The Admiral of the Ocean Sea (AOTOS) Awards, held in New York City on October 25, 2024, was a powerful celebration of resilience and dedication within the U.S. maritime industry. Hosted by the United Seamen’s Service (USS), the event brought together leaders and advocates from every corner of the maritime sector to recognize those who have made significant contributions to advancing the welfare of seafarers and the strength of the industry. Held at the Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel, the awards ceremony welcomed a large, diverse crowd, representing a wide spectrum of maritime stakeholders, including labor unions, shipping companies, government officials, and maritime academies. This annual gathering highlights the shared mission of supporting seafarers, addressing sector challenges, and fostering industry innovation to build a sustainable future for the U.S. maritime workforce.
Among the speakers was U.S. Air Force Major General Daniel H. Tulley, representing the U.S. Transportation Command (Transcom), who spoke about the deep partnership between the commercial maritime industry and national defense. “Our commercial maritime industry’s partnership with the Department of Defense is second to none,” Tulley affirmed, expressing his gratitude to mariners who, he said, have “deployed us, sustained us, fought alongside us, and returned us home safely.” Reflecting on the unity of purpose shared by Transcom and the U.S. maritime industry, Tulley highlighted the essential role that American mariners play in securing the nation’s strength, prosperity, and security. “Prosperity and security, neither happens without the other, and nobody knows that better than we do—together, we deliver,” he concluded, reinforcing the crucial connection between maritime operations and national defense.
Rear Admiral Ann C. Phillips, U.S. Maritime Administrator at MARAD, also addressed the audience, emphasizing the industry’s resilience in facing recent challenges. “We have faced multiple tests and trials, and we have held fast,” Phillips remarked, speaking to the industry’s collective response to both the COVID-19 pandemic and increasing global maritime disruptions. She praised U.S. mariners for their courage in navigating difficult waters, noting that “our brave mariners engage in international maritime commerce amid hostile actions aimed deliberately at U.S.-flag vessels.” Phillips also highlighted MARAD’s commitment to building a strong foundation for future maritime leaders by supporting modernized training programs and safety initiatives. “We are at an inflection point in our industry’s history,” she said, calling on attendees to seize the “generational opportunity to carry this industry forward into the future.”
One of the night’s honorees, Tim Nolan, President and CEO of TOTE Group, echoed these sentiments, expressing gratitude and reflecting on the values that drive his leadership. “The U.S. maritime industry sets a high bar for integrity, dedication, and hard work,” Nolan stated, crediting his team and partners, including the Seafarers International Union (SIU) and the American Maritime Officers (AMO), for their commitment to safety and operational excellence. His words underscored how the dedication of each person in the industry is essential for maintaining high standards and ensuring the continued success of U.S.-flagged vessels around the world. Nolan’s acknowledgment of his colleagues and industry partners highlighted the collective spirit that drives the industry forward.
Augustin “Augie” Tellez, Executive Vice President of the SIU, shared passionate wordsa about the maritime industry’s impact on American lives and its role in making the “American Dream” attainable for many. “This industry, what our union does every day, gives folks who might otherwise not have the opportunity a chance at a piece of that American Dream,” he said, capturing the pride and purpose that motivates his work. Tellez described the unique challenges that U.S. seafarers face—navigating hostile waters, enduring long periods away from loved ones, and supporting critical trade routes—all while underscoring the importance of adapting to meet the needs of future generations. He emphasized the union’s commitment to making maritime careers viable and rewarding, from enhanced training programs to better onboard amenities, as the industry continues to evolve.
Another honoree, Daniel J. Thorogood, CEO of Fairwater, focused his remarks on the cadets in attendance, stressing the generational responsibility they bear in upholding and advancing the U.S. Merchant Marine. “The U.S. Merchant Marine, vital to our national and economic security, is a symbol of America’s strength and resilience,” Thorogood emphasized, offering a call to action to both current industry leaders and policymakers. His message was clear: the future of the U.S. maritime sector hinges on embracing technological advancements, from fuel efficiency and digital innovations to autonomous systems, to keep pace with global competition.
The AOTOS Awards was a night of gratitude and vision, as speakers and attendees reflected on the importance of every individual in the maritime workforce. Each honoree’s remarks echoed a shared respect for the industry’s core mission: upholding the welfare of seafarers while advancing the industry’s strategic role in national security and economic vitality. As Tellez poignantly stated, “We have a great opportunity now…to build a secure future for our industry, our nation, and the generations that will follow.” The AOTOS Awards affirmed that the strength of the U.S. maritime industry lies in its people, united in purpose and looking toward a bright future.
Learn more about the United Seamen’s Service here.
