Officers from Nautilus Federation affiliate on first US-flagged vessels to exit Strait of Hormuz

A vessel crewed by deck officers from Nautilus Federation affiliated union the International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots (MM&P) has become one of the two first US-flagged vessels to exit the Persian Gulf since the start of the conflict there.

The officers form part of the crew of the vehicle carrier Alliance Fairfax, which transited the Strait of Hormuz accompanied by US military assets on 5 May. The transit was completed safely and without incident. In the wheelhouse were Captain Brian Mercurio, chief mate Ernie Caponegro, second mate Omalika Lipp and third mate Steven Humbert.

‘I’m extremely proud of our members,’ said MM&P president Don Josberger. ‘Once again, MM&P members have demonstrated exemplary levels of leadership, bravery and professionalism in the finest tradition of the American Merchant Marine.’

In a statement, Maersk Line, Limited congratulated the crew and thanked the US military for planning and executing the operation.

About a fifth of the world’s trade in oil, natural gas and fertilizer passed through the strait before it was effectively closed by Iran, which is demanding tolls in exchange for passage. The US, meanwhile, has enforced a naval blockade on Iranian ports, ordering some ships away and warning shipping companies that they could face sanctions if they pay Iran for passage.