Propeller Club, Port of Norfolk celebrates National Maritime Day 2026

The Propeller Club, Port of Norfolk will celebrate National Maritime Day at a ceremony and reception at the Harbor Club at Waterside District, in Norfolk, Virginia, on May 21, 2026. Government and maritime industry leaders will be among the guests attending the commemoration.

Congress established May 22nd as National Maritime Day in 1933, to officially honor the contributions and sacrifices of U.S. merchant mariners in defense of the nation. These dedicated men and women are frequently considered the unsung heroes of the nation's defense. “We are extremely honored to celebrate National Maritime Day with maritime industry leaders, local government officials, and merchant mariners. This event reflects our sincere gratitude for the dedicated men and women, past and present, who are essential to the strength, security, and success of the United States maritime industry,” said Christopher Anderson, President of Propeller Club, Port of Norfolk.

Mr. Anderson will preside over the ceremony, which includes the Presentation of Colors by the U.S. Naval Sea Cadets and a keynote address by Captain Stephen M. Carmel, the U.S. Maritime Administrator.

The theme of National Maritime Day in 2026 is “America 250!” Following Captain Carmel’s remarks, The Propeller Club will present its Maritime Industry Service Award to acknowledge an industry stakeholder who has demonstrated exemplary character and service over self, a nod to the Merchant Mariners ethos. This year’s recipient is Mason Keeter, recently retired from Vane Brothers. The ceremony will conclude with a reading of the National Maritime Day proclamation, and a wreath laying on the CROMO, a local historic dive vessel, in remembrance of mariners who died in service to the nation. National Maritime Day is both a day for celebration of the maritime industry and a solemn reminder of the importance, contributions and personal sacrifices of our merchant mariners.