Dozens of people gathered for the 42nd annual Blessing of the Fleet on Sunday at Blaine Harbor. The Fisherman’s Memorial Committee hosted the ceremony to honor local fishers who've died and bless the boats preparing for the upcoming season.
The event included prayer, music performances and speeches by dignitaries including state Sen. Sharon Shewmake (D-Bellingham) and Blaine Mayor Mary Lou Steward.
Committee chair Gary Dunster read the names of the 42 fishers who've died as Blaine resident Charlie Hawkins rang a bell for each person. The audience was invited to place a flower on the wreath in remembrance of the fishers. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary members aboard the Sound Star laid the wreath to rest in Semiahmoo Bay.
