Credit: Barnes and Nobles

In a heartwarming tribute to history’s bravest animal heroes, author, and illustrator Erin McGill has brought their extraordinary tales to life in her new children’s book, “We Also Served: True Stories of Brave Animals in the Military and Other Heroic Tales.” From courageous canines to patriotic birds, these animals stood alongside their human counterparts, displaying unwavering bravery and loyalty. Join us as we dive into this captivating collection that introduces young readers to the incredible world of military animals. 

Sergeant Reckless: The Horse That Rode into Legend 

Among the featured stories is that of Sergeant Reckless, a remarkable horse who carried ammunition and wounded Marines through the treacherous mountains of Korea during the Korean War. Wounded twice himself, Reckless’s heroism earned him a promotion to sergeant and two Purple Hearts. His incredible service and bond with his fellow Marines make him an unforgettable character in the book. 

According to Military.com, McGill compiled the stories of 13 courageous war heroes that also happened to be animals and wrote them in a way children ages 4-8 can appreciate. The author masterfully weaves together stories of courage, including those of Sgt. Reckless, the brave horse who served in the Korean War, alongside the accounts of Rip and Beauty, two search and rescue dogs who bravely endured World War II. 

“We Also Served: True Stories of Brave Animals in the Military and Other Heroic Tales” is an enchanting tribute to the incredible animal heroes who have served alongside humans throughout history. With captivating illustrations and age-appropriate storytelling, Erin McGill invites young readers to learn about these extraordinary creatures and the invaluable contributions they made.  

This delightful children’s book not only educates but also ignites a sense of wonder and respect for the courageous animals who have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with their human counterparts on the path of bravery.