U.S. soldiers trapped by Germans in Argonne Forest fight for their lives

In the latter part of 1918, during World War I, U.S. infantrymen in northern France became trapped by German forces in the Argonne Forest. The 77th Infantry Division faced lethal assaults from both the enemy and friendly fire due to the lack of knowledge about their location. In this precarious situation, traditional communication methods struggled, leading to the deployment of messenger pigeons like Cher Ami, who was born in Norfolk, England, and assigned to the Signal Pigeon Corps. Despite the dangers, Cher Ami carried vital messages, including one stating the urgent medical needs of the platoon amidst confusion and chaos. Cher Ami's bravery was evident when he successfully delivered a crucial message even after being shot multiple times, resulting in injuries to his chest, leg, and loss of one eye. His enduring spirit and determination meant that he not only transmitted the voice of the lost soldiers but also helped to prevent further friendly fire, thereby saving countless lives. Cher Ami became a symbol of loyalty and service, highlighting the significant role animals played in warfare communication during this time. Following the war, Cher Ami was honored for his bravery, receiving the Croix de Guerre Medal as recognition of his heroic deeds. In 1931, he was inducted into the Racing Pigeon Hall of Fame, affirming his legacy within the community of homing pigeon racers. The 77th Infantry Division's use of pigeons for communication showcased an innovative approach to battlefield coordination, proving that these birds were reliable under extreme duress. Cher Ami, in particular, became a celebrated figure, illustrating a unique aspect of military history that is often overlooked. On November 2019, Cher Ami was posthumously awarded the Animals in War and Peace Medal of Bravery during a ceremony in Washington, D.C. He became one of the first recipients of this honor, solidifying his importance in both military history and the animal rights movement, as it raised awareness of the contributions made by animals in warfare. His incredible story serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by non-human agents in conflict and their vital roles in saving human lives.