Chief Engineer of Corps’ Motor Vessel Retires

Vicksburg, Miss……Alton J. Walters, Chief Engineer on the Corps Vicksburg District’s Motor Vessel Benyaurd, has retired with over 39 years of service.

Walters first began working for the Corps in 1974 as a Tying Tool Mechanic on the Mat Sinking Unit where he also served as a Diesel Electric Striker and a Tying Tool Repairer Leader. He then held the positions of Striker, Second Assistant Engineer, First Assistant Engineer, and Chief Engineer, Diesel Towboat, on the Benyaurd.

Colonel John W. Cross, Commander of the Vicksburg District, presented Walters the Commander’s Award for Civilian Service for exceptionally meritorious service with the Vicksburg District throughout his 39-year career.

Walters received an Associate of Arts degree from Copiah Lincoln Jr. College in Heavy Equipment Mechanics.

He is a native of Crystal Springs where he resides with his wife, the former Erny Redfern of Star. They are the parents of four children and have one grandchild.

“It’s been great working for the Corps on the Mat Sinking Unit and Motor Vessel Benyaurd. I am looking forward to having more time to actively serve in my church and community as well as spending time with my wife, children and grandchild,” Walters stated.

The captain of the Benyaurd, Randy Young, stated, “Alton Walters has worked on the Benyaurd since it was new in 1979 for 35 years of his 39-year career. It is going to be hard to replace all of his expertise and knowledge.”