US President Donald Trump has recognized the maritime industry on US National Maritime Day, and called for US-flag ship operators to dress ship in line with his predecessors.
Every 22 May marks the anniversary of the date that US steamship Savannah began the first transoceanic voyage under steam power.
Proclamation issued:
Congress authorized US presidents to annually issue proclamations calling for citizens and shippers to observe National Maritime Day in 1933.
President Trump said in a press release:“On National Maritime Day, we recognize the important role the United States Merchant Marine plays in supporting our commerce and national security.”
Heroes honoured:
“We honour the proud history of our merchant mariners and their important contributions in strengthening our economy.”
“Americans have long looked to the sea as a source of safety and well-being. Bounded by two oceans and the Gulf of Mexico, and crisscrossed by inland waterways, America was destined to be a maritime nation.”
“Our fledgling Republic expanded and became stronger, as our Nation’s growing Merchant Marine connected the States and cemented ties among our new allies.”
“Today, the men and women who crew ships remain essential to our Nation’s prosperity and security.”
“Those in the maritime industry, including merchant mariners, promote our economic growth, facilitating the export of more than $475 billion in goods just last year and sustaining our critical defense industrial base.”
“Merchant mariners also actively protect our homeland, serving as our eyes and ears on the seas. They serve with distinction and courage, heading into war zones, and too often sacrificing their own lives for our protection.”
”I call upon the people of the United States to mark this observance and to display the flag of the United States at their homes and in their communities. I also request that all ships sailing under the American flag dress ship on that day.”
Trump also plans to renegotiate the North American Free Trade Agreement, which could deal a blow to US-Mexico trade.
Did you subscribe for our daily newsletter?
It’s Free! Click here to Subscribe!
Source: The White House
