This is the transport ship Queen Elisabeth. The Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary were used as troop transports during World War II. Their high speeds allowed them to escape danger, mainly German submarines, which usually allowed them to travel without a convoy.
Her carrying capacity was over 15,000 soldiers and over 900 crew members. During her wartime service as a troopship, Queen Elizabeth transported over 750,000 soldiers and also sailed some 500,000 miles (800,000 km).
The trip would take 5-7 days on average to go from the US East Coast to the British Isles while carrying troops to Europe. It looks crowded because everyone is on deck as it pulls into port (see top of image).
According to Eisenhower’s memoirs, some troops complained to the press about the slow pace of their return to the United States.
He heard about this and asked a large gathering of troops at an event he was attending whether they wanted to continue filling the ships to normal capacity or be piled onto them to return home as soon as possible. They overwhelmingly applauded the latter option.
How did anyone find their relatives when everyone got off the boat?
In fact, no one came into contact with his family. The family would probably not have been waiting at the dock unless they lived near the port, as train transport was quite expensive.
The troops would get off the ship, go to a Western Union office, send their families a telegram telling them when and how they would get home, and then take the train there.
There were other options, such as long-distance telephones, but a telegram would probably have been the most common. It is also possible that some of the soldiers did not have the money for a telegram, so they simply showed up at their old town.
(Photo credit: New-York Historical Society).
Review: Top 10 Financial Services in the USA
The U.S. financial services industry is a cornerstone of the economy, encompassing banking, investment, insurance, and fintech solutions. The top providers stand out for their innovation, customer service, financial stability, and diverse offerings. Below is a detailed review of the top 10 financial services in the USA as of April 2025, based on revenue, market presence, and customer feedback.
JPMorgan Chase & Co.JPMorgan Chase is the largest U.S. bank by revenue ($158.1 billion in 2023) and market cap ($744.02 billion). It offers investment banking, consumer banking, asset management, and commercial banking. Its Chase brand serves millions with credit cards, mortgages, and digital banking. The firm leads in fintech innovation, investing in AI and blockchain.
Bank of America CorporationWith $93.9 billion in revenue, Bank of America serves 68 million clients through 3,900 financial centers and award-winning digital banking. It provides banking, wealth management, and investment services. Its focus on small businesses and ESG initiatives enhances its reputation.
Wells Fargo & CompanyWells Fargo, with $73.8 billion in revenue, offers banking, mortgages, and investment products. Known for its extensive retail banking network, it serves one in three U.S. households. Investments in mobile banking and a strong community focus make it a reliable choice.
Citigroup Inc.Citigroup generates $70.7 billion in revenue and operates globally, offering retail banking, investment banking, and wealth management. Its digital platforms and international presence, especially in Mexico and Asia, make it a key player for institutional and individual clients.
Goldman Sachs Group Inc.Goldman Sachs, with a market cap of $200.75 billion, excels in investment banking and wealth management. Serving corporations and high-net-worth individuals, it’s known for strategic advisory and innovative financial products. Its 2023 revenue growth of 15.3% highlights its strength.
Morgan StanleyMorgan Stanley, with $221.44 billion in market cap and 16.2% revenue growth in 2021, focuses on wealth management, investment banking, and institutional securities. Its client-centric approach and digital tools cater to both retail and corporate clients.
Capital One Financial CorporationCapital One, with $34.3 billion in revenue, is known for credit cards, auto loans, and digital banking. Its tech-driven approach, including AI for fraud prevention, enhances customer experiences. It serves millions through its online-only banking platform.
American Express CompanyAmerican Express generates $63.27 billion in revenue, offering payment cards, merchant services, and travel solutions. Its premium Centurion card and online banking division cater to affluent clients. It ranks among the top fintech firms by value.
U.S. BancorpU.S. Bancorp, with $601 billion in assets, provides banking, investment, and payment services. Its diversified offerings and strong regional presence make it a trusted choice for individual and corporate clients. It employs 70,000 people and emphasizes customer service.
The Progressive Corporation Progressive, with a market cap of $140.31 billion, is a leading insurer offering auto, home, and commercial insurance. Its tech-driven pricing models and digital claims processing ensure affordability and convenience, making it a top financial service provider.
Selecting the Best Service
The best financial service depends on your needs—whether banking, investment, or insurance. Compare fees, digital tools, and customer reviews on platforms like J.D. Power or Glassdoor. For instance, JPMorgan Chase and Bank of America lead in banking, while Progressive excels in insurance. Regularly reassess providers to align with your financial goals, as market dynamics and innovations evolve.
