Shreveport, La/Bossier City, La. – The Caddo-Bossier Parishes Port Commission has joined other local government agencies to mark National Maritime Day on Friday, May 22, 2026. The commission passed a resolution at its May meeting marking the day. The four governmental agencies that make up the Port Commission offered similar resolutions and proclamations. They include the Bossier City Council, the Bossier Parish Police Jury, the Caddo Parish Commission, and the Shreveport City Council.
Congress officially created the holiday in 1933. National Maritime Day is observed on May 22 because of its historical significance to the maritime industry. On that day in 1819, the steamship Savannah set sail from Savannah, Georgia on the first-ever transatlantic trip. It also honors the maritime industry and its importance in our daily lives.
“The maritime industry remains just as vital today as it was two centuries ago,” noted Joshua Williams, President of the Caddo-Bossier Parishes Port Commission. “The Port of Caddo-Bossier supports thousands of local and regional jobs by facilitating essential trade. Furthermore, the Red River offers companies a cost-effective shipping alternative, allowing them to maintain competitive prices for their products.”
The holiday also honors the Merchant Marine. It transports cargo and passengers during peacetime, but during war can be used by the U.S. Navy to deliver military personnel and materials.
In observance of National Maritime Day, maritime flags are flown on the yardarm flagpole at the Regional Commerce Center, located at 6000 Doug Attaway Boulevard at The Port.