End of an era in the Azores.

The last piece of U.S. Army lighterage from SDDC's Azores Detachment was turned-in for disposal Oct. 9, 2006. This action marks an end to an era for the Azores Detachment that was activated in 1952 as the 1324th Medium Port Command (MPC). Its mission was to conduct in-stream cargo operations using assigned Army lighterage which included U.S. Army tugboats, LCM "Mike Boats," DUKW "Duck Boats," along with assorted barges, cranes and other materiel handling equipment.

The in-stream operations ceased in 1996 and U.S. cargo operations moved to the other side of the harbor at the commercial terminal. Most of the Army lighterage was turned-in or transferred after this move was made. The one remaining barge (U.S. Army BC 6585) was the sole exception, as it was still used for ships to tie up alongside for fuel pier operations on the military side of the harbor.

The 1324th MPC continued to downsize through the 1990s as it transitioned to become the 952nd Transportation Detachment and eventually was designated as the Azores Detachment in 2000. The unit, once commanded by a colonel, is now led by a Department of the Army Civilian, Guillermo Mosquera.

The current mission of the Azores Detachment is diverse, ranging from operating the island's vehicle processing center to providing ship husbanding services for Military Sealift Command fuel tankers to providing personnel and equipment for base USAF operations in support of space shuttle contingency plans. The SDDC Azores Detachment serves as an integral part of the logistical lifeline for all U.S. forces and their families on Terceira Island, providing stevedoring and transportation support for the dedicated ship that services the island from Virginia every three weeks.

The loss of the one remaining piece of Army lighterage will have no impact on SDDC operations in the Azores, and was made possible through funding for disposal provided by U.S. Army Tank and Automotive Command.

by Lt. Col. John Hanson

Commander, 838th Transportation Battalion