The most poignant and unexpected moment of President Obama’s address to the nation Tuesday night about the Gulf oil spill was his reference to "The Blessing of the Fleet."
"Each year, at the beginning of shrimping season, the region’s fishermen take part in a tradition that was brought to America long ago by fishing immigrants from Europe. It’s called ‘The Blessing of the Fleet,’" he said, "and today it’s a celebration where clergy from different religions gather to say a prayer for the safety and success of the men and women who will soon head out to sea — some for weeks at a time."