Merchant Marines

The United States Merchant Marine is a civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Navy, responsible for transporting goods, military personnel, and equipment during both peace and war. Its origins trace back to the American Revolution, when merchant ships supplemented the fledgling Continental Navy. Merchant Mariners played a crucial role in every major U.S. conflict, notably suffering high casualty rates during World War II while delivering vital supplies across dangerous, enemy-infested waters. Today, the Merchant Marine continues to support military operations worldwide, ensuring the flow of logistics and commerce in times of crisis.