Thurrock Council marked Merchant Navy Day by raising the Red Ensign Flag outside the Civic Offices in Grays, on Wednesday 2 September.
Many were in attendance, including veterans and members of the Merchant Navy Association.
Revd Dr Sue Lucas opened the event with a short prayer. Cllr Bill Cook, Mayor of Thurrock, then gave a speech to honour the dedicated men and women of the Merchant Navy, past and present, before raising the flag.
Cllr Alan Benson, Deputy Leader of Thurrock Council, also gave a speech, paying a tribute to the hard work and sacrifice given by those who serve.
Grays Town Band closed the flag raising with a rendition of A life on the Ocean Wave.
Cllr Bill Cook said: "Merchant Navy Day is an opportunity to pay a tribute to the brave men and women whose courage and sacrifice have played such a vital role in our nation's history.
"The flag raising serves as a reminder, not only of the sacrifices of the past, but also to recognise the dedication of those serving in the Merchant Navy today. Much of what we rely on in our daily lives, from food to fuel, arrives through the hard work of seafarers around the world."
Cllr Alan Benson said: "Merchant Navy personnel have served with unwavering commitment to keep the country running, including during both World Wars.
"The flag has been raised with pride in Britain's Merchant Navy, as well as pride in Thurrock's rich maritime history, as our motto says, By Thames to all peoples of the world."
