Our Patron
As Patron of the Merchant Navy Memorial Trust (Scotland) I am delighted to support the purposes
of the Trust. The Memorial will commemorate the loss of all Scottish Merchant Navy and other Scottish
seafaring and mercantile personnel who gave their lives in World Wars I and II, other theatres of
conflict and in peacetime service along the trading routes of the world. They gave the ultimate
sacrifice in support of their Country.
The 132 years of service to the Merchant Navy of the Leith Nautical College (1855-1987) and its training ship Dolphin played a significant part in the naval education of Scottish seafarers and that role will also be acknowledged. The Memorial will advance the heritage and culture of Scotland well beyond its shores and will promote an understanding and appreciation of the historic seafaring and mercantile traditions of the Country.
The unique location on The Shore is most fitting as Leith was Scotland's premier port for more than 300 years and was the trading port for Edinburgh for over 700 years. I extend my best wishes for the deserved success of the Trust in providing a permanent recognition for the first time in Scotland of these brave Merchant Navy personnel.
