CANINE COMBATANTS OF THE KOREAN WAR
What force was responsible for a 65% reduction in casualties incurred by American patrol units during the Korean War? It was the 26th Scout Dog Platoon, whose brave canines have become legendary. As Paws of War pays tribute to our nation's 250 years of independence, we are looking back at their service in defending our troops in the monumental battles with North Korea and China during that heavy-casualty war.
Conducting over 1,550 combat patrols, these dogs fiercely guarded their human counterparts by serving as sentries — silently warning during patrols and at observation posts and forward outposts. Among the canine heroes were German Shepherds named Arlo, who is thought to have saved his patrol
unit from a certain ambush, and York, who took part in 148 missions without losing a man. Their stories were hardly unique; the service these animals provided proved that they were going to be essential in any future conflict. And, unlike at the close of World War II when most canine units were disbanded, the role of dogs defending troops would never be challenged again.
A dog handler named Robert Fickbohm wrote in his book Cold Noses, Brave Hearts: Dogs and Men of the 26th Infantry Platoon Scout Dog:
"...between June of 1951 and the end of the war on July 26, 1953, they (the dogs of the 26th) were never put in reserve. They gave support to every United States Division and went on patrols with many United Nations Units. The members were awarded a total of three Silver Stars, six Bronze Hearts for Valor, and 35 Bronze Stars for Meritorious Service. Too many of them earned Purple Hearts."
These dogs lived on in the hearts and minds of the soldiers they sacrificed for. As for their impact on the enemy, the Chinese considered the dogs to be soldiers, had snipers trying to take them out with an incident's first shots, and used megaphones to blast out the message, "Americans, take your dogs and go home."
Paws of War brings our soldiers' faithful, devoted four-legged guardians and companions home from wars and military installations spread across the globe. We know they showed no hesitation in serving us, and we do not hesitate to serve them and those whom they have so unceasingly stood beside.
Let's honor their legacy as America observes its 250th anniversary. For us, that's a forever commitment.
