WWII TUGBOAT HOGA OFFICIALLY DONATED TO ARKANSAS INLAND MARITIME MUSEUM Washington, DC - The historic Navy tugboat, the Hoga, was donated to the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum today at a transfer ceremony held in the U.S. Capitol. Undersecretary of the Navy Dionel "Dino" Aviles conducted the transfer to the city of North Little Rock. The Hoga is of exceptional significance in American history as one of two known surviving yard craft present at the attack on Pearl Harbor. The Navy selected North Little Rock to be the site of Hoga's permanent display over strong competitors in Florida and Hawaii. Designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1989, she was listed in 1995 as one of the top 11 most endangered historic sites in the United States by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. "Several years ago I read that the Hoga was looking for a home, a place that could recognize its history, adopt it, and preserve it for future generations," said Congressman Snyder.. "I mentioned the idea to Mayor Hays, who over the next few years diligently executed the transfer process. The result is today's transfer to North Little Rock, and the preservation of this extremely important vessel for our Navy and our Nation." "As you drive over the Arkansas River Bridge, what a joy it is to see the USS Razorback submarine," said Senator Lincoln. "I look forward to seeing the Hoga as part of the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum very soon, too." "The Hoga proved to be resilient and steadfast during World War II, and in many respects, it is an apt symbol for our nation's determined spirit," Pryor said. "North Little Rock will be a gracious home for this distinguished craft, and I anxiously await her arrival." "I know that many people have worked hard to make this happen," said Congressman Berry. "Their efforts will be rewarded by the many people, old and young alike, that learn about our country's naval history." "It is wonderful to have this historical vessel on display in Arkansas. A lot of people worked hard to bring the Hoga to North Little Rock and the payoff will be a reminder to future generations about the sacrifices the 'Greatest Generation' made for us," said Congressman Boozman. "Having the Hoga as part of the Inland Maritime Museum not only benefits North Little Rock, but the entire state," said Congressman Ross. "Many of the people in south Arkansas that I represent may never get to the coast, but now they can see a part of Naval and American history by visiting our state's capital." After only six months in service with the 14th navy station, the Hoga was put to the test when Pearl Harbor was attacked on December 7, 194l. While not engaged in combating the enemy, the Hoga fought without break for 48 hours, extinguishing fires, tugging bombed warships and rescuing seamen. She particularly distinguished herself through her crew's actions in helping beach the burning and sinking battleship USS Nevada at Hospital Point, whose run for the open sea was aborted by Japanese bombers intending to sink her in the channel and block Pearl Harbor. In the weeks, months, and years that followed the attack, Hoga and her sister yard tugs and support craft worked hard assisting in the salvage, refitting and repairing of damaged vessels, and keeping Pearl Harbor active as a naval base as it expanded for a naval war in the Pacific. For her actions, Hoga was awarded a meritorious citation. In 1948, the Hoga took on duties as a fireboat in the harbor at San Francisco and Oakland, where she fought fires on the docks and ships for another five decades. It is yet undetermined when the Hoga will make the trip from Oakland to North Little Rock through the Panama Canal. The Hoga, which is Sioux for the word "fish," is built entirely of welded steel, is 99.7 feet in length, and displaces 350 tons. **High Resolution photos of the transfer ceremony can be obtained by calling Jennifer at 501-324-5943.
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