For Immediate Release: May 13, 2024
Annual Charleston Fisherman's Memorial "Blessing of the Fleet" - Memorial Day
In honor of the commercial fishing fleet and it's importance to the Charleston community, the annual Blessing of the Fleet and Memorial Service will be held at the Charleston Fisherman's Memorial Garden, near the launch ramp at the Charleston Marina at 10am on Monday, May 27th, 2024.

The service honors the local men and women involved in Commercial fishing and the fishing industry who have died since 1941.  As part of the event, local marine services firm owner, William Elderkin will speak at the memorial and a Blessing of the Fleet will take place.  U.S. Coast Guard will provide a color guard and advance and retire the colors.  The 1954 Buoy Bell will be rung as each name is read, significant because fishermen rely on this sound for safe navigation.

This year, on the Industry plaque will honor: Roy C. Cameron, Michael L. Workman, Amos Allen "Red" Astor, James "Jim" Nash, W.A. "Rusty" Shield, Scott Heath.  On the Fishermen's Memorial Plaque:  J. B. John Elliott Burgess, Gary "Bear" Gene Warren, John Frank Hatten, Richard "Dick" Lilienthal, Gladys Johnston, Doris L. Hockema, Spud Murphy, Alice I. Gunnari, Captain James L. Moore, Holly Hall Stamper, Don G Burks.

Following the service, there will be coffee and cake reception for all courtesy of the  Charleston Fishing Families at 63480 Crossline Road in the Charleston Marina.  The community is encouraged to provide floral arrangements.  Only biodegradable florals can be taken to sea, however.
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For more information regarding this special event please contact: Margery Whitmer,
margerybwhitmer@gmail.com or 541-297-2095;
or write to CFM P.O. Box 5882, Charleston, OR. 97420