Although, they're technically civilians, I would wager that a good percentage are either prior-service or fully retired military.
I have very mixed feelings about the move throughout the '90's and well into this century to place civilians in billets that were previously handled by military personnel. I understand the cost saving nature of such policies, but I wonder if we don't lose effectiveness and overall competency in mission capabilities.
Agreed 100%.
You are correct about the prior service and retired military being a part of the crew. Many former Navy people love the lifestyle and do seek employment that allows them to continue it.
That’s part of my history. Former Navy Viet Nam vet Employed by MSCFE out of North Pier in Yokohama for seven years.
I wish I had stayed with them. My downfall was that I got married and my wife started the guilt trip thing of “you are never home, don’t you love your family, why don’t you get a different job”. So I resigned to try to satisfy her, not suspecting that she wouldn’t ever be satisfied until she had complete control of my life. Needless to say, that did not last and I was left without the wife and my seagoing career.
MSC is part of the Navy Department and most of the ships are owned by the Navy
The crews aboard most MSC ships are permanent employees of the U.S.Navy. The Navy is highly selective of the people hired to crew these ships and the crews are trained continuously in their jobs and for emergencies. The MSC ships are more efficient than the same type USN vessels because MSC operates with only the necessary number of crew members. MSC did not have required time in port (R&R), as the Navy did, so MSC ships could operate more sea time than Navy ships of the same type.
These ships with permanent employees usually operate with the fleet in underway replenishment and other direct support roles.
MSC owns some special type ships in which the crews are furnished by civilian companies/unions and other ships that are totally civilian, leased under time contract.
I enjoyed it and kick myself frequently for giving it up.
MSC is a great career for those who like going to sea and all that it involves. High quality people and very interesting work. Google Military Sealift Command if you think you can qualify.
Many more stories than I could ever relate here.