7 Military Dogs That Changed History

The role of military dogs in history cannot be overstated. These courageous canines have served alongside soldiers in various capacities, from sentry duty to combat missions, and have proven themselves to be invaluable assets in times of war. Here, we will explore seven military dogs that changed history, highlighting their bravery, loyalty, and selflessness.

Military dogs have played a crucial role in history

1. Sgt. Stubby: The First Dog to Be Promoted to Sergeant in the US Army

Sgt. Stubby, a Boston Terrier, is widely considered one of the most decorated dogs in US military history. During World War I, Stubby served with the 102nd Infantry Regiment, 26th Division, and became the first dog to be promoted to sergeant in the US Army. He detected gas attacks, comforted wounded soldiers, and even caught a German spy, earning him 17 medals and awards.

Stubby's Heroics

Stubby's bravery and loyalty earned him a reputation as a hero. He was awarded the Purple Heart, the first dog to receive the honor, and was also awarded the French War Cross for his bravery. Stubby's story was immortalized in a 2018 animated film, "Sgt. Stubby: An American Hero."

Sgt. Stubby, a Boston Terrier, was a decorated war hero

2. Roselle: The Guide Dog Who Led Her Owner to Safety on 9/11

Roselle, a Labrador Retriever, was a guide dog trained to assist her owner, Michael Hingson, who was blind. On September 11, 2001, Roselle led Hingson down 78 flights of stairs from the 78th floor of the World Trade Center's North Tower, just before it collapsed. Roselle's bravery and loyalty that day saved Hingson's life.

Roselle's Selflessness

Roselle's selflessness and quick thinking that day earned her a reputation as a hero. She was awarded the American Kennel Club's Award for Canine Excellence and was also inducted into the New York State Senate's Veterans' Hall of Fame.

Roselle, a Labrador Retriever, was a guide dog and hero

3. Chips: The Most Decorated Dog of World War II

Chips, a German Shepherd-Collie mix, served with the 30th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Division, during World War II. He was the most decorated dog of the war, earning eight battle stars and the Distinguished Service Cross, the Silver Star, and the Purple Heart.

Chips' Bravery

Chips' bravery in combat was unmatched. He single-pawedly captured a German pillbox, earning him the Distinguished Service Cross. Chips' story was immortalized in a 1990 film, "Chips, the War Dog."

Chips, a German Shepherd-Collie mix, was the most decorated dog of World War II

4. Apollo: The Search and Rescue Dog Who Served at Ground Zero

Apollo, a German Shepherd, was a search and rescue dog who served at Ground Zero after the 9/11 attacks. He worked tirelessly to locate survivors and comfort the families of victims.

Apollo's Dedication

Apollo's dedication to his work was inspiring. He was awarded the American Kennel Club's Award for Canine Excellence and was also inducted into the New York State Senate's Veterans' Hall of Fame.

Apollo, a German Shepherd, was a search and rescue dog

5. Smoky: The Smallest War Dog in World War II

Smoky, a Yorkshire Terrier, was the smallest war dog in World War II, serving with the 5th Air Force in the Pacific. She was a morale booster and comforted soldiers during difficult times.

Smoky's Big Heart

Smoky's big heart and affectionate nature made her a beloved member of the team. She was awarded eight battle stars and was also featured in several films and books.

Smoky, a Yorkshire Terrier, was the smallest war dog in World War II

6. Owney: The Postal Dog Who Became a Mascot for the US Postal Service

Owney, a mutt, became a mascot for the US Postal Service in the late 19th century. He rode mail trains and protected mailbags from thieves, earning him a reputation as a loyal and trusted companion.

Owney's Loyalty

Owney's loyalty to the postal service was unwavering. He was awarded a special collar and tag by the postmaster general and was also featured on several postal stamps.

Owney, a mutt, was a mascot for the US Postal Service

7. Comet: The Police Dog Who Served in World War I

Comet, a German Shepherd, served as a police dog in World War I. He was trained to detect and apprehend suspects, and his keen sense of smell and agility made him an invaluable asset to the police force.

Comet's Bravery

Comet's bravery in combat was notable. He was awarded several medals and awards for his service, including the French War Cross.

Comet, a German Shepherd, was a police dog in World War I

These seven military dogs have left an indelible mark on history, demonstrating bravery, loyalty, and selflessness in the face of danger. Their stories serve as a testament to the important role that animals have played in times of war and conflict.

Military Dogs That Changed History Image Gallery

Military dogs have served in various capacities during wartime

Military dogs played a crucial role in World War II

What was the role of military dogs in World War I?

Military dogs served in various capacities during World War I, including sentry duty, messenger duty, and combat missions.

What was the most decorated dog in World War II?

Chips, a German Shepherd-Collie mix, was the most decorated dog in World War II, earning eight battle stars and several medals.

What was the role of military dogs in the Korean War?

Military dogs served in various capacities during the Korean War, including sentry duty, patrol duty, and combat missions.

As we reflect on the contributions of these seven military dogs, we are reminded of the importance of animals in times of war and conflict. Their bravery, loyalty, and selflessness have earned them a special place in history, and their stories continue to inspire and educate us today.