Minnie
At Semper K9 Assistance Dogs; every service dog’s name carries a story of courage, resilience, and service. Minnie, one of our newest service dogs in training generously donated by Wayne & Amy Stillwell, proudly honors the legacy of Minnie Spotted-Wolf, a trailblazing member of the Blackfoot tribe and the first Native American woman to enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps. Her life was defined by her pioneering spirit, unwavering determination, and dedication to service—qualities we hope to instill in Minnie as she trains to support a disabled American Veteran.
Born in 1923 near Heart Butte, Montana, Minnie Spotted-Wolf grew up on her father’s ranch, where she developed the grit, strength, and resilience that would later prepare her for military service. From an early age, she tackled demanding tasks such as cutting fence posts, driving a two-ton truck, and breaking horses—skills that not only shaped her work ethic but also set her apart when she decided to join the military.
In July 1943, at the height of World War II, Minnie enlisted in the Marine Corps Women’s Reserve. Despite facing initial resistance simply because she was a woman, her determination never wavered. Minnie’s toughness and perseverance earned her a place in the Marines, where she excelled in roles traditionally dominated by men. She served on military bases in California and Hawaii, working as a heavy equipment operator and a driver for general officers—positions that required both physical strength and mental fortitude.
Minnie’s groundbreaking status captured the attention of the media, with headlines celebrating her as the “Pride of the Marines” and the “Bronc-Busting Indian Queen.” But beyond the headlines, she remained a humble, hardworking Marine dedicated to her duty and her country.
After her honorable discharge in 1947, Minnie returned to Montana, where she embraced a new chapter of service—this time in the field of education. She married Robert England, a farmer, and pursued a college degree in Elementary Education. For the next 29 years, Minnie inspired countless young minds as a dedicated teacher, bringing the same passion and resilience to the classroom that she had shown in the Marine Corps.
Her daughter fondly recalled that even into her early 50s, Minnie could “outride the guys,” a testament to her enduring spirit and strength. Minnie Spotted-Wolf passed away in 1988 at the age of 65 and was laid to rest with the honor she deserved—buried in her Marine Corps uniform.
Through her training and future service, Minnie the service dog will honor the incredible life of Minnie Spotted-Wolf—a woman who broke barriers, defied expectations, and left a lasting impact on the world. We are proud to carry her name forward, ensuring that her trailblazing legacy continues to inspire generations to come. Here is how you can get involved:
Send a gift to Minnie from our Amazon Wishlist: https://bit.ly/4aRa2MX
Contribute towards Minnie’s Training & Care: https://p2p.onecause.com/servicedogs
