Canada's Naval History

Second World War
Battle of the Atlantic - U-Boats and Convoys

The struggle between German U-Boats (submarines) and Allied convoys was the core of the battle of the Atlantic. U-Boats sought to destroy Allied merchant vessels and warships, while Allied convoys sought to transport food, supplies, weapons, and personnel across the Atlantic.

Artifact Record

Duffle Coat

During the First and Second World Wars, the duffle coat became a popular piece of cold-weather clothing for sailors.

The duffle coat, usually navy blue or camel-coloured, featured thick woolen fabric, a hood large enough to accommodate naval caps, and horn or wooden toggle buttons which could be unfastened even while wearing gloves or mittens. Duffle coats became popular ashore, and British Field Marshal Bernard Montgomery was frequently seen wearing one. Canadian Army chaplain W.J. Gilling wore this coat throughout the campaigns in Italy and Northwest Europe.

Duffle Coat
CWM 19950031-002

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