Published: 11/11/2022
The Registry of Shipping and Seamen (RSS) is just one area of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) marking Remembrance Sunday, paying tribute to the Merchant Navy, the fallen, and those who risked their lives in the world wars.
The RSS plays a pivotal role in organising who represents the Merchant Navy at the annual Service of Remembrance in Westminster Abbey, as well as who lays a wreath at the Cenotaph in London.
This year the Merchant Navy is represented by Les Chapman, The Honourable Company of Master Mariners.
At the Cenotaph, the wreath-layer will be Andrew Pascoe from Nautilus, the trade union and professional organisation who represent merchant seafarers across the world. A number of deck officers will also be present.
A member of DEFRA will be representing those who served in what was known as the Board of Agriculture and Fisheries.
On behalf of the RSS and MCA, this year’s Service of Remembrance in Westminster Abbey will be attended by Jackie Barnetson, Assistant Director of Customer Operations.
Jackie’s great uncle, Edward Worthy, served in the Merchant Navy during the Second World War.
She said: “It is an honour to be representing the RSS and MCA at a service so important for the country.
“The significance of the role played by the Merchant Navy throughout modern conflicts is often overlooked.
“The Merchant Navy has been instrumental in importing food and raw materials, as well as transporting service personnel and their equipment. Indeed it was King George V who recognised the Merchant Navy’s contribution.
“The fishing fleets also played a huge role during conflicts - from providing much needed food for those at home, to being integral in key operations like evacuating troops from Dunkirk.”
The MCA is marking Remembrance Day in lots of special ways across the country. Chief Executive Damien Oliver will be attending a ceremony at Tower Hill, and Rebecca Humphreys, Executive Support Manager, will be representing the agency in Southampton with a wreath-laying.
His Majesty’s Coastguard will be represented at the Cenotaph and Field of Remembrance.
Jackie added: “For all those who served in the Merchant Navy and for those who paid the ultimate price, we give them our time and they will be remembered.”
