Incredible Footage - Bird's Eye View of USS KIDD's Historic Move from Cradle

On April 24th initial tow preparations began for the U.S.S. KIDD. McKinney Salvage and Heavy Lift removed the gangway leading to the ship, as well as lifting a portion of the rudder that was cut off during preparation from the riverbed. Capt. Aaron McKinney was directing docking, small vessel ops, and crane support activities.

Towing started April 25th at 0900 hours after the final bracket was removed from the cradle that held the ship in place. McKinney had 3 boats assisting in the operation the motor vessel Charles Cuthbert was operated by Capt. Shane Tarver, the motor vessel Jackson McKinney was operated by Capt. Dameon Edwards, and the former ACBL towboat motor vessel Miss Bobbie Fugit operated by Capt. Steve McKinney.

The motor vessel Elizabeth B. was on standby during the operation to offer additional support if needed and was owned and operated by Bisso & Son.

After backing down the Mississippi River (stern first), passing underneath the I-10 Horrison Wilkins Bridge the KIDD arrived approximately 1 mile down river at McKinney docking facility. The operation was led by Capt. Andy McKinney.

The U.S.S. KIDD DD-661 plans to continue her trip down the Mississippi River, into the Gulf of Mexico, and will arrive at the Thoma-Sea shipyard in Houma, Louisiana for drydocking and repairs.

Footage by Hunter Svetanics courtesy of Johnson Marine Services.

The USS KIDD Veterans Museum is a non-funded state agency that receives no regular state or federal funding. To support this once-in-a-generation drydocking effort, click here to donate: www.usskidd.com/support-our-mission/membership/donate-to-uss-kidd/