CLASS 816 TRAINING AT PINEY POINT | PAUL HALL CENTER | PHASE 1 | SIU UNLICENSED APPRENTICE PROGRAM

#merchantmariner #siu #sailor #merchantmarine
In 2016 went to Piney Point Maryland to start my training to become a Merchant Mariner. We were at the Paul Hall center for over 5 months learning basic ship operations, fire fighting, first aid and life boat. Was not the easiest thing in the world to go through but support from our classmates got us by. Class 816 holds a special place in my heart.
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[@justinsalaskanadventures]

I was in class 665, now I’m a tug boat captain in Alaska. SIU changed my life.

[@ohyeahyeah5794]

How did you get into the SIU is there a waiting time to join or you can get in right away? I’m looking to join I just turned 18

[@justinsalaskanadventures]

@@ohyeahyeah5794 are you in Alaska? If so there is a scholarship program that will send you for free, if not, no big deal they have a class starting every month, not sure on a waiting time to get in but I highly recommend the SIU, they will allow you to get in the door of the maritime industry and you can figure out what direction you wanna go, plus it’s good money and they pay you to travel the world! As a young person you can’t beat it, my first ship I worked on, I walked off with 20k cash in my pocket. I bought my first house with that money. If your considering it, I say do it! Good luck on whatever you decide and be safe! Justin-

[@brandobee2264]

@@ohyeahyeah5794 you apply then your closest union hall will contact you for a test. It’s math and reading

[@Jutols]

@@justinsalaskanadventures i also wanna go to SIU how long should i expect to go from OS to captain and if i get a choice id like to work on cargo ships

[@justinsalaskanadventures]

@@Jutols well it comes down to how much time you wanna work, and what license you’d like to acquire. Unfortunately there are a 100 different ways to obtain one license but the bottom line it seadays and tonnage of ship your sailing on to move up the ladder. Siu get you on those unlimited tonnage ships that will help you get a big license much faster than a smaller boats. Start with your AB ticket and start learning. Ultimately I’d say 4 years to captain of you sail a lot and test as soon as you qualify. But like I said there is no straight answer to each individual license

[@leolarsen6187]

I was in class 170. The year 1975. Your training was better. This brings back memories, I just subscribed, your videos are very professional, your narration is excellent.

[@Vansmackable]

I have absolutely no interest in being a sailor or even being on a ship, yet I find your experience fascinating. It’s a snapshot into things I would not know anything about if not for your vlog.

[@alexbaum2204]

Watching this for like the 20th time. I have 5 days before I’m heading out there to start the program. Doing all I can to be mentally prepared. Both nervous and excited. You have no idea what these videos have meant to me, Joe. They were a big part of helping me decide to take this next step in my life. And it’s been one of the best tools to prepare myself for what to expect. I truly thank you for your hard work on making all your videos. Maybe one day I’ll see you out on the high seas!

[@JustChillVids86]

Can I ask you something ? How much does it cost to enroll ? How long is the training ?

[@alexbaum2204]

@@JustChillVids86 all told, I’ve probably spent over a grand on everything to get here. I’m two weeks in. It’s no walk in the park, but it all feels worth it.

[@sevey7778]

Look at baum

[@rexjolles]

its free. only costs are uniform@@JustChillVids86

[@godgreat1373]

Hey how’s everything going?

[@snoopygonewilder]

My mom is a merchant mariner, and I decided I wanted to do it as well. I was just accepted into the program at Piney Point. Just gotta do my physical and wait for a class to open up between August and October. I'm really excited. I went in 2019, but because of my weight I couldn't finish. I was told to get healthy--so in other words lose weight--and go back. I mopped around for a bit, then Covid happened. I've lost 80 lbs since November, and still losing and am really looking forward to this. Thanks for the video.

[@sarahsilverleaf6302]

What couldn’t you pass?

[@jeanclaude1916]

that’s awesome and congrats on the weight loss. i wanna go to piney point too but i’d want to lose at least 30-40lb… half of me also wants to just get my twic an mmc to start asap at the bottom 😂

[@christopherflood8526]

@@jeanclaude1916 You need your twic to enter the program and also the money to afford the courses to get your beginner certifications

[@crishnaholmes7730]

How physical is it

[@hellodarren]

Wow, no idea the training was like a military operation! So pleased for you all to pass, great work and great video!

[@Atlas2040]

Not like the Marine Corps though.

[@gweminence1]

@@Atlas2040 Spoken in ignorance. US Merchant Mariners are some of the most highly trained and certified people on the planet.

[@CarWizard]

@@gweminence1 Not in ignorance. Merchant Marines are highly trained in mental preparation. But 80% of those in this video would not make it through Marine boot camp.

[@b.solomon.israeli]

@@CarWizard No need to tear people down, especially when you don't know them. As a former apprentice at Piney Point and a former U.S. Army soldier I can tell you that many of the people there are veterans. Also, it isn't meant to be USMC boot camp, it is a totally different job/function.

[@zgrif]

@@CarWizardhey probably would lmfao. I would bet every cent I have that those guys are in better shape both mentally and physically than the average 18 year old pussy that shows up to marine boot camp.

[@ddvette]

Very neat video. Merchant marines were the unsung heroes of WW2.

[@tdalloutdoors4293]

Class 652, here. Thanks for your videos. Bringing back some memories. I spent most of my time on the Great Lakes.

[@zram1997]

I'm starting Phase I in two weeks, feeling nervous but determined. Thanks for making this great video!

[@Cr00klynsFinest]

yeah you fucked up lol im class 857, that place sucks ass lmaoooooooooooooo have fun

[@UraniumChef]

Good luck!! You'll do great!

[@merinobernal9585]

How to get in this program

[@damirpinckney6502]

Did you have to cut your hair

[@MisterSands]

Hope your smashing it.

[@jasonjuarez2460]

The best one of these piney point videos out right now. Thanks Joe!

[@JoeFranta]

Aww man, thanks for the kinda words. Tried to capture my experience the best way I could

[@rockbay79]

This was a really nice video to watch. I learned several things. It reminded me of Basic Training. I went through U.S. Air Force (USAF) Basic Training in Feb-Mar 1982 and then on to Technical School Training. Both of these two trainings were back-to-back for a total of 5 months of intense training. Then, it was on to my first assignment at Dyess AFB located near Abilene Texas. I really did respect the Air Force and stayed a total of 20 years on Active Duty and Retired 1 March 2002. I've now been retired 20 years. Sitting here now at 61 years old, choosing a career with the USAF was one of the best decisions I ever made for my future. It was a tough life, there were easier ways to make a living, but I enjoyed the structure.

[@crishnaholmes7730]

What other jobs were you interested that you felt would have been easier

[@stevenlopez8081]

Im glad to have been the the person to welcome you guys to the pen and have been y’all’s temporary Bosun! Seeing this video brought many wonderful memories about my time in PP! Class 816 I’ll never forget y’all.. great fucking video joe! Hope all is well with you brotha. Lucky lopez 814 president 💪🏾🔥

[@moustacherie7042]

These videos inspired me to apply. Going in to class 913 in less than a week.

[@JoeFranta]

Good luck!

[@PG-ku9qd]

Dude - I had no idea that Merchant Mariners went through so much training. I find that reassuring at a lot of levels. Way to go to you and anyone else that gets through it and actually goes on to do the work. 👏

[@brandonbascue7185]

Yeah I am surprised as well, figured a more OJT training style, this is boot camp and tech school along with the military structure. Not a bad thing by no means though, (I am 17yr's Air Force still active). Awesome videos! I have enjoyed learning so much about this type of career from this channel.

[@crishnaholmes7730]

@@brandonbascue7185do you feel that it is as physical as your Air Force training

[@bruceirvine3962]

God bless the SIU and the union brothers and sisters. My son is on a great career trajectory because of the Union.

[@scotthaselbauer8267]

Glad y'all all passed . I am going to the SIU hall here in Houston Texas tomorrow to get started with my application

[@slocad11]

Joe, I really like your videos because they`re put together so well and you`re just a down-to-earth guy narrating his story. I used to work for a cruise line for 14 years on the hotel side, so no deck or engine duties, but it doesn`t matter because we are mariners. Well, truth be told, it`s been a few year since I walked down the gangway, but I am in touch almost every day with crew I worked with, almost every freaking day, the bonds are that tight. Be safe, smooth sailing.

[@JoeFranta]

Yes brother, I always wanted to try working for a cruise ship, seems like so much fun. Thanks for watching and all your kind words, means a lot man.

[@Paul-re2ph]

Class 600 here! Love your videos man. Brings me back...over 20 years ago and this brings back so many memories. Good stuff

[@JoeFranta]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@wesleynelson21]

What are the educational requirement etc. to attend or be accepted here

[@thehangmansdaughter1120]

My Grandfather was a Merchant Sailor, out of Dublin, before and during WWII. He became a radio operator. After the war he became an air traffic controller, but being a sailor was always his first love. I wonder how different the training was when he first went to sea at 17 (1935)?

[@seandaly7002]

@thehangmansdaughter1120 my uncle was the same - merchante sailor out of Dublin after the way, became a radio officer

[@Bulldawg1958]

Really love these videos you’ve got excellent film making talent and you’re showing me a whole new world that I never would’ve known, thank you and keep them coming !

[@frankkennedy6562]

Hey Joe, My memories go back to Piney Point Class 288. There were a lot more trainees back then. I was happy to see the Harry Lunenburg School of Seamanship was looking good after all these years! I shipped out of the SIU hall in Brooklyn for four years. I was fortunate to be aware at the time but these were going to be the best times of my life. So I made the most of it. Too bad the mobile phone hadn’t been invented otherwise like you I might have been able to share some of it on KZbin. But then again, maybe it’s just as well. Hang in there brother!

[@JoeFranta]

Cheers Frank! class 288, thats wild. Glad you made the most of sailing. Always nice to hear guys living there best life. thanks for watching brother .

[@marshallplexi]

Class 395 here - first shipped out and flew to Japan as a B Book on an LNG tanker shuttling gas from Indonesia back up to different ports in Japan. Great memories!!

[@dansamson7081]

Class 619 here, Love the videos. Thanks so much for the memories they brought back. Best of luck.

[@Captain_Wavy_Jones]

Just got advanced to phase 2 of the application process. I already have my MMC. Just waiting on my passport to come in so I can email everything in and finally receive my ship date. Your videos have been very helpful

[@jessicabuckman9675]

Joe does a great job with his videos, no crap, just good stuff.

[@justinmorgan4568]

Ah man, the nostalgia... This reminds me of when I went through basic training for the Air Force. Y'all got it easy... and that's coming from an Air Force dude, haha! But still, all the principles are there, and all the emotions involved... Looks likes a blast Joe, you'll never forget it.

[@spooks2111]

Yalls basic was just like the one in this video 😂 But without the water.

[@paleamigo8575]

I am surprised at the amount of training and the resemblances to the U.S. Navy. There are a lot of interesting opportunities out there that most Americans are not aware of.

[@crishnaholmes7730]

Did you do the navy

[@cardmankev]

Class 107 here! Shipped out after graduating, ending up on an East Coast, Sealand, container ship. Left the industry after that first ship. Still have to say, glad I tried it.

[@phillipa6402]

Man I’m so fortunate to be class 350 in ‘81. Couldn’t pass the current regime at 17 years of age. Good job.

[@stagrye228]

I was in class #640 March 2002. Been sailing now with S.I.U. for a couple of years now and I love it.

[@nehemiahoden9590]

How much do you make a month after 2 years?

[@christopherjacquez8605]

Yea I'd like to know that as well

[@mrcarlo1966]

You did a great job on that video. I wish I would have known something like this when I was younger. I hope that young people today take advantage of some thing like this.

[@queenbluntressspeaks2695]

There is no age limit. Older people are making this their career after retirement. I hear it’s people 80yrs old joining

[@patrickmcgranahan1594]

Your film making is very professional. I went through firefighter training and they tried to make a video and it was terrible and a major embarrassment when they showed it at graduation. Good work.

[@Bitter-Sailor]

I'm glad they toned it down. It was hell when I went through in 97. Seems like a funner experience now.

[@GultenA529]

It was a nice and informational video. I really enjoyed watching it. Thank you. Greetings from Arizona.

[@tomservo5347]

People do not hear in history that the Merchant Marines took heavy losses during WW2 keeping the lifelines going. I had no clue that they train very much like the military does-especially in how right from the get go they get you used to never having enough sleep and what I hated the most-KP or mess duty which meant even less sleep. It's good seeing how they build teamwork and a sense of comradery that one rarely sees in the civilian world.

[@madmouseinjapan]

Thank you for the video Joe it is great to see your journey. Looking forward to phase 2.

[@JoeFranta]

thanks! phase 2 should be out soon!

[@erotionshiny8222]

Class 893. Without these videos I don’t know where I would be. Certainly haven’t gotten the full experience yet, but definitely glad I joined SIU

[@siberia1409]

Hey joe, I went to Piney Point in 2006 before I went and worked on a cruise ship in hawaii. I don't know about when you went but they had some corn fields nearby and we all dreamed of eating that corn the whole time we were there. But they never had corn on the damn menu. We could not leave the campus and it was a pizza joint right across the street from the entrance and all we could smell was that damn pizza the whole time we were there.

[@brandobee2264]

There’s a whole bar we fantasize about going to across the street 😂😂😂

[@bigmountain7561]

When I was at Cape May marlinspike seamanship was my favorite. Then off to Kodiak I went.

[@timedrip9178]

i need to complete my physical and drug test and im in the next class. cant wait. going to piney point too. i saw ur vids and they inspired me to join

[@JoeFranta]

Awesome! Best of luck!

[@godgreat1373]

Hey how long after application did you get to the physical/drug test part? looking to get into the school.

[@timedrip9178]

@@godgreat1373i dont remember exactly , i think it was like a couple weeks. then u get 3 months to turn in ur drug test and physical

[@valo199]

I should be out there December! I'm so ready. And thank you for your detailed insight

[@JoeFranta]

You are so welcome!

[@jeremyboyd50]

Class 737 here, this is the best video ive seen on the program

[@jamesfrommanitoba.1992]

Fantastic video, I always wondered and you made it come true. Love your videos

[@ATH_Berkshire]

Interested why the program has such a military feel to it. I’ve seen programs about seaman training here in the U.K. and it’s completely different. Just like regular college education, but with some time away on a ship.

[@JoeFranta]

Yea man Idk. thats just how the do it. Nothing like how ships actually are.

[@TheBioShockker]

I was asking that myself... but I'm wondering if they do that since MM's can be activated as Naval Auxiliary during time of war{?}.

[@bartrogers3677]

because discipline and structure are a part of shipboard life

[@timedrip9178]

im in vessel ops now , the program is a lot easier now for sure. joe had it rough when he joined.

[@Captain_Wavy_Jones]

In what regards is it easier? I’m in phase 2 of the application process.

[@jules01760]

Lol, loved the marching... brought back lots of memories from my Army days :) . Great video.

[@JoeFranta]

nothing like a strong Cadence to get ya going in the morning

[@valo199]

I check in on November 17th!!!🦋🚢 Going for deck department. Thanks again for all of your insight!

[@WilliamCooper-l6f]

This is totally cool. I had no idea this was available for merchant marines. I wish I could do this. I've seen my fair share of galleys, but that was a monster. Even in boot camp, I was sent to the mess to help out and they had nothing compared to what your academy has.

[@jhf99991]

Nice work very cool thanks!

[@walterkeith3711]

I'm hoping to join you soon. As an Irishman of the high seas

[@torgeirbrandsnes1916]

Great vlog as always! I guess this is how the saying I will teach you the ropes comes from. Good job man!

[@rosssuttonproperties]

I went through with class 189 in 1975/76. It is a lot more sophisticated and modern now. Except for the marching that is. Some things never change. Good videos

[@TimStagg]

Hey Ross! Also class 189. Sailed with SIU until 87 then joined AMO. Retired last year, last job was CE on the Cape Washington. Augie is still going strong. Class 189!!!! Great videos! Sure has changed a lot over the years.

[@rosssuttonproperties]

@@TimStagg Hey Tim, Of course I remember you well. It was me who helped blow out your knee playing soccer. Still feel bad about that. Auggie did tell me that you were sailing as CE. Nice to hear that you went so far. I sailed for ten years and got my Third Mate's license but got tired of the changes in the industry and got out. Been selling real estate in MD ever since. Good to hear from you.

[@bartrogers3677]

You did a great job putting this video together Joe and we thank you

[@JoeFranta]

Thanks Bart! Class 816 will always have a special place in my heart. Glad you guys enjoyed it, you're a good guy for a Giants fan lol

[@bartrogers3677]

@@JoeFranta Good guy die hard big blue Giants fan yes I am.

[@davemclallen7328]

abundant amazing footage--very surprised you were able to make all if it and upload, etc. but you remain an enigma--bud driver, rv, mm, then what? seems very intense!

[@CarolAnn-gh9fl]

My son is the the chief engineer on a US research ship. He went to Massachusetts Maritime Academy. The Crew works hard everyday. He couldn’t find work in 2016 after graduation. Took him over a year.

[@jaym3796]

Reminds me of a lower level Navy boot camp that I went through when I was 18. Still pretty interesting

[@elaynewhite069]

45 years at sea and loved the video.

[@JoeFranta]

cheers to 45 years! glad you're enjoying the content

[@elaynewhite069]

@@JoeFranta Hope you go on and get your tickets…easy once you put your mind to it.

[@koloringmylife3912]

Great video! Learned a lot and gained some insight on what phase 1 is like 😃

[@onealrcl1098]

I am going to Piney Point this thursday (Nov 17th), I am extremely excited and hope this allows for a successful future. Class 891

[@sarahsilverleaf6302]

How’s it going?

[@onealrcl1098]

@@sarahsilverleaf6302 I graduated in April and have been sailing in Dubai for the last 2 months. Best decision I ever made I love the lifestyle and the career so far

[@sarahsilverleaf6302]

@@onealrcl1098 how long was the entire program? Is the training rigorous regarding physical?

[@sarahsilverleaf6302]

@@onealrcl1098 also congrats! I hope to feel the same way

[@onealrcl1098]

@@sarahsilverleaf6302 The program depending on which department you choose now is broken up into the phases of course (You must choose your department before you enter the program now). Phase 1 for all departments is 16 weeks, the physical training is no where near as difficult as I had assumed it was going to be, you will have a gym class that you will take, however after that class you aren't required to do anymore physical training in a sense. Of course you will take your physicals and make sure you are physically capable of being a sailor, it again is not very hard. If you have anymore questions feel free to ask.

[@ethanlove5513]

Excellent video, this brought back a lot of memories, I was in class 824 🫡⚓️🛳🚢

[@JoeFranta]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@michaelsullo3698]

Reminded me a little of Navy Boot Camp only with less abuse. Thank you for the videos, I miss my days at sea.

[@tomhaney5186]

When we were on galley phase the guys ahead of us would steal bottles of dish soap and fill up their cups with it before they put their tray through the window. All the sudden the dragon (what we called the dishwasher) would explode into suds. All hell would break loose.

[@mitchellbarnow1709]

What an intense video! It was hard but respectful.

[@FortShenanigans]

Hi Joe! Just found your channel as I watch mostly great lakes but caught a link to you. First, simply, fantastic adventures n great insight to life aboard ship presented by your charming no bullshit honest n calming personality imho. Am I reading this right that you have 63 subscribers? That’s 63,000 subs right? At least I hope so for all your efforts and spectacular footage. Last q and I’ll be quiet for a bit: can I ask how old the eldest cadet was during your maritime academy? I’m ask’n for a friend? Smile.

[@JoeFranta]

Hey Pat, thanks for the kind words, glad you're enjoying the content. We had a gentlemen who was in his late 50s, as long as you can pass the CG physical you can join. No age limit

[@jennifersenner4007]

I'm from Class 622 and recognize quite a bit of your footage. I know you're sailing as an AB now, congratulations! Personally I made my way up, got my license in 2008 and have been sailing as Captain for the past 3 years. Your page is great information for new sailors.

[@JoeFranta]

Thank you so much, I'll be getting my 1080 days soon enough, looking forward to getting my 3rds as well

[@jennifersenner4007]

@@JoeFranta I think my picture is still on the wall in the lobby. lol

[@torres6490]

lol This is great. I grew up at the school. its nice to see not a lot has changed.

[@mikeleeannreactz9029]

Sooo many memories at piney point! The NCL trainees used to stay on the other side til they moved to Hawaii. Had a gf there near the pool that was ncl.

[@chrisboeckel1117]

Thanks for sharing this! This answers a lot of questions I had about the program. Did you get to return home at all in between phases? Looking forward to the next videos.

[@JoeFranta]

Went home after Phase 2 for acouple months, then again after phase 3 for only a month.

[@crishnaholmes7730]

@@JoeFrantawas it mandatory to go on break

[@MatthewGoss562]

The firefighting training reminds me of my Fire 1 classes. Good times.

[@moceri55]

Class of 504 fall of 1992. We only spent 3 to 4 months there then and were put on our first ship. Then our next job as an Ordinary was on us. At that time they were fading out wipers and oilers and using DEU’s and you only got 50-50 sea time.

[@northwestsailor526]

This was great man. All very well said and put together, it brought me back to all the same feels of being there. I wish I would’ve recorded while in class but I’m glad I didn’t because i couldn’t compete with this video. 👏 🙌 👏

[@JoeFranta]

Hey man! Glad you liked it and thanks for the kind words,have a video for each phase comping out, you're in the phase 3 video, I'll be sure to like your channel to the video!

[@charlesedwarddavisjr.6022]

Great video. But you didn't tell us if there is a tuition cost out of pocket or do they take out of your check

[@richardgiles2484]

Really interesting to know about your training and glad you all passed out at the same time 👍

[@gerardvanaalsum3786]

Thanks Joe. really like the videos

[@MatthewGlenn26196]

Awesome footage I can’t imagine how hard it was to get all that.

[@civmar1]

You sailed on a cable layer. My 1st ship at MSC was USNS ZEUS. Really fine duty, tho she's old!

[@JoeFranta]

Yea, I've heard about the Zeus, I sailed on the Global Sentinel, which I think may have joined the Zues as MSC

[@mandrill-media]

TA and the decks looks alot different now! But cool to see how it use to look

[@markcarey8426]

Terrific. What about mooring and casting off and winches and hawsers and all that?

[@MikeG-tq9ly]

Wow amazing

[@johncanetta6708]

Damn Joe, that was a great video!

[@vernwallen4246]

🗽👍⚓i spent 30 years in the M/M and went too the Paul hall ctr to upgrade several times.Made some good💰💰💰💰traveled the world over.Made many,many trips too Japan.If you love too travel and make good💰this might be your ticket.

[@thomasmills4726]

I love the vids keep them coming. I enjoy the boat vlogs the best

[@JoeFranta]

Glad you like them!

[@joshjames20]

I saw the unit marching but is there physical like running every morning? What's the physical consist of? Would like to start preparing myself to potentially give this a shot.

[@nytugboattrash]

I was in class 659. Miss Piney Point. I am currently still sailing as 2nd Mate on an oil tanker

[@josephvasquez8278]

Honestly, the ONLY thing keeping me frong flying out tonaightah, is what I witnessed the first couple of minutes in this wealth of informational documentary: The Shaving of Ones Scalp. I have a thiq headah hair, and it's loung. Neat, but loung. Well kept, but loung. Never outtah place, but loung. Yeah, I'm finding it very huoard, to part ways with My Hair Bunn. It's not as easy as one might think. Shaved my head 2003 till 2009. Let it grow. Very cajsh. Make shure I snip some hair off every full moon. Yes, there's a technique. Now, I cuoant let it go. I could kick me shinns right now.

[@jonathangraham7148]

I’ll be attending in November!

[@Villlz]

How many questions was on the phase 1 test was it hard?

[@麤驫鑫]

Professional mariners Seafarers hold a variety of professions and ranks, each of which carries unique responsibilities which are integral to the successful operation of an ocean-going vessel. A ship's crew can generally be divided into four main categories: the deck department, the engineering department, the steward's department, and others.

[@pcdude2394]

Does military sea service in the US Navy qualify you for a higher position in the U.S. Merchant Marine - and allow you to enter that career more quickly?

[@thebruniverse276]

Great series of videos So informative interesting and well done and edited Bravo

[@JoeFranta]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@stevek4449]

Do you ever use the vessel finder app to see where your first ship or any others are at from when you were last on them?

[@JoeFranta]

Occasionally. Some of the ships I have been on run the same route over and over again so its no mystery where they would be.

[@Swabthedecknow]

Class 425. Joined in March 1988. Left in November 2006. Things have changed some, but not much. You are embarking on a lifestyle which has a high attrition rate. Only about 2% of all graduates will still be in the industry after five years. Mostly due to separation from friends and family or wife and kids. But if you love what you do,and don't allow anything to get in the way of that - you can work all the way to Master.

[@JoeFranta]

Yep. A lot of people I started with are no longer sailing.

[@Swabthedecknow]

@@JoeFranta Sailed like you. Started on LNG. Went on to T5 Tankers. Then Alaska Tankers. Cable Ship, Sealand, etc. Worked MSC Guam/Saipan. Crowley Tugs, Foss Marine, Ferry Boats --- even bought my own 40' sailboat I lived on for two years. Seven times around the world - thirty five countries - 120 cities. Four combat deployments. Left as a Bosun

[@joeromine7777]

What up my brother love the video Class #633 myself....

[@firemedicseven]

I really had no idea that it would be this structured and para-military.

[@b.solomon.israeli]

Definitely. Not exactly sure what the reason is, once you're out at sea the para-military aspect if gone. Maybe to weed out the less serious. Class 728!

[@Knutefreeman]

Well put together videos. Like your style and nice voice.

[@bobbyculpepper845]

Hi joe I was a mess man win I start I became a b unlimited for chevron

[@adimeter]

Unity is my overriding take away on this video. Togetherness!!

[@mikef1803]

Hey man, great work on your channel. I genuinely love watching your videos. I have a question about marine navigation careers. I'm enrolled in a 3 year program for Marine Navigation Officer and I'm currently 36 years old. Am I too old to be picked up by any company when I'm completed my school? By then I'll be 40, would you say it's too late for me? Thanks for your time and effort.

[@josephvasquez8278]

It's never too late! I say go for it!

[@crishnaholmes7730]

@@josephvasquez8278did you try it

[@BlarkMCGark]

Would having arm sleeves, neck and head tattoos be a issue ?

[@moceri55]

Oh those boots. They killed your feet but were extremely comfortable after they broke in.

[@enagrom09]

I worked with Sam on the pride of America years ago. Wow Small world