DIGNITARIES, sailors and members of the public gathered at Trinity Gardens, London recently to remember seafarers of the merchant navy, who lost their lives bringing vital supplies to England.
Wartime merchant navy men honoured at London's Sea of Remembrance
DIGNITARIES, sailors and members of the public gathered at Trinity Gardens, London recently to remember seafarers of the merchant navy, who lost their lives bringing vital supplies to England.
Honour was paid to sailors on merchant ships during World War I and II, as well as to seafarers on merchant vessels serving right up to the present day.
To create a "Sea of Remembrance" the Merchant Navy Association and Sailors' Society, the maritime ministry charity, came together to plant hundreds of red ensign flags in the sunken gardens. Each flag bore a message of remembrance and thanks to the world's 1.5 million seafarers.
The event was held just one day before the start of London International Shipping Week, which is staged to celebrate London's contribution to the shipping industry.
A statement from the Sailors Society said the Queen has approved a new Merchant Navy Medal to honour distinguished service in the merchant marine. The medal will be a fully recognised State Award and will replace the existing, unofficial Merchant Navy Medal.