05/22/2021
Today is National Maritime Day. The United States Congress, by joint resolution approved on 20 May 1933, designated 22 May of each year as "National Maritime Day". On this day, we commemorate the first transoceanic voyage under steam power in 1819 by the S.S. Savannah. On National Maritime Day, we honor the men and women who, throughout our history have served with professionalism, dedication, and patriotism in the United States Merchant Marine. We recognize these seafaring merchant mariners for helping to fuel our economy, maintain our sea power, and support our national security. Maritime Day is a time-honored tradition that recognizes the maritime industry, a bastion of prosperity and security for both the Port of Key West and the United States. Each year, American mariners facilitate the import and export of billions of dollars of goods, including fuel, agricultural product, and raw materials through the Marine Transportation System. They also are among the first to respond to help their fellow citizens in the wake of national disasters. During times of war, merchant mariners courageously sail into combat zones to provide sealift for the Department of Defense, carrying weapons and supplies to America's fighting forces. In every conflict, United States citizen mariners have answered the call to duty and risked their lives. Sadly, some have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
Please remember and support those in our maritime community who are suffering right now, either from disease or loss of work.
