GEORGE WASHINGTON GOETHALS - (1858-1928) - Army Engineer,
born Brooklyn, N.Y. Graduated from West Point (1880), taught
military engineering there (1885-87); was chief-of-engineers
of U.S. volunteers during Spanish-American War. Superintended
fortification of Narragansett Bay at New Bedford (1900-05);
Theodore Roosevelt appointed him to succeed John F. Stevens
as chief engineer of Panama Canal (1907). Overcame great
difficulties in engineering, proved himself sound
administrator. With completion of task, received thanks of
Congress and was promoted major-general; first civil governor
of Panama Canal Zone (1914-19). Becoming civil engineer in
New York, was associated with Port of New York Authority
collaborating in plans for Holland Tunnel and George
Washington Bridge.