U.S. Merchant Marine Cadet Corps

U.S. Merchant Marine Cadet Corps (pre-1942) Yellow-goldenrod thread. Embroidered anchor on wool backing and mohair band. Pre-to-early Second World War era; 1939-1942. From the period following the First World War through the Depression, the U.S. Merchant Shipping industry was in a shambles: once profitable companies faltered and fell, ocean-going trade evaporated and even intercoastal shipping […]

Massachussetts Maritime Academy

mma cadet hat badge. The late 1800s saw a flurry of state nautical school openings with funds provided by U.S. Congress. One of them, the Massachusetts Maritime Academy began its life as the Massachusetts Nautical Training School in 1891. In 1913, along with training vessel and curriculum changes, its the name changed to the Massachusetts […]

U.S. Naval Reserve Insignia

U.S. Naval Merchant Marine Reserve insignia. Single construction. Eagle stamped brass with gold-plate. 1939-1940. badge: 2-3/4in from tip to tip of wings.   In October 1942, a curious chain of memoranda was passed between the New York State Maritime Academy Superintendent and various U.S. Navy officials. Prompted by Kings Point cadet uniforms having sewn on […]