PREMIER'S OFFICE--Nova Scotia Proclaims Sept. 3 as Merchant Navy Day

Premier Stephen McNeil, as Minister responsible for Military Relations, proclaimed today (Sept. 3) as Merchant Navy Day.

"Today we honour and remember the thousands of Canadians who served in the Merchant Navy, particularly the 2,199 Canadian merchant seamen and 91 Canadian vessels lost in enemy action," said Premier McNeil. "May we never forget the courage of those men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice for Canada."

The Merchant Navy played a critical role in the First and Second World Wars by crewing the cargo ships which transported troops and supplies to Europe. The Merchant Navy contributed greatly to the Allied success in the fight for freedom.

"We offer the merchant seamen our heartfelt thanks and are indebted to the sacrifice they made in the protection of the freedoms that we as Canadians often take for granted," said Premier McNeil.