During World War II, a volunteer organization known as the National Pigeon Service (NPS) was established in the United Kingdom, which managed over 250,000 birds. These carrier pigeons were utilized to transmit messages in situations where other forms of communication, such as radio, were unsuitable or insecure. This service was vital for military operations, and of the animals awarded the Dickin Medal, the highest honor for an animal serving in war, 32 were pigeons, highlighting their significant contributions.

One famous incident involved a Royal Air Force (RAF) bomber that was shot down and crashed into the icy sea while returning from Norway on February 23, 1942. As the crew found themselves unable to communicate their location via radio, they resorted to a pigeon named Winkie. Winkie managed to fly an impressive 193 kilometers back to its loft, serving as a lifeline for the stranded crew. Even though Winkie didn't carry any message, its return was crucial for pinpointing the crew's location and facilitating their rescue.

The article underscores the importance of these pigeons during wartime, illustrating how they were not just pets but vital members of military communications. It also alludes to the long-lasting mysteries and stories from World War II that still intrigue historians and enthusiasts, such as the tales surrounding Winkie, symbolizing the often-overlooked contributions of animals in human conflicts.