THE HISTORIC CONTRIBUTION OF CANADA'S MERCHANT NAVY

Canada's merchant navy was vital to the Allied cause during the Second World War. Its ships transported desperately needed equipment, fuel, goods and personnel to Europe and around the world. The very outcome of the war depended on the successful transport of troops and cargo by sea. Merchant seamen and women showed tremendous bravery on the ocean "battlefield". They faced fierce attacks by German submarines and hazardous, life-threatening weather conditions in the North Atlantic.

• More than 25,000 merchant ship voyages from North America to Britain were made during the war.
• 72 Canadian merchant ships were lost to enemy action.

The History to the Canadian Red Ensign
The flag issue was dropped until WWII when King insisted Canadian Forces be acknowledged for their part in the war rather than as a part of Britain's effort. The Canadian Army, not having a distinctive flag for themselves started to use the Red Ensign with the shield of the Coat of Arms of Canada in January 1944. The Royal Canadian Air Force followed soon after.


A tribute to the Canadian Merchant Navy
Part 1
Part 2