“Our nation is vulnerable due to its ‘sea blindness’. We need to correct that and recognize the critical role the maritime industry plays in our future prosperity.” Carleen Lyden Walker.
The U.S. ocean-going commercial fleet, which numbers less than 200 ships, currently relies on stipends, government cargo preference, and cabotage. This number is about 0.4% of the world fleet and only carries about 2% of international trade in/out of the U.S. Foreign-controlled ships carry the other 98%. National security is at risk. The United States’ maritime dependence requires action.
Zero Point Four, a soon-to-be-published book, provides a framework that acknowledges the centrality of shipping to all forms of security: national security, economic security, energy and food security, workforce security, and climate security. It addresses an urgent call for a comprehensive national maritime strategy. Zero Point Four underscores that the U.S. ocean-going commercial fleet cannot adequately support America’s global security or competitive interests, due to a lack of support for the maritime industry resulting in a 98% dependence on foreign-flagged vessels and non-U.S. crews for the import and export of essential goods.
We are fortunate to have one of the US maritime leaders (and a co-author of Zero Point Four) as a member of America’s Boating Club of Greenwich. Ms. Carleen Lyden Walker will discuss the five pillars of Maritime Security and what can be done to secure America’s future.
In 2015, Carleen was appointed an Ambassador by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). She is a member of WISTA (Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association), the Connecticut Maritime Association, the Marine Society of the City of NY, WIMAC (Women in Maritime Association, Caribbean), and is a Past-President of the Propeller Club Chapter of the Port of NY/NJ. She was recently named one of the top 100 women in shipping globally.
Carleen is also the Co-Founder/CEO of NAMEPA (North American Marine Environment Protection Association), Chief Executive Officer of Morgan Marketing & Communications, Chief Evolution Officer of SHIPPINGInsight, Founder of CARIBMEPA, and the Co-Founder/Executive Director of the Consortium for International Maritime Heritage. In 2010, she was awarded the Certificate of Merit by the United States Coast Guard and in 2014 a Public Service Commendation for her work on World Maritime Day and AMVER, respectively. Last year, the USCG presented her with the Distinguished Award. Ms. Lyden Walker graduated from Wellesley College with a BA in Political Science and History (minor in Economics), studied Accounting at Cornell School of Business Administration, and is a trained facilitator and media trainer. She has held a USCG Captain’s license.
Wednesday, February 21st, 7 PM Greenwich YWCA – 259 East Putnam Ave, Cos Cob, CT Light snacks and beverages will be served.
Members of America’s Boating Club are welcome and may bring guests. Our policy is that after attending two events, guests are expected to apply to join. Annual dues are $105 single, $150 family plus an administration fee of $20 the first year. Contact GreenwichSquadron@gmail.com GreenwichSquadron@gmail.com to apply.