James Hubert Augustus

Captain James Hubert Augustus Martin was born, July 4, 1933, the only child of Gilbert Augustus and Momina.

His early life was spent in San Juan, Trinidad and Tobago where he was a diligent student. He was slated for a career in mechanical engineering, but a chance invitation to sail on a tugboat changed his course, and he went to sea in the Deck Department in Merchant ships.

His love of the sea caused him to pursue an astounding seafaring career lasting twenty-two years. He is a graduate of the University of Southampton School of Navigation, United Kingdom; and Nova Scotia Marine Navigation School, Canada. He received his Master's Certificate of Competency for ocean-going vessels from the University of Southampton and his Master's degree in International Relations & International Maritime Law from Columbia Pacific University.

He became the first West Indian to take command of the Federal Palm, one of two passenger/cargo gift ships from the Canadian Government to the then nascent West Indies Federation, with a view for the peoples of the islands to get to know each other and for international passengers to be exposed to the region. He was in command for ten years.

In 1973 he became Jamaica's first Black Harbour Master. Thereafter he was offered a Senior Professional post with the London-based International Maritime Organization (IMO), a specialized agency of the United Nations, and as Senior Deputy Director, was overseeing technical assistance in maritime transport, international maritime laws, safety at sea and other maritime legal and operational matters to developing countries.

Captain Martin was an ardent believer in education and has encouraged, mentored and uplifted many to pursue and attain lofty goals.

He leaves to mourn Isabell, the youngest daughter of the late Clifford and Edna Strudwick with whom he has two daughters, Nicola and Jan-Thérse. He has sons, Richard, Robert and Phillip from his former marriage.

He is survived by his wife, children, daughters-in-law, Michelle & Deborah, grand-children: Kara, Khalil, Kamali, Jon-Pierre and Jada, and several loving relatives and friends.

His Sailing Days Are Over

To A High Life Always

In lieu of flowers, a collection will be taken for a to-be-named Seafarers Benevolent organization.