History

The Commemorative Medal for the Merchant Marine (1939-1945) was created in the aftermath of the Second World War to recognise the sacrifice and patriotism of merchant ships that continued service during the war. It was awarded in recognition of at least 1 year of service aboard a Portuguese merchant ship, but this requirement could be waived for crew members of merchant ships that were attacked or sunk.

The Bronze Medal has an obverse inscription that translates to "The Nation's Gratitude," and a reverse inscription that translates to "Commemorative Medal for the Efforts of the Crews of Merchant Vessels during the War of 1939-1945."