Rob the parachute jumping dog - a cautionary tail

[Tapioca_Dextrin]

WWII had its share of amazing exploits and heroic warriors, but Rob was one the true tough guys. A member of the SAS and veteran of 20 jumps. Special Forces members rarely receive official recognition, but Rob (serial number No 471/322) was awarded the Dickin medal on January 22 1945. The official citation reads

“Took part in landings during North African Campaign with an Infantry unit and later served with a Special Air Unit in Italy as patrol and guard on small detachments lying-up in enemy territory. His presence with these parties saved many of them from discovery and subsequent capture or destruction. Rob made over 20 parachute descents.”

Rob was a border collie.

And what could make this absolutely beautiful story of doggy derring do better? Nothing.

What could make it not so good? The story was completely made up

His reputation was concocted when Rob’s owners, who had lent him to the Army Veterinary and Remount Services to help the war effort, wrote asking if they could have their dog back.

Burt, who had grown attached to the dog, was upset at the prospect of losing him, so he and Hughes contrived to keep him in the regiment by sending him on a parachute jump. Hughes would then write to the family to say that Rob’s services were indispensable.

“We had a suitable parachute harness and I phoned through to the RAF and made arrangements for Rob to have a short flight,” Hughes wrote in his memoir. “Unfortunately, quite a strong wind blew up during the flight and the RAF decided it would be dangerous to drop Rob on that day.”

[Winston_Smith]

Meh. My granparent’s German Shepard, King, helped write the first draft of Iraq’s new Constitution.

[EddyTeddyFreddy]

@Winston Smith

Meh. My granparent’s German Shepard, King, helped write the first draft of Iraq’s new Constitution.

Well! That explains a LOT.

[Winston_Smith]

@EddyTeddyFreddy

Well! That explains a LOT.

Yeah, the whole country’s gone to the dogs.

[Tapioca_Dextrin]

@Winston Smith

Meh. My granparent’s German Shepard, King, helped write the first draft of Iraq’s new Constitution.

What do you want? A medal?

[Johnny_L.A]

@Tapioca Dextrin

What do you want? A medal?

Mutley, you snickering, floppy eared hound
When courage is needed, you’re never around
Those medals you wear on your moth-eaten chest
Should be there for bungling, at which you are best…

[MovieMogul]

I’m sure the facts mentioned in the OP won’t prevent someone in the movie industry from making it into a “Based on a True Story” film.

[Winston_Smith]

@Tapioca Dextrin

What do you want? A medal?

Nope. Just the film rights and 2% of the merchandising.