FREEPORT, TX - Port Freeport Director of Operations, Al Durel, and Brazos Pilots Association President, Captain Billy Burns, were recently honored by the U.S. Coast Guard for their service during the events of Hurricane Harvey. Rear Admiral Paul Thomas presented the award to the Greater Houston-Galveston Port Coordination Team at the Lone Star Harbor Safety Committee meeting on February 2, 2018.
“The resiliency of operations in Port Freeport after this disastrous event is a result of their leadership, cooperation and commitment to maintaining safe and secure waterways,” said Phyllis Saathoff, Port Freeport Executive Director/CEO. “This is a great honor for Mr. Durel and Captain Burns, the Port Coordination Team and the Port community.”
The Port Coordination Team is an essential group of area port representatives that work together to keep communication flowing throughout the maritime and industry communities. The team works closely with the U.S. Coast Guard during heavy weather and emergency events to relay critical information both to and from maritime community and industry partners.
Captain Burns has served the Brazos Pilots for 20 years. He began working with the Port Coordination Team upon its establishment in the early 2000s.
Al Durel graduated from the University of New Orleans and has held various positions throughout his career including Ship Superintendent, Vessel Agency, Terminal Operator, Terminal Manager, and Port Captain. Al joined Port Freeport as Director of Operations in 1999 and serves on numerous committees including the PCT – Port Coordination Team, BMAT – Brazosport Marine Action Team and Lone Star Harbor Safety Committee.
Port Freeport is committed to keeping the local community informed of our operation and results. If you have questions or comments about this article, please email or call Lauren McCormick, Public Affairs Manager.
