Four US military support ships find themselves ensnared behind the collapsed Francis Scott Key bridge in Baltimore, a predicament with far-reaching consequences for America’s readiness in times of conflict.
The SS Antares, SS Denebola, Gary I. Gordon, and Cape Washington, integral components of the Ready Reserve Force, are now immobilized in the wake of the March 26 catastrophe. This logistical nightmare imperils the nation’s ability to swiftly respond to military or humanitarian crises.
Steven Wills, a navalist for the Center for Maritime Strategy, warns that the inability to deploy these vessels may compel the military to rely on civilian cargo ships, potentially compromising strategic operations.
The bridge’s collapse, triggered by the container ship Dali losing power and colliding with a support structure, resulted in the tragic loss of six lives. Salvage efforts to clear the shipping channel and remove the stricken vessel are underway, but progress is slow.
President Joe Biden surveyed the scene, underscoring the gravity of the situation. Meanwhile, families mourn the workers lost in the disaster, as the search for remaining victims continues.
While a temporary channel has been established for essential traffic, the full restoration of Baltimore’s port remains uncertain. The ordeal extends to the crew of the Dali, confined to their vessel pending the NTSB’s investigation into the crash.
As questions linger over accountability, authorities strive to piece together the events leading to the calamity. Amidst this turmoil, the stranded crew and their counterparts face an uncertain future, their resilience tested as they await resolution in the aftermath of tragedy.