Shipmates

On 3 September 2026, members of the local community and the branch gathered at the memorial site in St George’s Church Cemetery to mark Merchant Navy Day with a dedicated service of remembrance.

The service, which commenced at 12:00, provided an opportunity for attendees to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who gave service and indeed, continue to give service to the Merchant Navy.

The commemoration was jointly led by the Reverend Helen Harrell, Minister of Easton Methodist Church, and the Reverend Shan Litjens.

Among those paying their respects was the Mayor of Portland, Councillor Pete Roper, who attended the service to represent the island. Councillor Roper laid a wreath at the memorial site on behalf of the Portland community to honor the enduring legacy of the merchant fleet.

S/m Dusty Miller our Chairman, later said:

“It was nice to see the Merchant Navy Day Memorial Service being well attended by Branch members,
unfortunately a large number who attended were not in the photo.”