Flag raised in East Renfrewshire to mark Merchant Navy Day
We raised the Red Ensign flag at our Council Headquarters in Giffnock to mark Merchant Navy Day and commemorate all who work at sea, both past and present.
Published: 3 September 2024
Each year we together with partners to recognise the contributions of the seafarers who embody the Merchant Navy and celebrate their vital role.
Provost Mary Montague joined Deputy Lieutenant of Renfrewshire, Philip Rodney to show appreciation, raise the flag and pay tribute to merchant seafarers, including those who are currently serving and veterans.
At the event, Provost Mary Montague welcomed guests including local dignitaries, elected members and members of the local community to acknowledge the UK's ongoing dependence on merchant seafarers.
Provost Mary Montague said: 'Merchant Navy Day is an important date in the Council's calendar each year and is our annual opportunity to honour merchant seafarers for their service and sacrifice.
'It marks the date when the first British merchant ship SS Athenia was sunk by a German torpedo in the Second World War with the loss of more than 120 passengers and crew.
'During the First and Second World Wars the brave men and women worked tirelessly to keep our nation afloat and supply lines open. Today the Merchant Navy enables approximately 95% of the UK's trade which moves by sea, whilst they continue to face the dangers of the high seas. Without these officers our shops, pharmacies, and supermarkets would face empty shelves.'
Deputy Lieutenant of Renfrewshire, Philip Rodney, added: 'Today, provides an opportunity to celebrate and honour the invisible service and the many courageous men and women who serve or served in the Merchant Navy. Their bravery provides us with the opportunity to remember how they kept supply lines open during two World Wars and more recently during the Covid pandemic. Their contribution must never be forgotten.'
