Sgt Reckless

How many horses do you know that have earned the rank of Sergeant? Here at the National Museum of the Marine Corps, we celebrate one such equine hero: Sgt. Reckless. Sgt. Reckless, a small Mongolian mare, became a legend during the Korean War. Purchased in 1952 for a mere $250, she wasn’t intended for glory. Her original owner, a young Korean boy named Kim Huk Moon, needed the money to buy a prosthetic leg for his sister. He sold his beloved horse, Flame-of-the-Morning to the US Marines. Little did he know, Flame, renamed Reckless by the Marines, would become a symbol of courage and resilience. Sgt. Reckless served with the Recoilless Rifle Platoon, hence her name. She carried ammunition and supplies, braving enemy fire and treacherous terrain. She wasn’t just a pack animal. Sgt. Reckless was a Marine. She learned to navigate the battlefield, even running for cover when she heard the shouts of “Incoming!” She became so beloved by the Marines that she was allowed to roam freely through camp, sleeping in their tents and sharing their rations, which included beer, Coca-Cola, and scrambled eggs. Her appetite became legendary, with stories circulating about her consuming everything from poker chips to blankets. Sgt. Reckless’s finest hour arrived during the Battle for Outpost Vegas in March 1953. Over five days of intense fighting, Sgt. Reckless made an astounding 51 trips to resupply frontline units, carrying over 9,000 pounds of ammunition. She was wounded twice, but her determination never wavered. She even carried wounded Marines down the mountain to safety. Sgt. Reckless’s bravery earned her two Purple Hearts, a Good Conduct Medal, and several other honors. She was promoted to Sergeant, a testament to her unwavering service. After the war, she returned to the United States, where she became a national hero. Sgt. Reckless enjoyed a well-deserved retirement at Camp Pendleton, even giving birth to four foals. She passed away in 1968, but her legacy continues to inspire. This monument here at the museum, along with others across the country, ensures that Sgt. Reckless’s story will never be forgotten.