Boy Scouts of Troop 202 in Reedville salute the Memorial Wreath, created this year by Beverley Biddlecomb, as it is cast out to sea in memory of those who have lost their lives in the fishing industry.

The Northern Neck Chantey Singers recall the days before mechanical winches with their working song “Help Me to Raise ‘em Boys.” To learn more about the Blessing of the Fleet, see the video documentary narrated by organizer Fred Biddlecomb at rrecord.com.

Robert and Debbie Gwaltney share the lyrics to a hymn from their blanket perch on the shores of Cockrell’s Creek. This annual religious service was started in 1970 as a way to pray for the fishermen to have a safe and successful season.

Omega Protein’s chief spotter pilot Jake Haynie and his crew fly over the congregation in salute and celebration. “The flyover expresses the importance of everybody working together to have a safe season,” said organizer Fred Biddlecomb. “This is the grand finale.” (Photos by Reid Pierce Armstrong)