LCS Commander removed after hitting moored bulker
Written by Nick Blenkey
Screen grab from Shipspotting Canada video shows Billings up against bulker
Cmdr. Michael Johnson has been removed from command of the yet-to-be commissioned LCS-15, the future USS Billings, after the ship hit the moored bulk carrier Rosaire Desgagnés when leaving its berth in Montreal.
The incident occurred June 24, when Billings was leaving its berth with tug assistance.
The Freedom variant LCS is en route to its future homeport in Mayport, Fla., after leaving shipbuilder Fincantieri Marinette Marine.
Initially, it appeared that Billings incurred only minor damage above the waterline as a result of the allision. (The bulker wan’t moving so it wasn’t a collision).
No injuries were reported to crew members aboard either ship.
According to reports, the ship is currently still in Montreal while an investigation and full damage assessment was undertaken.
Witnesses said the Billings lost control after the lines were let go and hit the vessel that was behind it, according to media reports
A video posted to the Shipspotting Canada Facebook page, shows the Billings going up against the side of the bulker.
Categories: News, Safety and Security
