Who owned Chips, the most decorated war dog of World War II?

Chips, the most decorated war dog of World War II, was owned by the Wren family of Pleasantville, New York. He was a mixed-breed dog, primarily a German Shepherd-Collie-Siberian Husky mix, and was donated to the U.S. Army by the Wren family in 1942 as part of the Dogs for Defense program. This program encouraged civilians to donate their dogs to the military for use in various roles during the war, including sentry duty, messenger work, and scouting.

Chips served with the 3rd Infantry Division and participated in campaigns in North Africa, Sicily, Italy, France, and Germany. He became famous for his bravery and effectiveness in combat. One of his most notable actions occurred during the invasion of Sicily in 1943. Chips and his handler, Private John Rowell, were part of a platoon that came under fire from an enemy machine gun nest. Chips broke free from his handler, charged the nest, and attacked the gunners, forcing them to surrender. This act of bravery earned him the Silver Star for gallantry and the Purple Heart for injuries sustained during the attack. However, these awards were later revoked due to a policy that prohibited animals from receiving military decorations. Despite this, Chips was widely celebrated for his heroism.

Chips' story highlights the important role that dogs played in World War II. Military working dogs were trained for a variety of tasks, including detecting mines, carrying messages, and providing companionship to soldiers. Their keen senses and loyalty made them invaluable assets in the field. Chips' bravery and dedication are emblematic of the contributions made by countless dogs during the war.

After the war, Chips was returned to the Wren family in 1945. His service had taken a toll on his health, and he passed away in 1946. His legacy, however, lives on. In 2018, Chips was posthumously awarded the PDSA Dickin Medal, often referred to as the "animal's Victoria Cross," in recognition of his bravery and service during World War II. This award is considered the highest honor for animals in military service.

For those interested in learning more about military working dogs, there are several resources available. Books such as "Chips: The War Dog" by Nancy West and "War Dogs: Tales of Canine Heroism, History, and Love" by Rebecca Frankel provide detailed accounts of Chips' life and the broader history of dogs in the military. Additionally, organizations like the United States War Dogs Association work to preserve the memory of military working dogs and support the training and care of current service dogs.

If you are considering adopting a dog with a military or working background, it is important to understand their unique needs. These dogs are often highly trained and may require specialized care and training to adjust to civilian life. Consulting with a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer who has experience with working dogs can be beneficial. Additionally, providing a structured environment and plenty of mental and physical stimulation can help these dogs thrive.

In summary, Chips was owned by the Wren family and became one of the most celebrated military dogs of World War II due to his bravery and service. His story underscores the vital role that dogs have played in military history and serves as a reminder of the bond between humans and animals in times of conflict. For those interested in military working dogs, there are many resources and organizations dedicated to honoring their contributions and supporting their well-being.