Amidst the chaos and hardships of World War II, a unique bond was formed between a group of Polish soldiers and an unlikely comrade – a Syrian brown bear. This is the remarkable tale of Wojtek, the bear who became a hero.
A New Army And A New Mascot
Poland endured immense suffering during World War II. After being invaded by both the Nazis and the Soviets, the country found itself occupied once again. Amidst the turmoil, an agreement known as the Sikorski-Mayski Agreement allowed the formation of the Polish II Corps, led by Lieutenant General Władysław Anders. This new army was stationed on Soviet soil, yet it held its own identity.
In the spring of 1942, as the Polish II Corps made their way to Iran, they encountered an Iranian boy in the town of Hamadan who had found an orphaned bear cub. Enamored with the cub, one of the civilians exchanged a few tins of food for him. The bear cub, named Wojtek, became a part of the 22nd Artillery Supply Company and accompanied the unit on their journey through the Middle East.
Wojtek The Bear Becomes Corporal Wojtek
Growing up alongside the soldiers, Wojtek developed some unconventional habits. He would drink milk from an old vodka bottle, indulge in beer and wine, and even smoke (and eat) cigarettes with his army buddies. His camaraderie with the troops brought a sense of joy and laughter during the darkest of times. Wojtek would often engage in playful wrestling matches with his fellow fighters and had even learned to salute when greeted.
Wojtek sits with a Polish soldier, 1942.
In 1943, as the unit prepared to board a ship and join the Allied campaign in Italy, Wojtek faced a challenge. Officials at the Alexandria port in Egypt refused to allow the bear on board, as he was not officially recognized as a member of the army. In a creative solution, soldiers granted Wojtek the rank of private in the Polish II Corps, complete with a service number and pay book. With these newfound credentials, Wojtek was able to join his comrades on the vessel, this time as a legitimate soldier.
By the time they arrived in Italy, Wojtek had grown into a massive 6-foot-tall, 485-pound bear. His impressive size and strength proved useful as the company trained him to carry crates of mortar rounds, a task he performed tirelessly during the intense battle of Monte Cassino. Wojtek not only survived the conflict but also achieved legendary status. In recognition of his bravery, the Polish high command named him the official emblem of the 22nd Artillery Supply Company.
When the war finally ended in 1945, Wojtek retired from his military life and accompanied his fellow soldiers to Scotland. While his comrades reintegrated into society, Wojtek found his home in the Edinburgh Zoo. Visitors recount that the aging bear would perk up upon hearing the Polish language, a reminder of the time he spent with his beloved comrades.
Wojtek passed away in the Edinburgh Zoo on December 2, 1963, at the age of 21. Although he is no longer with us, his exceptional story continues to inspire awe and admiration. Wojtek, the bear who became a soldier, will forever be remembered as a symbol of courage and loyalty in the face of adversity.
For more captivating vintage news stories, visit All Vintage News.
