The 2018 Windjammers Days began Sunday with the traditional remembrance of those who died at sea. The Blessing of the Fleet followed.

The ceremony at the Fishermen’s Memorial marked the 35th meeting to commemorate the lost seamen including the reading of the names by clergymen John O’Donnell and Richard Rego.

Smith Climo sang the Navy Hymn and led those present in singing “Amazing Grace."

Following the service and the Coast Guard Honor Guard's laying of a floral wreath, the clergy and audience descended to the wharf to bless the parade of fishing boats.

Fr. Dominic Azagbor led the blessing.

Among the attendees were Dean And Sandra Flye of Albion. Flye is near retirement from driving a milk truck in central Maine. He and his wife often visit the Boothbay region and have taken many harbor cruises.

Jim and Diane Joyce live in southeast Pennsylvania. They worked until retirement for Verizon in New York City where he spent most of his years wiring a single office building. They have deep family roots and friends in the Boothbay area.