First World War (1914-1918)
War in the Pacific

At the outbreak of war in August 1914, only three obsolete ships and two recently-acquired submarines protected Canada's west coast. Canadians feared that German cruisers might attack merchant ships or bombard cities and towns. After these attacks failed to materialize, many vessels and personnel were transferred to the Atlantic to deal with the growing German submarine threat.

Sailor's Summer Uniform, Lionel Channing, HMCS Shearwater

This light-weight linen summer uniform belonged to Lionel Channing, who was only 15 when he joined the Royal Canadian Navy.

Channing was a boy sailor, much like an apprentice in a civilian trade. He served in many ships, including HMCS Shearwater, the name of which appears on the uniform's cap tally, or ribbon. Following Shearwater's move to Halifax in 1917, Channing was transferred to HMCS Niobe. Remaining in the military after the war, Channing was part of the Canadian contingent that visited London, England, in 1937 for the coronation of King George VI. He also served overseas with the Royal Canadian Engineers during the Second World War.

Sailor's Uniform, Lionel Channing
Cap, CWM 19810718-004
Jumper, CWM 19810718-006
Trousers, CWM 19810718-066