05/22/2026
Today, Congressman Randy Weber and staff attended the 17th Annual National Maritime Day Ceremony hosted by the Port of Galveston.
National Maritime Day was established by Congress in 1933 and is observed each year on May 22 to commemorate the 1819 voyage of the SS Savannah, the first steamship to cross the Atlantic Ocean. The day honors the United States Merchant Marine and recognizes the men and women whose work in the maritime industry supports our economy, strengthens our national security, and keeps goods moving across the country and around the world.
For Texas’ 14th Congressional District, the maritime industry is more than a point of pride; it is a major part of our economy, workforce, and way of life! Congressman Weber represents seven ports, more than any other Member of Congress, and understands how critical our ports, ship channels, mariners, pilots, shipbuilders, longshoremen, law enforcement personnel, educators, and maritime workers are to Southeast Texas and the nation.
The Port of Galveston continues to play a vital role in supporting jobs, trade, tourism, commerce, and regional growth. As investments continue in infrastructure, dredging, workforce development, and future shipbuilding opportunities, Congressman Weber remains committed to supporting the federal priorities necessary to keep our ports safe, competitive, and moving forward.
Thank you to Port of Galveston CEO Roger Reese, the Galveston Wharves Board, Chairman Jeff Patterson, the Port of Galveston team, Texas A&M Maritime Academy, Galveston College, the U.S. Coast Guard, and all who helped make today’s ceremony possible.
On National Maritime Day, we honor the legacy, service, and continued importance of America’s maritime industry, especially here along the Texas Gulf Coast.