The Second World War
The Merchant Navy  - The Merchant Navy

Between 1939 and 1945, Canadian and Allied merchant ships and their crews transported personnel, munitions, weapons, and food across the world's oceans as part of the Allied war effort. Enemy action sank some 70 Canadian and Newfoundland merchant vessels. Over 1,600 Canadians and Newfoundlanders, including eight women, were killed.

Defensively Equipped Merchant Ship Service Dress Jumper

This jumper belonged to a Royal Canadian Navy Defensively Equipped Merchant Ship (DEMS) gunner, who would have served aboard merchant ships.

At the top of the right sleeve, part of a "Canada" patch is visible. Lower on the sleeve is the badge identifying the wearer as a DEMS Seaman Gunner. Part of the Royal Canadian Navy, most DEMS sailors were gunners, although some were signallers, telegraphists, and coders. Roughly 2,000 Canadians served in these roles, forming part of the crews of merchant ships fitted with defensive armament, and usually operating the heavier weapons.

Service Dress Jumper
CWM 19860038-001