Canada's Naval History

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Birth Of the Navy

First World War

Between the Wars

Second World War

Early Cold War

Later Cold War
- - From RCN to Maritime Command
  - A Changing Fleet

Navy Today
- - The Gulf War
  - Continuing Commitments

The Later Cold War
A Changing Fleet

Canada's navy changed and shrank in the latter part of the Cold War, but continued to face threats and meet alliance obligations. Despite the addition of some newer vessels, by the late 1970s it faced "rust-out" due to the gradual deterioration of ships and equipment.

Artifact Record

Hands to Supper - Galley and Steamline - HMCS Yukon

Mess attendants (centre) aboard HMCS Yukon serve food from a steam table while their comrades (right) pass down the line to be served.

Crew accommodations aboard Canadian ships substantially changed after the Second World War. While sailors had previously slept, eaten, and lived in the same space - called a mess - post-war ships were different. Modified or built to provide cafeteria-style food service in galleys, they also incorporated bunks that replaced hammocks.

Hands to Supper - Galley and Steamline - HMCS Yukon
Painted by David William Jones
Beaverbrook Collection of War Art
CWM 19820736-001