BUFFALO GROVE, IL [May 5, 2003] J. Patrick "Pat" McGehee, a prominent figure in the deep-south construction industry for more than four decades, has retired from Essex Crane Rental Corp. after 47 years in the construction-equipment industry, including 11 years of outstanding service to Essex.

McGehee, who turned 72 at the end of March, began his long and distinguished career in the construction-equipment industry in 1955 when he joined the sales force of Gardner Denver.

In 1965, McGehee joined Boehck Engineering, working as a salesman in both Houston, Texas, and New Orleans, Louisiana.

In 1971, McGehee became just the second employee hired by Manitowoc Coastal States Sales & Service, a newly formed equipment dealership headquartered in Houston, Texas. During 12 years with Coastal, McGehee served in sales and managerial capacities at the company's New Orleans office.

In 1984, McGehee went solo, starting his own company that specialized in the sale of used construction and excavating equipment, including Manitowoc liftcranes, draglines, and attachments.

McGehee's extensive experience and outstanding customer service drew the attention of the world's largest owner of Manitowoc cranes, Essex Crane Rental, and in 1991, McGehee joined Essex as its representative for Louisiana.

For the past 11 years, McGehee has used his expertise to help Essex customers select the best Manitowoc cranes and attachments for each project's specific requirements.

Although McGehee has officially retired, he will continue to assist Essex and its customers as an expert consultant.

Said B.W. Johnson, manager of Essex's office in Arcola, Texas, "Pat McGehee is the consummate equipment representative. He stays aware of what's going on in the industry, has superior product knowledge, and takes a personal interest in helping customers. Nobody has done it any better than Pat."