Government Affairs

Our history drives our service, but history hasn’t been all too kind to us. Having been vital supply carriers across multiple conflicts throughout U.S. history, we are committed to getting our Just Recognition. Our work with the government focuses on obtaining Veterans status for all American Merchant Marines.

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What are Government Affairs?

There are many moving parts to involving ourselves in government affairs, but it all comes back to our mission: To gain recognition for the patriotic service and sacrifices of the American Merchant Marines for our country in peace and war. Between upholding the Jones Act and fighting for our Veterans benefits, we are no stranger to bills, statutes, or taking the action to Congress.

The crux of legislative action will always be education. Educating the American public and governmental agencies about the importance of our Merchant Marines’ accomplishments and rights is something we take very seriously. With this in mind, we know that using our voices to educate citizens and lawmakers about the heroism and sacrifice our great Mariners have made is paramount to gaining full Veterans status, among other deserved recognitions and protections.

We ask you: if we don’t advocate for ourselves, who will? It is our right, within our great democracy, in this beautiful country that we’ve fought for, that we should receive our Just Recognition. We push not only to cement these benefits for our Veterans and their families, but for the protections of future generations of seamen as well.

Government Advocacy Benefits

Policymakers at all levels of government cannot possibly know every Merchant Marine. Those Mariners who make an effort to build a relationship with their elected officials and serve as a resource for them, on the other hand, can have a significant effect.

Herein lies the strength of grassroots advocacy: when a group of dedicated Veterans band together, they can provide policymakers with all the knowledge they need to make sound decisions. This has the potential to have a major impact on legislation.

The American Merchant Marine Veterans remain steadfast, knowing that the only way to bring about the change we need is through legislative effort. Through our campaigning, lobbying, and educational word-of-mouth, we know the benefits will be bountiful. The resulting bills being passed will protect our Veterans, our maritime forces, and America.