 Merchant Mariners have been essential to American economic prosperity since the founding of our nation. In support of our national defense, it is merchant mariners like our Department of Defense Civil Service mariners who sail the ships with fuel, supplies and combat equipment that enable our armed forces to operate globally. At Military Seal of Command, we employ more than 5,000 merchant mariners to operate our core fleet with hundreds more employed on contract operated ships in support of our nation's transportation requirements and special mission needs. As the nation continually improves the maritime industry, we are grateful for those who have stepped forward to carry on the finest traditions and look towards the future with a strong U.S. merchant fleet.