Maritime Day, celebrated on May 22, is a time-honored tradition that recognizes one of our country’s most important industries. In 1933, Congress declared National Maritime Day to commemorate the American steamship Savannah’s voyage from the United States to England, marking the first successful crossing of the Atlantic Ocean with steam propulsion. During World War II, more than 250,000 members of the American Merchant Marine served our country, with more than 6,700 giving their lives, hundreds being detained as prisoners of war and more than 800 U.S. merchant ships being sunk or damaged.

The U.S. Maritime Administration invites you to join them for a virtual celebration of National Maritime Day. This year’s theme — “Resilient Sealift for a Resilient Nation” — reflects the U.S. maritime industry’s unwavering support of the nation, especially during the current challenge of COVID-19. While we may not be able to join in person, we can honor our nation’s maritime heritage, weather this current storm together, and commit ourselves to an even stronger future for America’s maritime industry.

The ceremony can be viewed live at: https://www.youtube.com/c/MaritimeAdministration1950