Historic Dredge McFarland Ends Operational Service After Nearly 60 Years Of Service

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Philadelphia District honored the Dredge McFarland during a farewell ceremony Oct. 23 at Fort Mifflin, marking the completion of the vessel’s final operational mission after nearly six decades of service.

Current and former crew members, members of the McFarland family, maritime partners, and stakeholders gathered along the Fort Mifflin pier to recognize the vessel and the civilian mariners who operated it on the Delaware River and waterways across the nation.

“We are joined by an extraordinary gathering of leaders, partners and friends whose presence speaks volumes about what this ship means to our region and our country,” said USACE Philadelphia District Commander Lt. Col. Ryan A. Baum.

The ceremony incorporated Army ceremonial protocol and maritime tradition. The watch was secured, and the USACE distinguishing flag was lowered and presented to family members of the vessel’s namesake, Arthur McFarland. Later in the ceremony, crew members were rung ashore, and a final whistle sounded in tribute to the vessel’s service.

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