By Captain John Loftus - Around this time of year, I often ask Americans if they can name the three things the signer’s of the Declaration Of Independence pledged. Invariably, people can name first (our lives), or second (our fortunes), or both the first and second, but rarely the third, and the one I consider the most important – “Our Sacred Honor”. One only … [Read more...]
U.S. Merchant Seaman Awarded Highest Civilian Medal
Fox News reports that the decades-long effort to recognize and honor the U.S. Merchant Marines of WWII took another step forward Wednesday when the House passed a bipartisan measure to award the seamen a Congressional Gold Medal. The article states: The medal, along with the Presidential Medal of Honor, is the highest civilian award in the country. More than … [Read more...]
Happy National Maritime Day 2016!
Every year on May 22nd, we honor those serving in the U.S. Merchant Marine and remember the vital role merchant mariners play in our economy and national security. So Happy National Maritime Day, everyone! Thank you for your service. And now for a message from our President: NATIONAL MARITIME DAY, 2016 - - - - - - - BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A … [Read more...]
U.S. Celebrates National Maritime Day!
Each year on May 22nd, the United States celebrates National Maritime Day, an observance of the contributions of the men and women of the U.S. merchant marine, as well as the U.S. maritime industry and the benefits it brings to the country in terms of transportation, jobs, goods, recreation and national security. The date May 22 is significant because in 1819 the SS Savannah … [Read more...]
The U.S. Merchant Marine Response to 9/11
Thirteen years ago today the world was forever changed when thousands lost their lives in the September 11 attacks. We all remember the role and sacrifices of the firefighters, police officers, medics, and other first responders from that tragic day. But what many don't remember, or even realize, was the response of the U.S. Merchant Marine. When the towers of the World … [Read more...]