Built in 1975, by Halter Marine Service Incorporated of Lockport, Louisiana (hull #475) as the Mary L. for the Robbins Towing Company of Minneapolis, Minnesota.

In 1984, the tug was acquired by the Riverway Company of Minneapolis, Minnesota. Where she retained her name.

In 1976, she was leased to the C and G Operating Company of Oak Grove, Louisiana. Where the tug retained her name.

In 1978, the tug was leased to the Sutton Towing Corporation of Mapaville, Missouri. Where she retained her name.

In 1982, she was leased to the Lawson and Lawson Towing Company Incorporated of Wynne, Arkansas. Where the tug retained her name.

In 1990, the tug was leased to Jemco Towing Incorporated of Steelville, Missouri. Where she retained her name.

In 2000, Inland Marine Service Incorporated of New Iberia, Louisiana was contracted to manage, crew, and operate the vessel.

In 2005, she was acquired by the Ingram Barge Company of Nashville, Tennessee. Where the tug retained her name.

In 2016, the Ingram Barge Company renamed the tug as the John F. Secrest.

Powered by two, GM 12-645E7B diesel engines. With Falk reduction gears, at a ratio of 3.958:1. She is a twin screw towboat, rated at 4,560 horsepower.