What's The Merchant Navy?

This story was submitted to the People's War site by Jane Otto of East Berkshire College on behalf of Bill Davis with his permission. The author fully understands the site's terms and conditions.

The lads at work said they were going to join the Navy. I said, 'When?'. They said, 'Tomorrow'.
We arranged to meet at Golders Green station the following day. They told me to get the ticket to Ealing Broadway. 'Why are we going that far?' I asked. 'There are plenty of recruiting agents round here.'
They explained that they were going to sign on with the Merchant Navy. I had to enquire what was it all about - I knew nothing about the Merchant Navy. They said that they got to bring supplies into the country.
I couldn't turn back - and wouldn't so I signed up.
I am pleased that I did and was proud to serve.

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