About this Unit
The United States Merchant Marine is a civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Navy, composed of civilian-owned merchant ships and their crews that transport goods and materials during peacetime and serve as a vital logistical force in wartime. Its origins date back to the American Revolution, when merchant vessels supported the Continental Navy. During World War II, the Merchant Marine played a crucial role, suffering high casualty rates while delivering troops, equipment, and supplies to every theater of war. Today, the Merchant Marine continues to support military operations and national emergencies, maintaining a fleet ready to serve U.S. interests around the globe.
Historical Facts
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Origins Trace Back to the Revolution: The US Merchant Marine dates back to the American Revolutionary War, when merchant ships were used to transport troops and supplies, and even captured British vessels as privateers.
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World War II Sacrifice: The US Merchant Marine suffered the highest casualty rate of any US service during World War II, with approximately 1 in 26 merchant mariners losing their lives.
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The "Fourth Arm of Defense": President Franklin D. Roosevelt called the Merchant Marine the "fourth arm of defense" during WWII, underscoring its vital role alongside the Army, Navy, and Marines.
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Liberty Ships: Over 2,700 Liberty ships, a type of cargo ship, were built rapidly during WWII to transport supplies. These ships became symbols of the Merchant Marine's massive logistical effort.
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Convoys and Danger: Merchant ships sailed in convoys across the Atlantic and Pacific, often targeted by enemy submarines and aircraft. Their bravery under fire was crucial to Allied victory.
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Late Recognition as Veterans: Merchant Mariners who served in WWII were not granted veteran status or benefits until 1988, after decades of advocacy.
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Cadet-Midshipmen at the USMMA: The United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) is one of the five federal service academies, training officers for both merchant and military service.
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Korean and Vietnam Wars: The Merchant Marine continued its vital role, transporting troops, equipment, and supplies during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, often entering combat zones.
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Sealift Command: In times of war, the Merchant Marine operates under the Military Sealift Command, providing crucial logistical support for US and allied military operations worldwide.
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Present-Day Role: Today, the Merchant Marine continues to transport goods in peace and war, and its mariners are subject to call-up during national emergencies to support the armed forces.
