In this special episode of the "Coast To Coasties" podcast, I sit down with Elan Silver, a civilian mariner who sails as a third mate for one of the commercial merchant vessels responsible for delivering goods to our country. 90% of all commercial goods trading is done through the waters of the world and Mr. Silver is here to tell us how important the U.S Merchant Marine is to our country as well as work schedules, travel/social life and pay as a Merchant Mariner. We talk back and fourth on how commercial mariners and the United States Coast Guard have quite a few similarities and differences in our missions to achieve the ultimate goal of serving on our oceans for the greater good of society. Anyone interested in hearing about what our great Merchant Mariners are doing out in the deep ocean, this episode is for you!