This Veterans Day, the sound of honor will ring across Washington's waters as state ferries plan a synchronized whistle salute to US service members. According to the Washington State Department of Transportation, at 11:11 a.m. on November 11, all operating vessels of the Washington State Ferries (WSF) system will blow their whistles, paying homage to the men and women who have served their country in the armed forces.
Each vessel on duty that day will proudly fly either the Merchant Marine flag or the ensign of one of the six military branches – whether it be the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, or Coast Guard, as detailed by the WSDOT. Additionally, the poignant POW/MIA flag will be raised as well, in memory of those who never made it home, either held captive or gone missing in the line of duty. The gesture is a stark reminder of sacrifices made and the costs of freedoms enjoyed.
Veterans are the backbone of the WSF with many former service members finding a second career across various roles in the system – from the deckhands to the personnel at terminals, storage facilities, and the headquarters. "Veterans are deeply anchored in the heart of our ferry system,” WSF Assistant Secretary Steve Nevey said in a statement. “Their expertise and discipline play a big role in the safety, reliability and quality of our service."
