Moray Council celebrates Merchant Navy Day
Moray Council has raised the Red Ensign, or ‘Red Duster’, to mark Merchant Navy Day and raise awareness of the UK’s ongoing support for Merchant Navy seafarers.
The council’s Armed Forces and Veterans' Champion – Cllr Peter Bloomfield, joined by Elgin councillor – and Royal Navy veteran – Cllr John Divers and the council’s Civic Leader, Cllr John Cowe, raised the flag above the HQ building this morning (Tuesday 3 September) to support a national day of recognition.
The Seafarers charity launched the 'Fly the Red Ensign' campaign in 2015 to remind people of its national significance and celebrate modern-day merchant seafarers.
Cllr Peter Bloomfield said: “Merchant Navy Day is marked annually on September 3, the anniversary of the start of the Second World War. The courage and sacrifice seen from seafarers of the Merchant Navy, both past and present is unparalleled. It’s been a privilege today to help raise awareness for Merchant Navy veterans by proudly flying the Red Ensign.”
The Red Ensign (or "Red Duster" as it is occasionally known) has been flown on British Navy ships since 1707 and was later adopted specifically by British merchantmen to be flown as the civil ensign of the British merchant fleet and is still flown on some ships today.