Navy League of the United States :: Milwaukee Council

Each Year On May 22 Our Country Celebrates National Maritime Day

Video: How the Merchant Marine is Important

The United States has always been and will always be a great maritime nation. From our origins as 13 British colonies, through every period of peace and conflict since, the Merchant Marine has been a pillar in this country's foundation of prosperity and security. They power the world's largest economy and strengthen our ties with trading partners around the world, all while supporting our military forces by shipping troops and supplies wherever they need to go.

US Merchant Marine Birthday is June 12

In 1933, Congress declared National Maritime Day to commemorate the American steamship Savannah's voyage from the United States to England in 1819, 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 their 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.

Maritime Day is a time-honored tradition that recognizes one of our country's most important industries. Each year, ceremonies and celebrations throughout the country recognize Maritime Day and the people our maritime nation depends on.

View The 2020 Virtual Ceremony

Please join us for this year's 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.