Wojtek: The War Bear of WWII

For thousands of years, animals have aided humans in the field of combat.

However, bears are not always the first creatures to come to mind when thinking of

animals in war. A Syrian brown bear adopted as a cub by Polish soldiers during WWII is the

standout exception to the rule. Named Wojtek, the bear grew up within the 22nd

Artillery Supply Company and formed a close bond with the soldiers. They even shared

their cigarettes and beer with him. Wojtek grew into a 40-stone adult and was officially

enlisted into the army to secure his rations. The bear rose from the rank of private

to corporal after his exploits during the Battle of Monte Cassino in Italy in May 1944.