08/20/2026
BAYOU LA BATRE, AL - SWCC veteran and PTF-26’s intrepid shipyard supervisor, David Rawls, shared these images of the astonishing feat performed by him and his team of selfless fellow SWCC veterans aboard PTF-26 at Steiner Shipyard. As PTF-26’s extensive overhaul was drawing to a close, David formed a SWCC veteran “task force” to ensure this singular vessel would leave the yards in “Bristol condition”, with a bow-to-stern application of flat Pirogue Green. Coming from as far away as New Orleans and Pensacola, the SWCC veterans faced withering heat (110F), humidity (98%) and sun-heated aluminum surfaces which may have exceeded 130F. There are no words sufficient to express how impressed we are nor the gratitude we owe these Seagoing Spartans. Even a traditional “Bravo Zulu” seems a bit anemic in this instance. But we’re very much obliged, Shipmates. Vaya Con Dios!