Role of the Canadian Merchant Navy during the Second World War National Historic Event

Bronze commemorative plaque on its stand
Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada commemorative plaque for the Role of the Canadian Merchant Navy during the Second World War National Historic Site, located in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

The role of the Canadian Merchant Navy during the Second World War was designated as a national historic event in 2001.

Historical importance: Contributed to the final outcome of World War II by transporting materiel and military personnel throughout the world.

Commemorative plaque: Halifax, Nova ScotiaFootnote 1

The Canadian Merchant Navy contributed decisively to victory, transporting troops and supplies to many war zones around the world in support of the Allied nations. Merchant mariners endured the constant threat of enemy attack, compounded by the dangers of the open sea. With courage, perseverance and determination, these men and women risked their lives on the oceans of the world. Many made the ultimate sacrifice in the effort to uphold liberty.

 

Group of man working on machinery on a vessel
DEMS (Defensively Equipped Merchant Ships) personnel taking part in gun drill aboard an unidentified merchant ship, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, 29 November 1942.
© Lt George A. Lawrence / DND / Library and Archives Canada / PA-106528
 
Group of man on a vessel
Seven unidentified Canadian sailors who survived the sinking of the armed merchant cruiser H.M.S. JERVIS BAY by the German battleship ADMIRAL SCHEER while escorting Convoy HX-84 on 5 November 1940.
© Canada Department of National Defence / Library and Archives Canada / PA-144084

The National Program of Historical Commemoration relies on the participation of Canadians in the identification of places, events and persons of national historic significance. Any member of the public can nominate a topic for consideration by the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada.

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