The pigeon that famously saved lives was Cher Ami, a heroic homing pigeon from World War I.
The Bravery of Cher Ami
Cher Ami, whose name means “dear friend” in French, was an indispensable messenger during the First World War. Born in 1918, this remarkable bird played a critical role in one of the war's most harrowing incidents, directly saving numerous American soldiers.
Saving the Lost Battalion
During the Meuse-Argonne Offensive in October 1918, a unit of the 77th Division, later known as the "Lost Battalion," found themselves trapped behind enemy lines with no means of communication. Surrounded by German forces and mistakenly shelled by their own artillery, their situation was dire. They dispatched pigeons with messages, but many were shot down.
It was Cher Ami who carried the final, crucial message for Major Charles Whittlesey's isolated men. Despite being severely wounded by enemy fire—shot through the breast, blinded in one eye, and with one leg barely attached—Cher Ami persevered. The brave pigeon managed to fly 25 miles in just 25 minutes, delivering the message that allowed the stranded soldiers to be rescued. This incredible act of resilience saved the lives of 194 members of the Lost Battalion.
The Role of Pigeons in Wartime
Pigeons played an incredibly important role in getting messages between units on the battlefield during conflicts like World War I. Their ability to quickly and reliably carry small messages over long distances made them invaluable communication tools in an era before widespread radio or satellite technology. They were trained to return to their lofts, making them ideal for relaying critical information from the front lines back to headquarters.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Name | Cher Ami |
| Meaning | "Dear Friend" (French) |
| Birth Year | 1918 |
| Significance | Saved the "Lost Battalion" of the 77th Division |
| Key Action | Delivered a vital message despite severe injury |
Cher Ami became a celebrated war hero, awarded the French Croix de Guerre with a palm leaf for heroic service. After recuperating, Cher Ami was brought back to the United States and became a symbol of courage and devotion, serving as an inspiring example of the unique contributions animals made to the war effort. More details about Cher Ami can be found at the National Museum of the United States Army.
