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The Good Lord Hates a Coward An Account Of Life As A Merchant Seaman - by Capt. Joseph J. Kinneary, Ph.D.
What makes this book interesting and most important is the ongoing struggle of the marine industry to man its vessels. The Coast Guard has, in reality, continued to make it more difficult for potential hirees to join the industry and, if they do get there, to retain their jobs. Between the Transportation Security Administration and the Coast Guard, mariners everywhere are now subjected to a complicated, difficult and costly situation to maintain employment on the oceans or seas. Random drug tests represent only one phase of the struggle. Taking random tests is not objectionable, but applying the laws in an abusive manner is detestable. The Good Lord Hates A Coward is a book that chronicles such abuse. The author, Capt. Joseph J. Kinneary, Ph.D., served many years both at sea and on shallow water. He did so with no blots on his record related to accidents, drinking, health or drugs. Yet, the Coast Guard saw fit to relieve him of his license because he could not pee on demand. His request to follow Coast Guard regulations and be allowed to substitute saliva and/or blood tests was not allowed. Even the testimony of physicians who spoke to the factual existence of the malady known as shy bladder syndrome were ignored. Were it not for the fact that Capt. Kinneary pursued further formal education during his offtime, he might today be in rough water. This book belongs on every seaman’s shelf. It provides a shocking reminder of what Coast Guard license-holders can find themselves up against at any time.
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