Since 1933, the federal government has recognized May 22 as National Maritime Day.
This year was no different as President Donald Trump offered a proclamation acknowledging the day and the work of men and women who crew U.S.-flag merchant ships around the world.
MTD President Michael Sacco was one of the featured speakers at the official ceremony held at the Department of Transportation in Washington, DC. He introduced Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao. Others who spoke included U.S. Air Force General Darren McDew, commander of the U.S. Transportation Command; U.S. Coast Guard Vice Admiral Charles Ray, deputy commandant for operations; and Lisa Wieland, director of the Massachusetts Port Authority.
Apprentices from the Seafarers Union’s Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training presented the memorial wreath and sounded the Eight Bells tribute.