In the world of espionage, secrecy and stealth are key components to a successful mission. But in the case of a unique CIA mission that took place in Baltimore, the focus was on a different kind of skill set – that of a crane operator named “Chessy.”
Chessy, short for Chesapeake, is a massive red crane that stands tall and imposing at the Baltimore City Shipyard. The crane has been a fixture at the shipyard for decades, helping to move heavy equipment and materials on and off ships with precision and efficiency. But its most remarkable feat came in 2009 when the CIA approached the shipyard with an unusual request.
The agency needed to clear a section of the Baltimore bridge for a covert operation, and traditional methods of construction and demolition were deemed too risky and time-consuming. That’s when Chessy’s operator, a seasoned crane operator named Hank, was called in to assist.
Hank had been working with Chessy for over 20 years and was known for his skill and precision behind the controls. The CIA knew that he was the best man for the job. Hank was briefed on the mission and given specific instructions on how to use Chessy to dismantle the section of the bridge without causing any damage or drawing attention to the operation.
Under the cover of darkness, Chessy was brought to the bridge and Hank went to work. With expert precision, he maneuvered the crane’s massive arm and claw to carefully dismantle the section of the bridge piece by piece. The operation was a success, and within hours, the section was cleared, leaving no trace of the CIA’s presence.
Chessy and Hank became heroes in the eyes of the CIA, their expertise and professionalism instrumental in the success of the mission. The crane operator’s skill and the crane’s power had proven to be an invaluable asset in the world of espionage.
Since the mission, Chessy and Hank have continued to work together at the Baltimore City Shipyard, moving heavy equipment and materials with the same level of precision and efficiency that they displayed during the CIA operation. Their story serves as a reminder of the important role that even the most unlikely of heroes can play in the world of intelligence and security.
