A British submarine once kept a fully grown reindeer aboard the vessel in WWII

A Unique Cabin Mate: The Story of the Reindeer on a British Submarine During WWII

World War II was a time of remarkable stories and unexpected occurrences, with adventurers and heroes emerging from the least likely places. Among these tales is one that stands out for its sheer peculiarity: the story of a fully grown reindeer aboard a British submarine. This unusual tale unfolds beneath the waves during a time of chaos and uncertainty, shedding light on the peculiarities of wartime life and companionship.

The submarine in question was part of the Royal Navy’s fleet stationed in the Arctic region. While the specifics of the submarine’s name may have faded into obscurity, the story of its extraordinary passenger has not. As the crew navigated treacherous waters, they encountered more than enemy submarines and icy depths—they stumbled upon a reindeer that would soon become an unlikely mascot and morale booster.

How did a reindeer end up onboard a British submarine? The story goes that during a supply mission in Norway, sailors came across some captive reindeer. In a rare moment of camaraderie and compassion, they decided to rescue one of these magnificent creatures. The reasons for this decision were twofold—first, there was a desire to alleviate the hardships of the reindeer, and second, the crew saw a chance to maintain spirits during their long and challenging missions.

The reindeer, affectionately named “Pollyanna” by the crew, soon adapted to submarine life. It roamed the narrow corridors of the submarine, bringing joy and laughter to the sailors who occasionally found themselves deep underwater for extended periods. The presence of the reindeer reminded the crew of home and nature, starkly contrasting the cold, metal walls of their underwater environment.

Life aboard a submarine during WWII was fraught with danger and isolation. The psychological toll on sailors was immense; being submerged for extended periods, often in cramped and confined spaces, could weigh heavily on their minds. It is in this context that the reindeer played a vital role. Its antics and gentle demeanor provided a much-needed distraction amid the stress of war. The crew often shared stories of “Pollyanna”s” shenanigans, whether it was nibbling on sailors’ rations or attempting to squeeze into the tiny living quarters where the men slept.

Moreover, “Pollyanna” was not just a pet; in some ways, he symbolized the spirit of resilience and companionship that defined the British naval crews of the time. The bond that formed between the men and their unusual friend reflected the camaraderie that was essential to survival, both physically and mentally.

As the war raged on and the tides of history ebbed and flowed, the reindeer remained a steadfast presence on the submarine. Although the details of its fate post-war might be murky, “Pollyanna’s” legacy endures as a reminder of the human capacity for empathy and connection, even amid the harshest conditions.

The story of the British submarine and its reindeer is a whimsical chapter in the broader narrative of World War II. It is a heartwarming testament to the strange and beautiful moments that can arise from even the direst circumstances, illustrating how a single act of kindness can create bonds that transcend war and hardship.