Wartime tales often highlight unexpected heroes, but few are as remarkable as Cher Ami, a homing pigeon who saved 195 soldiers during World War I. This courageous bird delivered a vital message that turned the tide of battle and symbolized resilience and bravery.

On October 13, 1918, Major Charles White Whittlesey and his men, known as the “Lost Battalion,” were trapped behind enemy lines in a small valley. Surrounded by German forces, they faced heavy fire and dwindling resources. To make matters worse, their troops mistakenly bombarded them, thinking they were enemies.

Desperate for help, Whittlesey sent messages through pigeons. The first two were shot down, and a third delivered incorrect coordinates. Finally, their last hope lay with Cher Ami. Whittlesey wrote: “We are along the road parallel to 276.4. Our artillery is dropping a barrage directly on us. For heaven’s sake, stop it.”

Cher Ami soared through the chaos as German forces targeted him. Despite being struck by bullets, losing an eye, and nearly losing a leg, the brave pigeon flew 25 miles in just 25 minutes to deliver the message. His efforts stopped the barrage, saving nearly 200 lives.

Though gravely injured, Cher Ami was treated by medics, who crafted a small wooden leg to replace his shattered one. He was later honored with the Croix de Guerre and became a celebrated mascot of the U.S. Army.

Today, Cher Ami’s legacy lives on. His taxidermied body is displayed at the Smithsonian Institution as a reminder of the extraordinary bravery of even the smallest heroes in times of war.