Political Quotes

“during World War II thousands of young men volunteered for service in the United States Merchant Marine. Many of these mariners were recruited specifically to staff ships under the control and direction of the United States Government to assist the U.S. war effort. These seamen were subject to government control, their vessels were controlled by the government under the authority of the War Shipping Administration and, like branches of military service, they traveled under sealed orders and were subject to the Code of Military Justice. Some volunteers joined the Merchant Marines because their youthful age or minor physical problems, such as poor eyesight, made them ineligible for service in the Army, Navy, or Marine Corps. Others were encouraged by military recruiters to volunteer for service in the Merchant Marines because the recruiter recognized that the special skills offered by the volunteer could best be put to use for our country by service in the Merchant Marines. Most importantly, all were motivated by their deep love of country and personal sense of patriotism to contribute to the war effort. In order to staff our growing merchant fleet during World War II, the U.S. Maritime Commission established training camps around the country under the direct supervision of the Coast Guard. After completing basic training, which included both small arms and cannon proficiency, seamen became active members of the U.S. Merchant Marine.”