Merchant Marine Reserve

The Merchant Marine Reserve, established in 1913, was created as a component of the United States Naval Reserve to provide a pool of trained merchant mariners who could be called upon for naval service during times of conflict. Members were civilian mariners who received naval training and commissions, enabling them to serve as officers aboard merchant ships operating under naval control during wartime. The Reserve played a significant role during both World Wars, ensuring vital supply lines remained open by manning and protecting merchant vessels. In 1938, it was officially renamed the Naval Reserve Merchant Marine, and its legacy continues today in the Strategic Sealift Officer Program, supporting the Navy’s sealift and logistics missions.