October 4th: Cher Ami, The Little Pigeon that Could

On October 4th, 1918, the Lost Battalion of the 77th Division was stuck behind enemy lines without ammunition or food. To make matters worse, their own side had started unknowingly to shell their position. This was during World War I and homing pigeons were still being used for communications. The first pigeon was sent back with the message "Many wounded. Cannot evacuate." It was shot down. A second pigeon was sent back with the message "Men are suffering. Can support be sent." It was also shot down. That left one pigeon, Cher Ami (meaning 'dear friend' in French). He was dispatched with the message, "We are along the road parallel 276.4. Our own artillery is dropping a barrage directly on us. For heaven's sake, stop it!"

As the pigeon took off, the Germans immediately saw him and openned fire. The pigeon was shot down, but miraculously managed to retake flight. He arrived back at headquarters, 25 miles, in 25 minutes, saving 194 lives. He was shot through the breast, blinded in one eye, and one leg had to be amputated. He became the hero of the 77th infantry division. When his condition improved, he was seen off by a general back to America. He died a year later from his injuries. He is now on display as part of the "Price of Freedom" exhibit at the Smithsonian (With Sergeant Stubby)

St. Francis Preaches to the Birds

Father Francis and his companions were making a trip through the Spoleto Valley near the town of Bevagna. Suddenly, Francis spotted a great number of birds of all varieties. There were doves, crows and all sorts of birds. Swept up in the moment, Francis left his friends in the road and ran after the birds, who patiently waited for him. He greeted them in his usual way, expecting them to scurry off into the air as he spoke. But they moved not.

Filled with awe, he asked them if they would stay awhile and listen to the Word of God. He said to them: “My brother and sister birds, you should praise your Creator and always love him: He gave you feathers for clothes, wings to fly and all other things that you need. It is God who made you noble among all creatures, making your home in thin, pure air. Without sowing or reaping, you receive God’s guidance and protection.”

At this the birds began to spread their wings, stretch their necks and gaze at Francis, rejoicing and praising God in a wonderful way according to their nature. Francis then walked right through the middle of them, turned around and came back, touching their heads and bodies with his tunic.

Then he gave them his blessing, making the sign of the cross over them. At that they flew off and Francis, rejoicing and giving thanks to God, went on his way.

Later, Francis wondered aloud to his companions why he had never preached to birds before. And from that day on, Francis made it his habit to solicitously invoke all birds, all animals and reptiles to praise and love their Creator. And many times during Francis’ life there were remarkable events of Francis speaking to the animals.