Detroit Women's Council sponsors Navy League Sunday

The Detroit Women's Council Navy League of the United States sponsored the 33rd annual Navy League Sunday at the Mariners' Church of Detroit on Sunday, April 27th, 2008.

The occasion recognized the joint contributions of the Navy League Councils throughout the State of Michigan and the Providence of Ontario, Canada. Council President Eileen Doyle attested that the Navy League supports and honors the Maritime Services, which include the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Merchant Marines and Naval Sea Cadet Corps, along with other youth groups.

"Our council continuously strives to improve the understanding and appreciation between
those wearing the uniforms of our armed forces and those in the civilian sector," said Doyle.
"Special honorees for Navy League Sunday are the youth in the Naval Sea Cadet Corps who
are sponsored by Navy Leagues of both countries."

The guest speaker was James M. Hannan Division Commanding Officer, Lt. Cmdr. Phillip
Winteringham. He explained the importance of the Sea Cadet program.

"The Sea Cadet Corps gives young people an insight into today's life in the military and prepares them for a career in the Armed Forces, if they so desire, or civilian careers," said Winteringham."They are instructed to become responsible citizens with an emphasis on family, respect for law enforcement and pride in their country."

Doyle recognized the generous contributions made by the leaders of the Sea Cadet
programs, along with those who helped made the event successful.

"…Each one of you here today is a V.I.P. - from the youngest to the oldest person," said Doyle. "You've made this day special and I thank you for your support, especially toward our young Sea Cadets who are learning great skills."

Doyle, who has been directly involved with Navy League Sunday for 33 years, acknowledged the presence of friends, parents and civic supporters of the Sea Cadet Corps and other youth groups.

Navy Recruiting District (NRD) Michigan personnel attended the celebration.

"The Navy League and Sea Cadet Corps have continuously supported Navy recruiting throughout the years," said NRD Michigan Executive Officer, Cmdr. Brian Bowles. "We welcome their involvement, which significantly contributes to the success of our annual Navy Week activities and other awareness events."

Mariners’ Church, known as “The Maritime Sailors' Cathedral,” was founded in 1842 for
the benefit of sailors on the Great Lakes, and is a national and state historic landmark.

The Parish Rector, Reverend Richard W. Ingalls, Jr. confirmed that the church still serves as a"House of Prayer for all People." "This year's event was another successful one with standing room only," said Ingalls. He added, "Mariners’ Church is proud to host Navy League Sunday, which reflects on contributions made by the Navy League, our military personnel, and our youth."

Following the service, guests enjoyed a social gathering and toured Navy Sea Cadet Corps
training ships, USNSCS Grayfox and Pride of Michigan, at Hart Plaza on the Detroit River.