Once again we’ll be supporting the Merchant Navy on Wednesday 3 September by flying the Red Ensign to honour the brave men and women who have served during the two world wars, and who continue to serve, to ensure we have supplies to keep our island nation afloat.
As an “island nation” the UK relies on merchant Navy seafarers for 95% of our imports, including half the food we eat. The UK has the largest ports industry in Europe. 75% of our exports (by volume) are shipped from UK ports.
Why is Merchant Navy Day on the 3 September?
The service suffered the very first casualty of the second world war when the S.S. Athenia, a merchant vessel that was torpedoed with the loss of 128 passengers and crew just hours after hostilities were declared. Since then the 3 September has been acknowledged as Merchant Navy Day.
Sadly, the losses from the sinking of the Athenia would not be the first and hundreds of ships and thousands of seafarers would meet the same fate in the years to come.
Cllr Beverley Parry Jones, Armed Forces Champion, said “Many in Wrexham have served or are still serving in the Merchant Navy. “Their incredible dedication and loyal service will be proudly acknowledged by raising the Red Ensign. “With this year being the 80th anniversary year of both VE Day and VJ Day, this will also be a timely reminder of the significant contribution made by the Merchant Navy both in the Atlantic and Pacific
The Mayor of Wrexham Cllr Tina Mannering said, “It’s a privilege to raise the Red Ensign above the Guildhall to pay respects to the Merchant Navy and to say thank you for their service to the lives of individuals all over the UK as well as here in Wrexham.”
Red Ensign Raising Ceremony at the Guildhall
On Wednesday 3 September we’ll be holding a short flag-raising ceremony outside the main entrance to the Guildhall at 10.30 a.m. Everyone is welcome to attend.
