[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 129, 114th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
Proclamation 9285 of May 20, 2015

National Maritime Day, 2015

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

For over two centuries, proud mariners have set sail in defense of our
people and in pursuit of opportunity. Through periods of conflict and
times of peace, our Nation has relied on the United States Merchant
Marine to transport goods to and from our shores and deliver troops

[[Page 3367]]

and supplies around the world. On National Maritime Day, we honor the
women and men who take to the seas to boost our economy and uphold the
values we cherish.
Our Nation is forever indebted to the brave privateers who helped secure
our independence, fearlessly supplying our Revolutionary forces with
muskets and ammunition. Throughout history, their legacy has been
carried forward by courageous seafarers who have faithfully served our
Nation as part of the United States Merchant Marine--bold individuals
who emerged triumphant in the face of attacks from the British fleet in
the War of 1812, and who empowered the Allied forces as they navigated
perilous waters during World War II. Today, patriots who share their
spirit continue to stand ready to protect our seas and the livelihoods
they support.
Ninety percent of the world's commerce moves by sea, and businesses
across our country rely on domestic and international trade every day.
Helping to protect our vital shipping routes, Merchant Mariners are
critical to our effort to combat piracy and uphold the maritime security
on which the global supply chain relies. And in times of war or national
emergency, they bolster our national security as a ``fourth arm of
defense.'' Whether transporting commercial goods or military equipment,
battling tough weather or enemy fire, they strive and sacrifice to
secure a brighter future for all Americans. On this day, we reaffirm the
importance of their contributions and salute all those who serve this
noble cause.
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, 2015, 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 that day.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twentieth day of
May, in the year of our Lord two thousand fifteen, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
ninth.
BARACK OBAMA