In 1943, Herman the Cat, an 8-month-old gray feline with green eyes, was officially commissioned by the U.S. Coast Guard in Baltimore as an “Expert Mouser.” Tasked with controlling rodents on ships, he received an official ID card with a pawprint, serial number 05225058, granting him unrestricted access to hunt rats and mice at Pier 4, Pratt Street. His role addressed serious concerns about rats spreading diseases and damaging supplies during World War II.



Herman’s presence boosted morale among sailors, becoming a beloved mascot and “ambassador of goodwill.” His exploits were featured in Paramount newsreels, earning him fame beyond the docks. Despite challenges obtaining a birth certificate, Cmdr. C.H. Abel approved his service, noting no regulations barred cats. Herman’s legacy endures in historical accounts and a Netflix documentary, “Inside the Mind of a Cat.”
IN1.98%
CAT1.16%
RATS2.72%
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