Merchant Navy Day

Merchant Navy Day is every year on September 3. The mission of this holiday is to recall the numerous victims among merchant sailors in the First World War. After their heroic deeds, King George V issued a decree according to which the merchant seamen of Britain became known as the merchant marine. Today, these brave men control UK imports, including food and all goods of daily use. On Merchant Navy Day, a red flag is carried in all cities, which symbolizes the bravery and courage of all who are related to the merchant fleet.

History

The event to which Merchant Navy Day is dedicated took place in 1939, when World War II had already begun. Then the British merchant ship SS Athenia was mercilessly destroyed by the German navy. As a result, more than 120 crew members and passengers died. The holiday reminds us of how much the country depends on the merchant fleet, how important the work of these specialists is. Merchant Navy Day was first in 2000 at the initiative of the Seafarers’ Charity.

Interesting Facts

• The term “merchant navy” was coined by King George V. He wanted to honor the memory of the sailors who died during the First World War.
• In wartime, thanks to the merchant navy, soldiers and supplies were transported abroad.
• During the First World War, the merchant navy numbered more than 185,000 people. They played a crucial role in the Battle of the Atlantic.
• The death toll from the First World War is about 14,000 people, and in the Second World War it was more than 30,000 people.
• It was the merchant navy that helped the UK survive, and today it moves 90% of imports and exports.

How to take part

Donate what you can to the Fleet Fund, thereby recognizing the important and noble service of sailors. Talk about the holiday and the merchant navy on social networks, and encourage people to celebrate this day and support the merchant navy. If you are looking for possible career options for yourself, the Merchant Marine is a great option.

When is Merchant Navy Day in 2024?

Merchant Navy Day is observed on September 3 each year.

Observations