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Puss on a 12-inch gun
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Puss on a 12-inch gun
Puss on a 12-inch gun: a cat on a royal navy ship during World War One.
1917
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14387364
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Cats Guns Inch Mar16 Puss Tabby
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EDITORS COMMENTS
Puss on a 12-inch Gun: A Feline Sailor's Tale from the Royal Navy during World War One This evocative photograph captures the unexpected sight of a tabby cat named Puss perched confidently on a 12-inch gun turret of a Royal Navy warship during the First World War. The image, taken in 1917, offers a rare glimpse into the daily life of the sailors at sea and the role animals played in providing companionship and morale during the harsh realities of war. The 12-inch gun, a formidable weapon of the era, was a critical component of the British naval fleet's defensive capabilities. Its towering presence and menacing appearance contrast sharply with the seemingly innocuous feline figure, adding an intriguing layer of juxtaposition to the scene. The photograph, part of the extensive collection at Mary Evans Picture Library, offers a unique insight into the human-animal bond that transcended the battlefields and extended to the high seas. Puss, with its alert and curious gaze, seems to be taking in the sights and sounds of the ship, seemingly unfazed by the surrounding chaos. The image also serves as a reminder of the camaraderie and levity that existed among the sailors, even amidst the harsh conditions and the ever-present threat of enemy attacks. The presence of Puss on the gun turret not only adds a touch of whimsy but also underscores the importance of companionship and the resilience of the human spirit during challenging times. This photograph, taken over a century ago, continues to resonate with audiences today, reminding us of the enduring bond between humans and animals and the power of companionship in the face of adversity.
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