George Osborn (Ret.): 2007 Master Mariner Award

George Osborn graduated from Washington State University in 1961 with a bachelor's degree in business administration.

With an interest in labor and transportation, he focused on those areas in college, and after serving two years in the U.S. Army, got a job as a freight clerk in Spokane with the old Northern Pacific Railway Company, now part of BNSF Railway.

In 1968, George joined Kerr Steamship Company, then agent for "K" Line, as Container Manager. Thus, his 37 year career on the waterfront and association with "K" Line began. In 1972, Kerr appointed George as Terminal Manager at Terminal 46 in Seattle when they started operating a service for "K" Line and Phoenix Container Line.

George has served on the Regional Freight Mobility Roundtable and participated in numerous regional and state transportation studies. He was also on the Board of Directors for the Working Waterfront Museum. Within the Tacoma Propeller Club, George was president from 1995 to 1996; he chaired the annual Chowdown in 1997; and has served as the president of the Past Presidents' Club since May 2001. He has served on many committees, and most recently was a judge at the Lelli Memorial Scholarship Competition.

George will now have time to indulge his passion for maritime history. His is president of the 800 member Puget Sound Maritime Historical Society.

Congratulations, George! We hope you enjoy retirement with your lovely bride, Liz.