MAY 22, 2023-NATIONAL MARITIME DAY
The US Congress created National Maritime Day in 1933 as a holiday to honor and celebrate the Merchant Marine but also commemorated the first steam-powered transoceanic voyage of the American steamship Savannah set sail from the port of Savannah, GA, in 1819. The Merchant Mariners step in during a crisis and help save the day but also work quietly behind the scenes to help ensure the show goes on, even when things are running smoothly, to ensure the U.S. 's imports and exports reach their destination.
The celebration of National Maritime Day has expanded today to include the maritime industry and local waterborne commerce with the brave men and women who have committed their lives to serve aboard a Merchant Marine ship. Therefore, these courageous Americans deserve to be celebrated this May 22.
WHY WE LOVE THE NATIONAL MARITIME DAY
Promotes Our National Identity
The word ‘maritime’ is exciting since our country was founded by people who risked their lives during the treacherous sea voyages and have been defended since then during war and peace by Americans at sea.
Collaboration Between Civilians and Military
When peace reigns, the Merchant Marine uses various sea vessels such as ferries, towboats, tugboats, and charter boats to transport cargo and passengers between nations and within the US. The US provides humanitarian aid and supplies to support civilian research projects in far-off locales.
Honor to Little-Known Military Personnel
During the war, the Merchant Marine played a vital role in delivering personnel and material to the military, and the Department of Defence could commission the mariners as military officers.
