About this Unit
The United States Merchant Marine Armed Vessels (USMMAV) refers to the fleet of civilian merchant ships that were armed and operated under U.S. government authority during times of war, most notably during World War II. These vessels, manned by civilian mariners and often escorted or supervised by Navy Armed Guard detachments, played a critical role in transporting troops, supplies, and equipment to various theaters of operation. Despite not being formal combatants, USMMAV crews faced significant danger from enemy submarines, aircraft, and surface raiders, suffering heavy casualties throughout the conflict. Their bravery and contribution were crucial in sustaining Allied operations, earning them recognition as an essential component of America's wartime logistics.
Historical Facts
•
What is USMMAV? — The USMMAV stands for United States Merchant Marine Academy Volunteers. The USMMAV is not a standard military unit but refers to midshipmen and alumni from the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) who have volunteered or served in military capacities during wartime.
•
World War II Service — During WWII, USMMA midshipmen and graduates served aboard merchant vessels transporting troops and supplies, facing enemy submarines, aircraft, and mines. Over 140 midshipmen lost their lives during the war, giving USMMA the highest casualty rate of any federal academy.
•
Special Wartime Status — USMMA students and graduates are unique in that they receive commissions in all branches of the US armed forces, the only federal service academy with this distinction.
•
Normandy Landings — Merchant Mariners, including USMMA volunteers, played a vital role in the D-Day invasion, delivering men and materiel directly onto the beaches under fire.
•
Medal of Honor Recipient — USMMA graduate Rear Admiral Thomas A. King was awarded the Merchant Marine Distinguished Service Medal for his actions during WWII, one of many alumni recognized for valor.
•
Presidential Unit Citation — The USMMA is the only federal service academy to receive the Presidential Unit Citation (in 1943), recognizing its extraordinary heroism and sacrifice during World War II.
•
Vietnam War & Beyond — USMMAV continued to serve in the Korean and Vietnam Wars, and USMMA graduates have participated in every major US conflict since WWII, including Operations Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom.
•
Cadet-Midshipman Program — During WWII, USMMA midshipmen shipped out as cadet-midshipmen, sometimes commanding watches on vessels under fire—unmatched responsibility for their age.
•
Global Reach — USMMAV and USMMA alumni have served on every ocean and in every major amphibious operation since the Academy’s founding in 1943.
•
Legacy of Service — The Merchant Marine flag flies at the USMMA’s Kings Point campus, and each year, the Academy holds a memorial service for the midshipmen lost in service, reflecting the enduring legacy of the USMMAV.
