In an effort to raise more awareness about the American Merchant Marine, New Braunfels resident Tom Stapleton has published a book called "Full and Down & Outward Bound," in which he shares stories from his time sailing merchant ships and beyond.

The American Merchant Marine is a vital part of the domestic maritime industry and is recognized as "The Fourth Arm of National Defense," according to the Sailors' Union of the Pacific.

It includes a fleet of commercial and government U.S. flagged ships, which are crewed by licensed American mariners and available to meet military transportation needs.