National Maritime Day, 2016

Proclamation 9453 of May 20, 2016

National Maritime Day, 2016

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Since America's founding, proud mariners have
selflessly dedicated themselves to protecting and
advancing our interests--here at home and around the
world. The patriots of the United States Merchant
Marine have long served as our Nation's ``fourth arm of
defense,'' safeguarding the ideals that have guided our
country for more than two centuries. They facilitate
the transport and trade of American goods, and they put
their lives on the line in times of war. On National
Maritime Day, we honor our Merchant Mariners and
celebrate their irreplaceable role in shaping our
Nation's narrative.

Whether in still or raging waters, Merchant Mariners
are fundamental to guaranteeing the delivery of
essential goods to far-reaching corners of our globe.
These seafarers have bravely faced threats at home and
abroad--including combatants and pirates, disease
outbreaks and natural disasters--and they consistently
heed the call to serve their fellow Americans. In World
War II, their ships carried troops and much-needed
support to the battlefield, thousands making the
ultimate sacrifice. They were among the first to see
battle, and many were among the last to return home to
our shores.

Carrying forward a legacy that spans generations, the
United States Merchant Marine is vital to our Nation's
economic security as well. Their transportation of
vital cargo has impacts far beyond America's borders,
generating trillions of dollars of economic activity
each year. And when our entrepreneurs decide to embark
on new ventures across oceans, mariners stand by and
protect their pursuit of the American dream through
tireless work to cultivate safe and open waterways. On
this day, and every day, let us express our sincere
gratitude to these courageous men and women for all
they do for our Nation, and let us reaffirm our
commitment to support them as they continue to uphold
their proud tradition of service.

The Congress, by a joint resolution approved May 20,
1933, has designated May 22 of each year as ``National
Maritime Day,'' and has authorized and requested the
President to issue annually a proclamation calling for
its appropriate observance.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the
United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 22,
2016, as National Maritime Day. 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 this day.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
twentieth day of May, in the year of our Lord two
thousand sixteen, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and fortieth.