Ottawa--Ships at ports across the country will sound their horns at noon on May 1 as part of an international tribute to 1.2 million seafarers who are transporting food, fuel and important supplies such as vital medical equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Canadian celebration of the HeroesAtSeaShoutout has been organized by the Chamber of Marine Commerce (CMC), the Chamber of Shipping (COS), the Shipping Federation of Canada (SFC), and the Association of Canadian Port Authorities (ACPA). The global event “for the unsung heroes of global trade” was developed by the International Transport Workers' Federation and the International Chamber of Shipping. CMC President Bruce Burrows said, “We're proud of our seafarers and all other marine workers on shore that have continued to operate quietly and efficiently to keep logistics chains working at full capacity. Essential goods including bulk grain for making bread and pasta and various other supplies and containerized medical goods continue to flow to Canadians, in spite of the COVID-19 pandemic. Ninety percent of all goods worldwide are transported at some point on ships. We want to give a big shout out to all the women and men who are involved in this incredible effort, and for all their hard work under difficult circumstances.” COS President Robert Lewis-Manning said, “The challenges of life in a ship are extraordinary. With numerous nations not allowing crew changes and a near shutdown of international airline travel, a significant number of seafarers are unable to return home to their families through normal crew change procedures. As anyone who has spent time at sea will know, we must all come together in a crisis and support each other in all possible ways.” ACPA President Wendy Zatylny said, “I would like to recognize the contributions of our port workers, seafarers and all other marine workers for their role in ensuring vital goods such as food, clothes and pharmaceutical products keep moving during the COVID-19 pandemic.” SFC President Michael Broad, said, “Seafarers world over are playing an essential role in responding to this global crisis by delivering food, medicine, PPE and other critical goods to those who need them most.  They will play just as important a role when Canada and other countries transition towards recovery by maintaining vital links to the world and to North America's truck and rail networks. We are proud to take part in the HeroesAtSeaShoutout and to recognize the contribution of these unsung professionals in keeping Canada open to trade, both today and beyond the crisis.” While the Canadian government has recognized ship crews as “essential workers” and has been working with the marine sector to resolve any issues that arise, international organizations are advocating for the implementation of similar measures in other countries around the world. Alex Binkley is a freelance journalist and writes for domestic and international publications about agriculture, food and transportation issues. He's also the author of two science fiction novels with more in the works.