Smoky, a tiny Yorkshire Terrier, wasn’t just a mascot; she was a decorated combat veteran, a comforting presence in military hospitals, and arguably the world’s first emotional support dog. Her story, one of incredible bravery and unwavering loyalty, is commemorated by a statue in a GI helmet at Rocky River Reservation, just outside Cleveland. This memorial honors not only Smoky but all animals who served alongside soldiers, easing the hardships of war.
Smoky’s remarkable journey began in March 1944, amidst the fierce fighting in the jungles of New Guinea. Discovered in a foxhole by American GI Ed Downey, the four-pound pup was soon sold to Corporal William A. Wynne for a mere two Australian pounds. Wynne, already familiar with dog training from his pre-war life in Cleveland, recognized the uncommonly adventurous, tough, and smart nature of the little Yorkshire Terrier. This resilience would be crucial, as Smoky would go on to survive 18 months of continuous World War II combat.
As a member of the 5th Air Force’s 26th Photo Reconnaissance Squadron, Smoky’s life mirrored that of the soldiers. She learned over 200 hand signals and commands, ate C-rations, and slept in Wynne’s tent, always carried in his backpack. This meant Smoky endured over 150 Japanese air raids and flew on 12 rescue and photo reconnaissance missions. Her ability to adapt and survive extended to naval life, where she weathered Japanese kamikaze attacks and a typhoon on Okinawa. Remarkably, she even saved Wynne’s life by warning him of an incoming attack while aboard a landing craft, an incident that killed eight other men nearby.
Smoky’s most celebrated contribution occurred during the U.S. invasion of the Philippines in January 1945. The 26th Photo Reconnaissance Squadron was tasked with constructing an airbase under heavy enemy fire. A critical challenge was running a communications cable through a 70-foot long pipe, just eight inches in diameter. Traditional methods would have required digging up the taxiway and closing the runway for three days, exposing work crews to constant enemy attacks. In a feat of canine ingenuity, Smoky was sent through the pipe with the wire attached to her collar, completing the task in mere minutes. This prevented significant delays and exposed American aircraft to less risk.
Beyond her wartime duties, Smoky brought joy and comfort to weary troops and wounded soldiers in hospitals across the Pacific Theater. Her charm and discipline earned her the title of “Champion Mascot in the Southwest Pacific Area” after Wynne submitted a photo of her in his GI helmet to Yank Magazine.
When the war concluded, strict orders dictated that soldiers leave their animals behind before returning home. However, Wynne could not abandon his loyal companion. He successfully smuggled Smoky back to the United States in his oxygen mask bag. Upon their return to Cleveland, Smoky continued her role as a therapeutic presence, entertaining and comforting veterans in hospitals across the country until 1954.
Smoky passed away in February 1957 at the age of 14. Wynne buried her in a World War II ammunition box in Rocky River Reservation. For five decades, her resting place remained unmarked until Vietnam veteran Jim Strand, aware of Smoky’s significance, initiated a fundraising effort for the monument that stands today. Strand recreated the iconic image of Smoky in Wynne’s helmet and dedicated the memorial to “Dogs of All Wars.” In 1996, William Wynne, who later became a photojournalist, documented Smoky’s extraordinary life in his memoir, “Yorkie Doodle Dandy: A Memoir.” Wynne himself passed away in 2021 at the age of 99.
The recognition of Smoky’s service continued years after her death. In the year following the dedication of her memorial, Smoky was posthumously awarded the Animals in War & Peace Distinguished Service Medal for her exceptional service as a mascot, companion, and pioneering therapy dog during World War II. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the profound impact animals can have, even in the most challenging circumstances.
If you’re interested in learning more about the incredible bonds between humans and animals, especially those forged in times of conflict, you might find stories like Smoky’s particularly moving. Exploring narratives of animal bravery and companionship can offer a unique perspective on history and the unwavering spirit of these incredible creatures.
