Holiday Greetings to mariners serving on U.S. flag ships worldwide.  Special thanks to members of the Ready Reserve Force and Maritime Administration training ships serving in OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM, APF operations, and in hurricane recovery. 

Peace on Earth, and to those of you who travel the Earth’s oceans and serve on the Gulf Coast: Season’s Greetings. 

We honor you this season for answering the call from the armed services, and from the people of the United States, for your hard work and your unique capabilities.  We thank you for your work that takes you away from your loved ones and friends, and appreciate your mission supporting the security of all of us.

We send our wishes for:
Hope as you remember your families and friends,
Joy as you share a special meal with your shipmates,
Remembrance for at least one quiet moment during the season,
Good health, and a safe return and prosperity in the New Year!

In closing, I offer my thanks for the loyal service and dedication of the men and women of the American Merchant Marine this Holiday Season.

                                                                           John Jamian                                

                                                                           Deputy Maritime Administrator