U.S. MARITIME UNIONS READY FOR CALL

U.S. MARITIME UNIONS READY FOR CALL    In the wake of last week’s terrorist attacks and the country’s call to arms, the leaders of the U.S. maritime unions sent a letter to President Bush asserting their readiness.
   The letter was signed by Timothy A. Brown, president of International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots; Gunnar Lundelberg, president of Sailors’ Union of the Pacific; Lawrence H. O’Toole, president of Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association; Henry Disley, president of Marine Firemen’s Union; Michael R. McKay, president of American Maritime Officers; and Michael Sacco, president of Seafarers International Union of North America.
   They said “the American Merchant Marine can be absolutely relied upon to assist the Commander in Chief in the execution of the military and foreign policy of the United States.”
   “Our Merchant Marine and our loyal and dedicated mariners are once again ready and eager to render any assistance which would be helpful in this unbelievable, cowardly and depraved attack on our citizens, the fabric of our democracy, our freedom, and our very way of life,” the union leaders said.