In September 1939, Britain declared war on Germany. This brought Newfoundland into the Second World War. The war in Europe began with a string of quick victories for Germany. It was feared that Britain would be invaded. A British defeat would allow Newfoundland to be used as a base against the rest of North America.
The first thing to do was to prepare the defence. The Newfoundland Militia was raised to protect Bell Island and key points along the coast. It was a full–time active service. The Newfoundland Militia was renamed the Newfoundland Regiment in 1943. This was later placed under Canadian command.
In the First World War, Newfoundland raised troops to send overseas. This was costly in terms of men and money. Newfoundland soldiers in the Second World War served in British land, sea and air units. Conscription was not used.
Newfoundlanders served with Canadian and other Allied forces. The Newfoundland Overseas Forestry Unit cut timber in Scotland. Newfoundland seamen volunteered to man British merchant vessels. This was very dangerous because of the German u–boat threat.