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THIS IS PAGE 2 of 3 -- Feature Updates

Readers Note: This Feature Has Now Moved Forward To 3 Pages:

Page 1 M/V Cargo Ace- July 23 to August 14 2006 - M/V Cougar Ace At Extreme Risk !

Page 2 M/V Cougar Ace - August 15 to August 31 -below - The Lady Is Saved - For Now!- The Tribute To Marty LET YOUR VOICE JOIN NOW!

We Need YOUR Help. New Issue: Should the name be "M/V Martin Johnson"? Only A Mother Can Answer.

Marty's Brother In Law Speaks Out - Aug. 24

Marty's Sister Speaks Out - Aug. 27

The Lady Is Coming To Port! - Aug. 28

The Family Memorial

Page 3 M/V Cougar Ace - Sept. 1 To Present -M/V Cougar Ace - Sept. 1 To Present - End of The Mazdas & The Final Tribute To Martry Johnson -- The "Marty J"

Updated To Feature End In Feb. 2007

Go Directly To Today's Update

 "Laying Down On The Job"

On The Scene - In The North Pacific !

M/V Cougar Ace

Japan for Vancouver B.C., Canada

Feature Date: August, 2006

Event Date: July 23, 2006

Page 2

Countryman & McDaniel

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On The Scene -- In The North Pacific !

Page 2

 A 2006 Countryman & McDaniel

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"A Day A The Beach - M/V APL Panama - Jan. 2006

"NO Rails" - destruction of New Orleans - Dec. 2005

"Backhaul !" - for July 2005

"The Boeing Tri-Motor" - for April 2005

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The Cargo Letter Photo Gallery of Transport Loss

 

"Laying Down On The Job"

On The Scene

In The North Pacific

M/V Cougar Ace

BREAKING NEWS Since July 23 2006

Proving Again That: "Ship Happens©"

PAGE 2 - The Lady Is Saved - For Now

 

A Cargo Nightmare Prize Contender

The Date: July 23 2006 & Continuing

The Place: North Pacific

The Function: Deliver Mazda Autos To U.S. West Coast

Page 2 - August 14 2006 To Present Date

 

A Whale Full of Mazdas -- M/V Cougar Ace

The Cargo Letter For Tues, Aug. 15 2006 - The Dewatering Process Continues.

M/V Redeemer Guards "The Whale" - As Dewatering Continues

Standing On The Upturned Vessel

M/V Redeemer Along The Rudder

All Explanations Aside -- How Does She Float?

M/V Cougar Ace - Rests Tonight At Wide Bay - August 15 2006

London, Aug 14 -- Vehicle carrier M/V Cougar Ace is now moored at Icicle Seafoods in Wide Bay. The Alaska Dept. of Environmental Conservation says the ship is now at a less-severe 57-degree list. Salvage crews are trying to rig discharge hoses closer to the waterline and increase the pumping rate to rid the cargo deck of water. Crews are not sure if the source of the water was from ocean water or ballast tank overflow.

Along Side M/V Cougar Ace - Ladder Boarding Is Treacherous


THREE FACES OF M/V COUGAR ACE

Coming Back From The Grave - Aug. 15 2006

How Was This All Possible?

M/V Cougar Ace At The Full List. How Did She Float?

M/V Cougar Ace Just Beginning To Right Herself - Can She?

M/V Cougar Ace -- SHE RISES !

Skill & Science. THEY DID IT !

M/V Sea Victory Stands By -- A Crowley Tradition

By All Accounts -- M/V Cougar Ace Is Saved

BRAVO ZULU To

The U.S. Coast Guard - Crowley Marine - Titan Maritime - Foss Maritime - Mitsui O.S.K. Lines

Now -- Let's See Those Mazdas

The Cargo Letter For Wed., Aug. 16 2006 - Dewatering Continues - State of Alaska Situation Report

State of Alaska Situation Report - Aug. 16 2006
TIME/DATE OF SITUATION REPORT: 12:00 PM August 16, 2006. This and subsequent situation reports are being distributed to disseminate information on M/V Cougar Ace 's status, incident management & salvage plans for the vessel.

TYPE/AMOUNT OF PRODUCT SPILLED: A small sheen of what appeared to be lubricating oil was stopped from the vessel's bow thruster area on August 2, 2006. The vessel is carrying a reported 142,184 gallons of Intermediate Fuel Oil (IFO) 380 and 34,182 gallons of Marine Diesel Oil (MDO) as estimated by the PRP. Former estimates did not account for fuel remaining in tanks prior to bunkering. The vessel is reported to be carrying approximately 4,813 vehicles as cargo. An undetermined amount of lubricant and transmission fluids spilled from the vehicles onto the cargo decks while the vessel was heeled over.

LOCATION: M/V Cougar Ace location as of August 16, 2006 is at Icicle Seafoods mooring bouy located in Wide Bay, Unalaska Bay at 53-57.2 N, 166.36.7 W.

POTENTIAL RESPONSIBLE PARTY (PRP): Mitsui OSK Lines, Tokyo, Japan.

RESPONSE ACTIONS: On Sun, Aug. 13, 2006 the ballasting of tank #4S was completed and free water on # 9 deck port side, was pumped over the side. On Tues, Aug. 15, 2006, the USCG Marine Safety Detachment (MSD) in Dutch Harbor reported that M/V Cougar Ace list is currently at 12 degrees & vessel stable. The owners, Mitsui OSK Lines, and Titan are conducting soundings of all tanks to verify M/V Cougar Ace stability in order for Titan, the contracted salvor, to return operation of the vessel to Mitsui OSK Lines.

M/V Cougar Ace 's emergency generator is on line & service generator is being considered for placing back on line once Titan releases the ship back to the owners. The owners plan to clean transmission fluid & lubricants from all the car decks and containerize the recovered fluids for proper disposal. MSD personnel reported that most decks suffered vehicle damage and all vehicles must be re-secured. MSD also reported the water, sewage systems, fire main and low pressure CO2 systems are inoperable and will be evaluated for repairs by the owner.

The tugs M/V Sea Victory & M/V Gladiator remain standing by M/V Cougar Ace on scene in Wide Bay with M/V Makushin Bay, Kashega Barge and M/V Redeemer in port.

The salvage crew has boarded M/V Cougar Ace & recovered and organized all salvage equipment back onboard M/V Makushin Bay & M/V Redeemer. This equipment will be kept on stand by at the dock for demobilization back to Titan's warehouse in Florida.

FUTURE PLANS AND RECOMMENDATIONS: Maintain secure mooring lines of M/V Cougar Ace to bouys. Complete inspection of vessel and conduct final stability calculations. Clean all cargo decks. Draft towing plan being reviewed by USCG for expected departure from Unalaska. Continue to update Unalaska city council daily.

WEATHER: Today: NW Winds 15 KT, Seas 4 FT, Patchy Fog. Tomorrow: Variable winds 10 KT, Seas 2 FT.

From Our Reader -- For Wed.., Aug. 16 2006 - Sugested Memorial to Mr. Fontain "Marty" Johnson - YOUR COMMENTS ARE NEEDED!

"It's been weeks since I first learned of the M/V Cougar Ace incident, but it got my attention for some reason. This incident and your website open a whole new world to me to the men and women in the open sea cargo transport business and then the world or salvage operations when that business goes awry.  The M/V Cougar Ace story became personal when a man named Marty Johnson died while trying to save her. At the time of his death, I just wanted the ship to sink but that would not honor Mr. Johnson. That made this event tragic. I found some information about Marty Johnson and I will always remember him when I see ships, especially ships in dire straights. He was working for the success we are seeing today.

"Since finding you website, I have a whole new respect for water transport and environmental challenges each shipment endures. The men and women in salvage operation also have my new respect for what they to. I quickly see lots of behind the scene and no named heroes and herons in that business too.  Your website has been the absolute best in keeping me informed on M/V Cougar Ace.  Whoever complies and updates, thank you for your efforts.  In fact, the whole website is an amazing wealth of information and historical record of events.

"Since the M/V Cougar Ace, I have spent many hours reading about cargo accidents & salvage operations. The Discovery Channel needs a new show dedicated to this "line of service."

Today, I see that M/V Cougar Ace is rolling back over and am just ecstatic, but don't know why. My hope is that the owners would rename the ship, the M/V Marty Johnson. That would be a great floating memorial to him.  I was disappointed in Mitsui O.S.K to have never mentioned in their press releases that a life was lost trying to save her. I believe every car that is not damaged should get a card in the glove box that simply says, "In Memory of Fontain "Marty" Johnson." I tried to find an e-mail address for the President of Mitsui O.S.K to let him know how I feel but failed to find one. 

"Your website will be one that I will always come back too even after M/V Cougar Ace no longer makes the news.  I have learned so much about the cargo business that I wished I had known about when I was much younger. Again, Thanks so much for the M/V Cougar Ace news coverage and please don't stop!"

Russell Lynas -- BAE SYSTEMS - Customer Acceptance & Operations Metrics

ED NOTE>> For all those who worked at great personal risk -- and even gave a life to save M/V Cougar Ace, there could be no more fitting gesture than to rename this vessel -- M/V Marty Johnson. Without the work of Mr. Fontain "Marty" Johnson and his colleagues -- there would be no M/V Cougar Ace.

This tribute would speak for all those whose efforts saved the vessel -- and has been well earned by ultimate sacrifice. Your comments are needed. What do you think? Let us know today.

Write To Us In Support of the name change to M/V Marty Johnson Now. CLICK HERE You must take a moment to vote for the name change.
McD

Quite Incredibly -- Brought (Back) To You By Mr. Fontain "Marty" Johnson and his colleagues ...

of The U.S. Coast Guard, Crowley Marine, Titan Maritime, Foss Maritime & The State of Alaska.

Here's To A New "M/V Marty Johnson" A Tribute Earned. BRAVO ZULU!

The Cargo Letter For Thus., Aug. 17 2006 - The Movement To Rename M/V Cougar Ace Grows --The Tribute To Marty

A loving memorial to naval architect Fontain Martin Johnson III (Marty) has been posted.
 The Tribute To Marty Write To Us In Support of M/V Marty Johnson Now.

Meanwhile, the suggestion of our reader Russell Lynas that M/V Cougar Ace has taken wing ......

From Our Readers -- For Thurs.., Aug. 17 2006 - Sugested Memorial to Mr. Fontain "Marty" Johnson - YOUR COMMENTS ARE NEEDED!

"I totally agree with Russell Lynas, the ship should be renamed M/V Marty Johnson. I too, have combed through your site and learned more than I could ever imagine about the perils of large ships and the systems and processes that keep cargo moving. Of course, my interest in this feature was originally related to cargo of this ship, but now my view has been broadened greatly.

"Thanks for putting out this information and keep up the good work."

Remaining Anonymous -- in respect for my employer - Mazda North America

"Marty was a co worker and good friend of all of us at Crowley. His family has put up a website in his honor for those that wish to visit and maybe say a few words. He just turned 40 when he died. The Tribute To Marty

Paul Nave -- Project Manager, Crowley Marine Services, Inc., Seattle, WA.

"Dear MOL,

"Please change the name of the Cougar Ace to M/V Marty Johnson. When Bridgestone (Ishibashi) sold bad car tires to Ford, many people died. I hope that Mitsui O.S.K Lines is a company with a stronger heart than Bridgestone.

Matthew Cunningham --Washington, D.C.

"I happen to work at the port facility"Fraser Wharves" that M/V Cougar Ace was headed for befor it's misfortune. We are on the Fraser River just south of Richmond, British Columbia, Canada.

"I can recall seeing M/V Cougar Ace, tied up at our dock many times over the last couple years, her and many like her. I know that a lot of us often wounder what it's like out there on the open sea, and what it would be like if they had some kind of emergancy out there. I think we can now, better understand the the danger's that lie a mear heartbeat away out there in the big Blue sea.

"Your coverage of the crews ordeal thier rescue and tragity and ultimate salvage of M/V Cougar Ace was outstanding! And I can think of no better tribute to Mr. Fountain "Marty" Johnson, than to rename the ship M/V Marty Johnson !

Joe Troncoso - Fraser Wharves

Write To Us In Support of the name change to M/V Marty Johnson Now. >>CLICK HERE<< You must take a moment to vote for the name change.

Slightly Off Balance - Salvage Crews Can Begin The Clean Up.

Thanks To

Marty Johnson

&

The U.S. Coast Guard, Crowley Marine, Titan Maritime, Foss Maritime & The State of Alaska.

M/V Cougar Ace - Now Just Slightly Off Balance & Safe

An American Sacrifice Paid By Naval Architect Marty Johnson

This Stern Must Now Be Changed To Read:

Marty Johnson

Singapore

The Cargo Letter For Fri., Aug. 18 2006 - The Campaign For M/V Marty Johnson --The Tribute To Marty
Below Are Only A Few Examples of The Letters We Have Received -- But We NEED So Many more. Write To Us In Support of M/V Marty Johnson Now.

From Our Readers -- For Fri., Aug. 18 2006

"Mr. Johnson's sacrafice is yet another example of those who "go down to the sea in ships" only to be lost, having given their lives to the sea.

I applaud the concept of remaining the vessel to M/V Marty Johnson as a simple reminder to those who benefit from the timeless (and often forgotten) efforts of all seafarers across the globe to brave the worlds oceans.

P.S. - It's a miracle that this vessel did not catch fire. A significant risk of fire remains and it will be a testament to the professionalism of the salvor's if fire is avoided during her recovery. "

Capt. Sean J. Marchant

"Well, its sad to have lost any life and not have it known, especially with this incident. If M/V Cougar Ace was just a cargo ship filled with grain, would it have even been newsworthy? However since it was filled with Mazda vehicles it got the autoworld and +4500 mazda dealers/owners attention. Mazda USA is currently sponsoring Hot Import Nights, a import tuner show that draw millions of dollars.

Mazda USA & Mazda Japan should contribute proceeds to a memorial fund in honor of Mr. Johnson. Sadly, future benefits should be given to families that also lost one at sea.

Yes, Mitsu O.S.K. Lines should rename M/V Cougar Ace and Mazda make provisions for the 'Marty Johnson Memorial Fund'."

Jim -- owner of a Mazda 3

"Being a Firefighter & EMT I can honestly say that the men and women that risk their lives to save anything other then human lives are a special breed. Your web site lets people sneak a peek at what others have to go through to get people the everyday items we all use. In the water, air or ground the service to deliver goods to market is a dangerous one that often comes at a heavy price.

"Just like if a firefighter or a police officer was to die in the line of duty, these fine men & women sailors that give their lives should be honored in the same fashion. I strongly believe the ship should be re-named M/V Marty Johnson to show that the owners of these vessels honor and respect the people who risk their lives to save sailors and ships! "

Jeff

Just Do A Google Search of M/V Marty Johnson - See -- your efforts have already started to work, but there must be an overwhelming voice to convince Mitsui O.S.K. Line to change the name. We need thousands of your comments.

Your Comments Are NEEDED & IMPORTANT For This Effort. Please Take Just A Moment For Marty.

Write To Us In Support of the name change to M/V Marty Johnson Now. CLICK HERE You must take a moment to vote for the name change.
McD

Photo From Our Anonymous Reader As HIs Ship Reached Dutch Harbor on July 30 2006

These Were The Conditions When Naval Architect Marty Johnson Attempted To Save M/V Cougar Ace Back On july 30 --And Paid The Ultimate Price.

Danger Was All Around. But The Work Continued To Save M/V Cougar Ace. There Were Many Sacrifices To Save This Ship. Marty Johnson Gave His Life.

Write To Us In Support of the name change to M/V Marty Johnson Now. CLICK HERE You must take a moment to vote for the name change.

Photo From Our Anonymous Reader As HIs Ship Reached Dutch Harbor On July 30 2006

This is perhaps the best photo to show the hopelessness of M/V Cougar Ace at that time.

These Were The Conditions When Naval Architect Marty Johnson Attempted To Save M/V Cougar Ace Back On july 30 --And Paid The Ultimate Price.

Tug M/V Jame Dunlap Along Side

The Cargo Letter For Sat., Aug. 19 2006 - The Campaign For M/V Marty Johnson --The Tribute To Marty

Below Are Only A Few Examples of The Letters We Have Received Today -- But We NEED So Many more. Write To Us In Support of M/V Marty Johnson Now.
"My deepest gratitude for everyone supporting the remaining of M/V Cougar Ace to the M/V Marty Johnson. I had no idea this would be so readily embraced. I can only hope Mitsiui OSK Line will be moved by this outpouring of support for the saving M/V Cougar Ace. I read just today that M/V Cougar Ace didn't catch fire was a miracle in itself. Maybe the ship itself wants to bring honor to Marty! "
Sincerely,
Russell Lynas

"Yes, I endorse the re-naming of M/V Cougar Ace to M/V Marty Johnson Too many people die anonymously at sea, so I think this is the right thing to do."

Steven Duff -- Parry Sound, ON Canada

Write To Us In Support of the name change to M/V Marty Johnson Now. CLICK HERE You must take a moment to vote for the name change.

The Cargo Letter For Mon., Aug. 21 2006 - Readers Begin to Rally For M/V Marty Johnson --The Tribute To Marty

Below Are Comments About M/V Cougar Ace --
"Its a miracle that this vessel did not catch fire. A significant risk still exists and it will be a testament to the professionalism of the salvor's if a fire is avoided during her recovery."
Capt. Sean Marchant (Aug. 17 2006)

"Following the Salvage rescue of M/V Cougar Ace has been very interesting though also sadly tragic!! I owned a Ford & Mazda car dealership for many years. It will be interesting to learn the destination of the 4800 Mazda's on board. If crankcase oil was spilled from the cars and allowed to sit on the paint for a period of time that will be a mess to fix even though their is no sheet metal damage. I would love to see a documentary on this entire event !! Look forward to seeing more coverage of the Mazda's onboard!!

baytowncjd

Below Are Only A Few Examples of The Letters We Have Received Today -- But We NEED So Many more. Write To Us In Support of M/V Marty Johnson Now.

"I want to voice my support to rename the M/V Cougar Ace to M/V Marty Johnson. I have been reading with fascination the progress to right this ship, having learned of its situation through the mainstream press."
Chris Partridge -- Gaithersburg, MD

"Absolutely agree that this ship should be renamed in the honor of this brave man who lost his life.

"A friend sent me the link to this story because the news had stopped talking about the ship, (apparently when the media, realized that it wasn't going to be a disaster with great loss of life or huge damage to the environment) and this was the only real site that was still reporting on the condition of the vessel. So I have been following the story here, daily.

"I have learned a great deal and then some about these ships, the work that goes into correcting things that go awry, and well, it's been a great learning experience.

"For those who do this work, and for men like Marty Johnson, it would only be the right thing for Mitsui O.S.K. Lines to do with the name of this vessel. Lets hope they see this web page and do just that.

"Here's to Marty....may Mitsui AND Mazda honor his name.

J B. -- Birmingham, Alabama .. USA

"I continually are amazed by your website. Your dedication to the education of the public about the shipping industry is incredible. Ship based transport is extremely dangerous and the men and women who serve to save lives and hardware are true unsung heroes.

"The ship owner in this case is probably extremely lucky that this ship was not lost due to fire or sinking. This could have ended in tradegy with the ship lost and the liability of an environmental disaster looming over her owners. Now the vessel should be back in service soon.

"The cost to Mitsiui OSK Line to change the name will be nothing. Period. They owe this trivial token gesture to Marty as a statement & gesture to those who toiled to save this vessel.

"Can you Please post a link or some way to contact those at Mitsiui and urge them to make this very small but symbolic gesture to recognise a man who gave his life trying to save a part of their business.

Chris

"Yes! Change the name to M/V Marty Johnson to honor the man who lost his life in the salvage effort. I am a longshoreman in the Vancouver area; my colleagues and I will be the ones who unload that cargo of Mazdas, if it ever gets here. Any sort of marine work is dangerous, and those of us who risk our lives at it deserve recognition."

Ken Erickson -- Burnaby,BC, Canada

"Is a small price to be paid for such a Heroes. To small. Go M/V Marty Johnson

Cpt.Paul

"A great idea. He gave it all, now is the time to give a little back.

Icevin - Kelowna BC Canada

So there you have it for today -- Chris Said It All --

"The cost to Mitsiui OSK Line to change the name will be nothing. Period. They owe this trivial token gesture to Marty as a statement & gesture to those who toiled to save this vessel.

But before we approach Mitsui O.S.K. Lines -- we must hear from hundreds more of you, our readers. Take 30 seconds & send us your support! We can do this. You can do this.

McD

Write To Us In Support of the name change to M/V Marty Johnson Now.

Finally today -- we failed to post this on-scene witness account from the great anonymous contributor who provided the two great photos above - sorry --

"Was passing thru Dutch Harbor last week and took the attached pictures of M/V Cougar Ace on the evening of Aug 11. Spoke with one of the salvors who said it was very stable and the grapevine had it that it would be rightened soon. We'll see. The cargo of Mazdas is said still to be intact, although hanging from straps that are stretched to the limit. Many jokes in Unalaska these days about beachcombing Mazdas.
File me as anonymous.

So here is the latest "Mazda" news. Sounds as if the cars might be in better shape than we think.

Write To Us In Support of the name change to M/V Marty Johnson Now. CLICK HERE You must take a moment to vote for the name change.

McD

Future M/V Marty Johnson - rests at anchor -

Only because of Marty & his colleagues.

The Cargo Letter For Tues., Aug. 22 2006 - Readers Speak Out For M/V Marty Johnson --The Tribute To Marty

"I could not agree more about renaming the ship M/V Marty Johnson. I have been checking your site every day for the last 3 years and this is most compelling story that I have yet to read. Your coverage and the info that readers send make this site an absolute must for those interested in maritime affairs. After 20 years in the U.S. Navy, I had the pleasure of meeting sea salvage personnel and everyone that I talked to were way to modest about the danger they faced and the skills they possessed. The sea can be a gentle lover or a bitter woman, and these men can handle them both!!

"Smooth seas and following winds to the M/V Marty Johnson!!!"

Jim De Witt - CVN-70 Project Manager, SSC-Charleston
(Editor Note: CVN-70 is the U.S. Nimitz Class Aircraft Carrier USS Carl Vincent -- Bravo Zulu!)

"Well done for starting this campaign - I absolutely agree with it (and I work for Mitsui OSK LInes too!)

Our Anonymous Mitsui OSK LInes Reader

"Changing the name of the M/V Cougar Ace to M/V Marty Johnson is the least that should be expected, and any cost that may be incurred could and should also be partially paid by Mazda, especially if the cars are still in good condition. Even if Mazda does not get full value from the cargo, it will be more than if that ship was still on its side, or worse."

Brian Lovejoy -- Paul Steelman Design Group, IT Manager, Las Vegas & Atlantic City

Editor Note: Our industry is now speaking out, but we have far to go. Please join with the employees of Crowley, Foss, Mazda and Mitsui O.S. K. Lines who have already joined this important effort.

Write To Us In Support of the name change to M/V Marty Johnson Now. CLICK HERE You must take a moment to vote for the name change.

The Cargo Letter For Wed., Aug. 23 2006 - More Readers Speak Out For M/V Marty Johnson --The Tribute To Marty LET YOUR VOICE JOIN NOW!

Below Are Examples of The Letters We Have Received Today -- But We NEED So Many more. Write To Us In Support of M/V Marty Johnson Now.

"I support renaming the ship the M/V Marty Johnson."

Jason Chiu

"For Mitsui OSK to change the name of the Cougar Ace to M/V Marty Johnson would be a very honourable act."

Andy Stevens -- Glasgow, Scotland.

"My brother Travis is one one of the tugs up there working on M/V Cougar Ace -- on the M/V Millennium Star. I agree that they should change the name of the Ace to M/V Marty Johnson"

Chris McGrath

"YES, the Cougar Ace must be renamed to M/V Marty Johnson. That he may rest in peace. All in all, it is a unbelievable story and your site is fascinating !

Ben W. Janse -- The Hague, Holland

"A great gesture, too bad it must be forced by a large public outcry. I would think the shipping line would be very quick to comply with this."

Al White -- Development and Training Officer, National Port Security Services Inc.

"It would be fitting for the Cougar Ace to be renamed in honor of Marty Johnson, who lost his life in the effort to salvage the vessel. It would be a fitting memorial to him and all those who risk their lives to save seamen and vessels in danger."

Russell Daudelin -- Gaithersburg, Md.

"I would like the name changed to M/V Marty Johnson in memory of Marty Johnson."

Grant -- Canada

"The cost of changing the name of the ship seems a small price to pay compared with that of a human life. Especially, considering the fact that if another Mitsui vessel was to get into trouble, they would expect more brave (but unheralded) professionals like Marty to jump to their rescue. Bring on the name change!"

Bob Simpson --Licensed Customs/AQIS Broker --TNT Freight Management

EDITOR NOTE>> I am so very proud of our Readers for this groundswell of support for what Andy Stevens of Glasgow -- today has properly called "a very honourable act."

We seek to honor a brave, fallen American Naval Architect -- but the effort is a universal one for all those at sea -- and the call has been answered from around the world.

At this point, the wisdom & worth of this enterprise is proven beyond all debate by your response. Now YOU must all convince business colleagues & friends to add their names to this important list -- for the respectful presentation we will make to Mitsui O.S. K. Lines. YOUR work is not yet over, and THANKS TO YOU ALL for the continued support.

Write To Us In Support of the name change to M/V Marty Johnson Now. >>CLICK HERE<< You must take a moment to vote for the name change.

M/V Gladiator Nurses M/V Cougar Ace

Did The Work of Marty Johnson Help Make This Moment Possible?

The Cargo Letter For Thurs., Aug. 24 2006 - The Family of Marty Johnson Approves This Living Memorial To Salvage Seamen - M/V Marty Johnson -The Tribute To Marty LET YOUR VOICE JOIN NOW!

"I was Marty Johnson's brother in law, and I maintain his memorial site -- The Tribute To Marty

"I think renaming the ship is a fantastic idea and I would love to do anything I can to help out. Is there an online petition? If so I could link to it from the memorial site and spread the word among Marty's family and friends.

Please let me know how I can help.

Richard Murphy -- New York, NY

Richard - We grieve for this great loss suffered by you and the family. We considered use of a petition to establish M/V Marty Johnson as the living memorial to the scarifies of salvage seamen.

But to reach the goal of a M/V Marty Johnson living tribute -- we decided that individual voices of the industry would speak volumes of the many points of view which mandate this important memorial.

In recent days we have received Reader Letters from shippers, seamen, master mariners, stevedores, cargo importers, naval architects, ship builders, industry executives, employees of both Mitsui & Mazda, shipping executives, those colleagues of Marty who were on the scene of the M/V Cougar Ace disaster -- and consumers from around the world in all walks of life. Each contributor brings a different reason why this goal must be reached.

The diversity of this response captures the importance of commercial ships in world commerce. These Reader Letters explain how one ship & one man can be so important to our daily lives and our hearts. This result is not one we can accomplish from just a petition.

McD

Below Are Examples of The Letters We Have Received Today. Far more are needed from YOU.

Write To Us In Support of the name change to M/V Marty Johnson Now. CLICK HERE You must take a moment to vote for the name change.

"First a great thank you to The Cargo Letter for a super web page. I really hope Misui O.S.K. Line rename the Cougar Ace to M/V Marty Johnson and that the ship will have a long and prosperous life to honour Mr. Marty Johnson who gave his life in an effort to save it. It is the only right thing to do."

Captain Oz Nilssen -- Victoria, Canada

"Having lost a son myself, their could be no nobler act by Mitsui than to re-name the Cougar Ace the M/V Marty Johnson, honoring the love his parents and friends hold in their forever broken hearts. It will also justly honor the love this man showed for his profession, for the sea he respected, and the vessels he attended. For at least another 15 years, Marty Johnson will roam the seas as a testament to the value the man Marty Johnson brought to this Earth. "

Vic Volzone

"I think that it would be a tremendous tribute to re-name the Cougar Ace to M/V Marty Johnson. Although I don't know the exact cause of his accident, he did loose his life preventing the Cougar from becoming more of an accident/disaster than it really was. It would be very fitting to remind everyone as the ship heads out to sea that his efforts to save the Cougar is yet another sacrifice many people make every year in the marine industry."

Aaron Fugate

"I think Bob makes an excellent point. Change the name!"

Jim -- Michigan

"The cost of changing the name of the ship seems a small price to pay compared with that of a human life. Especially, considering the fact that if another Mitsui vessel was to get into trouble, they would expect more brave (but unheralded) professionals like Marty to jump to their rescue. Bring on the name change!"

Bob Simpson --Licensed Customs/AQIS Broker --TNT Freight Management

"It would indeed be a fitting tribute to rename the ship in honor of a man who gave his life in the successful effort to save her. The gesture would cost nothing, and would enhance the goodwill of Mitsui, and Mazda too, if they would show enthusiastic support for it.

Ken Deutsch -- I.T. Department, Metal Exchange Corp.

Editors Note>> We are making great progress toward an important goal -- but much more is needed.

At this point, the wisdom & worth of this enterprise is proven beyond all debate by your response. Now YOU must all convince business colleagues & friends to add their names to this important list -- for the respectful presentation we will make to Mitsui O.S. K. Lines. YOUR work is not yet over, and THANKS TO YOU ALL for the continued support.

McD

The Cargo Letter For Fri., Aug. 24 2006 - The Family of Marty Johnson Approves This Living Memorial To Salvage Seamen - The Tribute To Marty LET YOUR VOICE JOIN NOW!

"Yes, the ship should be renamed M/V Marty Johnson with a memorial card in every Mazda."
Wayne Rhoades

"I fully endorse changing the name of M/V Cougar Ace to "M/V Marty Johnson."

Mike McEleney -- Washington DC

"I support trying to get Mitsui to change the name of the Cougar Ace to the M/V Marty Johnson. This would be a tribute to both Mr. Johnson, and also to all the others of the trade who work the endless hours, often under dangerous conditions, to help ships at sea, our environment, and those in trouble. Thanks to CargoLaw for helping coordinate this effort, and for your on-going great site.

Linda Blanchard -- Redwood City, CA.

"Put us down for renaming the Cougar Ace the "M/V Marty Johnson". We can think of no more fitting memorial to this brave man who gave his life in the process of working to save her.

Steve & Margo Kizer

"Dear President Mitsui OSK Lines,

"If the salvage team had not done their job with such expertise you might have found yourselves severely out of pocket after an oil spill cleanup and salvage of a sunken grounded wreck.

"This is an excellent opportunity for Mitsui to show Martys' friends and relatives, and the salvage team as a whole and the USCG that they are indeed grateful for saving the ship.

Alan Newman

The Cargo Letter For Sun., Aug. 27 2006 - The Sister of Marty Speaks Out Today - We Are Humbled - The Tribute To Marty LET YOUR VOICE JOIN NOW!

"I am Marty Johnson's sister and I would most definitely like to vote for this name change. The past three weeks have been the most difficult time in my and my parents' lives and we have many more challenging days of grieving to come. Marty was a brilliant naval architect/marine engineer and he loved his work. Any gesture to honor this devotion to his livelihood would be appreciated."
Nicole Johnson Murphy - New York, New York

Nicole, as you can see there is an entire industry and so many more around the world who honor both the sacrifice and the memory of Marty. We hope his effort can live on in the body of the proud vessel he was so determined to save -- and did save. But another living tribute drives the hearts of the men & women whose names appear on these pages -- when next they are called upon to save those in peril on the sea. It is our common prayer that this truth may help your grief.

With great respect,
Michael S. McDaniel - The Cargo Letter

"After seeing the fantastic work the men did to save the Cougar Ace it would only be fitting that, with the approval of Marty Johnson's family, the Cougar Ace be renamed in honor of Marty Johnson who gave his life to save the ship.

James Singleton - Kobe, Japan

"The name change to M/V Marty Johnson is a wonderful idea. I am in complete support."

Carl Martin -- San Leandro, CA

"I would see the change of the vessels name from M/V Cougar Ace to M/V Marty Johnson as a fitting tribute to the men who work in this business."

Doug - UK

"Dear Sir, I support the campaign to change the name of the M/V Cougar Ace to commemorate the tragic death of Marty Johnson while performing salvage work on the vessel."

Captain Colin Smith - Sidney, B.C., Canada

"While no one can force a name change, I believe it would be most fitting that Mitsui OSK honor the man who gave his life in the effort to save both the ship and its cargo. Marty Johnson died in the midst of demonstrating great courage. A naval architect, not a professional salvor; a man who plied his profession mainly in an office, he boarded and surveyed a huge cargo vessel laying on its side, a vessel on which wide reaches of deck had become treacherously deep wells. He could have chosen to let the salvors take photos and make his judgements from them. Marty chose to get first hand knowledge of conditions onboard despite the extreme danger, and this act of courage cost him his life. Renaming the vessel that was saved in honor of Marty Johnson would be a fitting tribute to the courage of salvage crews everywhere."

Charles McAllister - Venice, FL

Write To Us In Support of the name change to M/V Marty Johnson Now. CLICK HERE You must take a moment to vote for the name change.

Our voices must be overwhelming.

McD

The Threat Is Over Now

But It was All About Crowley, Titan & the U.S. Coast Guard.

Perhaps Marty Johnson Could Tell Us -- But How Was This Ship Ever Saved?

The Cargo Letter For Mon., Aug. 28 2006 - The Lady Is Headed To Port!- The Tribute To Marty LET YOUR VOICE JOIN NOW!

M/V Cougar Ace -- having survived only thanks to the efforts of Marty Johnson and his colleagues of the U.S. Coast Guard, State of Alaska, Crowley Maritime, Titan Marine and so many others -- will now come to port. She will be towed to the Port of Portland, Ore., for repairs, according to the Associated Press.

In the last couple of days, salvors from Titan Maritime have pumped extra water into the ballast tanks to right the ship all the way.

It is reported that "there was minimal damage to the cars," said mainly due to seawter ingress around the vehicle wheels. Contrary to earlier beliefs, it is now said that the vehicle lashings held when M/V Cougar Ace rolled. An official report said that "many cars escaped damage." A U.S. Coast Guard official supported that assessment. What about the other "many others?" We'll see about that -- and to make sure -- our friends at Portland, including SSA Pacific should please have cameras ready. This would mean a clean sweep for Marty Johnson, the rescuers and the salvors.

We will let you know the expected arrival date.  We hope for a "no damage" clean sweep. The result would be just phenomenal.

Write To Us In Support of the name change to M/V Marty Johnson Now. >>CLICK HERE<< You must take a moment to vote for the name change.
McD

The Role of M/V Gladiator Is Significant -- She Will Shepherd To Portland

Truly -- Nothing Like This Has Been Seen Before

The Cargo Letter For Wed., Aug. 30 2006 - The Fight for M/V Marty Johnson Takes Wing!- The Tribute To Marty LET YOUR VOICE JOIN NOW!
About Those Mazdas -- Our reader has suppled video from "Car TV News" which confirms our suspicion that the now named "Boat Cars" have some damage --
Car TV News -- our M/V Cougar Ace video views are about 4 minutes into the Webcast. Watch the show until M/V Cougar Ace comes on.

Below Are Examples of The Letters We Have Received Today. Far more are needed from YOU to reach our goal -- But We Are Making Way!

"A great gesture, too bad it must be forced by a large public outcry. I would think the shipping line would be very quick to comply with this."
Al White -- Development & Training Officer, National Port Security Services Inc.

"I vote for the name change, thats the least they can do in respect for Marty"

Michael S -- Denmark

"I wholly support the name change in honour of Marty Johnson ... and Mazda should not forget to support this family!!!!!

Harald Schlaefer -- Marine Claims Handler - Zurich Insurance, Frankfurt, Germany
P.S. Thanks for your great site

"It is imperative that companies such as Mitsui that rely on the expertise of people like Marty Johnson and form a "memorial" or sorts and do something as simple as renaming a vessel in honor of this person. As we all know, it is not difficult to do, charterers rename ships like people change clothes.

"Rename the ship to let others know of the person who sacrificed his life to save the vessel and prevent further ecological disaster."

James L. Greco, Jr. -- General Manager, Sales, Columbia Group of Companies

"The minute I knew about the loss of Marty Johnson I was shocked. It reminded me of just how tough and dangerous our job can be. I support the movement for M/V Marty Johnson."

Adolfo C. Ibañez -- Naval architect - Buenos Aires, Argentina

"This man's bravery was truly amazing. Rename the ship in respect."

Ted -- Melbourne, Australia.

"Sir, I wish you all the luck in the world in your campaign to get the owners of M/V Cougar Ace in honor of the Naval Architect that died while working in support of its salvage. It is the least the cargo line can do to remember this man who died tragically trying to save their vessel."

Former Helicopter Pilot

"I support the name change to M/V Marty Johnson !"

Marvina Anderson

"Truly an impressive story! How she stayed afloat was amazing! How she was saved, truly a accomplishment! I believe anyone around the world that has followed her story, would like to see her renamed as a tribute, hopefully for years to come to Marty Johnson !!"

Gary Curry - Texas

"Prior to my retirement I enjoyed a wonderful career of Maritime Law Enforcement and SAR. Although I never had to deal directly with any vessel as large as the "soon to be" M/V Marty Johnson, my heart has been with all the rescuers & salvors from the first acknowledgement of distress. Reading The Cargo Law web site has been a regular part of my day now for the past 3 years, and I deeply appreciate your hard work in keeping all the information posted in such a timely fashion.

"Those of us whose veins course with salt water, know the emotional and physical sacrifice Mr. Johnson made every day in his work to make the maritime world a safer place for all of us. I too sincerely hope and pray that Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, will see the wisdom of changing this vessels name to the M/V Marty Johnson as quickly as possible. Not only to remember and celebrate the life's work of a man who gave his life trying to save this particular vessel. But also that Mitsui would show it's own gratitude for ALL the rescuers and salvors who put saving this critically listing vessel above all else, and against all odds, they did just that. Bravo Zulu !

Stacey L. Bowen

"I am for a name change."

A. Brauns

"Cougar Ace is a quite servicable name but nothing beyond that. To rename her Marty Johnson would give the ship a soul and tell the world that Mitsui OSK Lines has one also."

Mark Kennedy

"I absolutely vote to change this vessels name to M/V Marty Johnson ! It is the least they can do !

Christine Langer

"We, the entire team of MarineYacht Yacht Charters from the Netherlands, also think M/V Cougar Ace should be renamed to M/V Marty Johnson. Our thoughts are with Marty Johnson and his family and friends."

Marc Onrust -- MarineYacht Yacht Charters, Tilburg, The Netherlands

"I have followed the story of the M/V Cougar Ace from the beginning. Bravo to Titan, Crowley, USCG and all the rest.

"I agree that renaming the ship for the young naval architect who died while disembarking is right and proper. However, may I humbly suggest using his full name instead of his nickname? The M/V Martin Johnson. Doesn't that sound more serious & respectful? Using the nickname is a little casual, don't you think? And his mother would like it better also.

"I remember that my father's Liberty Ship was named the SS David Gaillard. The SS Dave Gaillard would have been silly."

Edward F. Hyman -- Ann Arbor, MI

Editor Note: Very Good Point Mr. Hyman, but now we have another dilemma in that "Marty's" proper name is Fontain Martin Johnson III. This said, the distiction you mention may be either subjective or generational. Now that you bring the issue to our attention -- I suppose that my generation would prefer M/V Martin Johnson as more proper & respectful. But given the stress on our system to advance the current project to this point -- another debate is not what we need.

We intend to press for a renaming of the shp. Should ths project be successful -- as it will be -- final naming can be left to the family. You are quite correct, Marty's mother will likely go for M/V Martin Johnson. My mother would never, never have allowed the "Mike McDaniel"

McD

PLEASE>> Write To Us In Support of the name change to M/V Marty Johnson Now. >> CLICK HERE << You must take a moment to vote for the name change.

The Cargo Letter For Thus., Aug. 31 2006 - The Fight for M/V Martin Johnson Rolls On Around The World!- The Tribute To Marty LET YOUR VOICE JOIN NOW!

About Those Mazdas -- Our reader has suppled video from "Car TV News" which confirms our suspicion that the now named "Boat Cars" have some damage --

Car TV News << VIDEO. Our M/V Cougar Ace video views are about 4 minutes into this Webcast. Watch the show until M/V Cougar Ace comes on. Meanwhile, Our pal Jim provided these stills:

We've Already Reported Word of The Great Lashing Job Done By Mitsui O.S.K Line.

But Even The Best Lashings Are Challenged By A 90 Degree List

We Suggest You Call Ahead Before Taking Delivery of Your New Mazda --

It May be A Bit Shorter Than Stated In Factory Specs. Yes, There Is Significant Damage.

Below Are Examples of The Letters We Have Received Today. Far more are needed from YOU to reach our goal -- But We Are Making Way!

"Since this all started, Marty was used affectionately used but your reader Edward F. Hyman was right yeasterday, the ship should used Marty's proper name of either Fontain Johnson or Martin Johnson. I am sure the family would have a preference.
Russell Lynas"

"I am all for it -- I am voting YES for the name change!"

Hildegard E. Krause -- Claims Manager, Roanoke Trade Services, San Francisco

"I support the effort to rename the vessel in honor of Marty Johnson."

Allan D. Kline - Risk Manager - Transportation

"I vote to keep pushing Mitsui to re-name her M/V MARTY JOHNSON."

David.W.Pierce -- U.S. Coast Guard

"I am a friend of Marty's sister, and I know that this tribute would mean a lot to her and her family and help to honor the memory of her brother."

Sherry Yeaman

"How can Mitsui OSK Lines NOT re-name M/V Cougar Ace to M/V Marty Johnson. Certainly a fitting tribute to a dedicated and courageous man."

D.L Arnold - Raleigh, NC

"Please add my name to the list of people who believe the M/V Cougar Ace should be renamed M/V Marty Johnson in honor of the fallen Naval Architect."

Tom Allen -- Managing Director, Clarinbridge Financial, LTD

PLEASE>> Write To Us In Support of the name change to M/V Marty Johnson Now. >> CLICK HERE << You must take a moment to vote for the name change.

Editor Note: The final voyage has begun. We Expect M/V Cougar Ace to make Portland about Sept. 10 2006 - Stand By.

SPECIAL NOTE>> Coming-- The Fight For M/V Marty Johnson Will Continue-- on The Voyage To Portland!
STAY TUNED ! --There Is Still The Matter of All Those Mazdas!

Now - On To Page 3 -- The Voyage To Portland!

THIS IS PAGE 2 of 3 -- Feature Updates - Go Directly To Today's Update

Readers Note: This Feature Has Now Moved Forward To 3 Pages:

Page 1 M/V Cargo Ace- July 23 to August 14 2006 - M/V Cougar Ace At Extreme Risk !

Page 2 M/V Cougar Ace - August 15 to August 31 -Above - The Lady Is Saved - For Now!- The Tribute To Marty LET YOUR VOICE JOIN NOW!

We Need YOUR Help. New Issue: Should the name be "M/V Martin Johnson"? Only A Mother Can Answer.

Marty's Brother In Law Speaks Out - Aug. 24

Marty's Sister Speaks Out - Aug. 27

The Lady Is Coming To Port! - Aug. 28

The Family Memorial

Page 3 M/V Cougar Ace - Sept. 1 To Present -M/V Cougar Ace - Sept. 1 To Present - End of The Mazdas & The Final Tribute To Martry Johnson -- The "Marty J"

Updated To Feature End In Feb. 2007

Links & Features - background for this feature -- info you should see.


NOTE: Please Provide Us With Your Additional Information For This Loss. Please Contribute.

EDITOR'S NOTE FOR SURVEYORS, ATTORNEYS & MARINE ADJUSTERS: The Internet edition effort of The Cargo Letter now celebrates it's 10th Year of Service -- making us quite senior in this segment of the industry. We once estimated container underway losses at about 1,500 per year. Lloyd's put that figure at about 10,000 earlier this year. Quite obviously, the reporting mechanism for these massive losses is not supported by the lines. News of these events is not posted to the maritime community. Our new project is to call upon you -- those handling the claims -- to let us know of each container loss at sea-- in confidentiality. Many of you survey on behalf of cargo interests with no need for confidentiality. Others work for the lines & need to be protected. As a respected Int'l publication, The Cargo Letter enjoys full press privileges & cannot be forced to disclose our sources of information. No successful attempt has ever been made. If a personal notation for your report is desired -- each contributor will be given a "hot link" to your company Website in each & every report. Please take moment & report your "overside" containers to us. If you do not wish attribution, your entry will be "anonymous." This will will benefit our industry -- for obvious reasons! McD


* NOTE: The Cargo Letter wants you to know that by keeping the identity of our contributors 100% Confidential, you are able to view our continuing series of "Cargo Disasters." Our friends send us materials which benefit the industry. The materials are provided to our news publication with complete and enforceable confidentiality for the sender. In turn, we provide these materials to you.  Please Contribute

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