Army Performs Bridge-Building Exercise On MKARNS

River traffic was halted April 12 at the James Trimble Lock and Dam on the Arkansas River (Lock and Dam 13) as elements of the U.S. Army performed a river assault and bridge-building exercise. A safety zone was established by the U.S. Coast Guard for the Arkansas River from Miles 289 to 292.8, and it remained in effect from 11 a.m. through 4 p.m. April 12.

According to Jay Woods, public affairs officer for the Little Rock Engineer District, it was an evaluation exercise for the 739th Multi-Role Bridge-Building Company. Elements of the 49th Engineer Battalion and the 806th Area Clearance Company also took part in the annual exercise. About six specialized bridge-erection boats were involved, along with eight pontoon bridge sections.