I was born and raised in Westport, Washington and sadly, the first year I even knew about the Blessing of the fleet was in 2005 after my dad, Jerry Lee Green Jr., went out on his last fishing trip.
I come home every year to attend this ceremony. I’m not sure that I can use words to describe what the Blessing of the Fleet means to me. Every year I am overwhelmed with emotions— I cry tears of hurt, worry, joy, gratitude and happiness.
The Blessing of the Fleet not only gives me a chance to grieve and to remember my dad, but also, it gives me the chance to remember the tremendous amount of support and love offered by our small community. It is a beautiful tribute to all those lost at sea and it reminds everyone who attends of the dangers that our fishermen face every single time they go out to provide for our families.
Most of my family attends this event yearly, and for one reason or another, it’s needed. I need it. It is truly amazing seeing our community come together to offer support, to share stories and to pray. Every year I leave the Blessing of the Fleet feeling proud— proud of my community and where I come from.
Lea Green
