[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 36 (Monday, February 28, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E182]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                RECOGNIZING THE CAREER OF JAMES CAPONITI

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                           HON. JAMIE RASKIN

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, February 28, 2022

  Mr. RASKIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize one of my 
remarkable constituents, James Caponiti, on the occasion of his 
retirement from the American Maritime Congress and for his unwavering 
service of nearly half a century to the U.S. Merchant Marine.
  James' multi-decade career spans an extraordinary period which he 
began as a newly minted analyst at the Department of Commerce and which 
he concluded as Acting Deputy Administrator of the Maritime 
Administration. From the Nixon administration to navigating today's 
challenges of declining U.S. shipping, James worked to bolster the U.S. 
Merchant Marine's invaluable role in upholding our national security 
interests. For example, when he served as a Commerce Fellow on the 
House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee, James provided 
instrumental insight and guidance in crafting legislation that 
implemented the Maritime Security Program. As the Chairman of NATO's 
Planning Board for Shipping, he led efforts that emphasized the immense 
value of a robust domestic merchant fleet to our European allies.
  He also served as the Executive Director and President of the 
American Maritime Congress, a non-profit and research education 
association dedicated to supporting the U.S. Merchant Marine. As 
Executive Director and President, James provided over 38 years of 
industry knowledge in showcasing the important nature of maritime 
services to policy staff in Congress and the White House. He also 
spearheaded efforts to revitalize the U.S. fleet, increase the share of 
food-aid required on U.S. flagged vessels, educate shareholders on 
Export-Import Bank mandates, expand diversity and inclusion within the 
U.S. Merchant Marine and promote sustainability efforts to mitigate the 
effects of climate change.
  James faithfully dedicated himself to the best interests of his 
country. His unshakable commitment to improving the quality of life of 
all mariners and strengthening the security interests of our country 
embodies true American patriotism.
  Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring the 
remarkable service and wonderful legacy of my constituent, James 
Caponiti.

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