Posted:
June 14, 2010
American Maritime Officers member Captain Robert N. Groom, known by many members of our union, passed away earlier this year. Bob, who was 48, died February 25, 2010, at the University of Miami Hospital after a long battle with cancer.
A 1984 graduate of Massachusetts Maritime Academy, he last served as master of the LMSR USNS Brittin with American Overseas Marine, a position he held since 2005.
Throughout his many years with AMO, he also worked as a deck instructor at STAR Center, and was very active in union affairs, serving on several AMO rank-and-file committees. Bob spent much of his spare time providing training to fellow AMO members onboard AMO-manned vessels.
He is survived by his wife, AMO member Captain Tina Vanderploeg, master of the USNS Pililaau, his parents, Monica and Bob Groom, and his sister, Julia Groom-Thompson.
Many thanks to all the members and families of our union who have expressed their condolences and offered their support over the past few months. Captain Bob Groom was a true maritime professional and will be remembered for his many years of dedication and service to the members of AMO.
Tina Vanderploeg
June 14, 2010
In memory of Captain Robert N. Groom: 1961-2010
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A 1984 graduate of Massachusetts Maritime Academy, he last served as master of the LMSR USNS Brittin with American Overseas Marine, a position he held since 2005.
Throughout his many years with AMO, he also worked as a deck instructor at STAR Center, and was very active in union affairs, serving on several AMO rank-and-file committees. Bob spent much of his spare time providing training to fellow AMO members onboard AMO-manned vessels.
He is survived by his wife, AMO member Captain Tina Vanderploeg, master of the USNS Pililaau, his parents, Monica and Bob Groom, and his sister, Julia Groom-Thompson.
Many thanks to all the members and families of our union who have expressed their condolences and offered their support over the past few months. Captain Bob Groom was a true maritime professional and will be remembered for his many years of dedication and service to the members of AMO.
Tina Vanderploeg
June 14, 2010