Interestingly, a number of animals had long military careers and even got military promotions. There was a couple of dogs, a pig, an elephant, and even a bear that were very popular during WWII.
Wojtek (bear) - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
"Wojtek (1942–1963) usually spelled Voytek in English, was a Syrian brown bear found in Iran and adopted by soldiers of the 22nd Artillery Supply Company of the Polish II Corps. He was later officially enlisted as a soldier of the company with the rank of Private, and subsequently became a Corporal."
"Wojtek initially had problems swallowing and was fed with condensed milk from an old vodka bottle. He was subsequently given fruit, marmalade, honey and syrup, and was often rewarded with beer, which became his favourite drink. He later also enjoyed smoking (or eating) cigarettes. He loved wrestling with the soldiers and was taught to salute when greeted."
"According to numerous accounts, during the Battle of Monte Cassino Wojtek helped by carrying ammunition – never dropping a single crate."
"Following demobilisation on 15 November 1947, Wojtek was given to Edinburgh Zoo, where he spent the rest of his life, often visited by journalists and former Polish soldiers, some of whom would toss him cigarettes, which he proceeded to eat because there was no one there to light them for him."
"Wojtek died in December 1963, at the age of 21. At the time of his death he weighed nearly 500 kilograms (1,100 lb) and was over 1.8 meters (6 feet) tall."
Poland superior. Wotjek was fucking badass.
