Terminal Operations: Corpus Christi, NW Seaports

Corpus Christi Supports Deployment of Air Combat Brigade

Port Corpus Christi, a U.S. Defense Department-designated Strategic Port since 1997, recently answered the call to support the deployment of the 1st Air Combat Brigade from Fort Hood, Texas. 

The massive operation entailed the load out of approximately 1500 pieces of military equipment and 77 helicopters.  

Major General Kurt J. Ryan, commander of the U.S. Military Surface Deployment & Distribution Command, used the occasion to meet with representatives of Port Corpus Christi including Commissioners and staff, Congressman Blake Farenthold, the commanding officer of the 842nd Transportation Battalion, and stevedores working the operation.

Major General Ryan lauded the responsive readiness of Port Corpus Christi in accommodating such a large operation for timely deployment so soon after Hurricane Harvey.  He said he aims for the SDDC to operate with increasing efficiency in support of deployment readiness across the U.S. military Total Force and noted Port Corpus Christi’s success as an integral and efficient partner.

From left: USCG Capt. Tony Hahn, Port Corpus Christi (PCC) Executive Director John LaRue, 842nd Transportation Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Donald C. Santillo, Congressman Blake Farenthold, SDDC Commander Major General Karl J. Ryan, PCC Commissioner Richard Bowers, and PCC Director of Operations Kresten Cook. 

Photo/Port Corpus Christi

NWSA Signs Lease with SSA Marine to Manage Matson’s Tacoma Terminal

SSA Marine has taken over stevedoring and terminal services for Matson at The Northwest Seaport Alliance’s West Sitcum Terminal in Tacoma.

The 10-year lease of the West Sitcum Terminal authorized by the NWSA Managing Members on October 3 became effective immediately.

The Tacoma terminal, operated by APM Terminals since 1985, was the only Matson terminal on the West Coast not already managed by SSA Marine.

Matson announced in April that it would transition to SSA Marine’ services when APM Terminals’ lease ended December 31. APM Terminals gave notice that it would end its lease early, on Sept. 30.

Matson provides two weekly services to Alaska. Operations at the West Sitcum Terminal support 200 jobs.