LITTLE ROCK, Ark. - The Army Corps of Engineers christened its new state-of-the-art towboat, the Motor Vessel Dan Reeves today below the Big Dam Bridge at Murray Lock and Dam.
The boat is named after Corps retiree Dan Reeves who retired from the Little Rock District in 1991 after more than 30 years of service. He began his career designing the mechanical components of navigation and flood control projects in the district.
The Motor Vessel Dan Reeves will aid Corps employees in the maintenance and repair of McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System infrastructure, including 445 miles of navigation channel, 18 lock and dam structures, four federal powerhouses, and numerous park and recreation waterfront areas and boat ramps. The majority of these maintenance and repair activities require heavy lift capability and are inaccessible by land.
The M/V Dan Reeves, is a 95–foot by 43-foot river towboat constructed by Horizon Shipbuilding, Inc. of Bayou La Batre, Alabama. It is powered by twin Caterpillar C32 electronic diesel engines that produce more than 1,300 horsepower each and allow the vessel to push maintenance tows, consisting of crane barges, winch barges, and deck barges.
Mrs. Virginia Reeves, widow of Reeves, along with other family members, christened the boat during the ceremony.
Release no. 16-030