The Propeller Club of the United States Port of Norfolk will celebrate National Maritime Day via livestream on Friday, May 22nd at 4 PM EDT.
The unique event will include heartfelt words of thanks to Hampton Roads’ maritime community from several political and business leaders, including US Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao; US Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine; Captain Kevin Carroll, Commander USCG Sector Virginia; Captain Andrew Lindey, Master USNS COMFORT; RADM Mark Buzby (Ret.), US Maritime Administrator, and many more.
The Virginia Pilot Association will lay a wreath in the Elizabeth River at 8 AM the day of the event to honor mariners past and present as local tug companies, McAllister Towing & Transportation and Moran Towing give the traditional water salute. Normally a poignant moment of the Club’s in-person event, the wreath laying will be filmed from Nauticus and broadcast as part of the larger, virtual event later that day.
“The essential workers of our maritime community have continued to work tirelessly throughout the pandemic to keep the ships afloat and commerce moving,” says Marc Marling, president of Vanmarc Shipping Limited Company and president of the International Propeller Club of the United States, Port of Norfolk Chapter. “When we realized we wouldn’t be able to honor them with our traditional in-person event, our board of governors set into motion to create a one-of-a-kind virtual celebration for everyone to enjoy from the comfort and safety of home. I’m humbled by the support and participation this event has already received, and I look forward to sharing it with our community on May 22nd.”
All are welcome to join at 4 PM EDT on Friday, May 22, 2020.
