Mike Gnau

The twin-screw harbor utility boat Pelican, was recently christened by Balehi Marine Inc. of Lacombe, La., for the vessel's owner Martin Marietta at a NASA slip.

The ceremonies were attended by Mike Gnau, project engineer; Guy Keller, contract administrator; J.S. Checkan, chief engineer; Bill Knodles, harbor master; Kenny Miller, project engineer; Jay Heitzman; and Doug Fogg, project engineer, all representing Martin Marietta/NASA. Also in attendance were Balehi Marine representatives, David P. Levy, designer; Donald Arroyo, president; Dennis Frantz, vice president, sales & administration; and Donna Dunnegan.

The Pelican has an overall length of 35 feet, width of 13 feet, depth of 5 feet 6 inches and normal operating draft of 3 feet 6 inches.

The vessel is powered by a GM671, which produces 174 hp at 1,800 rpm. She will be used to shift barges at the Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans, La.

For further information and detailed literature on Balehi Marine Inc., Circle 19 on Reader Service Card