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Washington, DC – U.S. Rep. Brian Babin (R-TX-36) issued the following statement today recognizing Captain Michael McGee and Captain Michael Phillips for their courageous actions that prevented a major maritime disaster on the Houston Ship Channel in 2016.

“It was my distinct honor to present Captain Michael McGee and Captain Michael Phillips with a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol in their honor, recognizing them for their heroic efforts aboard the 800ft tank-ship AFRAMAX RIVER. In September of 2016, one of the ship’s fuel tanks was ruptured after it hit parts of the docking station following an engine failure. After the ruptured fuel tank caught fire, Captains McGee and Phillips worked to put the fire out and kept it from spreading to nearby ships. Their bravery earned them the 2017 Award for Exceptional Bravery at Sea, which is given by the International Maritime Pilots Association. We are proud to have these heroic fellow Texans serving and working in our community.”