Wartime Communication

Pigeons were used a lot during World War I. One famous homing pigeon, Cher Ami, was given a French medal called the Croix de guerre. She earned it for bravely delivering 12 important messages, even after being badly hurt.

During World War II, Irish pigeon Paddy, American pigeon G.I. Joe, and English pigeon Mary of Exeter all received the Dickin Medal. This award is for animals that show great bravery. They were among 32 pigeons to get this medal for saving human lives. Eighty-two homing pigeons were dropped into the Netherlands during Operation Market Garden in World War II. Their home was in London, meaning they had to fly 240 kilometers (150 miles) to deliver messages. Also in World War II, hundreds of homing pigeons were dropped into northwest Europe. They helped local resistance fighters send secret information. Pigeons were very important during the Invasion of Normandy because radios could not be used. This was to prevent the enemy from hearing important information.

In a lighter moment during World War II, Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret, who were Girl Guides, used pigeons to send messages. This was part of a campaign in 1943 to raise money for homing pigeons.

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