Ronald Reagan

“ I urge the people of the United States to honor our American merchant marine on that day by displaying the flag of the United States at their homes and other suitable places, and I request that all ships sailing under the American flag dress ship on that day. ”

“ In recognition of the importance of the American merchant marine, the Congress, by joint resolution of May 20, 1933, designated May 22 as National Maritime Day and requested the President to issue annually a proclamation calling for its appropriate observance. ”

“ These efforts will continue and will greatly enhance our maritime posture. Over the next few years, new generations of efficient and productive merchant ships will improve the competitiveness of our fleet. ”