Who Were operations that protected American merchant ships in the Atlantic before the US entered World War 2?

Before the U.S. entered World War II, American merchant ships in the Atlantic were primarily protected by the U.S. Navy's Neutrality Patrol, which was established to ensure safe passage for American vessels amidst escalating tensions in Europe. Additionally, the British Royal Navy conducted operations to safeguard Allied shipping against German U-boat threats. The U.S. also provided support through destroyers and the transfer of naval vessels to Britain under the Lend-Lease Act. These efforts aimed to deter aggression and protect American interests while maintaining a stance of neutrality.