Let The Fourth Arm of Defense Put Your Feet On A Good Career Path (NAPSA)—Alittle-known part of America’s national defense structure offers job opportunities to trainees and military veterans. One avenue leading to employment openings in the all-civilian U.S. Merchant Marineis the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, in Maryland. The school, open since 1967, guarantees its graduatesa job. Offering dozens of U.S. Coast Guard-approved courses and worldclass training equipment, the Center is affiliated with the Seafarers International Union (SIU), char- tered in 1938. The school provides the training needed for a successful career in the merchant marine, including a highly regarded entrylevel program as well as courses for veterans who have qualifying sea time in a deck or enginerating. Although not part of the armed services, the U.S. Merchant Marine has long been a key part of America’s national defense. During World War II, General Eisenhower dubbed thecivilian mariners America’s “fourth arm of defense.” Today, the merchant marine consists of U.S.-flag vessels in the deep sea, Great Lakes and inland trades. Some serve in military support roles, others in the commercial sector. Seafarers get good pay and benefits, along with a virtually unrivaled freedom in scheduling. SIU contracts normally call for competitive pay, medical coverage for mem- The voyage to a successful career may begin at a merchant mariner training and educational facility. bers and their families, a pension plan, vacation benefits, safe work- ing conditions and more. Since its founding, the school has helped tens of thousands hone their skills and advance their careers. Overall, more than 50,000 rated and licensed seamen have completed upgrading classes; 21,000 young men and women have graduated from the trainee program. The campus is on 60 acres in picturesque Piney Point, Mary- land. Among the school’s beneficial training tools are the bridge and engine simulators, the marine fire fighting and safety school and the culinary lab. Students may receive college credit recommendations for certain sanctioned courses. There are no fees for tuition, room or board for students in the trainee program. For information, see www.seafarers.org, or call 1877-235-3275.
