Merchant Navy World War Two medals.The Merchant Navy in World War II, particularly the British Merchant Navy, served as a crucial lifeline for the UK, bringing in essential imports like food, oil, and raw materials from the Commonwealth and the United States to sustain the war effort. Despite facing significant dangers from German U-boats and mines during the Battle of the Atlantic, the Merchant Navy successfully delivered vital supplies to the Allied nations. Over 30,000 merchant seafarers were killed during the war, yet their indispensable contribution is often recognized as being on par with the Royal Navy's efforts to secure victory.