John F Lehman News

The Marine Machinery Association will hold its 29th Annual Meeting in partnership with Newport News Shipbuilding at the Newport News Marriot, October 7-9, 2013. There Will Be A Reception for Speakers and MMA Members From 6-7:30 p.m. on Monday, October 7. The meeting will feature presentations by Matt Mulherin, President of NNS, Hon. John F. Lehman, a former Secretary of the Navy and several flag officers from the Naval Sea Systems Command. Attendees at the Meeting Must Be U.S. Citizens or Permanent Residents And Employees of Companies Performing Contracts for the U.S. Navy.

Former Secretary of the Navy, historian, and author John F. Lehman has been named the recipient of the America and the Sea Award for 2011 by Mystic Seaport Museum, Inc. The America and the Sea Award recognizes an individual or organization whose contributions to the history, arts, business, or sciences of the sea best exemplify the American character. Lehman served as Secretary of the Navy from 1981-1987 and developed the “Lehman Doctrine,” a two-front response to a Soviet invasion of Europe. He will be honored for his service at a gala in New York City on October 18, 2011.

Ashland Inc. (NYSE:ASH) completed the sale of its global marine services business, known for many years as Drew Marine, to J. F. Lehman & Co. for approximately $120m before tax. Ashland will use the net proceeds to reduce debt. With revenues of approximately $140m a year, the Drew Marine business has approximately 325 employees, 28 offices and 98 stocking locations in 47 countries. The business is a recognized global leader in providing technical solutions, high-value products and services to the global marine industry. Ashland and J.F. Lehman & Co. expect to produce a smooth transition with no disruption in customer service or supply. Summarizing the sale, James J. “We are extremely excited to now own the Drew Marine business and we welcome their employees to the J.F. Lehman & Co.

On June 22 Ashland Inc. (NYSE:ASH) announced it has signed a definitive agreement to sell its global marine services business, known for many years as Drew Marine, to J. F. Lehman & Co. in a transaction valued at approximately $120m before tax. Ashland’s after-tax proceeds will be used to reduce debt. “This transaction will be a win for all parties,” said James J. O’Brien, Ashland chairman and chief executive officer. “For Ashland, this reflects our strategy to strengthen our core specialty chemical businesses while reducing our investment in non-core or non-strategic businesses. For J. F. Lehman & Co., the acquisition of Drew Marine represents an opportunity to acquire a leading global brand with strong market positions and prospects for growth.

1854 - The first chapel built on Navy property is dedicated in Annapolis, Md. 1971 - Capt. Alan B. Shepherd Jr., commander of Apollo 14, and Cmdr. Edgar D. Mitchell, lunar module pilot, participate in a moonwalk. During the nine-day mission, 94 pounds of lunar material was collected, and Shepard became the first person to hit a golf ball on the moon. A helicopter from USS New Orleans (LPH 11) takes care of recovery. 1981 - John F. Lehman Jr. assumes office as 65th Secretary of the Navy. For more information about naval history, visit the Naval Historical Center Web site at www.history.navy.mil.

A ceremony honoring the 20th anniversary of the commissioning of the Norfolk-based aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (TR) (CVN 71) took place in the ship’s hangar bay Oct. 25. Several distinguished guests who have played an important role in the life of the ship were on hand for the occasion. “Twenty years of service … think about that for a minute,” said TR Commanding Officer, Capt. J. R. Haley, who took command June 9, 2005. “The median age of the crew on this ship is 19. A significant moment for the more than 3,000 TR crew members on hand came when TR’s first commanding officer took to the podium to deliver a brief message with high impact. Retired Rear Adm. Wick Parcells first turned to Haley and asked the captain for permission to speak directly to the crew.