[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 130, 114th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
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

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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.
BARACK OBAMA