K 613: Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 22, 2025, as Maritime Day in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance of National Maritime Day

 Assembly Resolution No. 613 BY: M. of A. O'Pharrow MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 22, 2025, as Maritime Day in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance of National Maritime Day WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 22, 2025, as Maritime Day in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance of National Maritime Day; and WHEREAS, On May 22, 1819, the steamship, The Savannah, set sail from Savannah, Georgia, on the first successful transoceanic voyage under steam propulsion, thus making a material contribution to the advancement of oceanic transportation; and WHEREAS, On May 20, 1933, the United States Congress designated May 22nd of each year as National Maritime Day; and WHEREAS, During World War II, in what became the world's largest sealift operation, more than 250,000 members of the American Merchant Marines served their country, with over 6,700 losing their lives, hundreds being detained as prisoners of war, and more than 800 ships being sunk or damaged; and WHEREAS, Waterways have greatly contributed to expanding America's economy, developing cities near waterways and facilitating vast domestic and international commerce crucial to our economy today; and WHEREAS, Merchant Mariners have served America with distinction throughout our history, especially at critical moments of war and natural disaster; and WHEREAS, The United States Merchant Marines and other workers in our Nation's maritime industry continue to make immeasurable contributions to our economic strength and ongoing efforts to build a more peaceful world; and WHEREAS, The United States Merchant Marines also shepherd the safe passage of goods, move exports to customers around the world, support the flow of domestic commerce on our maritime highways, strengthen our Nation's and State's economies, bolster job creation, and, along with the transportation industry, employ New Yorkers on ships and tugboats and in ports; and WHEREAS, The State of New York wishes to honor the Merchant Mariners who have served and continue to serve with distinction, the entire maritime industry, and all those who support them; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pauses in its deliberations to memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 22, 2025, as Maritime Day in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance of National Maritime Day; and be it further RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New York.