National Maritime Day was established by the United States Congress in 1933 to honour and commemorate the Merchant Marine. (It also commemorates the 1819 departure of the American steamship Savannah from the port of Savannah, Georgia on the first steam-powered transoceanic voyage.) What is the Commercial Navy? Think of it as the Navy’s understudy; it doesn’t receive top billing, but it rescues the day in times of crisis. Even when everything is operating smoothly, Merchant Mariners work quietly behind the scenes to ensure that the show goes on and that U.S. imports and exports reach their destinations.
National Maritime Day is now celebrated by the entire maritime industry and domestic waterborne commerce, as well as the courageous men and women who have devoted their lives to serving aboard a Merchant Marine ship. So commemorate these brave Americans on May 22!
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WHY NATIONAL MARITIME DAY IS IMPORTANT
It reflects our national identity.
There is something captivating about the word “maritime.” Our nation was founded by those who risked life and limb on perilous sea voyages, and it has been defended during war and peace by Americans at sea ever since.
It honours the partnership between civilians and the military
In times of peace, the Merchant Marine transports cargo and passengers between nations and within the United States using a variety of seagoing vessels, including ferries, towboats, tugboats, and charter boats. In addition to transporting goods, the Merchant Marine also provides humanitarian aid and supplies for civilian research initiatives in remote locations.
It recognises less prominent military personnel
The Merchant Marine also performs an important role during wartime. It is responsible for delivering personnel and supplies to the military, and its officers are eligible for commissioning as military officers by the Department of Defence. Without the Merchant Marine, the military would not operate as efficiently as it currently does.
NATIONAL MARITIME DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | May 22 | Monday |
| 2024 | May 22 | Wednesday |
| 2025 | May 22 | Thursday |
| 2026 | May 22 | Friday |
| 2027 | May 22 | Saturday |
