[QUOTE=jdcavo;144738]When sea service requirements call for service as an AB, it doesn’t matter which endorsement you held when you got the experience, as long as it was of a type allowed to be on the vessel.[/QUOTE]
Does this apply for example MATE 500/1600 NC ; #4 "90 days as AB, Boatswain, Quartermaster or equivalent position on vessel over 50GRT (while holding AB) (if service began before March 24, 2014)
[B]“Service began before 3/24/14” define the 720 days of deck service requirement? Meaning when I receive my AB Special soon, (October 2014) that if I meet all other requirements (1-3 ; and other course requirements) that I will only need 90 days as AB on a vessel over 50GRT?
or Service as an AB BEFORE March 24, 2014? [/B]
Thank you for the link to the Code 7312.
“Subsection © provides that Able seaman – special may constitute 100 percent of able seamen required on vessels not more than 500 gross tons, or a seagoing barge or towing vessel. Able seamen – special may constitute up to 50 percent of the number of able seamen required on other vessels.”