In America, even runts can become war heroes. One shining example started life on a farm near West Frankfort, Illinois, where 12 piglets were born on May 16, 1942. The runt of the litter was named Parker Neptune, and was given to Navy recruiter Don C. Lingle to feed the guests at a fundraising dinner. After all, pork was rationed throughout World War II.
But Lingle saw something special in the young pig, and rather than carve him up, the recruiter rechristened him King Neptune and set him up as a Navy mascot in order to help the war effort. The pig was even adorned in red, white and blue to bring out his patriotism.
King Neptune's heroic rise happened quickly, beginning with a fundraiser in Marion, Illinois, for the troubled USS Illinois battleship. Folks pledged a total of $11,200 in war bonds for parts of the pig they would never actually claim. More fundraising and more fame followed as the King traveled throughout the state, drawing huge crowds and raking in large bids -- although no bidder ever claimed him. By the end of his reign, King Neptune had raised $19 million for the Navy -- or the equivalent of approximately $250 million today.
After the war, King Neptune -- who had ballooned to about 700 pounds (317 kg) -- went to live on an Illinois farm, where he died in 1950 at the age of 8. He was given a Navy funeral and accorded full military honors. Today, a brass memorial plaque honoring King Neptune can be seen at the Trail of Tears Tourist Information center off of Interstate 57.
What you might not know about pigs:
- Despite unflattering stereotypes, pigs are both smart and fast. They are considered intellectually superior to dogs and even some primates, and can run at speeds of 11 mph (17.7 km/h).
- Pigs are often seen wallowing in mud to cool off; they have almost no sweat glands.
- Pigs are highly social, love to snuggle, and prefer to sleep nose-to-nose with one another.