Shutdown Averted

On Saturday night onboard a supply ship in the Phillipines (daytime in the US), I anxiously watched the news to see if the government would be working as usual in the morning. If I had paid attention earlier, I might've worried myself sick. Instead, and very fortunately, a compromise Continuing Resolution passed the House, then the Senate, and signed by the President shortly before midnight. Now, instead of receiving the more typical apporpriations, Military Sewlift Command dips from a different pot of money known as the Navy Working Capital Fund. The paychecks would continue to be issied and cleared, but based on previous experience, paid overtime hours would be curtailed to conserve money. Other services used by mariners, including the US Coast Guard's National Maritime Center, would offer reduced service in issuing license renewals, and upgrades would be put on hold. Those participating in the US Navy Reserve's Strategic Sealift Officer Force would see their annual training postponed. The US Merchant Marine Academy has sent midshipmen home during past shutdowns, although operations continued- with faculty on deferred pay- during the most recent shutdown. I could happily report to my crew that it would be business as usual, at least through Thanksgiving.