FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE    October 22, 2013                                   

PRESS CONTACT            Brenda Lopez 956.544.8352

Vela Applauds Selection of Local Firm and Jobs for South Texas

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Vela applauded the United States Navy’s announcement that All Star Metals, LLC has been awarded a federal contract for the dismantlement of the USS Forrestal, an aircraft carrier which was originally commissioned in 1955.

“Today’s announcement recognizes the hard work of All Star Metals and South Texas workers, and I am proud that a local contractor has been selected to conduct the important work of dismantling an aircraft carrier, the largest vessel in our nation’s fleet,” noted Congressman Vela.  “This contract will bring hundreds of jobs to our region, while  providing major long-term benefits to our local economy.”

“The journey and dream is achieved, the hard work begins now – we look forward to working with the United States Navy to safely and successfully recycle the aircraft carrier, ex-Forrestal.  Our team has worked tirelessly to get ready for a job of this magnitude and we are ready to see this come to fruition,” said Nick Shah, President of All Star Metals.  “The easiest way for anyone to understand what my team and I feel today is equivalent to a football team making it to the Super Bowl.   "We are ready and appreciate the support from Congressman Vela's office to the Port of Brownsville!!”

The contract for work at the Port of Brownsville is the first of three task orders to be awarded for the dismantling of the United States Navy aircraft carriers the Forrestal (AVT 59), the Saratoga (CV 60), and the Constellation (CV64).  The award of the next two contracts is expected in the near future.  After the award of three initial contracts, the Navy intends to solicit for the dismantlement of two additional aircraft carriers.

“This award represents a critical development in the region’s efforts to be a hub for ship recycling,” advised Vela.