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In honor of all of the Veterans who so gallantly and bravely fought for our country we present

Chips was a shepherd-sled dog mix trained at the “K-9” Center in Front Royal, Virginia in 1942. He was one of the first dogs to be shipped overseas. He served in General Patton's Africa campaign, then waded ashore with Patton's 3rd Division 7th Army into Sicily. In the invasion of Sicily, July 1943, he and his handler were attacked by a concealed machine gun. He captured 4 Italian soldiers and saved his handler. He suffered a bullet wound, burns and a scalp wound in this attack. That same night he helped capture another 10 Italian soldiers and U.S. newspapers called him a hero.

In tribute to Chips, unit leader Lieutenant Lucian Truscott, who later became a General, recommended Chips for the Silver Star and Purple Heart, citing his courageous actions. His medals, however, were recalled. The Army stated that medals were for men and dogs were considered equipment. It was then suggested that Chips be given the Quartermaster General's Certificate of Citation, but this was passed by.

He was finally awarded the European Theater Medal. On the ribbon was an arrowhead with a battle star for each of the eight campaigns in which Chips served. In addition, he received a unit citation with a personal letter of commendation.

Chips acted as a sentry for President Roosevelt and Prime Minister Churchill at their historic conference in Casablanca in 1943.

After the war Chips was escorted across the Atlantic, then to Virginia, where the Army had a red carpet welcome home for his discharge.

Chips died seven months after coming home, from complications of his war injuries, at age 6. In 1993, Disney Studios produced the TV movie, "Chips the War Dog” and in 2000, The Smithsonian Magazine proclaimed him the most notable war time canine.

Excerpts from the Biography by: John "J-Cat" Griffith Submitted by Vic Guilmino

You are welcome to submit stories of famous dogs in history