Sergeant Reckless
In honor of Memorial Day, we wanted to take a moment to remember Staff Sergeant Reckless--a decorated war horse who was one of the first animals to hold official rank in the United States military.
Beyond her bravery, she was known for her willingness to eat nearly anything, including scrambled eggs, beer, Coca-Cola, and once, about $30 worth of poker chips.
Reckless was purchased by members of the United States Marine Corps in Seoul from a Korean stable boy to help pay for his sister’s prosthetic leg. This seemingly simple act of generosity would be paid back in spades during her time as a pack horse for the Recoilless Rifle Platoon, Anti-Tank Company, 5th marine regiments, first marine division.
The mare’s most significant accomplishment came during the Battle of Panmunjom-Vegas in 1953, when she made 51 solo trips in a single day, covering over 35 miles. She was wounded twice during the battle, both to her eye and leg, but refused to rest. For her accomplishments, she was promoted to the rank of Corporal.
Reckless was promoted again in 1959 to Staff Sergeant, and was honored with a 19-gun salute and a 1,700-man parade of Marines from her wartime unit.
Beyond her bravery, she was known for her willingness to eat nearly anything, including scrambled eggs, beer, Coca-Cola, and once, about $30 worth of poker chips.
We want to thank Reckless and everyone who has served our great nation this coming Memorial Day. Thank you all for your service!
