Recognition Awards for U.S.-Flag Vessel Usage

By this notice the Maritime Administration (MARAD) announces the ``U.S. Ships'' program to recognize private commercial entities that reach certain U.S.-flag vessel usage rates for the carriage of goods or private or governmental entities that otherwise make noteworthy contributions to utilization of U.S.-flag vessels. The initial nomination period for awards recognizing support for U.S.-flag carriage in 2015 will open January 4, 2016. MARAD will publish another Federal Register Notice prior to opening the nomination period to provide additional information about this program, including additional information on specific awards eligibility, criteria, and nomination procedures. Consistent with the established policy of the United States to encourage and aid the development and maintenance of a robust maritime industry, and MARAD's mission to ``foster, promote, and develop the merchant maritime industry of the United States,'' MARAD will issue recognition awards to encourage the use of U.S.-flag vessels, whether in domestic or international commerce. This notice informs the public of this awards recognition program in anticipation of nominations and articulates the criteria for U.S. Ships recognition awards.