Congressman John Garamendi Named ‘Champion of Maritime’

The American Maritime Partnership (AMP), the voice of the domestic maritime industry, recognized U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-Calif.) with the 2018 “Champion of Maritime” award. The award was given during a ceremony at California State University Maritime Academy on September 17.

Garamendi is the ranking member of the House Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee of the House Transportation Committee.

“It is hard to imagine a more tireless supporter of our industry. When the American maritime industry faces a challenge or an opportunity, we can be sure with absolute certainty that Rep. Garamendi will be a leader for the men and women of American maritime,” said AMP chairman Matt Woodruff.

“At the top of our list, he is a leading champion of the Jones Act, the fundamental law of the American maritime industry, which is essential to the strength of our domestic, homeland and national security. Due to Rep. Garamendi’s dedication to our industry, we can think of no better leader to bestow AMP’s highest honor – the Champion of Maritime.”

In his acceptance speech, Garamendi, said, “When we think about all the issues at the forefront of American politics right now—good-paying jobs, energy independence, national security, trade, and rebuilding our manufacturing sector—the American maritime industry is at the forefront of all of them.

“Unfortunately, it’s not on the minds of many of our leaders in Washington. I’m proud of the work we’re doing together to change that. The successes we’ve had for our domestic maritime industry would not be possible without the tireless efforts of the American Maritime Partnership, and I couldn’t be more honored to receive the Champion of Maritime Award. I also want to thank the Propeller Club of Northern California, the California State University Maritime Academy, and my Maritime Advisory Committee for bringing the maritime community together today to discuss the challenges and opportunities before us. As a united maritime industry, we will continue to rebuild this critical sector to advance America’s national and economic security.”