USMMA’s Kings Pointer Rechristened

The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) has celebrated the rechristening of the Academy’s new training vessel, the Kings Pointer.

The ceremony was attended by the US Department of Transportation officials, as well as Senator Charles Schumer, and Representatives Timothy Bishop and Steve Israel.

The Obama Administration has made a comprehensive effort to renew facilities and teaching infrastructure at the nation’s maritime academy.

Since 2009, the Administration has invested more than $450m at the Academy, including almost $100m for capital improvements.

The Kings Pointer was retrofitted as a training vessel at North Florida Shipyard at a cost of $3.3m. The rechristening follows the dedication of the new “up-to-date” Mallory pier at the Academy.

Before being redesigned to serve as a training vessel for students, the former MV Liberty Star served as a solid rocket booster recovery vessel for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), retrieving solid rocket boosters following space shuttle launches.

“The Merchant Marine Academy has been a treasured part of this country since Congress commissioned its establishment in 1936,” said Senator Charles Schumer.

“I’m thrilled to have worked in recent years to address three key issues at the Academy: finding inspiring leadership through a permanent Superintendent, rehabilitating Mallory Pier, and today bringing back the Kings Pointer, this critical training vessel.

It’s a banner day for the Merchant Marine Academy.”

[mappress]

June 17, 2014