Whats Going on with Shipping
@wgowshipping·697K subscribers·1.2K videos
What America Needs to Know About the US Merchant Marine
Posted
July 28, 2026
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July 28, 2026
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10:13Now PlayingIn this episode of What's Going on With Shipping, Sal Mercogliano shares a deeply moving and urgent message from the 2026 graduation ceremony at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. John Smolenski, the class valedictorian delivers a speech that is both a tribute to the fallen and a wake-up call for the nation.
John reflects on the legacy of the "142"—the Kings Point midshipmen who gave their lives in WWII—and issues a direct order to "Tell America" about the critical state of our maritime industry. From the heroic sacrifice of 18-year-old Edwin O’Hara to the modern threats facing mariners in the Red Sea, this speech highlights why a strong, U.S.-flagged Merchant Marine is essential for national defense and economic security.
Key Highlights:
⚓️The Legacy of the 142: Understanding the unique battle standard of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and the sacrifice it represents.
⚓️The Heroism of Edwin O’Hara: The story of the 18-year-old cadet who single-handedly engaged a German raider and why he deserves the Medal of Honor.
⚓️Modern Threats at Sea: How $2,000 drones are threatening multi-million dollar vessels and the urgent need for modernized defense systems.
⚓️The Importance of the Jones Act: Why protecting domestic shipping is vital to preventing national security risks and preserving American jobs.
⚓️A Call to Action: The responsibility of the next generation of mariners to ensure the Merchant Marine is no longer the "forgotten" fourth arm of national defense.
Contact What's Going on With Shipping via:
Patreon: www.patreon.com/wgowshipping
Twitter: @mercoglianos
Bluesky: @mercoglianos.bsky.social
Facebook: @wgowshipping
Email: mercoglianosal@gmail.com
USMMA 2026 Graduation
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