FOX 21 News, KQDS-DT

DULUTH - Congressman Chip Cravaack celebrated National Maritime Day at the DECC Tuesday.

He was the keynote speaker at the annual event.

In his speech, he said thanks to the merchant marines who lost their lives in war and those who continue to help the country. 

"A lot of people don't understand how important, how vital the merchant marine is to our economy and making sure that we have a vibrant merchant marine fleet for many reasons," U.S. Rep. Chip Cravaack(R) said.

Cravaack is a 24–year navy vet himself; serving as a helicopter pilot and a captain.