Chief Steward-Art Mercado, Hometown: Seattle, WA

Has been on the McARTHUR and McARTHUR II since July, 1993

Art started working with NOAA aboard Fairweather, in 1973. He was hired at the Aloha Towers in Honolulu, HI one night and started working the next day. No Human Resources were involved; Art wasn’t even an American citizen yet. Things were sure different back then. He began as a messman and then a 2nd cook. When Fairweather was decommissioned, he met McArthur in Panama. Art spent 15 years on Fairweather, 15 years on McArthur, now 6 and counting on McArthur II.

2nd Cook-Luke Staiger, Hometown: Olympia, WA

Has been on the McARTHUR and McARTHUR II since 2002

Luke started working for NOAA in 2002 as a GVA in the engine room. In 2007 he transferred to the galley and became a 2nd Cook. Prior to sailing on McArthur II, he also sailed on McArthur.

2nd Cook- Orcino Tan, Hometown: Temecula, CA

Has been on the McARTHUR II since 2007

Orci retired from the Navy after 20 years of loyal service. He has been with NOAA and McArthur II for 2 years.