Merchant Shipping Day is celebrated in Australia and the United Kingdom on 3 September each year. The day honours the men and women of the merchant navy who have made a huge contribution to the nation’s history and continue to do so today. The day honours not only the sacrifices made by seafarers in times of conflict, but also their continued contribution to the global economy through the maritime sector. Merchant Shipping Day holds special significance as the world continues to deal with issues relating to geopolitical tensions, global trade and climate change.
- Observation Skill Test: Can you find the Number 604 among 684 in 12 Seconds?
- You Need to Be Eagle Eyed to Spot Hidden Number 0042 in 12 Seconds
- If you have Sharp Eyes find the number 293 among 292 in 10 seconds|Observation Skills Test
- Optical Illusion: If you have 50/50 Vision Find the Word Thursday in 10 Secs
- Can You Spot the Hidden Polar Bear in this Sea Ice within 18 Seconds? Explanation and Solution to the Hidden Polar Bear Optical Illusion
What is the history of Merchant Marine Day in the UK and Australia?
The Merchant Navy plays a vital role, especially in times of war, and is closely tied to the history of Merchant Navy Day commemorations in both the UK and Australia.
You are watching: Merchant Navy Day 2024: History Behind UK and Australian Merchant Navy on 3 September
- Global Warfare: Merchant Marines played a vital role in the transport of supplies, men, and commerce around the globe during World Wars I and II. These civilian sailors faced great danger, and many of them died in enemy attacks.
- Sinking of the Athena: The decision to designate September 3 as Merchant Marine Day evokes memories of the sinking of the Athena. On this day in 1939, the British passenger liner Athena was sunk by German forces, marking the beginning of World War II for Britain. This event marked the beginning of the many sacrifices that the merchant navy would make during the war.
Anzac Portal states: “Without warning, the German submarine U-30 torpedoed the British passenger liner SS Athenia, which sank the next day. Of the more than 1,400 people on board the Athenia, more than 110 crew and passengers died in the torpedo attack or in the subsequent rescue operations.”
- Heavy losses during World War II: The Australian merchant navy, like other merchant marines, suffered heavy losses during World War II. More than 380 Australian merchant ships were sunk and more than 800 Australian merchant mariners died. These seafarers were often unarmed and faced great danger while carrying out their mission to maintain supply lines.
See more : Optical Illusion Brain Test: If you have Sharp Eyes Find the number 1993 among 1998 in 7 Seconds?
Paddy Crumlin, National Secretary of the Maritime Union of Australia and President of the International Transport Workers’ Federation, said: “More than 800 Australian merchant seamen sacrificed their lives for the Allied cause during the First and Second World Wars.”
Merchant Shipping Day: Official UK recognition
After campaigning by veterans’ organisations and maritime agencies, the UK officially designated Merchant Seaman’s Day as British Seaman’s Day in 2000. The day was established to ensure that the contributions and sacrifices of merchant seafarers are remembered and respected.
National Museums Liverpool states: “Merchant Shipping Day was established as an official day of remembrance in 2000 to honour the sacrifices of merchant seafarers during both world wars and in the post-war period.”
Merchant Marine Day: Australia’s official recognition
See more : Observation Skills Test: Try to find the Odd Rose in this Image
Following efforts by veterans groups and maritime organisations, Australia officially recognised Merchant Seamen’s Day in 2008. The date chosen was 3 September, to coincide with Remembrance Day in the UK, in order to maintain a connection to a shared history of sacrifice and service.
In summary, both the UK and Australia recognise Merchant Shipping Day as an important time to honour the bravery and sacrifice of merchant seafarers. While the commemoration stems from the shared experience of the Second World War, it also recognises more broadly the merchant navy’s ongoing contribution to both countries’ economies, security and global trade.
Read | Important dates in September 2024: List of national and international dates
Source: https://dinhtienhoang.edu.vn
Category: Optical Illusion