Guam recognizes the work of the maritime industry

Maritime travel and trade have “always been part of our history,” said Governor Lou Leon Guerrero, who signed a proclamation on Friday recognizing National Seas Day on Saturday.

Congress established Maritime Day in 1933 and is celebrated on May 22 – the same day in 1819, an American steamship completed the first transoceanic steam voyage.

“Our ancestors, as you know, were known for their navigation skills. Five hundred years ago, when Europeans made the first contact with our ancestors, they marveled at our proa flying … our people created and piloted the fastest sailboats in the world at that time, ”said Leon Guerrero. “While our ships may have changed, I believe maritime travel and commerce still play an important role in the economy of our island. Thanks to our shipping industry, this small island in the Pacific is connected to countries all over the world and we play an important role in trade and commerce.

After:Federal government designates Guam shipyard as maritime training center

After:The ceremony sends a Spanish tall ship to continue its circumnavigation journey

The Spanish Navy training ship, Juan Sebastián de Elcano, and her crew are greeted by Governor Lou Leon Guerrero, Deputy Commander of the Mariana Region Rear Admiral John Menoni and others upon arrival and at the docking of the ship at Naval Base Guam on Friday February 26. , 2021. To commemorate the 500th anniversary of the Magellan-Elcano Expedition, the four-masted tall ship retraces the mapped trajectory taken during the world's first recorded circumnavigation. During the original circumnavigation voyage, Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan and his crew landed in Umatac Bay in 1521.

“Our Sailors have remained steadfast in their commitment to support our Navy, the Joint Fighter, and to defend our nation,” said Cmdr of the Navy. Gillian Medina, commander of the Guam Ship Support Unit. “This is a team effort on Guam, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank our partners in the marine industry. Your work contributes directly to our mission, and we could not do what we do without you. “

Captain Christopher Chase, Area Commander of the US Coast Guard Guam, said: “Today is a great opportunity to recognize the good of the shipping industry and merchant seamen and the impact they have. had around the world … especially here in Guam. As an island, it is evident that the shipping industry is essential to all of our success here.

“Today we are proclaiming Maritime (day) to honor our island’s rich maritime history, and recognize and honor the men and women who work tirelessly to ensure essential goods reach their destination,” said the Governor .

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