Merchant Marine And Their Role In Economy

By Author: calton Jones
Total Articles: 17
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The U.S. merchant marine is a fleet of ships owned by the American civilian merchant and are either operated by the government or private sector. The ships are engaged in transporting services and goods and also used in basic commerce. During times of war and unrest, the merchant marine often acts as the auxiliary for the American navy and is called upon in assisting the navy for delivering the troops and supplies to military bases. However, during peace times, they do not engage themselves with military duties and are engaged in transporting passengers and cargo.

The ship’s primary role is to maintain contact with the U.S. and the world by means of commerce. The merchant mariners deliver or transport cargo and passengers from the other nations to the United States and vice versa. They also operate ferries, merchant ships, tugboats, dredges, tugboats and other types of vessels on the seas, oceans, lakes, canals, harbors, rivers etc. The number of the merchant mariners and ship numbers have been continuously growing over time.

The U.S. is regarded as a maritime nation. ...
... You can find the great lakes towards the north, the Gulf of Mexico towards the south, the Atlantic Ocean towards the east and the Pacific Ocean towards the west. Hence, the American waterways are considered to be one of the world’s busiest areas. Ships carrying passengers or goods are always found to move in and out of the docks throughout the day.

Working in the ships is not an easy work and require effort, patience and appropriate skills. Architects and Engineers constructing the ships are quite important, but more important are the individuals who actually operate the ship when at sea, they are the merchant mariners, who are highly skilled and trained individuals and derive education at the USMMA or the U.S. Merchant Mariners’ Academy. This institution is also known as the king’s point and is considered as one of the five leading academies in the United States.

It is a big deal to be a part of the USMMA and it is difficult for everyone in applying to this reputed academy. Apart form the great GPA and SAT scores, it is necessary for the candidates to be nominated by the member of the representative of the U.S. House or your state’s Senator, where you hail from. The candidate also needs to undergo different physical exams such as the candidate fitness assessment or the CFA. It would be highly beneficial to be a part of this highly reputed institution, especially if you are looking towards a great career in armed services and maritime industry. This academy also helps in enhancing your personality and imparts in you the importance of obedience, discipline, leadership and cooperation. After graduating, you have plenty of opportunities to choose to make a career out of it.

Some of the famous personalities who have underwent training in the USMMA include scientists, actors, astronauts and other individuals of high ranking in various fields.

Being a merchant mariner is nothing short of an honor is serving your country during emergency times.