Blessing of the Fleet Ceremony

U.S. Navy Seaman Carter Gill participates in a Blessing of the Fleet ceremony at the US Navy Memorial in Washington. The ceremony, which includes water from the Seven Seas and the Great Lakes, is a centuries-old tradition to safeguard crews and ships from the danger of the seas.

The Blessing of the Fleet is a centuries-old tradition that protects Sailors from the dangers of the sea. This tradition dates back to ancient times and is meant to safeguard ships and their crew members after an offering is made at the water’s edge. Each year, starting in 1987 when it was dedicated, the U.S. Navy Memorial blesses the water in its outdoor fountains with water from the Seven Seas and the Great Lakes.

This annual blessing recharges the water, bringing the fountains back to life in time for the spring season.

This year the Blessing of the Fleet was held on April 9, 2022.