Earlier this month, Rear Adm. John Nadeau, assistant commandant for prevention policy, addressed American Waterways Operators members during AWO’s Fall Convention in Houston. Nadeau discussed the importance of the Marine Transportation System to the U.S. economy and national security and Coast Guard and maritime stakeholder contributions to a safe and secure MTS. Maritime Commons is posting an abbreviated version of his remarks for the benefit of our readers unable to attend. The remarks are not ‘as delivered.’