The Seafarers International Union (SIU) represents approximately 80,000 professional merchant mariners who work aboard U.S.-flag vessels in the deep sea, Great Lakes, and inland trades. Members are employed on a variety of ships, including commercial container ships, tankers, military support ships, tugboats and barges, passenger ships, and gaming vessels.
David W. Heindel has led the union as president since February 2023. Before his current role, he served as secretary-treasurer of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters starting in 1997. Augustin “Augie” Tellez has been executive vice president since 2005. Tom Orzechowski is the current secretary-treasurer. The SIU’s leadership also includes eight vice presidents: George Tricker (Contracts), Dean Corgey (Gulf Coast), Nicholas J. Marrone (West Coast), Joseph T. Soresi (Atlantic Coast), Bryan Powell (Lakes and Inland Waters), Joe Vincenzo (Government Services Division), Hazel Galbiso, and Pat Vandegrift.
Founded in 1938 with about 7,000 members after earlier maritime unions such as the International Seamen's Union dissolved during the Great Depression, the SIU played a significant role during World War II by providing support to Allied forces and securing hazard pay for those working in war zones. After the war, the union expanded through organizing efforts and strikes and helped establish AFL’s Maritime Trades Department.
Paul Hall was instrumental in shaping the union’s direction from the late 1940s onward by focusing on civic engagement and negotiations with other AFL unions. Under his leadership, reforms included establishing benefits such as hospital coverage and death benefits for members.
In subsequent decades, SIU continued to grow by merging with smaller unions and opening training facilities to help members adapt to changes in technology and industry standards. The passage of legislation like the Merchant Marine Act in the 1970s supported job growth within maritime trades.
During events such as September 11th attacks or incidents like the “Miracle on the Hudson” in 2009 or piracy involving Maersk Alabama, SIU members have contributed significantly by assisting with evacuations or providing critical support services.
The union currently offers training programs through institutions such as the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education and supports its community via initiatives like disaster relief funds for those affected by hurricanes or other emergencies. The SIU also helps members manage pensions and keeps them informed through publications including The Federal Mariner.
According to their mission statement: "To represent the best-trained, most efficient crews in the world as a dynamic, politically active organization dedicated to protecting the membership’s job security in the face of the ever-changing needs of the industry."
For more information about their activities or history visit their official website or social media platforms.
