
The naval power of the United States of America is supported by a strong American Merchant Marine. A strong Merchant Marine is made possible by a powerful navy. The two forces are linked by common purpose: keep the seaways open for commerce and ensure the freedom, prosperity, and security of the American people.
In 2020, the President of the United States, Donald J. Trump, signed the Merchant Mariners of World War II Congressional GoldMedal Act of 2020. 2. The Merchant Marine lost more men than any branch of service in WWII. My father, a Coast Guard Commander, was assigned as a Merchant Mariner officer. Like so many other Merchant Marine officers and sailors he experienced the harrowing mission through the enemy-infested, icy waters of the infamous North Atlantic route from New York to Liverpool. Commander Jesse Ellis Milton, USCG, USMM, experienced the terrorizing effect of the German U-boards. being hit on the west coast of Africa. He spent six months recovering in a British hospital at Cape Town. Then, it was back to sea, moving troops to England. I’m proud to honor him, and to honor all of our great Merchant Mariners this Memorial Day weekend with this new illustration.
The Lord bless our Merchant Marine.

Beautiful illustration!
May God bless all who serve.
Thank you. Amen to your prayer.