Terri Parris Assumes Command At Towing Vessel National Center Of Expertise
Lt. Cmdr. Terri Parris became the first commanding officer of the Towing Vessel National Center of Expertise in a May 21 ceremony.
Parris previously served as supervisor at the center, based in Paducah, Ky., for the past two years. The Coast Guard recently decided that its seven national centers of expertise and 18 marine safety detachments—which are now being converted to marine safety units—should all receive commanders since their supervisors were already effectively working in those roles, Parris said.
Capt. Aaron Demo pinned the command insignia on Parris’ uniform as her husband, daughter and other members of the audience looked on.
“I have no doubt you are the exact person the Coast Guard needed for this job,” Demo said, citing Parris’ professionalism and leadership.
Being assigned a command recognizes the high level of work being done at the national level at these centers, Parris said.
Additionally, she said, “It’s the Coast Guard’s commitment to the towing industry and the community.”
Citing information from The American Waterways Operators, she noted that the tugboat, towboat and barge industry is the largest segment of the American maritime industry, supporting more than 270,000 American jobs. Each year, she said, the industry moves 665 million tons of cargo, including vital commodities such as steel, grain and fuel. Sixty percent of U.S. grain moves by waterborne transportation, she said, and the industry has more than 5,000 vessels and more than 33,000 barges.
Parris thanked her team for the work they do every day. She said she never expected to be given the responsibility of command but that it is an amazing privilege and an honor.
“It’s an awesome way to wrap up a 24-year career,” she said.
Caption for photo: Lt. Cmdr. Terri Parris makes remarks at the May 21 ceremony where she was named the first commanding officer of the Towing Vessel National Center of Expertise, based in Paducah, Ky. (Photo by Shelley Byrne)
