Discover Military Service Animals

There are countless stories about bravery and heroism told about our valiant service men and women. These stories of strength and overcoming adversity are sources of inspiration to those who support the troops from home. Throughout military history there has been a group of unique service members who have performed feats that no other soldier could. Military animals have a rich and surprising history and serve to remind us that battles are fought and wars are won through the collective efforts of many different individuals.

Always at Our Side

When we think of service animals, dogs are usually the first creatures that come to mind. Dogs are known for their remarkable loyalty, intelligence, and responsiveness to human commands. Specially trained service dogs have served military personnel and first responders for many years. Their ability to track enemies, sniff for bombs and contraband, and respond to emergencies make these special animals an invaluable part of today’s armed services.

Dogs played a very important role during the clean-up of Ground Zero after the terrorist attacks of September, 11th. Braving hot debris to locate victims among the wreckage, these dogs were celebrated across the country as essential members of the first responders that served during this national disaster.

In the Air and on the Ground

Birds also have a very long history of providing service to people in times of war. The First and Second World Wars depended on thousands of pigeons to carry vital communications. The United Kingdom in particular depended on pigeons’ exceptional ability to return home from great distances. A number of noteworthy birds were awarded the Dickin Medal by the UK government. This medal displays the words, “We also serve”. Many animals have received this commemoration, including:

• Pigeons that carried communications that rescued servicemen
• Dogs that located air raid victims and patrolled sensitive areas
• Horses that assisted in rescue operations, traffic control, and field battle
• A cat that caught rats despite war wounds, thereby saving the supplies required by sailors

Since the medal was introduced in 1943 it was awarded more than fifty times before its retirement six years later. The medal was reintroduced in 2000 when it was awarded posthumously to several recipients and to animals in active service.

Mascots and Morale

Though animals have provided many essential and practical support services to military personnel throughout several different wars, one of the unique ways they have served is as mascots. Many units would unofficially adopt particular animals that crossed their paths. This practice was especially common among British army units though a number of other examples exist. For instance, a pig named King Neptune became the mascot of the entire US Navy during WWII. King Neptune helped raise $19 million in war bond sales through auctions of his bristles and squeals. The money raised amounts to more than $250 million in today’s money and helped pay for the construction of a battleship.

UK mascot animals have included Shetland ponies, Irish wolfhounds, antelope, terriers, ferrets, and even goats.

History in Action

Learning about the fascinating stories of military service animals, mascots, and unofficial animal helpers is one way to engage with the history being currently written. Even today there are animals helping our troops and emergency personnel serve our country.

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