TODAY: honor the forgotten fleet on National Maritime Day

Submitted

Today, May 22, is National Maritime Day, and this year for the first time the Clay Township Military Library and Museum (CTMLM) recognizes one of America’s most overlooked groups of wartime heroes: the men and women of the United States Merchant Marine.

From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. today, you an visit the Museum to take part in National Maritime Day. CTMLM is located at 10801 N. College Ave., Carmel.

Who were they?

During World War II, more than 243,000 civilian merchant mariners sailed into harm’s way to deliver troops, weapons, food, and fuel to Allied forces around the globe. They were called the “Fourth Arm of Defense,” yet they operated without military protection, sailing unarmed or lightly armed directly into submarine-infested waters.

Their casualty rate was higher than that of every branch of the U.S. military: roughly one in 26 mariners was killed. An estimated 8,300 or more were killed at sea, 12,000 were wounded, and 663 were taken prisoner.

Despite their sacrifice, they were denied veterans’ benefits for decades, receiving official recognition only after a federal court ruling in 1988, and the Congressional Gold Medal was not awarded until 2021. The Merchant Marine has no dedicated national holiday, which is why May 22 – National Maritime Day – is the day their community comes together to be remembered.

A personal connection

The CTMLM was founded by local veterans who answered their country’s call. Among the founding group was at least one member who served in the Merchant Marine during World War II. His service – and the service of every merchant mariner from our community – deserves to be honored and preserved.

You & your stories are needed

CTMLM is calling on all veterans with Merchant Marine service (and the families and friends of those who served) to join today to share your connection to this vital chapter of American history.

Attendees are invited to:

• Bring memorabilia: discharge papers, voyage logs, photographs, medals, insignia, correspondence, or any items connected to Merchant Marine service
• Share your story: Sit with our volunteer interviewers and let us record your firsthand account for our permanent Veteran Profile archive.
• Help us find others: If you know a Merchant Marine veteran or surviving family member in our county, please pass this message along.

Even if you cannot attend in person, CTMLM welcomes written accounts, donated photographs, or scanned documents that can be incorporated into the exhibit and Honor Roll.

About the Museum
The Clay Township Military Library and Museum is Hamilton County’s only public military museum, run entirely by volunteers and supported by community donations. CTMLM’s mission is to honor those who served by preserving their stories for future generations. This year’s National Maritime Day event marks the first time the organization is formally recognizing the Merchant Marine.