May 2021
Celebrating our active troops and veterans during the month of May first began in 1999. Congress established the designation based on legislation introduced by the late Senator John McCain. 

Why May? May was a logical choice because the month commemorates several historic military celebrations and events including Memorial Day, Military Spouse Appreciation Day, and Armed Forces Day. May also marks Victory in Europe (VE) Day, which commemorates the end of WWII in Europe. And, who can forget the dramatic raid and death of Osama bin Laden on May 2, 2011?

This May, we encourage you to say “thanks” to our military heroes—past and present!
Safety at Sea
Researchers at Colorado State University are forecasting an active Atlantic hurricane season (June 1 through November 30) with a predicted 17 named storms. Eight of those storms are expected to be category 1 hurricanes and four of them are predicted to reach category 2, 3, or 4.

BoatU.S. says that when it comes to hurricanes, preparation is key. Start by making arrangements to get your boat out of the water if a hurricane approaches. If this isn’t an option, secure additional dock lines and chafing protection to limit damage to the boat. Also, ensure that your boat insurance policy includes full salvage and hurricane haul-out coverage.

BoatUS.com offers free checklists, videos and other tools to help boat owners prepare for hurricane season.
National Safe Boating Week May 22-28
The National Weather Service (NWS) and the National Safe Boating Council partner to bring us National Safe Boating Week. Beginning May 22, the week-long awareness effort promotes safe, responsible boating practices.

Each day of the week the NWS will broadcast public service announcements around topics including marine lightning, hurricane preparedness, and cold-water safety. 

In support of safe boating week and the Safe Boating Council’s “Wear It” campaign, NWS staff and meteorologists will wear life jackets while at work—to encourage all boaters to commit to wearing a life jacket while boating.