Fleet of Flowers in Depoe Bay, Oregon
On Memorial Day of each year, since 1945, Depoe Bay, Oregon has hosted the FLEET OF FLOWERS. This colorful ceremony is recognized as one of the most impressive observances held in the United States.
The 61st Annual Fleet of Flowers gets underway on Monday, May 29, at 11:00am in the Depoe Bay Harbor. This year's events will feature the City of Portland Police Pipe & Drum Brigade of over 20 members. Alive with flags and martial pageantry, the event allows visitors to ship out with the fleet for the annual laying of the wreaths.
Following the on-shore ceremony at Depoe Bay Harbor, the fleet of flower laden boats passes under the spectator lined Highway 101 bridge. As they proceed through the channel into the ocean, they pass the Coast Guard boat and then form a circle within sight of shore. The floral tributes are then cast onto the water, as a Coast Guard helicopter lowers itself into the center of the circle and drops a wreath.
The first Fleet of Flowers in 1945 paid tribute to Depoe Bay fishermen Roy Bower and Jack Chamber, who lost their lives in an effort to save others in trouble at sea.
The tragic event took place on October 4,1936 when the troller Norwester skippered by Ernest McQueen (aka McWilliams) with two teenage boys aboard, got caught in a storm. Bower and Chambers, just back from a fishing trip, spotted the trouble from the bridge and immediately reboarded the Cara Lou in an attempt to help.
The next morning the Norwester, which survived the storm by tying to an off shore buoy, limped into Depoe Bay. Rescuers found the Cara Lou awash. Aboard were Roy and John, both dead from exposure. Their ashes were scattered at sea several days later along with flowers.
The two were honored posthumously with the Carnegie Medal for heroism.
There is no cost to participate in the ceremony or to make a specific memorial tribute. Contact the Depoe Bay Chamber of Commerce for information on participating charter vessels and companies or to recognize a specific individual. The Fleet of Flowers is a volunteer effort and relies upon the generous support of our community. Donations are greatly appreciated.
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