For these dogs of the Marine Corps during World War II, every day was Take Your Dog to Work Day. Read the story of these dogs in “Let the Records Bark.”
Then, in addition to providing various basic personal details, each applicant was required to provide answers to a number of personality-focused questions, including: “Are you nervous?” “Gun Shy?” “Storm Shy?” “Do you run away?” “Have you lived in house, or kennel?” “What is your attitude toward strangers?” The only thing lacking is a short essay explaining the applicant’s reasons for wanting to join up.
Once accepted for service, the dogs went to the Dog Detachment Training Center at Camp Lejeune, where they were qualified in obedience and at least one other specialty. The record book lists the following possibilities: Guard Duty, Tracking, Attack, Messenger, First Aid, or Draft. In fact, however, most Marine dogs were used for messenger or scouting work.
Image: Butch poses with his handler. Records of the United States Marine Corps, RG 127
