What's Happening in Myrtle Beach, SC…

A new memorial was unveiled in Myrtle Beach at Warbird Park on April 8.

The memorial honors the members of the American Merchant Marine, both past and present, and in particular those who served in World War II and Korea.

Merchant marines, also known as mariners, have served since the Revolutionary War, but they have rarely been recognized, despite the dangers they face. They sail merchant ships through dangerous waters, often facing enemy attack, in order to deliver ammunition, supplies, and troops to the frontlines.

Members of the merchant marines have been struggling to be recognized as veterans since World War II ended and the GI Bill was created. At that time, President Franklin Roosevelt promised the mariners they would be considered veterans, since the frontline troops would not have been able to fight without the replacements, ammunition, and supplies delivered by the ships.

The memorial was a project of Myrtle Beach's John T. Schmidt South Carolina Palmetto Merchant Mariners Club. John Schmidt, who is now deceased, was a mariner, and his son Tom took over the presidency of the club upon his father's death. Recognizing there are few mariners left from either Korea or World War II, Tom wanted to do something to recognize their service. He said the memorial was for all the mariners across the country, not just his father or those from the local area.

Projects like this often result in postcard printing, as those involved look to commit their efforts to an attractive handout that is easy to distribute.