How A Dog Won The Nation's Heart By Saving Thousands Of Lives In WWII

How A Dog Won The Nation's Heart By Saving Thousands Of Lives In WWII

Stories of a dog saving a human life are not unusual to us. The heroic action of a canine companion rescuing his pet parent, or running miles to seek help, has our hearts melting.

It is also a constant reminder of how precious and irreplaceable our four-legged friends and family members truly are. One dog, however, has saved the lives of thousands! Judy was a pure-bred liver and white-colored pointer came to the attention of thousands in 1945. The news of her service and time spent as an official Prisoner of War came to light in that year, stealing the heart of the nation. Judy was the ship’s mascot on board the gunboat HMS Gnat in 1936, where she warned sailors of incoming river pirates and even pointed out the approach of airplanes in the dark.

When their ship was invaded and they were stranded on an island, Judy pointed out and dug a hole at a freshwater resource for the survivors. After surviving yet another few attacks and near-death experiences, Judy saved many and bonded with leading aircraftman Frank Williams. They were once again attacked, and Judy was ordered to be killed. Thankfully, a former prisoner of war commander declared she would not be hurt or killed! When they were transported, Judy was allowed to come with (much to the distaste of the Japanese). They survived yet another attack, and Judy continued to save lives.

Through many more travels and attacks, Judy prevailed alongside Frank. Eventually reaching Britain, Judy was awarded the highest honor of the PDSA Dickens’ Medal. This amazing canine companion continued her dedicated service until she eventually reached the end of her life in Tanzania, alongside her most loved human.

Feature Image Source: PDSA

Images Source: PDSA

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