The following is the text of a statement by Maritime Administrator Paul Jaenichen:
"The Maritime Administration (MarAd) is proud to support the international effort to destroy Syrian chemical weapons and agents by providing the M/V Cape Ray and its all-volunteer U.S. Merchant Marine crew to support this critical mission.
"One of MarAd’s 46 Ready Reserve Force (RRF) ships that stand ready to provide rapid movement of equipment and supplies during times of national and humanitarian emergencies, this vessel and its crew illustrate the important contribution our RRF ships and mariners make in supporting U.S. national and economic security.
"Since 1775, the U.S. Merchant Marine has proudly answered when and where called upon, and the crew of the Cape Ray will continue its work to ensure both protection of the environment and all those aboard."
Click here to read a Cape Ray statement by Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel.
