Are merchant marines veterans?

Are Merchant Mariners Veterans?

The Merchant Marine is a vital part of the United States maritime industry, playing a critical role in the country’s economy and national security. However, there is ongoing debate about whether Merchant Marine personnel are considered veterans of the United States Armed Forces. In this article, we will explore the complexities of this issue and answer the question: Are merchant marines veterans?

What is the Merchant Marine?

The Merchant Marine, also known as the US Merchant Marine, is a fleet of civilian-owned merchant vessels that transport goods, supplies, and equipment domestically and internationally. These ships are operated by private companies, and their crews are made up of civilian seafarers. While the Merchant Marine is separate from the US Navy and other branches of the Armed Forces, it plays a crucial role in supporting military operations and national security by transporting troops, equipment, and supplies.

War Efforts and the Merchant Marine

During times of war, the Merchant Marine has played a significant role in supporting military efforts. For example, during World War II, the US Merchant Marine played a critical role in transporting troops and supplies to Europe and Asia, earning the nickname "The Unsung Heroes" of the war. According to the US Merchant Marine Veterans Association, over 8,400 Merchant Marines lost their lives during the war, and many more were wounded or captured by enemy forces.

Defining a Veteran

Before we can answer the question of whether Merchant Mariners are veterans, we need to define what it means to be a veteran. The US Department of Defense defines a veteran as anyone who has served in the Armed Forces, including members of the Reserve and National Guard, and has completed their initial period of enlistment or has been separated from service with an honorable discharge. This definition includes those who have served in combat zones, peacekeeping missions, and non-combat areas.

Merchant Marine Service and Federal Recognition

While the Merchant Marine has played a crucial role in supporting military efforts, its personnel have traditionally been excluded from federal veterans’ benefits and recognition. The Merchant Marine’s service is not considered service in the Armed Forces under federal law, with the exception of those who served in the US Merchant Marine during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

Exceptions and Recognition

Despite the lack of federal recognition, there are a few exceptions where Merchant Marines have been recognized as veterans:

• The Merchant Marine Act of 1936: This act granted benefits to Merchant Mariners who lost their lives or were killed in action during World War II.
• The Merchant Marine Act of 1941: This act extended benefits to Merchant Mariners who were wounded or captured by enemy forces during World War II.
• The Coast Guard’s Merchant Marine Manual: This manual recognizes the service of Merchant Mariners, including those who served during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

Table: Merchant Marine Service During World War II

Reasons for Exclusion

There are several reasons why Merchant Mariners have been excluded from federal veterans’ benefits and recognition:

• Historical context: Merchant Mariners have traditionally been classified as civilians, rather than military personnel.
• Jurisdictional issues: The Merchant Marine is administered by the US Department of Transportation, rather than the US Department of Defense, which has led to conflicting definitions of what constitutes service in the Armed Forces.
• Lack of uniformity: The types of vessels and cargo handled by the Merchant Marine, as well as the diverse range of companies and ports involved, have made it difficult to establish a clear definition of Merchant Marine service.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Merchant Mariners have played a critical role in supporting military efforts and have been recognized as veterans in certain cases, they are not officially considered veterans of the United States Armed Forces under federal law. However, there are ongoing efforts to recognize the service of Merchant Mariners and provide them with the benefits and recognition they deserve. As our country continues to rely on the Merchant Marine to support its national security and economy, it is essential to acknowledge the sacrifices and bravery of these unsung heroes.

Recommendations for Change

To address the issue of Merchant Mariners’ lack of federal recognition and benefits, we recommend:

• Amending the US Code: Update federal law to recognize Merchant Marines as veterans of the United States Armed Forces.
• Establishing a merchant marine veterans’ organization: Create a national organization to advocate for the rights and benefits of Merchant Mariners and provide support to those in need.
• Reforming the Coast Guard’s Merchant Marine Manual: Update the manual to reflect the service of Merchant Mariners in all conflicts, not just World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

By addressing these issues, we can ensure that Merchant Mariners are recognized for their service and sacrifices, and that their contributions to our country’s national security and economy are properly acknowledged.