During the 2025 event, the (USCG) presented a Certificate of Merit to two Norwegian captains, honoring their role in a dramatic rescue of American seafarers in 1980.

(OSLO) ABS continued its long-standing support for the AMVER Awards by sponsoring a ceremony recognizing the contribution of Norwegian owners to the unique AMVER reporting system that supports search and rescue efforts for distress calls at sea.

The event honored 259 vessels from 24 Norwegian shipowners and operators, who were awarded diplomas for their role in maintaining maritime safety and in recognition of the owners’ commitment to assisting in search and rescue activities anywhere in the world.

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During the 2025 event, the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) presented a Certificate of Merit to two Norwegian captains, honoring their role in a dramatic rescue of American seafarers in 1980.

AMVER a vehicle for mariner to help mariner

“The basic premise of AMVER, as a vehicle for mariner to help mariner without regard to nationality, continues to this day, only with infinitely greater capacity thanks to advances in computing and communications. The AMVER Awards are always a special occasion for ABS, which is itself a mission-driven organization, dedicated to safety for more than 160 years. Norwegian shipowners also have a long and proud record on safety. Their leadership, technological investment, and steadfast dedication to safety have helped shape a world where mutual assistance is not just a nice idea, but a principle in daily practice,” said Joshua Divin, ABS Senior Vice President, Marine Business Development.

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 Voluntary participation in global maritime safety

“The AMVER program depends on the dedication of responsible shipowners around the world, and Norwegian operators continue to set the standard for voluntary participation in global maritime safety,” said Benjamin Strong, USCG AMVER Program Director. “We’re especially grateful to ABS for their longstanding support of the AMVER Awards, which recognize this lifesaving commitment. AMVER and ABS share a common goal of safeguarding lives at sea, and our partnership strengthens the culture of safety across the global shipping community.”

The first Greek AMVER Awards Ceremony

The first Greek AMVER Awards Ceremony took place on 2 June 1992 during the Posidonia Exhibition. The United States Ambassador to Greece, Michael Sotirhos, and the Commander of the U.S. Coast Guard activities in Europe, Captain Laurence Somers, presented awards to 51 Greek companies for their participation in the AMVER Program.

From its inception, the AMVER System has been wholeheartedly embraced by the Greek shipping community. The Fidelity Awards are our way of expressing our deep appreciation and gratitude for this loyal commitment and support. The Fidelity Awards are granted to the three companies with the highest number of vessels participating in the AMVER Program over the past decade.

About ABS

ABS, a global leader in classification services, is focused on delivering a safer, cleaner future for the marine and offshore industries. For over 160 years, ABS has been setting standards for safety and excellence and continues to innovate in the fields of clean technology, digitalization and artificial intelligence, providing industry-leading technical advisory services. With a global network of surveyors, engineers, technology specialists and support staff,

ABS works with industry leaders including its members and clients around the world to improve safety in operational performance and efficiency with innovative solutions for the complete life cycle of marine and offshore assets.

Source : Press Release received by Maritime Tickers

ABS , Greek AMVER Awards , Norwegian Owners’ Commitment Ceremony ,Joshua Divin,  Benjamin Strong , AMVER Program