Frank Carlson Library

Meet the forgotten members of the Greatest Generation: the war animals who guarded American coasts against submarine attack, dug out Londoners trapped in bomb wreckage, and carried vital messages under heavy fire on Pacific islands during World War II. They kept up morale, rushed machine gun nests, and even sacrificed themselves picking up live grenades. Now Robin Hutton, the bestselling author of Sgt. Reckless: America's War Horse, tells the heartwarming...

"It is September 1940-a year into the war-and as German bombs fall on Britain, fears grow of an impending invasion. Enemy fighter planes blacken the sky around the Epping Forest home of Susan Shepherd and her grandfather, Bertie. After losing her parents to influenza as a child, Susan found comfort in raising homing pigeons with Bertie. All her birds are extraordinary to Susan-loyal, intelligent, beautiful-but none more so than Duchess. Hatched from...

Military animals explores amazing creatures that have aided militaries on land, by air, and at sea. Learn how elephants, bats, monkeys, cats, and even glowworms helped out in times of war.

"Animals have played an important role in warfare throughout history. Military forces have long relied on animals' natural abilities to achieve their missions. From medieval warriors charging into combat on horseback to dolphins locating explosive mines at sea, take a look at the many ways animals have helped armies find success on the battlefield"--Provided by publisher.

"War heroes come in many shapes and sizes. They can be tall or short, old or young. During World War II, one war hero was ... a bear! He was all alone, an orphan. Until he found his ... brothers in arms" -- Book jacket flap.

Diagrams, graphs, and fun text help readers explore the place of animals in the military.

During World War II, the U.S. called upon all its citizens to contribute to the war effort, encouraging them to enlist, buy war bonds, and collect scrap metal. The use of American animals during the conflict further demonstrates the resourcefulness of the U.S. military and the many sacrifices that led to the Allies victory. Through 157 photographs from the National World War II Museum collection, Loyal Forces captures the heroism, hard work, and innate...