03/14/2026
This tiny Yorkshire Terrier has a big story.
Smoky was found in an abandoned foxhole in the New Guinea jungle during World War II. An American soldier later sold her to Corporal William Wynne for what would be about $6.44 today. From that moment on, she became part of the Fifth Air Force.
She joined 12 air and sea rescue and photo reconnaissance missions. She even parachuted from 30 feet with a custom-made parachute. Life in a war zone meant there was no veterinary care available, and at one point, she was even fed coral to survive.
Somehow, Smoky made it through without needing medical care, even after being stung by a jungle centipede. She's also credited with saving Wynne’s life by warning him of an incoming attack and guiding him to cover.
After the war, when Wynne spent five nights in the hospital at the Mayo Clinic, Smoky was smuggled in to visit him and quickly won over the nursing staff. They ultimately allowed her to stay and sleep beside him. And she later became known as one of the first recorded therapy dogs.
Her bravery has been honored with multiple recognitions, including the PDSA Certificate for Animal Bravery and Devotion and the Animals in War and Peace Distinguished Service Medal.
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On K9 Veterans Day, we are inspired by Smoky’s resilience and the powerful bond between people and their dogs.
