WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Bill Delahunt applauded the recent passage of legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives which authorizes compensation for Merchant Mariner Veterans of World War II.

“Those who served in the Merchant Marine risked their lives to make sure our troops would have the food, fuel and ammunition to fight and win the war. This legislation gives them the long overdue recognition they deserve,” said Delahunt.

The Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act was passed by the House just before the August recess.  It rectifies the mistreatment that the Mariners suffered by being denied GI Bill benefits at the end of WWII. The bill establishes the Merchant Mariner Equity Compensation Fund, which would entitle qualified individuals who served in the Merchant Marine during World War II to receive a monthly $1,000 benefit. According to information provided by the VA and the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), 10,000 eligible merchant mariners would apply for and receive benefits in 2008.

Even before December 7, 1941, those serving in the Merchant Marine risked their lives by delivering military and humanitarian aid to allied forces as part of the “Lend-Lease” Program. After the start of hostilities, merchant mariners were often on the front lines, serving on troop and cargo ships. They took part in every invasion, from Normandy to Okinawa and had a casualty rate second to only the United States Marine Corps. Following the war, Merchant Mariners were not recognized legally as veterans and as a result, could not qualify for the GI Bill, low interest mortgage assistance or seek medical treatment at VA medical centers. It was only in 1988 that they received veterans’ status from the federal government.

Delahunt, a staunch supporter of our veterans, has strongly advocated for merchant mariner benefits since elected to Congress in 1996.  The legislation will now go on to the Senate.   

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