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Second World War
Battle of the Atlantic  - Atlantic Battleground

Allied forces, including the Royal Canadian Navy, fought against Axis forces in the battle of the Atlantic over a vast and often dangerous oceanic battlefield. Harbours and bases like Halifax were essential for ships, and commanders on shore planned and coordinated the movements of convoys and anti-submarine forces.

Rear Admiral Leonard Warren Murray
Rear Admiral Leonard Warren Murray

This cap and jacket belonged to Rear Admiral Leonard Warren Murray, the only Canadian to command an Allied theatre of war during the Second World War.

From 1943 to 1945, as Commander-in-Chief, Canadian Northwest Atlantic, Murray was responsible for convoys in this area and commanded the Canadian and Allied forces protecting them. His appointment reflected the Royal Canadian Navy's significant role in protecting North Atlantic convoys. The insignia on the jacket cuffs indicate Murray's rank, while the medal ribbons testify to a long career, including both world wars, and to recognition of his service by Canada and Allied countries.

Service Dress Cap, CWM 19720083-004
Service Dress Jacket, CWM 19720083-005





Canadian Destroyers
MV Empire MacDermott, Halifax Drydock
Warships at St. John's, Newfoundland
The Harbour of New York
Canadian Corvette in Loch Foyle
Canadians in the Caribbean
Corvette in Ice
Ice on Corvette
Staff of Naval Member, Canadian Joint Staff Mission, August 1943
Rear Admiral Leonard Warren Murray
Enigma Machine
National Defence Headquarters, Ottawa
Plotting Room, Ottawa, 29 November 1943
Consolidated B-24 Liberators, Gander, Newfoundland
Escort Carrier, St. John's, Newfoundland