U.S. Sailors, Soldiers and mariners from across the Republic of Korea gathered to honor the service and sacrifice of U.S. merchant mariners during a National Maritime Day ceremony in Busan, May 20.

Maritime Day is an annual ceremony that honors merchant mariners that have lost their lives at sea. This ceremony marks the 83rd commemoration of the event and featured a wreath-laying aboard United States Naval Ship (USNS) Wheeler (T-AG 5001).

"For two centuries merchant mariners have sailed the seas in defense of our country and pursuit of opportunity," said Lt. Cmdr. Mike Pugh, executive officer, Military Sealift Command Office (MSCO). "On behalf of MSCO Korea and the United States Navy, it is my pleasure to honor the seamen and mariners for National Maritime Day."

Walt Christiansen, director of the Busan United Seamen's Service Center, spoke about the sacrifices made by merchant mariners and how essential they are for operational readiness and mission success.

"Merchant mariners are irreplaceable," said Christiansen. "The military has its role, and it is a role that's beyond belief, but our military cannot win a war without the support of those who move ammunition and supplies. That's where merchant mariners fit in."

The support of merchant mariners is not limited to sea services. The U.S. Army also recognizes the importance of their role in the region and the world.

"It takes support from all kinds," said guest speaker Col. Ted Stephens, commander of U.S. Army Garrison Daegu. "The active support of the merchant mariners is crucial to the mission effectiveness and success of the United States."

During the ceremony, Stephens joined Pugh, Christiansen and Glenn Macario, captain of Wheeler, in a wreath-laying ceremony to honor the mariners who died in service.

"We're not just here for ourselves," said Christiansen. "We are here to remember the merchant seamen and it is in the memory of the merchant mariners who put their lives on the line, we place this wreath in the harbor."

For more information on the Merchant Marines go to www.marad.dot.gov/mariners/

For more news from Military Sealift Command, visit www.navy.mil/

For news on Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Korea, visit www.cnic.navy.mil/regions/cnfk.htm