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ARGO MERCHANT

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:51:09 GMT

On December 15, 1976, the tanker

ARGO MERCHANT grounded on Middle Rip Shoal, southeast of Nantucket Island. Utilizing its newly-acquired authority under the International Convention relating to Intervention on the High Seas in cases of Oil Pollution Casualties, the Coast Guard would not approve the owner’s request to jettison the cargo in an attempt to refloat the tanker. Six days after the grounding, the tanker broke apart in heavy weather, spilling its cargo of 7.7 million gallons of No. 6 fuel oil. As reported in the NOAA Incident News, the bow section of the tanker started to float away and had to be sunk by US Coast Guard gunfire. The stern section sank on its own. Fortunately, prevailing currents and winds took the oil out to sea, rather than ashore or onto rich fishing grounds. Subsequent investigation revealed that two helmsmen were unqualified, the ship’s gyrocompass was broken, the charts carried by the ship were inadequate, and the radio direction-finder was inaccurate. This incident was a major factor in the enactment by Congress of the Port and Tanker Safety Act of 1978. (12/15/08).

Veteran’s Day – Remembrance Day

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:51:09 GMT

On the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month of 1918, the

Armistice was signed ending the War to End All Wars. Unfortunately, things did not end up as expected. Now, on the 90th anniversary of that event, we pause to remember all those who have defended freedom. (11/11/08).

In memoriam – sinking of the EDMUND FITZGERALD

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:51:09 GMT

On this date in 1975, the S.S. EDMUND FITZGERALD sank in Lake Superior during a strong storm. All 29 crewmembers died. The tragedy resulted in several books, numerous Internet sites, and a hit song for Gordon Lightfoot - The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald. (11/10/08).

Naval Appropriations Act of 1850

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:51:09 GMT

On September 28, 1850, Congress enacted the

Naval Appropriations Act. In addition to providing the US Navy with its operating funds for the year (including $2,758,282 for pay of naval personnel), the statute abolished flogging in the navy and on board vessels of commerce. Also, the statute adopted the "meridian of Greenwich" for all nautical purposes.

UN – Treaty Collection

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:51:09 GMT

The United Nations has posted its entire

Treaty Collection, including the United Nations Treaty Series (UNTS) on the Internet. (9/18/08).

Talk like a Pirate

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:51:09 GMT

In the spirit of "Pirates of the Caribbean" and "Treasure Island", it should be duly noted that September 19 is annually celebrated as

Talk Like A Pirate Day. This is all in good fun, mates, and must never be confused with real pirates, such as those currently plaguing the waters off Somalia. Avast!

Celebrating the heroism and sacrifice of 9/11

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:51:09 GMT

Today marks the seventh anniversary of the horrific attacks of 9/11, when a small group of terrorists used commercial airliners to crash into the World Trade Center in New York and the Pentagon outside Washington, DC. A fourth airliner attack was thwarted by brave passengers and crashed in Pennsylvania. We remember not so much that attacks as the heroism and sacrifice of the many victims and response personnel. Holland & Knight, in particular, celebrates the selfless actions of one of its own. Glenn J. Winuk was a partner in the New York office and a long-time volunteer firefighter. When the Twin Towers were attacked just blocks from the firm’s New York office and everyone was seeking safety, Glenn went into the South Tower to render assistance. His remains were found months later in the rubble. The firm sponsored a

Memorial Wall at FDNY Ten House, adjacent to the World Trade Center to honor his memory and that of all the response personnel involved.

Fire on MORRO CASTLE – 1934

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:51:09 GMT

On the evening of September 7, 1934, as the passenger ship

MORRO CASTLE was returning to New York City following a vacation cruise to Havana, the master was found dead in his cabin from an apparent heart attack. At about 0300 on September 8, fire was discovered in the passengers’ Writing Room. The fire spread quickly through the ship, which contained fancy wood paneling and expensive cloth curtains. The acting master steamed for the nearest land – Asbury Park, New Jersey. The fire was faster than the ship; 137 passengers and crew died by the time the ship was beached. The casualty led to numerous fire-safety improvements in future passenger ships.

Grounding at Honda Point – 1923

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:51:09 GMT

On September 8, 1923, fourteen new destroyers of the US Navy were steaming south in simulated wartime conditions from San Francisco to their homeport of San Diego. As they approached the turn into the Santa Barbara Channel in heavy fog, the lead destroyer ignored or misinterpreted signals from the experimental radio compass station ashore and commenced the turn early. The other destroyers followed close astern. Ten of the ships quickly grounded on the rocks at

Honda Point, with a loss of 23 lives. This event remains the single greatest maritime casualty involving electronic navigation.

Lighthouse Act anniversary

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:51:09 GMT

On August 7, 1789, the First Congress of the United States adopted the

Lighthouse Act, assuming responsibility for all lighthouses in the country. This marks the commencement of what we know today as the Aids to Navigation (ATON) mission, the oldest of the numerous missions performed by the US Coast Guard. Although the US Lighthouse Service (USLHS) did not officially become part of the Coast Guard until July 1, 1939, the two entities and their predecessors worked cooperatively from the earliest days. Over the years, the ATON mission expanded to include lightships, buoys, daymarks, ranges, sound signals, and numerous forms of electronic aids to navigation. As waterways become more congested and ships become larger, the mission only grows in importance.

Coast Guard Day

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:51:09 GMT

Today (August 4, 2008) marks the 218th anniversary of the enactment of the law establishing the Revenue Cutter Service – the forerunner of the US Coast Guard. The service is as vigorous and important to the nation now as it was in the early days of the Republic. It is appropriate, though, to reflect on some of the advice provided by Alexander Hamilton, the first Secretary of the Treasury, in his Letter of Instruction to Commanding Officers of the Revenue Cutters:

While I recommend in the strongest terms to the respective officers, activity, vigilance and firmness, I feel no less solicitude, that their deportment may be marked with prudence, moderation and good temper. Upon these last qualities, not less that the former, must depend the success, usefulness and consequently continuance of the establishment in which they are included. They cannot be insensible that there are some prepossessions against it, that the charge with which they are intrusted [sic] is a delicate one, and that it is easy by mismanagement, to produce serious and extensive clamour, disgust and alarm.

They will always keep in mind that their countrymen are freemen, and, as such, are impatient of everything that bears the least mark of a domineering spirit. They will, therefore, refrain, with the most guarded circumspection, from whatever has the semblance of haughtiness, rudeness, or insult. If obstacles occur, they will remember that they are under the particular protection of the laws and that they can meet with nothing disagreeable in the execution of their duty which these will not severely reprehend. This reflection, and a regard to the good of the service, will prevent, at all times a spirit of irritation or resentment. They will endeavor to overcome difficulties, if any are experienced, by a cool and temperate perseverance in their duty--by address and moderation, rather than by vehemence or violence. The former style of conduct will recommend them to the particular approbation of the President of the United States, while the reverse of it--even a single instance of outrage or intemperate or improper treatment of any person with whom they have anything to do, in the course of their duty, will meet with his pointed displeasure, and will be attended with correspondent consequences.

The foregoing observations are not dictated by any doubt of the prudence of any of those to whom they are addressed. These have been selected with so careful an attention to character, as to afford the strongest assurance, that their conduct will be that of good officers and good citizens. But, in an affair so delicate and important, it has been judged most advisable to listen to the suggestions of caution rather than of confidence, and to put all concerned on their guard against those sallies to which even good and prudent men are occasionally subject. It is not doubted that the instructions will be received as it ought to be, and will have its due effect. And that all may be apprized [sic] of what is expected you will communicate this part of your orders, particularly, to all your officers, and you will inculcate upon your men a correspondent disposition.

Looking ahead, your attention is invited to the Commandant’s recent directive:

The Guardian Ethos.

Semper Paratus – Always Ready!

Black Tom Island incident

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:51:09 GMT

Early (about 2 a.m.) on the morning of July 30, 1916, the Port of New York and New Jersey experienced the first act of maritime terrorism in US history. A major explosion occurred at the munitions loading facility on

Black Tom Island, across the Hudson River from Manhattan. While the United States was still officially neutral in World War I, weapons and explosives were shipped from the railhead on Black Tom Island to allied forces in Europe. That night, a suspicious fire was discovered in a railroad boxcar on the island. Most guards fled the island, but several people were killed by the explosion, which blew out windows in buildings in lower Manhattan and parts of northern New Jersey and leveled the island. A Claims Commission later determined that German agents had set off the explosion and Germany eventually paid reparations. This incident provided the genesis for the Coast Guard’s port security program.

Andrea Doria-Stockholm collision – July 25, 1956

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:51:09 GMT

On July 25, 1956, in one of the most noted collisions in recent history, the ocean liner

ANDREA DORIA collided with the ocean liner STOCKHOLM in fog off Nantucket. The casualty resulted in the deaths of 51 people and the sinking of the ANDREA DORIA. The STOCKHOLM limped into New York with its bow staved in, but returned to service under a different name after extensive repairs. The casualty has rightly been called a ‘radar-assisted’ collision. It resulted in mandates for increased training of deck officers in the proper use of radar.

GENERAL SLOCUM fire

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:51:09 GMT

On June 15, 1904, the passenger vessel

GENERAL SLOCUM caught fire while on an excursion trip on the East River in New York City. It was carrying approximately 1,300 passengers and a crew of 30. Over 1,000 people died (the exact number was never determined as the actual number of passengers was unknown). The crew had never conducted a fire drill. The fire extinguishing equipment was in poor condition. Many of the life jackets were unserviceable. The Secretary of Commerce and Labor convened a special commission that conducted an investigation of the disaster and submitted a report on the casualty.

Brooklyn Wall of Remembrance

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:51:09 GMT

At KeySpan Park on Coney Island in Brooklyn, New York, on May 18, 2008, the

Brooklyn Wall of Remembrance was rededicated. The Wall is a tribute to emergency personnel who lost their lives in the horrific terrorist attack of September 11, 2001. Among those recognized on the Wall is Glenn Winuk, who at the time was a partner in this firm and was a volunteer firefighter. Immediately after the airplanes crashed into the World Trade Center, he went to the scene to provide assistance. His remains were later found in the rubble of the South Tower. (6/5/08).

Texas City disaster

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:51:09 GMT

On April 16, 1947, one of the worst harbor disasters in the United States commenced when the French freighter

GRANDCAMP, loaded with a cargo of ammonium nitrate fertilizer, caught fire and exploded. The next day, the nearby ship HIGH FLYER exploded. In the then small town of Texas City (pop. approx. 15,000) over 500 people died, about 200 were never located, and many became homeless due to the fires. Most members of the local volunteer fire department were killed while responding to the fires and explosions. The reports of the US Coast Guard Marine Board, the local chapter of the International Association of Fire Fighters, and the National Board of Fire Underwriters are linked. (4/16/08).

RMS TITANIC – strikes iceberg, sinks

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:51:09 GMT

On April 14, 1912, the British luxury liner

RMS TITANIC struck an iceberg in the North Atlantic off Newfoundland, Canada, sinking less than three hours, early on the morning of April 15. Approximately 1,500 people died. The sinking led to establishment of the International Ice Patrol (operated by the US Coast Guard), to adoption of the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention, and to requirements for radio communications on ships. (4/14/08).

April Fool’s Day

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:51:09 GMT

Today is celebrated as

April Fool’s Day. In honor thereof, our long-suffering readers may wish to peruse the 100 Best Hoaxes. (4/1/08).

CRS – oil spills in US coastal waters

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:51:09 GMT

The Congressional Research Service (CRS) released its updated report on oil spills in US coastal waters. It states that, while imports and consumption of oil have increased, the number and volume of oil spills (particularly spills from ships) have decreased. On a volumetric basis, natural seeps account for 62% of the oil entering US coastal waters, oil consumption (run-off from rivers and non-point sources) account for 33%, oil transportation accounts for 4%, and oil extraction accounts for 1%.

RL33705 (2/5/08).

EXXON VALDEZ – March 24, 1989

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:51:09 GMT

On March 24, 1989, the tanker

EXXON VALDEZ grounded on Bligh Reef in Prince William Sound, Alaska. The resultant spill of 11 million gallons of crude oil was not the largest in US history and most people forget that salvage and response efforts kept the majority of the oil safety on board the ship. The incident resulted in the relatively swift passage of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA 90). A subsequent USCG Report provides some context for the incident and changes that resulted therefrom. One of the ironies of history is that Bligh Reef was named by Captain James Cook (during his third voyage of exploration in 1778) for William Bligh, who served as master of the HMS RESOLUTION during the expedition. Captain Bligh became famous (or infamous) some years later as master of the BOUNTY [remember breadfruit trees, Fletcher Christian, and Pitcairn Island]. In Australia, William Bligh is remembered as the Governor of New South Wales during the 1806 Rum Rebellion.

AMOCO CADIZ – March 16, 1978

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:51:09 GMT

On March 16, 1978, the tanker

AMOCO CADIZ grounded on Portsall Rocks off the coast of Brittany, France, spilling approximately 1.6 million barrels of crude oil. The ship had lost steering in a winter storm and difficulties were encountered during efforts to attach tow lines. French beaches in the area were heavily impacted with oil, resulting in landmark litigation in the United States, where the parent company of the shipowner was headquartered.

Herald of Free Enterprise – 6 March 1987

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:51:09 GMT

On 6 March 1987, the double-ended ro-ro car and passenger ferry

HERALD OF FREE ENTERPRISE capsized and sank shortly after departing Bruges-Zeebrugge, Belgium en route Dover, England. The ferry had a crew of 80 and was carrying 459 passengers, 81 cars, 3 buses, and 47 trucks. Due to a series of mistakes, the bow doors were not closed prior to leaving port. Upon leaving the harbor and while proceeding at over 18 knots, water entered the vehicle deck in large quantities. The free-surface effect of the water impaired stability and led to the capsizing, which occurred in less than one minute. The sinking resulted in 193 deaths. Following the accident, various changes were made to IMO regulations regarding design and operation of ro-ro passenger vessels. The incident was also the impetus for establishment of the UK Marine Accident Investigation Board (MAIB). Further details regarding the casualty are found in the Investigation Report.

USCG – interaction with the maritime industry

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:51:09 GMT

The US Coast Guard posted two internal messages (referred to as ALCOAST messages, because they are distributed to all Coast Guard units) relating to interaction with the maritime industry. In

ALCOAST 108/08, Admiral Thad Allen, the Commandant, reminded everyone that activities with US and foreign professional mariners are to be conducted with the utmost professionalism and respect. Personnel at all levels are expected to work cooperatively with the marine industry to achieve the common goals of safety and security. Sector commanders are directed to solicit candid feedback from individual mariners, industry association representatives, and facility operators to identify issues needing action, best practices, and recommendations for improving marine safety, security, and stewardship. In ALCOAST 109/08, Rear Admiral Brian Salerno, Assistant Commandant for Marine Safety, Security, and Stewardship, discussed various improvements to the agency’s marine safety program, including the establishment of civilian marine safety positions to enhance program depth, continuity, and local knowledge. Personal comment: The US Coast Guard’s extended period of taking the marine industry for granted appears to be coming to a well-deserved end. (2/28/08).

SEA EMPRESS casualty

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:51:09 GMT

On February 15, 1996, the tanker SEA EMPRESS grounded off the mouth of the Cleddau Estuary as it was making its way to Milford Haven, Wales to offload a cargo of crude oil. The ship eventually spilled an estimated 73,000 tons of crude oil in an event that was widely televised around the UK and the world. The primarily cause of the casualty was found to be an error in judgment by the pilot. A root cause was found to be inadequate training and examination of pilots by the Milford Haven Port Authority. This casualty was a significant factor in the subsequent enactment of legislation in the UK clarifying the authority for overseeing spill response and salvage. Further information may be found in the

MAIB Report.

Grounding of the ARGO MERCHANT

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:51:09 GMT

On December 15, 1976, the tanker ARGO MERCHANT, bound from Venezuela to Boston with 7.7 million gallons of No. 6 fuel oil, grounded on Middle Rip Shoal near Nantucket. Utilizing its newly-acquired authority under the International Convention relating to Intervention on the High Seas in Cases of Oil Pollution Casualties, the US Coast Guard would not grant permission to jettison cargo from the ship. Attempts to salve the ship and its cargo were unsuccessful. On December 21, the ship broke in two. A Coast Guard cutter sank the bow section utilizing gunfire. The stern section sank on its own. Prevailing currents moved the spilled oil away from land. This incident was a major factor in the enactment by Congress of the Port and Tanker Safety Act of 1978.

Washington – surface-water runoff is largest contributor to pollution

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:51:09 GMT

The Washington State Department of Ecology issued a news release stating that surface-water runoff from land is generally the largest contributor of toxic chemicals to the waters of Puget Sound. The agency conducted a study on the Control of Toxic Chemicals in Puget Sound. The data regarding relative contributions from the various sources of contaminants is intended to help guide decisions about how to most effectively direct resources to resolve toxic contamination issues. Interestingly, the report finds that oil spills directly into surface waters during the past six years were a relatively small source of toxics compared to the amount of oil that reaches Puget Sound from surface runoff. Note: It remains to be seen whether government agencies will ever devote as much effort to deterring and penalizing land-sourced water pollution as they devote to penalizing ship-sourced pollution, even though the evidence consistently shows that land-sourced pollution is the greater threat. (11/30/07).