[Fred Carmichael]

Since several people have noted anniversarys of river events in the last few days. I think it only right to mention another one which involved a modern ship but piloted by a Steamboat Capt.
Yesterday marked the date when NOBRA #70, Capt. Ted Davisson, found hinself in the position of having his hands full of a, just went dead ship, bulk carrier, headed straight for the N.O. Riverwalk.
There are many sites on line which have video and pictures relating to the incident and findings reports from the various investigations of the BRIGHTFIELD/RIVERWALK incident.
While not strictly Steamboat related, it does show a current aspect of the Inland Marine Industry. For those of us who remained in the industry after our Steamboat time, this incident shows one of the many daily situations we could face in the "normal" routine of our work. A "Dead Ship" becomes a problem to anyone in the general area of the event and often times the outcome leads to actions effection general river operations.
Knowing "Capt. Ted" personally, he has always considered it a failure in his piloting career. Myself, and those who know river navigation, have always looked at it as one of his finest hours.
Many factors play a part in any such situation. While there was property damage, and people were seriously injured. The final outcome could have be much worse with only small changes in any of the factors of the incident.
Just another anniversary marking, just another day on the river!