Maine Commercial Fishing Remembrance Day July 21

By Liz Michaud, Green and White Hope, and Annie Sokoloski

On July 21, fishing communities across Maine will unite to honor those lost at sea on Maine Commercial Fishing Remembrance Day. This year’s observance marks a historic milestone, as Maine Commercial Fishing Remembrance Day is now officially recognized in Maine law, ensuring that the sacrifices of Maine’s fishing families will be remembered for generations to come.

Family and friends gather at last year's ceremony in Lubec. L Michaud photo.

For centuries, Maine fishermen have faced the dangers of the sea to provide for their families, sustain coastal communities, and preserve a way of life deeply rooted in our state’s maritime heritage. While the fishing industry has shaped Maine’s identity, it has also left countless families carrying the loss of loved ones who never returned home.

This year, ceremonies and commemorative wreath placements will take place at eight fishermen’s memorials across Maine. Each wreath serves as a symbol of remembrance, respect, and gratitude for those who lost their lives while working on the water.

Ceremonies will be held in Lubec and Boothbay Harbor, bringing together fishing families, industry leaders, community members, and maritime organizations in a shared commitment to honor the past and support one another.

The coordinated wreath placements throughout the coast serve as a visible reminder that no fishing community bears its losses alone. Though separated by distance, Maine’s fishing communities remain connected through a shared heritage, a common respect for those who came before us, and a commitment to supporting those who continue to make their living on the water today.

As we honor the past, we also recommit to safety, innovation, and preparedness so that more fishermen return safely to shore.

Join us July 21 as we gather to honor those lost, remember their legacy, and unite in support of Maine’s fishing communities.

For additional ceremony details or to support these events through sponsorship, please contact me (liz@greenwhitehope.org), Annie Sokoloski (121saltlife@gmail.com), or visit the events area at www.greenwhitehope.org.

Honor, Remember, Unite.

DOWNEAST CEREMONY

Lost Fishermen's Memorial

Lubec, 11am.

Featuring wreath laying by Maine Marine Patrol Honor Guard, Honor of losses, recent engravings.

Reception immediately following at Lubec Masonic Hall.

MIDCOAST CEREMONY

Fishermen's Memorial Park

Boothbay Harbor, 3 pm.

Featuring wreath laying by Maine Marine Patrol Honor Guard, Honor of losses, DMR Commissioner address, safety project overview.

Reception immediately following at Mine Oyster.

OTHER MEMORIALS

Pleasant Point

Port Clyde/Marshall Point

Rockland

Chebeague Island

Bailey Island

Portland