Thurrock Council marked Merchant Navy Day by raising the Red Ensign Flag at a special event on Tuesday 3 September.
The event was opened with a prayer and speeches from Mayor of Thurrock, Cllr Kairen Raper, and Cabinet Member for Community Partnerships, Cllr Valerie Morris-Cook and saw Thurrock MP Jen Craft raise the Red Ensign flag to recognise our past and present seafarers and celebrate the contribution that they have made to the freedoms we enjoy today.
Cllr Valerie Morris-Cook said: "Merchant Navy Day is a poignant reminder of the incredible contributions made by our seafarers, both past and present. Their courage and dedication have been instrumental in shaping our nation, particularly during times of war, when they faced unimaginable dangers. We must continue to honour their legacy and show our gratitude for the essential role they play in our everyday lives."
Cllr Kairen Raper said: "Today we raise a flag to recognise and celebrate the vital work that the men and women of the merchant navy do all year round.
"We especially remember the resolve and bravery of merchant seamen during the second world war as they braved the menace of U-boats, warships, aircraft and mines to keep the country supplied and in the fight as we battled to free Europe.
"As we raise this red ensign, we think of the heroes of the merchant navy’s past, the work they do now in bringing goods and materials into the country and exporting what we make to the rest of the world, and of the bright and innovative future ahead of us."
To donate to the Merchant Navy, go to Seafarers Charity: Merchant Navy Fund UK.
Photo below: Jen Craft MP, Cllr Kairen Raper and Cllr Valerie Morris-Cook.
