[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 97 (Friday, May 22, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E479]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   CELEBRATING NATIONAL MARITIME DAY

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                           HON. JACK BERGMAN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 22, 2020

  Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize May 22nd as 
National Maritime Day. On this occasion, we are especially proud of 
Michigan's status as a maritime industry powerhouse, which we owe to 
the many men and women who drive commerce on our beautiful Great Lakes. 
According to the American Maritime Partnership, this industry provides 
Michigan's economy with an annual $2.8 billion, in addition to $703.6 
million in worker income and 12,140 jobs.
  Michigan's First District features more coastline than any other 
congressional district in the contiguous United States, and is home to 
the Great Lakes Maritime Academy in Traverse City, which continues to 
supply our waterways with the next generation of Merchant Marine 
officers. We have no shortage of reasons to celebrate this day and the 
proud maritime traditions of the Great Lakes.
  While the circumstances of today and our nation's fight against the 
coronavirus make it difficult for anyone to participate in festivities, 
National Maritime Day 2020 is celebrated in spirit by our brave 
essential workers who are--at this moment--navigating ships, running 
ports, and operating locks. And as of this month, there are now those 
who are building a new lock in the Soo Locks complex. This historic 
milestone, as well as the jobs, growth, and security that will come 
with the new lock's completion, are well worth celebrating on this 
commemorative day.
  Madam Speaker, on behalf of Michigan's First Congressional District, 
I ask you to join me in honoring National Maritime Day and the millions 
of individuals across the Great Lakes who maintain our national 
security by keeping our nation's economic engine running, even in these 
most trying times.

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