Four American-Flag vessels and crew are recognized for Bravery at Sea at The USS AOTOS Awards Dinner

NEW YORK - Dec. 14, 2023 - PRLog -- The officers and crew of four American-flag vessels were recognized for heroism at sea at the United Seamen's Service's 54th annual Admiral of the Ocean Sea (AOTOS) Award on December 1.

The Honored Seafarer AOTOS Mariners/ plaques went to:

MV Midnight Sun
Port of Tacoma Harbor
September 2022

In September 2022, an electrical fire broke out on the deck of the MV Midnight Sun caused by faulty vendor equipment. Despite having a limited crew, the team worked cohesively to put out the fire efficiently.

The crew used five fire hoses to put out the fire in just 20 minutes, faster than the local fire department's arrival time.

USNS John Lewis (T-AO 205)
Military Sealift Command
Pacific Ocean
December 12, 2022

Upon receiving an emergency radio transmission, the Military Sealift Command fleet oiler swiftly responded to a distressed vessel situated 210 miles off the California coastline. The USNS John Lewis promptly redirected its efforts towards locating the sinking sailboat.

Despite strong winds, the crew from the Seafarers International Union managed to rescue the lone sailor. Master Dan Glazier showcased his exceptional skills by deftly maneuvering the 746-foot USNS John Lewis alongside the sailboat, lowering a pilot ladder to allow the victim to climb aboard.

New York Waterway Ferry Franklin Delano Roosevelt
New York Harbor
December 22, 2022

On December 22nd, 2022, the crew of a New York Waterway ferry displayed their vigilance and emergency training by swiftly responding to a devastating deck fire that engulfed a sister ferry.

An engine room fire started on the Staten Island Ferry Sandy Ground, rendering it inoperable with passengers stranded. The New York Fire Department asked for help and the New York Waterway Ferry Franklin Delano Roosevelt quickly arrived to offer assistance.

Staten Island Ferry Sandy Ground
New York Harbor
December 22, 2022

A fire broke out in the engine room of a newly built ferry, causing panic among the crew and passengers aboard the Staten Island Ferry Sandy Ground.

The crew sprang into action, with two urgent tasks at hand: evacuate the 868 passengers as quickly as possible and contain the blaze. Chief Marine Engineer Trevor Gherardi and his team sealed off the area, deploying the Novac system to extinguish the fire before first responders even arrived on the scene. The SIU crew of NY Waterway's ferry Franklin Delano Roosevelt also joined in the rescue efforts, safely evacuating all 868 passengers with only five injuries.