Pictured as: the Alva Dupre (Dupre Marine) Photo by: Dupre Marine

Built in 1973, by Main Iron Works Incorporated of Houma, Louisiana (hull #285) as the National Hero for the National Marine Service Incorporated of St. Louis, Missouri.

In 1985, the tug was acquired by Compass Marine Services Incorporated of New Orleans, Louisiana. Where she was renamed as the Compass Hero.

In 1990, she was acquired by Southern Marine Services Incorporated of Port Allen, Louisiana. Where the tug retained her name. However, the tug was still operated by Compass Marine Services Incorporated of New Orleans, Louisiana.

In 1992, the tug was returned to Southern Marine Services Incorporated of Port Allen, Louisiana. Where she was renamed as the Evan Wharton.

In 1998, she was acquired by American Commercial Lines LLC. of Jeffersonville, Indiana. Where the tug retained her name.

In 2010, the tug was acquired by Ohio River Salvage LLC. of Crescent, Pennsylvania. Where she retained her name.

In 2010, she was acquired by John's Towing Service Incorporated of Shippingport, Pennsylvania. Where the tug was renamed as the Joe Johnson.

In 2012, the tug was acquried by the Dupre Marine Transportation Company Incorporated of Houma, Louisiana. Where she was renamed as the Alva Dupre.

Rebuilt in 2011, she is powered by two Caterpillar 3508TA diesel engines. With Caterpillar reduction gears, at a ratio of 4.83:1. She is a twin screw towboat, rated 1,650 horsepower.