Testimony of Niels M. Johnsen Chairman of the Board Central Gulf Lines, Inc. and Waterman Steamship Corporation

THE STATUS OF THE MERCHANT MARINE Introduction I appreciate the opportunity to testify today on the status of the United States merchant marine on behalf of USA Maritime and its member companies, a coalition that directly or indirectly represents virtually every one of the privately-owned United States flag oceangoing vessels operating regularly in the United States foreign trade. As the Chairman of Central Gulf Lines, Inc. (Central Gulf) and Waterman Steamship Corporation (Waterman), both members of USA Maritime, I confront the many challenges facing the United States flag shipping industry on a daily basis. My testimony will highlight the most pressing of these challenges and suggest concrete ways in which Congress and the Administration can provide much-needed support to our industry.   READ MORE ONLINE (PDF)