Merchant Navy Day 2023: Every year on September 3, Merchant Navy Day is observed to honor the valiant British merchant seafarers who fought in World War I. Their sacrifices were honored by King George V by bestowing the title "Commercial Navy" on them. Despite frequently going unnoticed, these contemporary merchant sailors are critical to the United Kingdom's importation of necessities like food and other necessities. On this unique day, the Red Ensign flag is hoisted across the nation in recognition of these brave people.

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Merchant Navy Day 2023 History And Significance

People around the world raise the Red Ensign in celebration of Merchant Navy Day to pay tribute to the valiant merchantmen and women who serve in the Merchant Navy. King George V, who gave the British merchant fleets the title of "Merchant Navy" in recognition of their heroic efforts during World War I, gave the crucial service its name. Following this, a number of other nations have adopted the designation, and occasionally they are also referred to as merchant marines.

Today, food imports, as well as other essential daily necessities and goods, are the responsibility of merchant mariners. The first assault on an Allied merchant ship during World War II is commemorated on September 3 of every year. Over 120 passengers and crew members died while trying to save them when Germany attacked and sank the first U.K. merchant ship, the SS Athenia. This occurred in 1939, hours after Britain declared war on Germany. The German submarine U-30 unexpectedly torpedoed the SS Athenia.

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Over 90% of the country's imports and exports continue to be handled by the Merchant Navy today, which was crucial in keeping Britain afloat throughout both wars. The Red Ensign is proudly flown by the sailors of the merchant navy, which is made up of commercial and trading ships.