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America Celebrates National Maritime Day

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Published May 21, 2018 6:50 PM by The Maritime Executive

On May 22, the American maritime industry will celebrate National Maritime Day, which was designated by Congress in 1933 to celebrate America's maritime industry and its merchant mariners.

Congress selected May 22 to commemorate the American steam/sailing ship Savannah’s voyage from the United States to England, the first successful crossing of the Atlantic Ocean using steam propulsion. The day has since evolved into an opportunity to recognize all American mariners, especially those who gave their lives for their country in time of war. Of the 250,000 members of the U.S. Merchant Marine who served in World War II, 6,700 perished - a higher wartime casualty rate than that suffered in any of the armed forces. 

This year, National Maritime Day will be remembered at dozens of events across the nation. Among many others, these gatherings and activities include:

- Commemorative program and wreath-laying at the Department of Transportation's headquarters in Washington, D.C., 1000 EST on May 22 (RSVP only). Attendees include American Association of Port Authorities president and CEO Kurt Nagle.

- Propeller Club of the Port of Duluth-Superior, University of Minnesota Duluth, 1200 CDT on May 22. The event's keynote speech will be delivered by William P. Doyle, the CEO and executive director of the Dredging Contractors of America and a former member of the Federal Maritime Commission. 

- Port of Galveston and Texas A&M University National Maritime Day event, including museum tours, a Coast Guard search and rescue demonstration and a commemorative ceremony. Pier 21, 0800-1700 CDT on May 22. 

- The Port Canaveral Maritime Day Celebration, including a memorial ceremony, harbor tour and wreath laying ceremony, 1000 EST on May 26.

- The Port of San Diego Maritime Month, extending throughout May. A limited number of free bus and boat tours of the San Diego Bay, with service provided by Hornblower. To RSVP, visit https://www.portofsandiego.org/maritimemonth