RMS St. Helena to Return as Anti-piracy Armory Vessel
The RMS St. Helena, Britain’s last working postal ship, was for nearly three decades the main source of contact between one of humanity’s remotest islands and the outside world.Now the ship, cherished by the 4,500 residents of British-ruled St. Helena, will start a new life as a floating armory, packed with automatic weapons, bullet-proof jackets and night vision goggles, all stored for maritime security operatives.Renamed the MNG Tahiti, the 340-foot ship will undergo some tweaks before sailing to the Gulf of Oman where it will be used to ferry guns and guards to passing vessels navigating stretches of water lurking with pirates, its new operator said on Tuesday.“The ship is good to go with a few adjustments…
France Bestows Distinction Upon ACP Leader
The French Government honored Panama Canal Authority (ACP) Administrator/CEO Alberto Alemán Zubieta with its highest distinction – “Ordre national de la Légion d’ honneur” or Legion of Honor – in recognition of Mr. Alemán’s successful management of the world’s most famous waterway. In a ceremony on December 18, in Panama City, Panama, Secretary General of France’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs Philippe Faure appointed Mr. Alemán as “Knight” for his outstanding leadership. Established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802, the Legion of Honor stands as the premier order of France. It is conferred upon men and women, either French citizens or foreigners, for exceptional achievements in military or civil life.
ZNA’s J.J. Marie Inducted into French Legion of Honor
J.J. Marie, president and CEO of Zodiac of North America (ZNA), was inducted into he French Legion of Honor, holding the title Chevalier de la Legion d’Honneur. He was presented with the award in January at a private ceremony in the residence of Francois Bujon de L’Estang, French ambassador to the U.S. in Washington, D.C. The Legion of Honor, which is considered France’s highest honor, was created by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802. Marie began his career in the French Merchant Marine, followed by the French Navy. He became president of ZNA in 1990, after serving the company for 10 years. Marie is a high-profile advocate of boating safety and holds leadership positions at many boating safety organizations.
