Captain James J. McNamara, former President, National Cargo Bureau Honored For Outstanding Contributions To Merchant Marine Safety.

(Stamford, CT) National Cargo Bureau former President, Captain James J. McNamara was awarded the prestigious Halert C. Shepheard Award by the Chamber of Shipping of America at the CMA Shipping 2011 Delegates Luncheon at the Hilton Hotel in Stamford, CT.

The award recognizes an individual who has made exceptional achievements toward merchant marine safety, security or environmental protection; or in recognition of dedication to, or exceptional leadership in activities associated with safety, security or environmental protection over a period of time. The “Reach for the Stars” Steuben Crystal presented to McNamara was first awarded in 1975 by the Chamber in honor of Admiral Halert C. Shepheard who contributed greatly throughout his professional life to enhancing maritime safety. McNamara joins an elite group of eminent maritime professionals to receive this award.

McNamara graduated from New York State Maritime College rising to the status of Master in the shortest time possible. He came ashore in 1970 with National Cargo Bureau serving in several ports before becoming Chief Surveyor in 1988. He became President in 1993 and retired in 2010. He received two Distinguished Public Service Awards from the U.S. Coast Guard and is the only private sector person nominated by the U.S. government to serve as Chairman of an International Maritime Organization subcommittee, the Subcommittee on Dangerous Goods, Solid Cargoes & Containers. He serves on the Boards of several charitable organizations including Seaman’s Church Institute, National Maritime Historical Society and the Marine Society of the City of New York.

Mr. Michael T. Bohlman, Chairman of CSA said “The Awards Committee was particularly impressed with the leadership that Captain McNamara has shown throughout his illustrious career in maritime safety. He has the admiration of both owners and seafarers for the work he has performed to make sure that ships can sail safely.”