The Mayor of Dover, the chairman of Dover District Council, the mayor of Sandwich and the chairman of Shepway District Council with wreaths
Today, 3 September 2009 is the 70th anniversary of the start of World War II. The first casulties of that war were the passengers and crew of the S.S. Athenia a passenger liner sunk by a U boat. It therefore seems fitting that today is also Merchant Navy Day when the service and sacrifice of Britain’s merchant sailors is commemorated.
Merchant Navy Day was first introduced in 2000 and today’s event was organised by the chairman of Dover District Council, Cllr Bernard Butcher, and the Kent branch of the Merchant Navy Association. I am attending on behalf of Shepway District Council with my friend, Saltwood resident and Royal Navy Veteran, Nigel Hatton.
Cllr Susan Carey, chairman of Shepway District Council with Nigel Hatton
The day starts with the laying of wreaths at the statue of a seaman on the Dover seafront. As well as the chairman of Dover District Council we are joined by the town mayor of Dover and the mayors of Sandwich and Deal. The Shepway wreath says ‘In Remembrance of Those who lost their lives at Sea, in times of War and Peace.’ The Shepway coat of arms is at the centre of the wreath.
Wreaths at the foot of the memorial
There are fourteen standard bearers representing different service organisations and many veterans in attendance. Prayers are said by Reverend David Ridley and the last post played.
The service continues at Dover Town Hall, a very fine building hung with banners and weapons and with stained glass windows showing scenes from Dover’s history.
Stained glass at Dover Town Hall
We sing hymns, pray and once again listen to the bugler. During the service three of the veterans collapse including Don Hunter who is the chairman of the Merchant Navy Association. Earlier, at the ceremony on the seafront, he told me that he had gone into the Merchant Navy at 16 and served from 1943 without a break. During World War II the Merchant Navy lost one in three of its sailors; a truly great sacrifice.
After the service tea and coffee are served but there’s also a tot of rum as is fitting for a navy event! It’s a great way to show our appreciation of the contribution made by the Merchant Navy and congratulations to Cllr Bernard Butcher of Dover District Council and to Don Hunter of the Merchant Navy Association for arranging it.
Councillor Bernard Butcher, Chairman of Dover District Council
The Merchant Navy Day is an annual event and open to the public so do come along next year if you too would like to pay tribute to the Merchant Navy.
Don Hunter of the Merchant Navy Association
Tags: Dover, Merchant Navy