(NEW YORK) — The United Seamen’s Service (USS) presented its 56th Annual Admiral of the Ocean Sea Awards (AOTOS) to three maritime leaders whose commitment, leadership and service embody the spirit of the American maritime tradition. Capt.Willie Barrere, national president, American Maritime Officers; Edward Hanley, chief operating officer, Maersk Line Ltd.; and Vincent Marino, chief executive officer, The Marino Group, were presented their awards on Friday at the Sheraton Times Square in New York City.
In addition, the AOTOS Special Recognition Plaque was presented to Edward Morgan, who served as president of the United Seamen’s Service for more than 20 years. The award, presented by F. Anthony Naccarato, president of American Maritime Officers Services and the newly appointed USS president, recognized Morgan’s decades of steadfast leadership and deep commitment to supporting seafarers worldwide.
“Seafarers are the heart of global trade and the lifeline of freedom and prosperity around the world,” said retired Army Lt. Gen. Kenneth Wykle, who served as the evening’s master of ceremonies. “Tonight, we are proud to recognize Capt. Willie Barrere, Ed Hanley, Vince Marino and Ed Morgan, all of whom embody the strength, resolve, and spirit of service that define our maritime heritage.”
Capt. Willie Barrere, national president, American Maritime Officers
A veteran mariner and union leader with 27 years at sea, Barrere has strengthened wages, expanded fleets, and safeguarded U.S. officer jobs. Known for his steady leadership and strategic insight, he continues to advocate tirelessly for the American-flag merchant marine and its workforce.
Edward Hanley, chief operating officer, Maersk Line Ltd.
With more than 40 years in maritime service, Hanley has championed U.S.-flag shipping, expanded the fleet, and advanced shipboard safety. A unifier across labor and management, he is widely respected for his commitment to operational excellence and mariner welfare.
Vincent Marino, chief executive officer, The Marino Group
Marino has transformed The Marino Group into a leading U.S. intermodal network, strengthening operational growth while prioritizing workforce safety, integrity, and union partnerships. His leadership continues to set the standard for collaboration and respect across the industry.
From its founding during World War II under the vision of President Franklin D. Roosevelt and the Seamen’s Service Act, USS has been dedicated to promoting the welfare of seafarers at sea and ashore, American and international alike. For more than eight decades, USS has provided a “home away from home” for seafarers through its global network of centers in Diego Garcia, Busan and Yokohama, offering hospitality, emergency assistance, and community support.
In an era of rising operational costs and global uncertainty, USS remains steadfast in its mission: to sustain vital programs that serve seafarers and the maritime communities that underpin global commerce and national defense.
In addition to the AOTOS Award presentation, Rep. Thomas Suozzi, D-N.Y., spoke on “Now is the Time for all Americans to Work Together,” and Elaine Chao, former U.S. secretary of transportation and 2019 AOTOS honoree, presented the Mariners’ Honors, which recognize heroism and selfless service at sea.
– United Seamen’s Service
