Merchant Navy Day 2026

City of Glasgow College hosted a poignant Merchant Navy Day commemoration at Riverside Campus on Thursday 3 September 2026, honouring the men and women of the Merchant Navy and Fishing Fleet who lost their lives in wartime.

With Glasgow’s George Square currently undergoing renovations, the annual ceremony once again moved to the College’s Riverside Campus, home to the UK’s largest maritime training facility and a recognised Centre of Excellence for maritime education and training.

Riverside Campus trains more than 40% of the UK’s Merchant Navy officers, making it a fitting setting to remember those who served at sea and to recognise the generations of seafarers continuing that proud tradition today. The ceremony brought together cadets, veterans, families and civic representatives for a programme of reflection and remembrance.

Cadets from the College’s Faculty of Nautical and STEM read names from Volumes 1 and 2 of the Merchant Navy Roll of Honour, remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice at sea. This was followed by a wreath-laying ceremony, accompanied by Eternal Father Strong to Save. A two-minute silence was then observed, with the Merchant Navy Standard dipped in salute to lost seafarers.

The Depute Lord Provost Bailie Christy Mearns, also attended the ceremony, paying tribute to those who served during the two World Wars and other conflicts, as well as recognising the vital contribution of today’s merchant seafarers.

The Depute Lord Provost said: “Today, we remember with pride and gratitude the brave men and women of the Merchant Navy and Fishing Fleet who lost their lives in times of war and conflict. Their courage and sacrifice helped to keep vital supply lines open, sustaining our country and supporting those serving on the front line.

“We also recognise the continuing contribution of today’s merchant seafarers. Often working far from home and out of public view, they play an indispensable role in keeping our nation connected, supplied and secure.”

Dr Nina Baker DL read Eileen Mahoney’s moving poem In Waters Deep, which remembers those resting beneath the waves.

Merchant Navy Day provides an opportunity to remember the sacrifices of the past, but also to recognise the vital role seafarers continue to play today. For City of Glasgow College, the ceremony held particular significance as cadets beginning their maritime careers stood alongside veterans and those who have dedicated their lives to the industry.