Sgt. Reckless - Korean War Horse Hero

In 1953, during the Korean War, Reckless joined the ranks of our military forces.  She delivered ammunition to the front lines.  Usually, by herself and under enemy fire.

During just one battle, she made 51 trips - most of them by herself. “It’s difficult to describe the elation and the boost in morale that little white-faced mare gave Marines as she outfoxed the enemy bringing vitally needed ammunition up the mountain,” Sgt. Maj. James E. Bobbitt said.

Reckless’ decorations include two Purple Hearts, a Good Conduct Medal, a Presidential Unit Citation with star, a National Defense Service Medal, a Korean Service Medal, a United Nations Service Medal, and Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation.  She proudly wore them all on her scarlet and gold blanket. But the awards she liked most were cokes and beer and cake and chocolate bars—even a little whiskey or bourbon occasionally. 

Reckless was retired at the Marine Corps Base in Camp Pendleton where a General issued the following order: "She was never to carry any more weight on her back except her own blankets." She died in 1968 at the age of 20. 

There is a plaque in her honor at the Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton stables.