Gregory Cousins ( born 1964 ) , of Tampa , Florida , was third mate at the time of Exxon Valdez oil spill . He was left in control of the vessel , but failed to maneuver it to the required lane , when it struck Bligh Reef in Prince William Sound . Cousins had a Coast Guard license to command the ship in most waters , but did not have the special endorsement that was required for Prince William Sound
Exxon Valdez oil spill
Exxon Valdez oil spill
Gregory Cousins