For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
May 21, 2004
National Maritime Day, 2004
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
National Maritime Day provides an opportunity to recognize the men
and women of the United States Merchant Marine and their contributions
to our national security and economic strength.
Since they first offered their ships and services to assist the
Continental Navy in our struggle for independence, to their
distinguished service in World War II, merchant mariners have
courageously sacrificed to protect our country and defend our
freedoms. In 1936, America recognized the contributions of these
patriots and established the U.S. Merchant Marine "as a naval or
military auxiliary in time of war or national emergency." Today,
merchant mariners are delivering essential supplies and equipment to
our troops in Iraq and bravely serving the cause of liberty. They
continue to play an important role in our Nation's efforts to advance
democracy, peace, and freedom around the world, and we are grateful for
their dedication.
Merchant mariners also contribute significantly to the U.S.
maritime transportation system. More than 95 percent of non-North
American trade enters our country through our seaports. These ports
handle more than $740 billion and 2 billion tons of domestic and
international freight each year. Those in the maritime industry,
including merchant mariners, enhance waterborne commerce and help
promote America's economic growth.
Today, we honor the courage, determination, and service of our
Nation's merchant mariners and remember the many who have given their
lives in defense of our country. Their work reflects the patriotism
and devotion to duty that make America great.
In recognition of the importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine, the
Congress, by joint resolution approved on May 20, 1933, as amended, has
designated May 22 of each year as "National Maritime Day," and has
authorized and requested that the President issue an annual
proclamation calling for its appropriate observance.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States
of America, do hereby proclaim May 22, 2004, as National Maritime Day.
I call upon the people of the United States to celebrate 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.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-first
day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand four, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
twenty-eighth.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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