‘Wojtek (1942–1963) was a Syrian brown bear cub found in Iran and adopted by soldiers of the 22nd Artillery Supply Company of the Polish II Corps. He enjoyed wrestling and was taught to salute when greeted. With the company he moved to Iraq and then through Syria, Palestine and Egypt.
‘He was officially drafted into the Polish Army as a private. During the Battle of Monte Cassino, Wojtek helped move ammunition.
‘Following demobilization on November 15, 1947, Wojtek was given to the Edinburgh Zoo.’
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Thank you to Wojtek – The Bear That Went To War
This capsule was curated by Natalie Watson: ‘My Grandad told me stories about fighting with him’
