Canada's Naval History

Second World War
The Navy Ashore - Building the Royal Canadian Navy

The Royal Canadian Navy expanded dramatically during the Second World War, acquiring ships and recruiting personnel to meet the constantly increasing demands placed upon it. Ships had to be built, repaired, and maintained, and people recruited, trained, and supported.

Artifact Record

A New Gun for the Destroyer

In Tom Wood's 1945 painting, a new gun (centre) is fitted to a Canadian destroyer.

Writing on the gun shield indicates it is the "A" gun, the foremost gun on a ship, while the arrow inside the "C" identifies it as Canadian property. In addition to building ships, navies also have to maintain, repair and upgrade them. Upgrades in particular proved to be a considerable challenge for the hard-pressed Royal Canadian Navy, Canada's shipyards, and the associated industries supplying equipment like electronics.

A New Gun for the Destroyer
Painted by Tom Wood in 1945
Beaverbrook Collection of War Art
CWM 19710261-4895

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