The Seafarers’ Charity is calling on individuals, organisations and communities across the UK to recognise, honour and appreciate the importance of the role of our Merchant Navy seafarers by flying the Red Ensign on Merchant Navy Day, Tuesday, 3 September. The charity acknowledges the Merchant Navy’s role in keeping our economy afloat and their stellar support for the Royal Navy via the Royal Fleet Auxiliary.
This annual campaign, initiated by the charity in 2015, aims to raise awareness, educate the public and show appreciation of the UK’s vital reliance on merchant seafarers. Their contributions to the nation’s security and economy should be highlighted.
What is the Merchant Navy? The British Merchant Navy is the maritime register of the United Kingdom comprising of the seagoing commercial interests of UK-registered ships and their crews. It is made up of British merchant ships that transport cargo and people during times of peace and war. Merchant Navy vessels fly the Red Ensign, known affectionately as the ‘Red Duster’.
On Merchant Navy Day, the Red Ensign is flown at a multitude of locations ashore, including historic properties, parish and town council offices, church towers, and village greens across the UK. This powerful symbol serves to highlight the indispensable role of merchant seafarers – past, present, and future – who transport circa 95% of everything we import and export in the UK. It is a symbol of pride and dedication of our seafarers.
The charity’s Fly the Red Ensign campaign has grown into a significant national event. It provides an opportunity to celebrate and pay tribute to the many courageous men and women who serve or have served as merchant seafarers. Their bravery kept supply lines open during two World Wars, many who risked and lost their lives at sea. During Covid-19 seafarers played a crucial role in maintaining the supply chain.
HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, President of The Seafarers’ Charity, commented:
‘Merchant Navy Day is the one moment we can acknowledge the invisible service. By flying the Red Ensign on this day, you will be recognising the approximately 25,000 men and women working at sea carrying around 95% of our island nation’s trade. Regrettably, it is only during times of war that their service enters our consciousness, as is sadly the case today with seafarers running the gauntlet in the Red Sea. This is our one opportunity to show our seafarers how much we value them, past and present, as well as their families.’
Deborah Layde, Chief Executive of The Seafarers’ Charity, added:
‘The Red Ensign is more than just a flag; it is a beacon of hope and resilience to our nation, representing the lifeline that merchant seafarers provide to our country. On 3 September, we encourage everyone to raise the Red Ensign and share their support on social media. Whether you’re a coastal town or a landlocked village, your participation sends a powerful message of gratitude and recognition to our seafarers. Let’s ensure that their invaluable contributions are celebrated, and their sacrifices never forgotten.’
Where flying a physical flag isn’t achievable, the charity is asking people to show their support by sharing photos and messages on social media using the hashtag #MerchantNavyDay.
To help, there’s a free Social Media Pack available on the charity’s website. Whether it’s sharing personal experiences as merchant seafarers or celebrating someone they know who has served, this campaign fosters a sense of community; together in recognising the Merchant Navy’s contributions we honour their legacy.
For more information about Merchant Navy Day, visit: www.theseafarerscharity.org/get-involved/merchant-navy-day
