CHIPS: THE MOST DECORATED DOG OF WW II
Dogs have served America's military in so many ways ever since the Revolutionary War. Whether taking an active part in battles, acting as sentries, sniffing out explosives, detecting mines, guarding the wounded, attacking enemy forces, or serving as companions to troops stationed overseas, their service has been invaluable. Paws of War is saluting these animals as part of our tribute to the nation's 250th anniversary of independence.
One such dog is Chips, the most decorated canine to serve in World War Two. A German Shepherd/Collie/Husky-Malamute mix, Chips was one of approximately 1,900 dogs donated by
American families for training and shipment overseas to support the war effort. Not long after being deployed to North Africa in 1942, Chips alerted his handler to an imminent ambush, then ran through gunfire, returning to base carrying a phone cable affixed to his collar — enabling his platoon to call for help.
Chips took part in the amphibious landing of American troops during the invasion of Sicily the following year. When his platoon moved inland, fire came from an Italian machine gun nest, hitting several Americans immediately. Chips broke free from his handler. Ignoring commands to return, he braved intense gunfire to attack the nest and seized the machine gunner by the throat. The machine gun was knocked over, Chips sustained a scalp wound, and there were gunpowder burns from a pistol shot.
Soldiers followed up on Chips' attack. While medics attended to him, four enemy combatants were captured. But Chips wasn't done for the day. After darkness fell, he signaled danger just beyond the American perimeter, which led to the capture of ten more Italian soldiers.
News of Chips' bravery in Sicily spread among American forces, and his deeds were heralded in newspapers. The valiant dog was awarded the Silver Star, the Purple Heart, and the Distinguished Service Cross. He was also given eight battle stars representing the campaigns he took part in, and a Theater Ribbon.
He went on to fight on the Italian mainland, in France, the Rhineland, and Central Europe. He was also one of three dogs assigned to provide security in 1943 to FDR and Churchill when they met to discuss Allied strategy in Casablanca.
Chips was discharged from the Army in December 1945 and returned to the Wren family of Pleasantville, New York. "Chips was something of a celebrity when he returned from the war, but we were just pleased to have our dog back," said John Wren.
Paws of War has been bringing dogs back to the States from military bases and conflicts around the world for the past 12 years. We are dedicated to reuniting dogs with the troops they've bonded with overseas. Like Chips, all of these dogs are amazing American heroes. We are honored to serve them and all those whom they have so faithfully served.
