Born in New York City, Michael graduated from Queens College, C.U.N.Y, in 1976 and Leslie College in 1987 with a master’s degree in management sciences with thesis honors. He retired from public service in December 2016. He is known for his work in large project management, maritime emergency management, and business management. His last posting was as the Executive Director of Mariners House in Boston, MA. Mariners House is believed to be the oldest and most historic, privately operated maritime bethel. It is on the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and National Historic Registers. Under his guidance, Mariners House emerged from the antiquated model of “long-term housing for destitute American seamen waiting for a ship” to a comfortable, quaint European-style inn that provides lodging, meals, educational and business conferences, and guidance to a worldwide client base, ranging from seamen to admirals. 

Prior to nearly two decades at Mariners House, Cicalese served in the U.S. Coast Guard, for thirty years, on both Active and Reserve Duty.  He joined via Officer Candidate School in 1980 and retired in 2010 at the rank of captain.  He served aboard cutters, buoy tenders, patrol boats, motor lifeboat and multi-mission small boat stations, earning the trusted positions of Executive Officer and Commanding Officer. His special assignments include Senior Operations Controller for the Valdez Oil Spill, Small Boat Fleet Manager for Tall Ship’s 1992, New England Area Housing Officer, Senior Planner and Patrol Commander for Tall Ships 2000, 9/11 Port Security Planner, and Incident Commander for Salvage Operations for Hurricane Katrina. In addition to many personal awards and citations, including a Flag Letter for Life Saving, he was awarded the ESGR Seven Seals Award for his meritorious leadership and initiative. 

Now in retirement, when not writing, he continues to assist seafarers and veterans via several maritime humanitarian organizations, including the Wardroom Club of Boston, and the Boston Port and Seamen’s Aid Society, the parent organization of Mariners House, where he serves on both boards.  His writings include a documentary on Marconi’s wireless technology, and articles on maritime- and veteran-related topics for several New England-based newspapers and magazines.