Shortage of Merchant Marines in the U.S. Navy

SOURCE www.breitbart.com
The U.S. Navy is facing a shortage of Merchant Marines to fully man 17 vessels, leading to plans to take them out of regular operation due to a lack of experienced mariners, posing a danger to national security.

Key Points

  • Shortage of experienced Merchant Mariners impacting the Navy's ability to crew and operate ships
  • Navy's Military Sealift Command planning to put 17 ships into extended maintenance
  • Merchant Marines play a crucial role in the logistics backbone of the Navy