To remind, Seafarers’ Charity’s Fly the Red Ensign Campaign is an annual campaign which celebrates the dependence on merchant seafarers who are responsible for safely shipping more than 90% of the UK’s imports.
Each year thousands of locations across the UK hoist the Red Ensign in recognition of current UK Merchant seafarers, and to honour the brave Merchant Navy personnel who served during the First and Second World Wars.
This year, recognising that the COVID-19 pandemic had a huge impact on Merchant Navy communities, and many continue to need urgent support, the Charity is asking people and public buildings to Fly the Red Ensign on Merchant Navy Day, 3rd September to remember the sacrifices of the often forgotten and invisible Merchant Navy community and donate to raise vital funds to help respond to the increased need for support.
….The Seafarers’ Charity noted.
For the records, the Merchant Navy Fund is a joint fund created by The Seafarers’ Charity and The Merchant Navy Welfare Board.
Merchant Navy Day is such a special day to recognise the incredibly important role of our seafarers. This year, as the impact of COVID-19 hits supply lines the public are even much more familiar with how vital shipping is to keep shelves stocked. Our Merchant Navy have operated through the chaos of the pandemic to keep supplies moving, building on the long and proud history of supporting the nation in times of need, just as they did during World War One and Two. We hope you will join with us in Flying the Red Ensign to support seafarers and that you will consider donating to the Merchant Navy Fund.’
….Catherine Spencer, Chief Executive of The Seafarers’ Charity concluded.