Where does a four footed Wolfhound march in a Parade? You won't find the answer in FM 22-5, Drill and Ceremonies or the old Infantry Drill Regulations, but the famous Wolfhound Regiment has it's mascot, Kolchak, lead the procession.The history of our Regimental Mascot
and other four-footed WolfhoundsJim Malachowski, Association Historian
The first mascot, a pure bred Russian Wolfhound, was presented to the regiment in 1929. He was named after Admiral Alksandr Vassilyevich Kolchak, who fought the Bolsheviks during the regiments stay in Siberia. Sergeant John Martin -- who served with the regiment in both the Philippines and Siberia -- took charge and promised to have "Kolchak" at all gatherings of the regiment.
Wolfhounds were used in ancient times as hunting dogs in Russia. The Russian aristocracy later used them for coursing wolves and other game. They were imported into the United States in the late 1880's and given the name "Borzoi" in 1936. Kolchak, and his successors are more than a mere mascot. They personify both the name, Wolfhounds, by which the 27th Infantry is known throughout the Army, and the tenacious and ferocious fighting nature of the regiment.
Kolchak II entered service in 1939. He was often found rooting on Wolfhound athletic teams and marched with the regiment in all ceremonies. The Cossack hat or Shaktoes, belt and boots worn by the color guard may have been designed to please Kolchak II as well as the spectators at ceremonies who approved of the colorful trappings of a colorful regiment.
Kolchak X retired to the care of his handler, Staff Sergeant White of the 1st Battalion Scouts.
Kolchak XI passed away while on duty from heart disease
Kolchak XII is currently on duty at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii
Back to the Regimental History Page
This page last updated on Wednesday, January 12, 2005
