Explore the brave and incredible stories of animals on the battlefield, as told by Jennifer Jones and Frank Blazich, curators of military history at the Smithsonian. Learn about Luca, the dog who saved lives in the US Marine Corps, the heroic pigeon Cheramee, and Stubby, a stray dog who became a cherished war hero. Discover the historical role cats played on ships and the significant emotional support animals provide during and after war.
Dogs like Luca and Stubby showcased their bravery as unofficial military dogs during wartime, proving the deep bond between canines and their human handlers.
Animals such as Cheramee the pigeon and cats played crucial roles in military communication and companionship, contributing to the success and well-being of soldiers during various wars.
Deep dives
Dogs as War Heroes
This podcast episode explores the stories of dogs who served in wartime and the unique bond they formed with their human handlers. One example is Luca, a German shepherd who worked as a dog handler in the US Marine Corps, sniffing out improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Iraq. Another story features Stubby, a brindle terrier who became a mascot for American soldiers during World War I. Despite not being an official military dog, Stubby had a keen sense of smell and even captured a German soldier. The episode also touches on the important role of animals, including pigeons and cats, in wartime.
Pigeon Heroism in World War I
The episode highlights the story of Cheramee, a homing pigeon who played a crucial role in World War I. Cheramee carried messages between soldiers and headquarters, alerting them to enemy positions and the need for support. The pigeon's heroic actions saved lives and contributed to the success of the Allied forces. Cheramee's story showcases the significance of pigeons in military communication during the war.
Cats as Seafaring Companions
The podcast explores the historically close relationship between cats and sailors. Cats were valued on ships for their ability to catch rats, which posed a threat to supplies and spread disease. Ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians and Vikings, were known to have cats on their seafaring vessels. Cats provided companionship and served as early warning signals for air raids or gas attacks during World War II. The episode highlights their adaptability and contribution to life at sea.
The Unofficial War Hero Dog: Stubby
The episode recounts the story of Stubby, a stray dog who became a beloved mascot for American soldiers during World War I. Stubby accompanied his human companion, James Robert Conroy, to the front lines and displayed bravery and loyalty throughout the war. He warned soldiers of gas attacks, found injured or lost soldiers, and even captured a German soldier. Stubby's story emphasizes the powerful bond between dogs and their handlers in times of war.
As long as there have been wars, animals have joined their human companions on the battlefield. But a few have served so bravely they’ve been memorialized at the Smithsonian. In honor of these furry and feathered war heroes, we bring you the tales of dogs, cats and birds who went above and beyond the call of duty.
Guests:
Jennifer Jones, curator of military history at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History
Frank Blazich, curator of military history at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History
Ann Bausum, author of Stubby the War Dog and Sergeant Stubby: How a Stray Dog and His Best Friend Helped Win WWI and Stole the Heart of a Nation
Scot Christenson, author of Cats in the Navy
Chris Willingham, president of the United States War Dogs Association
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