Navy Dollars are Fighting Dollars Window Label - 1942 dated Americana

"Navy Dollars are Fighting Dollars" window label. WWII. Measures 4" x 4". The Navy had its roots in the colonial seafaring tradition, which led to a large community of sailors, captains, and shipbuilders. During the American Revolutionary War, Massachusetts had its own Massachusetts Naval Militia. There was a debate in the Second Continental Congress about the need to establish a national navy. Supporters argued that a navy would protect shipping, defend the coast, and facilitate seeking support from foreign countries. However, detractors believed that challenging the British Royal Navy, the leading naval power at the time, was unwise.

Commander in Chief George Washington settled the debate by commissioning the ocean-going schooner USS Hannah to intercept British merchant ships and report the captures to the Congress. On October 13, 1775, the Continental Congress authorized the purchase of two vessels to be armed for a cruise against British merchant ships, which marked the establishment of the Continental Navy and is considered the first establishment of the U.S. Navy.

During its existence, the Continental Navy experienced both successes and setbacks. While it achieved success in several engagements and raided many British merchant vessels, it also lost twenty-four of its own vessels and at one point was reduced to only two vessels in active service. After the Revolutionary War concluded, Congress sold the Alliance, the last remaining ship in the Continental Navy, due to a lack of funds to maintain the ship or support a navy.