UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF Federal Maritime Board

COMMERCE Maritime Administration

Ross NR-51-138

ADVANCE RELEASE, THURSDAY PAPERS, DECEMBER 20, 1951 SEASON=S GREETINGS

President Truman today sent Christmas and New Year=s greetings to men of the merchant marine who, he said, are carrying the cargoes to bulwark freedom everywhere.

A comparison message was dispatched by Vice Admiral Edward L. Cochrane, head of the Maritime Administration.

The greetings went to every person serving in the merchant marine, the largest mercantile fleet ever to carry the American flag, except during World War II.

Following are the messages:

THE WHITE HOUSE

WASHINGTON

Christmas, 1951

TO OUR AMERICAN MERCHANT MARINE:

The Christmas Season 1951, finds more and more of our workers far from home carrying the cargoes to bulwark freedom everywhere. It is fitting that your prime purpose, as well as the aim of all of us, is to achieve a true peace modeled after the teaching of the Prince of Peace. It is in this spirit that I extend my heartiest wishes for a Merry Christmas and a New Year of Happiness.

(Signed) HARRY TRUMAN

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

Maritime Administration

Washington 25, D.C.

TO OUR AMERICAN MERCHANT MARINE:

It is traditional of the Christmas Season that we desire to spend it with loved ones in the familiar surroundings of home. But at this 1951 Yuletide it is impossible for many of you to do so because your ships, carrying cargoes vital to freedom and defense, must be away from home ports. Although vast distances may separate us, I speak for your loved one, and for a grateful Nation, in expressing sincere wishes to you for a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

(Signed)

E.L. Cochrane

Maritime Administrator