HISTORIC AND HEROIC, READ ABOUT THE FIRST CANINE EVER TO BE INDUCTED INTO THE MILITARY

 When you encounter a puppy, whether it has owners or is a stray, you cannot judge what it is capable of doing or becoming just at a glance. A stray pup had been wandering around the campus grounds along the hallowed halls of Yale University in Connecticut. At the time he might have been just a year old or so. The dog was homeless and starving but no one took notice at first. But what it went on to do in is lifetimes was something some of us would not even dream of achieving…

A Tough Life

This little guy was considered to be a pit bull mix as no one had any clear proof of his origin. He was barely surviving and had no one to look after him. He would often be seen hunting for his meals out of trash cans. and leftovers. Even though his life was hard, everything was about to change in the near future. After he met with a bunch of men marching across an Ivy League, he was finally noticed. They were a recently recruited soldiers.

The Meeting

The fateful meeting of the guys and the pup took place in July 1917. The United States was just emerged into World War I several months earlier, in April. Just a few weeks later, a draft had been issued for young men in every state. New soldiers that had come from the 102nd Infantry had recently started with their training on the fields and squares of Yale campus.

The Doughboys

Young American soldiers were known as doughboys. They had been selected from all over the country, where a number of them did not have any history or trained in shooting or the rigorous discipline that was required to join the United States military. Hence they needed some basic training only to discover something truly unexpected.

Meeting The Dog

The guys were doing about with their daily routine, exercising, marching and filing into ranks. But then some of them noticed that they had a spectator. They saw a very sad stray dog who was paying close attention to their activities and had been attentively watching them on the sidelines for a long time now. It was very blatant that he had a lot of interest.

Naming Him

The doughboys approached the pup and soon found out that he was nothing but friendly. Since they had been training day in and day out, it must have been a very useful distraction for them. After all, we can only imagine how stressful it must have been to be taking part in the war. The little dog had a stump tail leading the boys to call him Stubby! 

Stubby BFF

Private Robert Conroy was especially close to Stubby. He was a 25-year-old Irish-American who came from New Britain, Connecticut. His life was a heartbreaking one where his dad expired when he was just a toddler, 5 years of age and his mom died just months before the war broke out. He had a hole in his heart but luckily found a new friend in Stubby.

Was He Worthy?

From all the other doughboys in training at Yale, Stubby and Conroy had a special bond. Even Stubby did not hide his affection towards the soldier. It was actually prohibited to keep any pets during their training but since Stubby raised morale, he became an exception. And Stubby showed them that they did not make the wrong choice, that he was worthy.

A Brand New Recruit

The little pup was getting food from the soldiers and was even given the luxury of drinking out of the campus toilets. How happy must that have made him feel? It must have been a nice feeling for dear Stubby to have been inducted into a loving environment, to know that he was not alone anymore. And Stubby quickly proved his worth, showing that he was no ordinary mutt.

Profound Abilities

Stubby had been studying the routines of the soldiers for days now. When they went jogging or were marching in formation, Stubby never stayed still. He would often run next to them as if to say he wanted to join. He could even respond to bugle calls and drills. The soldiers were so impressed by his abilities but then soon they received a life-changing news.

Time For Deployment

Soon, the doughboy soldiers that belonged to the 102nd United States Infantry Regiment finally completed their basic training. It took several months to churn these ordinary bunch of boys to become properly-skilled fighting men that are capable of combat. Then, the time for them to be deployed overseas to go in battle with the Western Front in Europe struck.

War In Full Swing

World War I was already in full swing for about three years when America finally joined on the side of the Allies. Like any other war, this was going to be a brutal one for sure. The American soldiers were certain that the conditions awaiting them would indeed be tragic. So what were they going to do about the little dog? They could not let him join them, could they?

 Strong Friendship

Conroy was so attached to the dog that he did not even care for the US Army’s rules and law against soldiers keeping a pet. He and Stubby were now inseparable. Conroy even considered Stubby to be his new best buddy so he refused to be separated from him. He was in a way fearless of the consequences and took Stubby wherever he went.

An Illegal Act

So Robert Conroy eventually ended up going an illegal activity. He went ahead and smuggled Stubby onto the transport ship! Also, since all the other soldiers on his unit were very fond of Stubby, too, he knew they would not tell on him. And so, the 102nd Infantry went ahead with its trip to Europe, to join the war with the adorable doggy in the ship!

Still On Board

The ship was destined to reach the east across the Atlantic. The supervisors were completely oblivious to the fact that they had an illegal passenger on board, a very furry one. Were they going to tell on Conroy? When the officers were in their personal rooms, when the coast was clear, Conroy would bring Stubby out on the deck of the USS Minnesota and let him run around.

A Good Distraction

It would have been a little frightening to know that they were about to fight a war. Even if they were trained and ready, it would have still been quite nerve-wracking. But in a way, having Stubby around could have somehow given them a little calmness and hope. Stubby was a good distraction from all the chaos they were about to experience. They decided to give him a reward…

Fuzzy Soldier

During their journey, Robert Conroy had to hide his pal Stubby in a coal bin on the USS Minnesota most of the time. They were lucky because everyone on board could keep the secret as they loved the dog very much too. There was a machinist present in the ship crew who had a good idea for the proud pooch. Whatever could this be?

A Tag For Him

The machinist came up with something meant especially for Stubby. He gave him his very own pair of dog tags, which was something exactly like his human friends had! The active pup, however, could not understand the humor behind this funny pun. This was no matter, a stepping stone towards a military career that would surpass many soldiers who fought in the war too.

Stubby The Secret

As soon as the military ship reached their destination in France, Conroy received a new assignment. He was constantly moved from one base to another, he needed to be alert at all times for Stubby to avoid detection. Conroy had to hide little Stubby, keeping him inside heavy army blankets, and there were times he would conceal his furry friend on the insides of his overcoat.

Getting Caught

Their plans had all worked so far but even though he was completely attached to Stubby, Conroy was certain that his secret would be out in no time. It was not long until Conroy’s commanding officer ultimately found out about the dog! Conroy was now caught violating the army regulations. What was going to become of this? After all the effort they have put in, was this going to be the end?

Charming Stubby

It was quite a tense moment for the soldier as there was no way of getting out as he was caught red-handed. Conroy was in jeopardy of getting a punishment as he had defied orders. There was also a great chance of Stubby going back to his stray days as they could just leave him in the streets. But this time it would be on foreign land. Just then, Conroy decided to use a trick that Stubby had learned.

His Special Ability

Conroy had to find a way to convince the officers that this dog was not like a regular dog, that he was a very special dog. He gave Stubby the command, “Present Arms!” which Stubby obediently obeyed. He put his paw to his face and saluted the officer then and there! The officer was so amused that he did not put Conroy or Stubby under punishment. But it was not all laughter and joy for the two…

The Trenches

The duo was now faced with one of the most horrific times they ever had to experience. World War I took place on the Western Front along the trenches of the Swiss border all the way to the North Sea. For years, British, French, and Belgian soldiers had supervised them. It was now the American soldier’s turn to be in charge. Having Stubby around meant that they needn’t worry about rats which were a plus. But even the dog was about to realize that the war was no joke.

The Western Front

Stubby was present there facing the German troops on the other side and was not at all kept in safety away from the enemies. There was a brewing fight that urged the Germans to get out of eastern France. Stubby first came in contact with combat on February 5, 1918, that took place in a small French village called Chemin des Dames. The Americans were bombarded with bombs and shelling for one straight month! So how did Stubby react?

A Soldier With Brains

If you have come across the term “shell shock”, you would be aware that it originated from the condition of soldiers who came back from the Western Front during and after World War I. The explosive and destructive sounds became a norm for the men in battle. But Stubby’s hearing abilities was actually far more superior than that of the humans. Stubby’ was able to hear all the whistle and shriek of an artillery shell before the soldiers could. This helped the soldiers to prepare themselves and take cover each time.

No Man’s Land

Along the areas where the German enemy lines and the American trenches had the battle was called No Man’s Land. Nobody dared to cross the stretch as it meant absolute death by gunshot. Stubby needed to be careful about poking his head out of the dugout as a sniper could easily kill him. Stubby would often walk around the area cheering the soldiers up. It was dangerous for everyone including the gifted dog to walk along the tranches of No Man Land. Stubby actually had a unique ability.

Stubby The Hero

It was quite the surprise to see that the stray dog that Conroy had picked up in Connecticut turned out to be an absolutely brilliant dog. He had already shown just how amazing he is at cheering up spirits but now he was about to present his smartness and his compassion. Stubby could tell if a person shouting was in English or German. This way he could help to identify the soldiers who needed assistance in No Man’s Land. He would either lead them back to base or barked until a medic arrived. His abilities did not end at that…

Soldier On Duty

During the most horrific time during the war, Stubby did not leave Conroy and the other soldiers behind. He would maintain his duty and his ability to help save lives all day. The soldiers were becoming all the more loving towards the helpful pet. The stray dog was not a mascot for the 102nd Infantry Regiment. The troops and Stubby were braving the unsafe and horrendous conditions of the war but there was something way worse waiting for them…

Unexpected Weapon

World War I was definitely one that developed tragic novelties. Gas would definitely make it on the top of the list. Chemical gas bombs were one of the most commonly used weapons during this war. Stubby the dog was able to warn the soldiers of gunfire and artillery shells. This silent attacker was something he could not prepare the troops against. The troops have very little to battle this weapon. Masks were in shortage and so it was a definite setback. There was a mustard gas that engulfed their trench one fine day, what was going to happen…

An Injured Soldier

Mustard gas was highly dangerous as they can burn any surface it gets exposed to. This powerful German gas attack could leave many of the troops to be wounded or disfigured. Stubby was also a victim of this ruthless attack. His lungs were terribly affected by the gas. Stubby almost died because of the gas and had to be hospitalized nearby. His unit wanted to save him by all means and wanted to give him his very own gas mask. Something amazing took place right after…

Dog The Rescuer

Stubby was quick to learn everything he had experienced during his stay with the soldiers at war. He could help rescue men at No Man’s Land, he was able to give warning to his comrades in arms about incoming shells, and now he had learned to detect other threats like chemical gases. He had now developed his senses to smell out any gas attack quickly. He would bark and pull on soldiers as a warning for them to take cover. He was handed a few awards but where would he keep them?

A Heroic Pup

The American troops were gradually moving towards the east closer to the Germans. They had liberated another French village from the clutches of the German soldiers in a place called Château-Thierry. The local women were elated to be free and were quite fond of Stubby. The ladies wanted to reward these heroes with something. They sewed Stubby a chamois leather coat which would keep him warm when he dwelt in the trenches. He could now place the medals he had won properly. There was another mission approaching too…

Stubby Catches A Spy

There was one point in time where a German soldier crept very close to the American trenches. He had been studying the formation and activities of the Americans to come up with a better plan to infiltrate them. Stubby fortunately caught him in the act. The German spy tried wooing the pup but ended up getting viciously attacked by him. Stubby chased the spy and the noise alarmed the other American troops. He did not stop until they captured him and so the German’s Iron Cross was also kept in Stubby’s jacket! He was impressing so many other besides the foot soldiers…

Sergeant Stubby

Stubby was proving in more ways than one that he was clearly above the average soldier. But thwarting the German spy was different. The soldiers on a higher command had taken note of this. There was no doubt now that Stubby was a special pooch, helpful and efficient. Stubby made history as the first dog ever to get inducted into the military. He was a rank higher than some of his fellow soldiers as a sergeant. Sergeant Stubby was still dutiful and was not going to stop just yet…

Courageous Pooch

Sergeant Stubby was now very thorough with the routine of battle as he had spent months there. However, nothing could have prepared him for what took place when his unit stormed a German position at the French village of Seicheprey. The dog was, unfortunately, stepping too close to a German grenade. The explosion left a wound on Sergeant Stubby’s paw and chest. He had to be hospitalized once again but even there he cheered up a lot of other injured soldiers. There were other things happening for the sergeant dog too…

Astounding Work

After the World War I ended when the Armistice in November 1918 was signed, Sergeant Stubby definitely had a legacy to boast about, if ever he could! The once stray pup had participated in four different US Army offensives against the Germans on the Western Front. Sergeant Stubby had survived a whopping 17 battles. Ordinary dogs would have definitely turned timid or ran way but not Stubby. He received several medals including the Purple Heart. Now it was time for him to head home… What awaits him there?

A National Hero

The soldiers and officers of the Yankee Division were showering Stubby with the respect he deserves during the wartime. Now, for the first time, Sergeant Stubby was on his way home to get back to the land of American. He had to be smuggled once again to sail across the Atlantic! He had been swarmed by congratulatory gestures and handshakes by the Allied soldiers in Paris. He was now a certified celebrity pup who even lead several celebratory marches back home! Every major newspaper wrote about Sergeant Stubby.

Going On Tour

Sergeant Stubby even toured the country after World War I ended. He was indeed the ideal mascot for the US Army’s Yankee Division, who was perfect for the sale of war bonds. Many hotels with a no pet policy had to give this celebrity dog an exception! Sergeant Stubby was even inducted into the American Legion. The YMCA promised to provide him with free food for his entire life. In his little chamois coat made by the Frenchwomen pins and medals had adorned every possible space.

Medals And Honors

Sergeant’s amazing life story had yet another entry. This fighter had the honor of being received by three different United States presidents: Woodrow Wilson, Calvin Coolidge, and Warren G. Harding. There is only a handful who can say that they have had the same experience! General John Joseph Pershing had served as head of the American Expeditionary Forces on the Western Front. In 1921, he took time off from his busy schedule to honor Sergeant Stubby with a gold medal on behalf of the Humane Education Society. What about Robert Conroy then?

Joining School

Robert Conroy, Sergeant Stubby’s loyal owner, and best buddy, actually went back to school. He admitted himself to study law at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. This was the ideal place for Sergeant Stubby to live too as it was where all the high-ranking officials and presidents resided! When Conroy joined the football team, even Stubby would join him in the field. During halftime shows, the dog would play with the ball leaving the crowd to roar with excitement and amusement. The mascot of the Yankee Division had turned into Georgetown’s football mascot too…

His Legacy

On March 16, 1926, Sergeant Stubby died while sleeping, in the comfort of his best friend, Robert Conroy’s arms. Although his age was not known for sure, he was believed to be around 10 years old. There was a half-page obituary in the New York Times dedicated for Stubby. He was embalmed by his dear friend Conroy and 30 years later gifted Sergeant Stubby to the Smithsonian Museum in Washington. Sergeant Stubby can be seen with his chamois coat and the medallions, stripes, pins and even the Iron Cross from the German spy. Truly a hero and an inspiration for all…