Photos: Fast sealift ships Pollux, Regulus activated

The fast sealift ships Pollux and Regulus were successfully activated from the reserve fleet in Orange, Texas in January. Photos courtesy of Captain Robert Lansden

Chris Wallace, a former chief engineer on the Pollux, worked as a consultant with Chief Engineer Jim Hotchkiss during the ship's successful activation, during which the Pollux achieved all required speed runs and the maximum speed of 30 knots.

Following the successful completion of sea trials, the traditional Mardi Gras King Cake was presented and shared with the crew of the Pollux. In the picture are (from left) MARAD Surveyor Chuck Lafollette; American Maritime Officers member Captain Robert Lansden; Jay Fleming, MARAD headquarters, Washington, D.C.; and AMO member Chief Mate Jon Weirauch.

Onboard the Regulus during the activation of the two SL-7s was AMO member Captain Robert Watham (left), here with two Sabine pilots.