War Pigeon! Operations & Gear of the US Army Pigeon Corps

Tim Scherrer

ISBN 978-1105080081

https://www.lulu.com/.../paperback/product-p4qg92.html; available through Amazon.com

Hardcover & softbound, 2021, 305 pages, fully illustrated in color and black-and-white, Soft bound: $37.99; Hardcover: $52.99

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The U.S. Army Signal Pigeon Corps served from 1917-1957. During those four decades of distinguished service, the pigeoneers built a world class program that provided the Army reliable communications during WWI, WWII and the Korean War. While universally recognized, hereto for, little has been published about the very important Army program to utilize homing pigeons to establish non-electronic communications links between troops in the front lines and the strategist far behind the fighting. Finally, author Tim Scherrer —a retired Military Intelligence Officer — explores this program established by the Army Signal Corps during WWI. 

Beginning with a clarification of differences between homing, carrier, and park pigeons, the book focuses almost exclusively on the homing pigeons in U.S. Army service beginning in WWI through the end of the program in 1957 with an emphasis on WWII activities. 

During the Second World War, the U.S. Army created 12 Signal Pigeon Companies with over 50,000 pigeons in their lofts. They served in the United States, Africa, Europe and Asia. Their winged messengers delivered 95% of their messages at speeds as high as 100 miles per hour. Many lives were saved as pigeons “got the message through.” 

The operations of the Pigeon Corps during the Korean War and Cold War-era are also documented in this work. While many other publications will expound on “hero pigeons,” only one such animal is named in this work. Rather, the author focused on the totality of the Pigeon Corps — the pigeoneers and their specialized equipment as well as the birds. 

In addition to chapters covering pigeon-worn and pigeoneer equipment, there are some interesting sections that cover carriers — both body-worn or vehicle-towed/mounted. This, alone, should inspire those looking for the next unique recreation, whether for living history or military vehicle interpretation. Regardless, you will find this book is filled with “I never knew that” moments, making it one of the more delightful books you will add to your library. — JAG

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