Experience this free and colorful ceremony, commencing at Navy Pier’s Wave Wall on the South Dock. The honorary wreath laying and playing of “Taps” can be seen from Navy Pier on the dock or on the water.

Chicago’s Marine community, U.S. Coast Guard; Chicago Police Marine Unit; Chicago Fire Department Marine Unit and Illinois Department of Natural Resources will join the International Shipmasters Association Lodge #3 in the time-honored tradition and celebration of National Maritime Day and Blessing of the Fleet on Friday, May 19 at 11 a.m. at Navy Pier, one of the top nonprofit cultural destinations in the Midwest.

National Maritime Day is to honor all Seafarers who “Went Down to the Sea in Ships,” particularly Merchant Mariners who died in battle. During World War II, more than 6,600 merchant mariners and 700 ships were lost. A joint congressional resolution was passed on May 20, 1933 declaring May 22 as National Maritime Day, commemorating the first successful transoceanic voyage of the SS SAVANNAH under steam propulsion, thus making a material contribution to the advancement of ocean transportation. Since that time, the US Armed forces, Merchant Marine and American shipyards have proudly been instrumental in the safety and security of our country and the growth of the maritime industry.

A wreath in honor of the seafarers will be blessed and laid upon the waters adjacent to Navy Pier from aboard the Shoreline Sightseeing vessel, M/V CAP STREETER. Following the wreath laying, all attending vessels will pass by the M/V CAP STREETER to participate in the Blessing of the Fleet.

The public is invited to view this free and colorful ceremony, commencing at 11 a.m. at Navy Pier’s Wave Wall on the South Dock.  The honorary wreath laying and playing of “Taps” can be seen from Navy Pier on the dock or on the water.