Photo: Cpl. Bobby J. Yarbrough

Cpl. Chesty XIII stands at attention and greets Marines and their families during a holiday party at Marine Barracks in Washington, D.C. Earlier this year, Lance Cpl. Chesty XIII was promoted to the rank of corporal by Col. Andrew H. Smith. Cpl. Chesty XIII is the latest in a long line of English bulldogs that have served as the Marine Corps’ official Mascot. His predecessor, Chesty XII, ascended to the rank of sergeant during six years of service despite what was described as “a spotty disciplinary record.”

The first Marine mascot, an English bulldog named Private Jiggs was officially sworn into service in 1922. Private Jiggs was quickly promoted through the ranks to sergeant major. He died in 1927 and was given a full military service.

Sgt. Jiggs in 1925, after rising from the rank of private to corporal to sergeant to sergeant major in just 3 years. Photo: Library of Congress