During World War II, pigeons played a pivotal role and were outfitted with a vest made of bra material to assist in completing missions.

Since Romans first used pigeons about 2,000 years ago, until technological advancements erased needs for them after World War II, this humble bird provided the most dependable way to carry messages. Specifically during World War II, pigeons played a pivotal role and were outfitted with a vest made of bra material to assist in completing missions.

While radio and field phones had limited use during World War II, pigeons were often the only means of delivering life-or-death communication with a success rate of more than 95 percent. Tubes containing anything from paper messages and maps to blood samples and cameras were attached to the trained pigeon’s leg or back, and the pigeon was released to fly to its destination.

56,000 pigeons were on mission in World War II. Since the Army needed to protect pigeons in airborne operations, they asked bra company Maidenform, who also manufactured parachutes, to make 28,500 adjustable pigeon vests that could be attached to a paratrooper’s jacket to safely carry the bird until the message could be sent.

Averaging 50 miles per hour and able to fly up to 2,000 miles, more than 30 pigeons were also honored with medals for the thousands of lives they saved.