Seafaring Mascots & Four Legged Friends

Unnamed terrier gets a pet from a sailor aboard the USS Orion (AS-18) in Guantanamo Bay, 1947.

Animals have long been used for practical military service. Horses, camels, and elephants have hauled soldiers, supplies, and weapons. Pigeons have carried messages, while dogs guarded troops and tracked enemies.

Many have also performed their military duties as four-legged companions on ships. The long voyages at sea were monotonous and lonely and left sailors with a lot of time to think of impending battles and family back home. The adopted mascots brought on board helped to alleviate the boredom and isolation. While dogs and cats were the most popular, others included bears, pigs, and goats.

Whether they aided troops in combat or kept morale high, each animal did their part with dedication and bravery.

Left to right: Unnamed terrier and cat aboard the USS Orion (AS-18)  in Guantanamo Bay, 1947.

Unnamed cat with two sailors aboard the USS Orion (AS-18) in Guantanamo Bay, 1947.

Today, many nonmilitary animals have been called into service. Mostly dogs, they are trained to assist veterans with any number of traumas, including PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). Recently, the Museum hosted a photo contest inspired by the exhibit, In the Company of Animals: Pets of Charleston and one entry, in particular, stood out.

Adrian Backman and his service dog and best friend, Cookie. Charleston, SC, 2019.

Cookie, a 7 yr old chihuahua rescue is veteran Adrian Backman’s service dog and best pal. Backman, who suffers from laryngospasms and PTSD, found the help he needed from this lovable four legged friend. Backman’s wife, Glenda submitted the entry with these loving words, “She has been the best therapy for [his] PTSD… he says she makes him feel normal.” Like the pets pictured above, Cookie brings a companionship that stands the test of time and brings happiness in life’s darkest moments. Thank you to all of our veterans, and the companions that love them.

– Jennifer McCormick, Chief of Collections and Archivist