Towboat Crews Earn Lifesaving Honors
Crews from Crounse Corporation’s mv. Susan Robinson and Moran Towing’s mv. Mary Moran will be honored with lifesaving awards December 11 at the Seamen’s Church Institute’s 25th annual River Bell Awards Luncheon.
The Susan Robinson responded July 1 to Olmsted Lock and Dam after two vessels were swept through a tainter gate. When the 2,000 hp. mv. Jackie Lee Anderson unexpectedly lost power, the mv. 775 workboat was able to push the Jackie Lee Anderson against the river wall of the lock long enough for the crew to evacuate, but the current eventually pushed both vessels through the gate.
Afterward, the Jackie Lee Anderson listed on the Illinois bank of the river, and the 775 was capsized below the dam. Crews and local emergency responders worked together quickly to rescue people from the water.
“We are very proud of our crew for responding so quickly and utilizing their training in such a critical time,” said Kenny Robinson, Crounse vice president of operations. “Due to their efforts, and those of others in the area, thankfully no one was injured, and everyone was able to go home safely. We would like to thank SCI and the River Bell Committee for selecting Captain Burkhart and his crew for this prestigious award.”
The Moran crew came to the assistance of the crew of the mv. Patrick Studdert, a towboat that capsized after colliding with bulk cargo ship Clara B on December 29, 2024, just upriver from Luling, La. The Mary Moran, part of Moran Towing’s fleet of tugboats, was first to the scene, with the Moran crew pulling all five of the Studdert’s crew members from the water.
Mark Koenig, general manager for Moran Towing in New Orleans, said at the time, “We’re grateful that the crew of the Mary Moran was able to respond quickly in a time of need, and that their extensive training and expertise helped ensure swift, safe assistance. We know that the crew of the Patrick J. Studdert would do the same in the spirit of helping other mariners when the need arises.”
The awards luncheon, a major fundraiser for the Seamen’s Church Institute, will be held at the Paducah-McCracken County Convention and Expo Center, 415 Park St., Paducah, Ky. Check-in and a reception begin at 11 a.m. with the luncheon and awards following at noon.
SCI is honoring George G. Leavell with Wepfer Group, LLC as its winner of the River Bell. William R. Barr of Amherst Madison will receive the River Legend Award. Marty Hettel, who has retired from American Commercial Barge Line, will receive the distinguished service award.
For more information about the River Bell Awards Luncheon or to register, visit seamenschurch.org/get-involved/events/riverbell-awards-luncheon-paducah.
