ABS celebrated its 150th anniversary in Washington, DC on 31 January and was recognized by Members of Congress for the classification society’s proud history and unwavering commitment to the American and international maritime community.
“I ask my colleagues to join with me in congratulating ABS on its 150th anniversary and in recognizing ABS’ significant service to the American marine and offshore industries and our sea services,” stated Congressman Frank LoBiondo (R-NJ), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, in remarks entered into the Congressional Record. “As the classification society of the United Sates, ABS continues to serve today as a vanguard to mariners, public safety and our natural environment.”
Congressman LoBiondo was joined by Congressman Rick Larsen (D-WA), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, Congressman Gene Green (D-TX), Member of the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and Vice Admiral Sally Brice-O’Hara, Vice Commandant of the United States Coast Guard, in delivering congratulatory remarks during the celebration of ABS’ 150th anniversary.
“From the time of its formation, promoting safety has been and remains the core mission of ABS,” stated Robert D. Somerville, ABS Chairman. “We are mindful of our past, of our traditions, but we are always planning for our future success with the same enterprising spirit that has been a fundamental part of ABS for 150 years. In doing so, we will continue to look to you, our partners in industry and government, to help us identify new challenges so that we in turn can help you successfully meet those challenges.”
In addition to the dignitaries who provided remarks, the event was also attended by Congressman Tim Bishop (D-NY), Congresswoman Lois Capps (D-CA); Congressman Howard Coble (R-NC); Congressman Bill Johnson (R-OH); Congressman Mike McIntyre (D-NY); Congressman Rob Wittman (R-VA) and Congressman Todd Young (R-IN) as well as Rebecca Dye; Commissioner, Federal Maritime Commission and RADM (Ret.) James Watson, Director of the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement of the Department of Interior.
Many ABS Board Members were also in attendance at the event including: Dr. Peter H. Cressy, Distilled Spirits Council of the United States President and CEO; Richard D. DeSimone, XL Insurance Group President of Marine North America; John A. Hickey; Dr. Don Liu, ABS Consultant; T. Peter Pappas, Atlantic Capital LLC Managing Director; Philip J. Shapiro, Liberty Maritime Corporation President and CEO; Craig H. Stevenson Jr., Diamond S. Management LLC Chairman and CEO; Dean E. Taylor, Tidewater Inc. Chairman, President and CEO; Leonard H. Tyler, Retired former President of Maine Maritime Academy; Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS President and CEO; Elizabeth Whitaker, Whitaker LLC; and Douglas C. Wolcott, Retired former President of Chevron Shipping.