Private Wojtek, the bear who fought alongside Polish soldiers in World War Two to get memorials

A 6ft bear who fought alongside Polish soldiers during the Second World War is to be honoured with a bronze memorial in the country he served. Named Wojtek, the animal was initially adopted by the Polish Second Corps as a mascot.



However, he later joined his human comrades as a soldier and was officially drafted into the army as a private. He lived with the other men in their tents or in a special wooden crate, which was transported by truck. According to numerous accounts, during the Battle of Monto Cassino in Italy, Wojtek - which means smiling warrior - helped his friends by transporting ammunition.

He also drank beer with them and enjoyed a cigarette or two, although he ate rather than smoked them. When the war finished Wojtek was transferred to Edinburgh Zoo where he ended his days waving at visitors who spoke to him in Polish. He died aged 22 in December 1963.


YouTube link.

Now the Wojtek Memorial Trust, which is raising money for a bronze memorial to the bear at Edinburgh Zoo, is also hoping to make a copy to be sent to Warsaw. The trust is also seeking sponsorship, in Wojtek's name, for funding two places at the Royal (Dick) Vet School in Edinburgh. A future statue may also be sent to Monte Cassino to bring together Scotland, Poland and Italy.