The 15 Most Decorated Animals in the History of Combat
Just like humans, animals have shown bravery and courage in the face of danger.
Published 5 months ago in Wow
For as long as humans have been fighting wars, animals have been right there by our side. And while it's mostly people who are remembered in the history books for their bravery, animals have earned their metal too.
So in honor of our animal friends who not so willingly fought along side us on the battle field, here are 15 of the most beloved, decorated, and heroic animals in the history of combat.
1
Staff Sergeant Reckless was a horse that made trips through dangerous “no man’s lands” to bring ammunition to soldiers. She was once documented making 51 trips in one day, by herself. She also carried wounded soldiers to safety. She is the most decorated American horse in history, having earned two Purple Hearts, Good Conduct Medal, Presidential Unit Citation with star, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, Navy Unit Commendation, and the Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation.12
Sergeant Stubby is widely recognized as America’s most decorated dog. In World War I, he barked to alert soldiers of surprise mustard gas and artillery attacks. He could differentiate between German and English-speaking soldiers to help find wounded men, and even caught a German spy. He survived 17 battles, received many military honors, marched in the Victory Parade, and met three Presidents.14
Tirpitz was a mascot of the HMS Glasgow during the First World War. She had originally served on the German ship SMS Dresden, but survived that ship’s sinking when the rest of its crew deserted. She was rescued by the Scottish soldiers, and awarded for her bravery. Unfortunately she was auctioned off for pork to help fund the war effort.