S. ship incident, have there been any measures taken at all to secure ships and their crew? i.e. at the very minimum round the clock watches once in piracy-prone areas? </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=16#post-1228 Sat, 27 Mar 2010 21:09:30 +0000 sailorsgirl 1228@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>tinkerchell -where down south are you moving to? I'm in the Myrtle Beach area...</p> <p>I know where you're coming from exactly - when I was in school and planning our wedding last September, it seemed like the time flew by when my husband was gone. But now that I am just waitressing, time is dragging. I love the "billow" idea -so cute and necessary! </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=1148#post-1220 Thu, 31 Dec 2009 04:36:20 +0000 marinerguy 1220@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>Welcome! Enjoy the New Year! </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=1148#post-1201 Fri, 13 Nov 2009 15:25:30 +0000 torwheerm 1201@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>What's up everyone, I'm new to the forum and just wanted to say hey. Hopefully I posted this in the right section! </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=16#post-1179 Wed, 28 Oct 2009 22:52:23 +0000 tinkerchell 1179@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>Hi ladies, it is great to find this forum. I can completely relate to so much you all are saying. My husband and I were just married 2 months ago. He has had a job as a third mate for the past year where he is away for two months and home for two months. I know that is pretty short compared to what some people deal with but it feels like forever to me! When we met he was still in school and then he had a job on a tug which was only 3 weeks on, 3 weeks off (how I miss those days). During his last time out I was busy planning our wedding and the time flew but this time has really been hard, probably the worst ever. I feel like the separation is that much worse now that we're married. To top it off we're going to be moving down south in a couple months where I won't know anyone! Oh and I do something even crazier than sleeping with his sweatshirt, I have actually put his shirt on a pillow to lay on! I even have a nickname for it, since my hubby's name is Bill I call it "billow"! So sad... Haha. Anyway I hope you all don't think I'm crazy for sharing that! It is great to find other women who understand the unique lifestyle of a sailor's wife! </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=16#post-1170 Thu, 22 Oct 2009 22:13:26 +0000 sailorsgirl 1170@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>Jo-ell - you have expressed my sentiments exactly. I make sure he doesnt wash his favorite sweatshirt before he leaves and I keep it by my pillow at night. I have been with my hubby for almost five years now (recently married though). I clean the house and try to keep myself busy, try to work out etc. I feel like I am never 100 percent happy though when he's gone. So funny, when I read ur comments I felt like I was reading what I once said to my husband. I told him it wasn't fair that I've finally found the person I want to spend the rest of my life with, but I can only see him for little bits at a time. I wonder if they feel similarly. Men always have such tough exteriors, but sometimes I just want to know if he misses me as much as I miss him! Silly? </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=16#post-1169 Thu, 22 Oct 2009 22:04:47 +0000 sailorsgirl 1169@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>I am so happy to see all of the support that this website and blog has received. As wives/girlfriends of merchant marines we have a very unique relationship. Although, it's tough to be apart I know that we as a couple are stronger than most. Our men work so hard, we should be very proud. It's nice to hear about families who are successful despite him going away all the time. For those of you who have kids, do you have trouble explaining to them where their dad is? Do they get angry/sad? I also agree with the recent postings about saving the heavy stuff to talk about when they get home. I also made that mistake a couple of times. A poor mindset at work in the engine room jeapordizes their safety. It is hard to have a bunch of little things build up though and not have your partner to talk with about it. I recently moved with my hubby to be closer to his union hall and am having difficulty making friends because when he's home, all my attention is on him and I prioritize time with him over time with my new friends. Then when he goes away I want the support of my friends again, but they feel rejected. What do I do about this? Does anyone else have this problem? </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=16#post-1150 Sun, 11 Oct 2009 06:20:30 +0000 gypsygirl 1150@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>I'm so glad I found this forum. My husband and I have been married for almost 8 years and together a total of 11. He was in the Coast Guard out of High School, but had been a graphic designer for most of our time together. After moving to the Pacific NW, he decided he really wanted to work at sea. He started this a couple of years ago, and it has been very hard for me to adjust to. He was actually unemployed for quite some time, but has now gotten work through the Sailor's Union and is off to the Middle East and Asia right now, and will be gone until mid-February. I am trying to be strong, but it can be hard. I'm still living a normal day to day life, and he is not really. I appreciate someone's comment about saving the heavy conversations for when we're together. I made the mistake of not doing that before. I get lonely, and we are each other's best friend, but I'm slowly learning that even if I'm feeling down, not to burden him with it. So I'm glad I found this forum, because maybe i can let out my frustrations here with other women who understand. My friends don't get it.<br /> I can't wait to see him again in 4 months. </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=22#post-1149 Sat, 10 Oct 2009 07:59:38 +0000 washingtonian3 1149@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>Every ship on the ocean should have emergency procedures for coping with pirates. They should also have regular drills or simulations. On board mercenaries would not seem unreasonable. Too often the ship is overtaken and held without any preventive or countermeasures. </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=1094#post-1142 Tue, 06 Oct 2009 16:47:36 +0000 pete808 1142@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>What is the best way to obtain all the proper documentation to join a crew. I have a current passport(USA) and photos Id(drivers Lic.) I live in Hawaii and would like to plan may future as a Merchant Marine.<br /> Thanks Pete808 </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=1001#post-1058 Wed, 05 Aug 2009 20:46:33 +0000 navy swo 1058@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>Nate </p> <p>Glad to hear the news of your job. I sent you an email as well. </p> <p>Good Luck and keep us informed. </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=1001#post-1057 Wed, 05 Aug 2009 19:14:26 +0000 marinerguy 1057@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>I'm not surprised that over forty third mates stand like vultures awaiting a job at AMO. This may include many 'applicants' who have yet to become book members. Shipping has become 'tight' or limited as a result of layed-up vessels, and all ratings are suffering and have to wait longer for an eligible job. </p> <p>You may have to have the CG send you the letter before you make any more decisions. Read the statement clearly. Also, you may ask," So what in general does this letter signify?"</p> <p>Let me know, if you get thru, by tomorrow, Thurs, 06 Aug.<br /> -Nate </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=1001#post-1056 Wed, 05 Aug 2009 00:18:49 +0000 navy swo 1056@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>Nate</p> <p>"Also- bring a backpack! I would try and pack two bags- with a carry on."</p> <p>Got it, one sea bag and one carry on. The way I read the above statement wasn't sure if it was two plus one or two with one being a carry on. Either way I'm clear now.</p> <p>On another note NMC seems to have made a decision on my rating/endorsements and sea time. Problem is I can't get my evaluator on the phone to explain what the letter means (the person that answers the phone read it to me but it is not clear as to exactly what it means.) Today was "Coast Guard Day" so the office was practically empty so I couldn't get any answers. Hopefully my evaluator will return my call/email tommorow.</p> <p>I read on another site that there were 40 new 3/M's in line for jobs at AMO. How's the job search/wait going? </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=1001#post-1054 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 02:12:18 +0000 marinerguy 1054@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>I would only carry one seabag, really. They're designed as you know, to be carried upon your shoulder up a gangway. An oil tanker gangway may be at a 70 degree incline, ya know. I might pack a medium sized duffel along with a seabag... </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=1001#post-1053 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 00:39:24 +0000 navy swo 1053@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>I would try and pack two bags- with a carry on.</p> <p>Are you advocating two sea-bags plus a carry-on? </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=1001#post-1052 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 00:34:59 +0000 navy swo 1052@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>This list is just what I was looking for. Your advice is invaluable. </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=1001#post-1046 Sat, 01 Aug 2009 14:07:11 +0000 marinerguy 1046@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>I always keep a seabag with approximately 80% of necessities packed, and in my closet- ready to go. Remember- just like in the Navy, you will be out for many months! Seasons go by and you have to pack accordingly. Since we are approaching the Fall, we have still to pack for warm weather. Cold weather- possibly. It would be a good idea to ask what regions the ship will be possibly transiting through, or go on the Internet and find out there. Sometimes, the Union Hall doesn't necessarily connect you through the Crewing coordinator of that company by which the ship is managed. The patrolman of the union, may have a remote idea- but this is least likely.However,this will give you a general idea of what to pack. Some ships may head to the North Atlantic, whereas others may head to Asia. Look on the Internet and seek the weather forecasts or what general weather those regions may experience during your trip. Here is a list I compiled:<br /> A. Thermals-tops and bottoms<br /> B. Undershirts/Underwear<br /> C. Cotton Socks (a couple of heavy padded wool socks will help)<br /> D. Denim Jeans and cargo jeans<br /> E. Coveralls<br /> F. Steel Toed boots (you may get compensated up to $80 on the ship- keep your receipt)<br /> E. Civi Jacket (light weight and heavy weight. Who knows where you will be going or for how long??)<br /> G. Shorts (for sleeping in and for going out on the town)<br /> H. Flip flops/shower shoes (for lounging and for showering of course)<br /> I. Gloves For Winter- but you can get more insulated gloves on some ships- don't count on it though.<br /> J. Serrated Knife/Pocket Knife<br /> K. Flashlight(s) For NightWatch<br /> L. Alarm Clock<br /> M. MP3 Player<br /> N. T-Shirts For Watch<br /> O. Multi Tool For your own good<br /> P. Anything for personal Hygiene(Deodorant/Toothpaste/Shampoo/earswabs)<br /> I would bring a bottle of Tylenol and multi vitamins.<br /> Q. Walking shoes or whatever you think may want to wear on watch or on shore.<br /> R. Watch Cap<br /> Most ships have a slop chest or Ship's store. Here, you can buy incidentals for personal hygiene, soda, candy, cigarettes,ect. But usually, they are open at limited times, and by a designated officer, or the captain.</p> <p>Commonly, if your ship calls to local ports, you may have the opportunity of getting whatever you missed, or replenishing what you ran out of.</p> <p>Also- bring a backpack! I would try and pack two bags- with a carry on. These days, you may have to front $15-$25 per bag. Do this now, but try and reduce your bags to One (plus a carry on). </p> <p>I'll be posting a blog on this very subject either on 01 AUG or around this date.<br /> -Nate </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=1001#post-1042 Wed, 29 Jul 2009 23:56:14 +0000 navy swo 1042@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>I would appreciate some help putting my sea bag together. I've been to sea but only in the Navy. My MMC should be issued any day now so I don't have a job yet (minor detail right...LOL.) </p> <p>What should I pack for a 3 or 4 month job on a deep draft vessel. Oh yeah I'll be sailing as an AB. If I fly to my ship can I expect to pay extra to get my sea bag on the plane?</p> <p>Thanks. </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=56#post-1041 Tue, 28 Jul 2009 14:52:50 +0000 marinerguy 1041@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>Thanks for the clarification to both "navy swo" and "shellback"! This industry is going through some stringent qualification hurdles. Also- don't forget about the aforementioned TWIC application one needs to enter US ports. A thorough criminal (background) check is conducted. </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=1000#post-1040 Mon, 27 Jul 2009 04:03:57 +0000 marinerguy 1040@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>For those who visit this forum, please leave a quick note of the ships you have worked aboard- their names and/or their types.<br /> I have a list of 'past voyages' and the ships that I have worked aboard. Please click on the link and view my history of ships.<br /> I am most curious to your history, as well. Thanks- Nate </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=56#post-1039 Sun, 26 Jul 2009 20:17:52 +0000 shellback 1039@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>Yes, this RFPNW is one of the worst things that has come out of the IMO and STCW, in my opinion..I understand the reasoning to have qualified people standing proper watches, this is of course, a good thing..But there has got to be a better way..</p> <p>The thing that I disagree with is, that you may have experience and be very competent such as the original poster appears to be but will still need 180 days of watch standing, 2 , 4hour watches per day while under instruction...Thats doable if he/she gets lucky enough to find a job that the company will work with them..</p> <p>It's a catch 22 as the OP is finding out, you need the job to get the rating signed off and you need the rating to get the job...Also you need to get a couple of the assessments signed off on a vessel equipped with a gyro,and there are also tonnage minimums that have to be met..All obstacles for the small vessel sailor wanting to go deep..... </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=16#post-1038 Sun, 26 Jul 2009 13:49:37 +0000 jo-ell 1038@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>Hi, new to the site and happy to have found it! Relieved to now Im not the only one out here. Im six months pregnant, so far not very hormonal, but seem to be getting that way now. Which is how I came to find this site. And so glad I did! On a particularly low night, I found site and was greatly comforted by seeing the same words that I so often feel. I must agree to make the times home as happy as possible, keep the heavy duty talks to in person. I try to do all my tedious chores to while hes gone, so I can enjoy every moment with him home. Let the good times roll! But in a sense it makes it harder when hes gone. Hes my best friend, the one who can so easily make me laugh, and my shoulder to lean on. When hes gone, I find smiling an effort, and irritated by the people who dont appreciate how lucky they are to see their loved ones every day. But maybe thats what you have to go through to truly appreciate what you have. I find it ironic it took me so long to find someone I truly enjoyed every moment with, to only have that one person home only a percentage of the time. But Ill take it, its worth it. Id rather be truly happy with someone half the time, then not so happy with someone all of the time. Funny how life teaches you these lessons. And how I must remind myself of this every once in a while. The same goes for the pregnancy. While it stinks to be alone and facing childbearth without him. I know my little one will have a Great Daddy, as he is now to his daughter. Luckily he doesnt work more than 30 days, I cant imagine 90-120 days. Im so sorry! And look at the military and Thank God we dont have years to wait versus weeks. Thats another way I remind myself how lucky I am. Im also lucky hes able to keep in contact as much as he can, it could be worse. I have videos on my phone of him laughing, and play it when I need to hear it. Im also not above sticking my face in his closet and taking a big deep breath of his scent! We also send poems back and forth, which I print and save. And voicemails of random songs he sings to me. Its makes us stonger, closer and truly appreciative of what we have. And while he tells me not to cry when he ships off, I do, but am thankful I love him to do so. And lord knows, on the days hes coming home....Im useless to anyone else. I get A.D.D., and can only focus on being in his arms once again. </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=56#post-1037 Sun, 26 Jul 2009 01:58:12 +0000 navy swo 1037@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>The RFPNW course mentioned will not result in an RFPNW endorsement. It qualifies you for lookout only, not helmsman. </p> <p>With the lookout qual you can sail Oceans as an OS or AB for one year and stand watch on the bridge (giving you time to complete the helmsman portion.)</p> <p>SIU has an apprentice course that will get you AB RFPNW and "B" book status. It's several months with virtually no pay but they give you room and board. </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=56#post-93 Fri, 12 Jun 2009 22:39:53 +0000 marinerguy 93@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>You haven't indicated what union you sail with. Great Lakes are with the Steel workers union or SIU. I have found a link to a document showing approved 16-hour or 5 day courses to satisfy your RFPNW. Otherwise, you might consider going as a dayworker which may not require the use of the RFPNW. If you are able to go out as dayworker, you might want to get these items checked off by a Mate as you are capable.<br /> Lastly, give SIU a call and simply ask how you go about getting your Nav watch check offs.<br /> Here is the link: <a href="http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/training/rfpnw.pdf" rel="nofollow">http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/training/rfpnw.pdf</a></p> <p>I am also including SIU Entry program information site:<br /> <a href="http://www.seafarers.org/phc/entry.xml" rel="nofollow">http://www.seafarers.org/phc/entry.xml</a></p> <p>Best of luck and if there is anything more I can do for you, do not hesitate to email me by emailing me <a href="mailto:marinerguy@marinerguy.com">marinerguy@marinerguy.com</a><br /> Regards,<br /> Nadir Bousseloub<br /> 'Nate the Mate' </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=56#post-92 Fri, 12 Jun 2009 16:14:58 +0000 myxplyx 92@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>I have a unique (well, maybe not so unique) problem, and I was hoping someone may have a solution for me.<br /> I am an AB and have all the endorsements I can have EXCEPT the RFPNW. I have STCW-95 BST, Lifeboatman, 5th Edition Rigging... But I have been working on the Great Lakes for the past few years and was unable to get checked off on the RFPNW requirements (it's inland waters. and none of the deck officers where I worked were qualified to sign me off)<br /> I am seeking work deep sea again, and have missed out on about 5 choice jobs in the past 2 months because of that *$%@&amp;#! RFPNW!<br /> So I am between a rock and a hard place. Does anyone have any ideas? I am willing to sail as an OS or other to get aboard and get checked off, but haven't had much luck with that either. Plus, that takes away a job from someone else. Any input would really be appreciated!Reply to Your Post<br /> Delete Post </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=16#post-82 Sun, 07 Jun 2009 01:49:08 +0000 boatdrinks 82@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>My boyfriend of 3 years is graduating from King's Point in a few days, he is going to be working as a Third Assistant Engineer. He's popping the question soon (he can't keep a secret to save his life) (yay!)... It's comforting to know that you all are out there! </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=16#post-70 Sun, 31 May 2009 13:30:56 +0000 marinerguy 70@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>Ms. merchantmarinewife,<br /> I sent you an email with the link of a Facebook page for merchant marine wives. I hope you got it. This is in addition to your page.<br /> Best to you.<br /> Nate </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=16#post-67 Fri, 29 May 2009 03:08:40 +0000 merchantmarinewife 67@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>I miss my hubby... :( </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=16#post-62 Wed, 20 May 2009 18:54:58 +0000 merchantmarinewife09 62@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>Hi there. I'm a 26 year old soon-to-be wife of a merchant marine. I've been looking for a group like this and am thrilled to be here! My fiance and I will be getting married in October, we have a 2 and a half year old little boy, and we live in Montana (though we plan to move to Washington next year). He works for MSC and is a 3rd engineer (soon to be 2nd). He spends quite a bit of time at sea, as I'm sure the rest of you are quite familiar with. The last time he was out he was gone for 8 months, then was home for 3 (he had a back injury, and was sent home to heal), and is now gone again and has been for almost a month. He's taking leave in October for our wedding, but then has to return to the ship for at least another 4 months. So, I definitely know what it's like. Our little boy keeps me happy and busy, as well as my wonderful and supportive family and friends. I've really taken comfort in befriending military wives in my area, though I have to admit I'm jealous of how long they get to have their husbands at home between deployments. Oh well, though, because there don't seem to be any other merchant marine wives in our little mountain town. I hope when we move to Washington and live close to port, I'll be able to meet at least a few. I am so glad to have been directed to this group.. I didn't think anything like this existed! :) </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=17#post-54 Sun, 26 Apr 2009 10:17:56 +0000 marinerguy 54@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>You may have to ask a foreign flagged vessel company of they have any spots available as an Able-Bodied Seaman (AB) or other rate such as Steward Assistant (SA) or Oiler. Some break-bulk ships of US Flaged make calls to African Ports. As well, refueling in South Africa in Richards Bay or Durban is common.<br /> I'm not sure about Russia. </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=10#post-53 Sat, 25 Apr 2009 11:24:40 +0000 marinerguy 53@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>Shipping is getting 'tight' for both AB's,QMEDS, as well as Officers. A lot of mariners on shore with a lack of ships available. But, the supply boat industry is taking off. </p> <p>A TWIC card is the United States response to homeland security and allowing only workers of the transportation industry free access to shoreside facilities or vessels. All persons wanting to access a vessel or a dock, are required to have such a document in addition to the Z-card (merchant mariner document) as of 15 April. The Z-card seems to be more of a 'work card' as the companies require this document prior to signing on a vessel.<br /> The Coast Guard is also implementing a Merchant Marine Credential which will combine documents such as a License into one passport style book. This is the latest addition and is just now becoming available to eligible mariners. </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=22#post-52 Sat, 25 Apr 2009 11:16:10 +0000 marinerguy 52@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>You're absolutely correct in assuming We should have something beyond just fire hoses, lights and locking ourselves inside the 'house' or superstructure. I saw a program on using pepper balls in guns on a cable channel. These guns can shoot 60 rounds per second and incapacitate the perpetrator with a violent cry. At the least, I find that most of my fellow crew are willing to stand fast against these pirates if we were to have the means upon which to defend ourselves.<br /> Thanks!! </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=16#post-51 Sat, 25 Apr 2009 11:09:49 +0000 marinerguy 51@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>Hi- Kudos to myply for getting a website together for wives of merchant marine sailors. I encourage thought on this website so what you are doing is great.<br /> The merchant marine is a small group of professionals who don't get as much recognition as other professions. And I will check out the Facebook site, spunkysailorswife.<br /> -Nate </p> http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/topic.php?id=16#post-50 Thu, 23 Apr 2009 06:55:30 +0000 spunkysailorswife 50@http://merchantmarineexpress.com/board/ <p>Hi there~I am soooo happy that there are other Merchant Sailor's Wives to connect with. It is true we live a different way of life.<br /> My husband is in the Merchant Marine. I have started a support group for Spouses and loved ones of Merchant Sailors on Facebook called "Merchant Marine Wives and Families". All are welcome to join. If you have a facebook account, just search for Merchant Marine Wives and Families, and if not write to me at <a href="mailto:merchantmarinewife@yahoo.com">merchantmarinewife@yahoo.com</a> </p>