*WW1, British, Mercantile Marine (Merchant Navy) Cap Badge, War Service Mercantile Marine Medal 1914-1918, War Medal 1914-1918; awarded to Frank. F. Maclennan*
During wartime, Britain relied on civilian cargo vessels for the importation of essential goods such as food and raw materials, as well as for the transportation of soldiers overseas and the provision of supplies to them. Throughout the First World War, the merchant fleet suffered significant losses due to attacks by German U-boats. The implementation of unrestricted warfare policies meant that merchant mariners were constantly vulnerable to enemy ship attacks. The total tonnage lost to U-boats during the First World War amounted to approximately 7,759,090 tons, resulting in the tragic loss of around 14,661 merchant seafarers’ lives. In recognition of the immense sacrifice made by merchant mariners during the conflict, George V bestowed the designation “Merchant Navy” following the cessation of hostilities in the First World War.
Mercantile Marine Cap Badge – with gold bullion thread.
The British Mercantile Marine War Medal, initiated in 1919, was bestowed by the United Kingdom’s Board of Trade upon mariners of the British Mercantile Marine (later known as the Merchant Navy) in recognition of their service at sea throughout the duration of the First World War.
Similarly, the British War Medal, established on 26 July 1919, was designated for individuals who had provided service between 5 August 1914, following the British declaration of war against the German Empire, and 11 November 1918, inclusive of both dates, culminating with the armistice.
*Condition*
All three WW1 items belonging to merchant seaman Frank Maclennan are in good condition. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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