Description

Book Synopsis

This is the inspiring and charming true story of one of the Second World War's most unusual combatants - a 500-pound cigarettesmoking, beer-drinking brown bear. Originally adopted as a mascot by the Polish Army in Iran, Wojtek soon took on a more practical role, carrying heavy mortar rounds for the troops and going on to play his part as a fully enlisted 'soldier' with his own rank and number during the Italian campaign. After the war, Wojtek, along with some of his Polish compatriots from II Corps, came to Berwickshire, where he became a significant member of the local community before subsequently moving to Edinburgh Zoo. Wojtek's retirement was far from quiet: a potent symbol of freedom and solidarity for Poles around the world, he attracted a huge amount of media interest that shows no sign of abating almost 50 years after his death.



Trade Review

'It is both moving and amusing'

-- Lord David Steel

'hilarious and moving'

* Scotsman *

Wojtek the Bear: Polish War Hero

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    A Paperback / softback by Aileen Orr

    £8.54

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      Book details

      Publisher Birlinn Ltd
      Published 1 June 2014
      ISBN-13 9781843410652
      978-1843410652
      ISBN-10 1843410656
      Also in:
      Military History Modern warfare Second World War

      Description

      Book Synopsis

      This is the inspiring and charming true story of one of the Second World War's most unusual combatants - a 500-pound cigarettesmoking, beer-drinking brown bear. Originally adopted as a mascot by the Polish Army in Iran, Wojtek soon took on a more practical role, carrying heavy mortar rounds for the troops and going on to play his part as a fully enlisted 'soldier' with his own rank and number during the Italian campaign. After the war, Wojtek, along with some of his Polish compatriots from II Corps, came to Berwickshire, where he became a significant member of the local community before subsequently moving to Edinburgh Zoo. Wojtek's retirement was far from quiet: a potent symbol of freedom and solidarity for Poles around the world, he attracted a huge amount of media interest that shows no sign of abating almost 50 years after his death.



      Trade Review

      'It is both moving and amusing'

      -- Lord David Steel

      'hilarious and moving'

      * Scotsman *

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