Maritime Tales of the Sea

“Maritime Tales of the Sea” is a collection of stories by Merchant Marine and Armed Guard from all over the world. These were young men during World War II, who volunteered their services to man the ships and deliver troops, supplies such as food, equipment, ammunition, and petroleum products to over 97% of the war fronts around the world. The Merchant Mariners were every bit in harm’s way during the invasions of North Africa, Italy, Sicily, France, Normandy, Philippines, and numerous other islands in the Pacific warfronts. Supplies and Men had to be delivered and the job was ours!!! These stories are only a sampling of what sailors who manned the ships were subject to. Over 8,000 men lost their lives in combat due to torpedoes and bombs from enemy submarines and aircraft; and over 600 men were in prisoner of war camps. Many men lost limbs or was permanently injured for life. After the war, Mariners were charged with returning the troops and supplies, which were taken overseas, back to the United States; as well as returning displaced persons worldwide back to their home countries. Additionally, the Merchant Marine carried humanitarian supplies to devastated and starving countries all over the world -- together they kept the free world's shipping lanes open after the fall of Europe. It is hoped that this book will give the public, and descendants of the men who served, a true understanding of what these men accomplished during the War.