In World War II, the remarkable tale of Wojtek, a bear who fought with Polish soldiers, exemplified resilience and unity. Adopted by the Polish Army, Wojtek bravely travelled from Iran’s mountains to Italy’s battlegrounds, finally settling in Scotland. More than a mascot, Wojtek’s journey made him not only a Polish hero but also a symbol of wartime unity.
Wojtek’s Origins: From Iran to Poland
Wojtek’s story begins in the spring of 1942, in the mountains near Hamadan, Iran, where a young bear cub was found by an Iranian boy. The cub’s mother had been killed by hunters, leaving the small bear orphaned. The boy sold the cub to a group of Polish soldiers who were passing through Iran as part of the Anders’ Army—a Polish military force formed by General Władysław Anders from Polish citizens freed from Soviet labor camps. Among these soldiers was Irena Bokiewicz, a young refugee who took a special interest in the cub. Naming him Wojtek, derived from the Slavic name “Wojciech,” meaning “joyful warrior,” the soldiers adopted him into their ranks.
As Wojtek grew, so did his bond with the soldiers of the 22nd Artillery Supply Company. He quickly became a source of comfort and amusement in the harsh conditions of military life. He learned to drink beer, smoke cigarettes, and even march on his hind legs like the soldiers. But Wojtek’s role would soon go beyond that of a mascot. His strength and loyalty were put to the test on the battlefield, where he proved his worth as a true member of the Polish Army.
Wojtek in Battle: The Hero of Monte Cassino
Wojtek’s most famous moment came during the Battle of Monte Cassino in 1944, one of the most significant and grueling campaigns of World War II. The Polish 2nd Corps, which included the 22nd Artillery Supply Company, was tasked with carrying heavy ammunition to the front lines in the fight to break through German defenses.
As the story goes, Wojtek watched his comrades struggling to move the large crates of artillery shells, and, mimicking their actions, he began to carry the crates himself. Astonishingly, Wojtek lifted 100-pound crates of ammunition—tasks typically requiring four men—with ease, never dropping a single one. His efforts boosted the morale of the soldiers, who viewed him not just as a bear but as a fellow soldier. For his service, Wojtek was officially enlisted as a private and later promoted to the rank of corporal, complete with his own paybook and serial number.
The image of Wojtek carrying ammunition became iconic, and the bear was adopted as the official emblem of the 22nd Artillery Supply Company. To this day, the legend of Wojtek is celebrated as a symbol of bravery and the close bond between the soldiers and their unusual comrade.
Wojtek’s Post-War Life: From Poland to Scotland
After the war, Wojtek and his fellow soldiers were transported to Berwickshire in Scotland, where they were stationed at Winfield Camp. Wojtek became a beloved figure among the local population, and his fame quickly spread across the United Kingdom. After the Polish units were disbanded, Wojtek was transferred to Edinburgh Zoo, where he lived out the rest of his days.
During his time at the zoo, Wojtek was frequently visited by his former comrades, who would toss him cigarettes—just like in the old days—and speak to him in Polish, which he still recognized. His story captivated the public, and he became a frequent guest on BBC’s children’s program Blue Peter. Wojtek passed away on December 2, 1963, at the age of 21, but his legacy lived on in both Poland and Scotland.
For more about Wojtek’s post-war life and the legacy he left in Edinburgh, click here to read the Edinburgh Magazine article.
Memorials in Poland: Honoring Wojtek’s Legacy
Wojtek’s memory is cherished in Poland, where his story has become part of the national narrative of World War II. The city of Poznań, in particular, has embraced Wojtek’s legacy. In 2017, the city council named a street after him—ulica Kaprala Wojtka (Corporal Wojtek Street)—leading to the Poznań New Zoo, where a wooden statue of Wojtek now stands. This statue, unveiled in 2018, was funded by Krystyna Wieczorek, a Polish author who has written about Wojtek’s life.
Poznań’s dedication to commemorating Wojtek is shared by other Polish cities. In Kraków, a statue of Wojtek was erected in Jordan Park in 2014, marking the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Monte Cassino. Other memorials to Wojtek can be found in Warsaw, Żagań, and Szczecin, making him a beloved national figure.
For more about Wojtek’s memorials and ongoing impact in Wrocław and Kraków, click here to read the Wrocław Magazine article.
Wojtek’s Continued Cultural Impact
Wojtek’s legacy continues to inspire and fascinate people around the world. His story has been immortalized in books, documentaries, and statues, ensuring that future generations will remember the remarkable bear who fought for freedom alongside Polish soldiers. From his early days as an orphaned cub in Iran to his final years in Scotland, Wojtek’s journey is a testament to the extraordinary bonds that can form between humans and animals, even in the most challenging circumstances.
Today, Wojtek is not only a symbol of Polish pride but also a reminder of the strength of friendship and the enduring spirit of those who fought for freedom during World War II. His story bridges nations, from Poland to Scotland, and continues to be celebrated across borders.
To learn more about Wojtek’s journey and his enduring significance, make sure to check out the other articles in this series:
