Quality vessels don’t need replacing

I worked in engine rooms of the Washington state ferries for 25 years, 20 of those as a chief engineer. I served several years aboard the steel electrics – Ilahee, Klickitat and Nisqually – and on other class vessels, prior to my retirement in 1993. I understand the electric drive motors in the steel electrics are the same ones installed when the vessels were built. Very good quality and workmanship. I found those vessels to be very reliable and I have only good words to say about them.

In regard to water-tight compartments, yes, that is definitely a plus, but they did not prevent the Titanic from sinking. I don’t see why any court anywhere would allow a shipyard or any other supplier to bring a federal lawsuit, forcing the state of Washington, or any other company, to build new vessels for whatever reason. That is beyond my comprehension.

GORDY DAHL

Arlington