WASHINGTON – Today in Morgan City, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) joined the employees and executive team of Conrad Shipyard, LLC to celebrate their first complete Yard, Repair, Berthing and Messing (YRBM) barge, which was released in a First of Class Ceremony.
“The workers and management of Conrad Shipyard have built the highest quality boat to support the Navy defending our country,” said Dr. Cassidy. “It was a privilege to work with Conrad to make sure that this could happen.”
In 2022, Conrad Shipyard, LLC was awarded a contract by the U.S. Navy for the design and construction of up to eight YRBM barges. Those barges provide a temporary home and workplace for service men and women while their vessels are in port for repair and maintenance. They also include space for staterooms, dining halls, medical offices, classrooms, workspaces, laundry rooms, storerooms, and lounge areas.
Cassidy has continually supported Defense Appropriations bills that fund the YRBM barges which Conrad is building, dating back to 2020. Additionally, Cassidy secured an extra $30 million in the Fiscal Year 2024 Defense Appropriations bill to help Conrad build an additional YRBM. When combined with other dollars, YRBM construction supports 1,000 jobs in Louisiana and boosts the local economy in Morgan City. Cassidy was thanked for this work by Mr. Dan Conrad, Senior Vice President and Director of Conrad Shipyard, LLC.
“We are so grateful for the faith that the Navy has shown in Conrad Shipyard by awarding us the contract to build these YRBM vessels,” said Mr. Conrad. “Over time, these vessels will significantly improve the quality of living conditions of thousands of Navy sailors serving this country. And we deeply appreciate the support from the beginning from Senator Cassidy and the entire Louisiana Congressional delegation. Without Senator Cassidy’s personal intervention, together with others in our delegation, this day would not have been possible.”
Yesterday, Cassidy participated in the opening ceremony for the 43rd National Veteran Wheelchair Games (NVWG) in New Orleans. The NVWG, which are organized by the U.S. Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA) and the Paralyzed Veterans of America, features veterans who were injured in war but strive to compete and succeed in sports.
“35 years ago, I worked in a hospital treating those with spinal injuries. Those patients had just lost the use of their limbs,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This event shows me what happens after the therapy when it’s coupled with the faith that things can get better. It creates hope and shows the support and love of the community.”
The NWVG will run until July 30, primarily at the New Orleans Morial Convention Center but also on Bayou Segnette, where for the first time the NVWG will include a bass fishing tournament. There are 21 event categories, including wheelchair basketball, swimming, cycling, powerlifting, rugby and billiards, and roughly 1,000 people will participate, including athletes and coaches.
Joining Cassidy at the ceremony was Governor Jeff Landry and VA Under Secretary Joshua Jacobs. Also there to greet Cassidy was Fernando O. Rivera, FACHE, CEO/Director of the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System.
“We appreciate Senator Cassidy honoring those who will compete in the National Veterans Wheelchair Games,” said Mr. Rivera. “In the spirit of competition and camaraderie, we’re excited to witness our Veteran athletes’ courage, their athleticism and American pride as they demonstrate superior skills in various sports and sporting activities.”
###