Hantz Tankering Service - CLOSED, 117 County Road 4532, Dayton, TX 77535, US

Echo Towing Service was established in 1972 by Captain Tom Echols, with a 300 horsepower single-screw tug. He made his living working for a construction company and an affiliate of Kirby Corporation/Western Towing. In 1980, Tom traded up to a larger boat and renamed it the Nita E., for his wife, Nita Echols. At this point, Captain Tom incorporated, and began working as an owner/operator for several more companies. In 1993, son Tommy joined the business after serving in the ministry since 1978. Tommy worked on expanding the client base, and brokered outside tugs to accommodate the growth. Three years later, he was not only keeping the Nita E. busy, but secured three additional tugs as full-time charters to meet demand. In 1999, Echo Marine, Ltd was established to manage the business side of things, while Echo Towing Service, Inc remained as the owner/operator of the Nita E. With demand showing no signs of slowing, Echo Towing Service, Inc purchased a second vessel three years later, and christened it the Tommy E., for Captain Tom's son. Echo Towing Service, Inc charters both vessels to Echo Marine, Ltd, which secures additional tugs and barges through four other charter organizations as needed. Captain Tom continues to serve the company as its president, and remains involved in daily operations. His son Tommy serves as vice-president.