Animal Usage during World War II
During WWII, hundreds of thousands of animals were used through countless battles. Some were also personal companions of soldiers, while others helped haul supplies. The types animals that were mainly used throughout the war were dogs, pigeons, horses, and mules.
Dogs served in the Coast Guard, Army, and Marine Corps. They were used for uncovering mines, leading marching soldiers in case of ambush, guards of supplies or at posts to alert soldiers of approaching enemy, and as rescue animals used to find injured troops. Since these animals are known for their loyalty, they were used very frequently over the course of the war. There is actually a cemetery for marine war dogs.
Carrier pigeons have been used for hundreds of years to deliver messages, especially in wars where sometime communication is vital, but not possible. Over 200,000 birds were used in WWII. At one point, you could even go to jail for killing a pigeon. One of the most famous pigeons, Gustav, carried a message over 150 miles, just to report to Ally success at the D-Day invasion.
Horses and mules were used because of their stamina, hardiness, and ability to survive in both harsh hot and cold climates. The animals weren’t used in battles, so much as for the carrying and transporting of food, weapons, and even infantry soldiers if needed. Surprisingly, Germany used horses to transport almost everything throughout the war.
Dogs served in the Coast Guard, Army, and Marine Corps. They were used for uncovering mines, leading marching soldiers in case of ambush, guards of supplies or at posts to alert soldiers of approaching enemy, and as rescue animals used to find injured troops. Since these animals are known for their loyalty, they were used very frequently over the course of the war. There is actually a cemetery for marine war dogs.
Carrier pigeons have been used for hundreds of years to deliver messages, especially in wars where sometime communication is vital, but not possible. Over 200,000 birds were used in WWII. At one point, you could even go to jail for killing a pigeon. One of the most famous pigeons, Gustav, carried a message over 150 miles, just to report to Ally success at the D-Day invasion.
Horses and mules were used because of their stamina, hardiness, and ability to survive in both harsh hot and cold climates. The animals weren’t used in battles, so much as for the carrying and transporting of food, weapons, and even infantry soldiers if needed. Surprisingly, Germany used horses to transport almost everything throughout the war.
Works Cited
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Page by SH
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Page by SH