questions re the National Mariners Association

[c.captain]

I have been writing a lot here about the need for a professional mariners association but had forgotten about the NMA (formerly the GCMA). I have to admit that I have not previously followed them or know much about their activities short of what is on their website. Does anyone here know Richard Block or been involved with his group?

I like what they stand for and hope to achieve but wonder if they have what it takes to effect any real change. Have they been able to get the USCG to take any notice of them at all?

[Jeffrox]

From what I've read on (there own) website, they do have some credibility with officials. Check it out...

[john]

There is also the Council Of American Master Mariners (CAMM). They struggle with the same problems as the rest (lack of funding, small in numbers, median age of membership) but have really made efforts in the past few years to change for the better and make a real difference. For example they now publish a magazine with world-wide distribution and they opened there membership to captains regardless of tonnage.

I'm not saying they are perfect but they are moving in the right direction.

[captjacksparrow]

Why don't you call Richard yourself, talk with him, and then decide if NMA is for real or not. You can reach him at 985-851-2134. NMA, and the MTVA (which works closely with NMA) have the same problem: we get people to join but then everyone is always "too busy" to do anything besides send us the membership dues. We need people willing to be active members and make phone calls, write letters, comment on CG rulemaking projects, etc. This past fall Richard attended the House subcommittee hearings on the T/V Mel Oliver spill and marine safety generally, communicating our concerns directly to Congress. No one else works harder on behalf of all limited-tonnage mariners than him and he deserves your strong support.

[c.captain]

CaptJack

I was planning to contact Richard but thought I'd check with people like you here to get their experiences with NMA. As I said in the beginning, we all need a group like his to represent the US mariner in Washington DC and like what the NMA's goals are.

Thanks for your reply