FOR RELEASE
Contact: Sharon Jenkins

Friday, May 21, 2004
Tel.: (202) 366-4610

The Maritime Administration honored three shippers as part of its celebration of National Maritime Day. The award is given to shippers who transport a significant portion of their international cargo on U.S. flag vessels, which is an important component of supporting the U.S. merchant marine and maritime industry.

In a noonday ceremony hosted by the Propeller Club of America in Washington, DC, Maritime Administrator Captain William G. Schubert presented Merchant Marine plaques of appreciation to the recipients as part of its Shipper Awards Program. Schubert voiced his appreciation with the recipients’ commitment to the U.S. merchant fleet noting that their commitment not only supports America’s economic and defense security but also helps to promote America’s export and import services. "America’s presence on the international sea lanes is vital today as we stand ready to support our Armed Forces men and women – who stand in harm’s way in order that we may live in peace – not only in America but across the globe," he said. "These shippers are doing their part to ensure that the American flag has a presence on the international trade lanes," Schubert said.

The recipients honored included Panalpina, Inc. of Foster City, CA; E & J Gallo Winery of Modesta, CA, and J.A. Jones International of Charlotte, NC.

National Maritime Day falls in National Transportation Week. National Transportation Week is an opportunity to celebrate achievements in transportation and face up to the challenges ahead. The Department of Transportation supports a web site describing other events and initiatives www.ntweek.org. To learn more about the Maritime Administration and its cargo preference program, visit the Web site http://www.marad.dot.gov/offices/cargo_pref.html.