• Sgt. Dengrier M. Baez, USMC
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    One day, Chesty the English Bulldog will be big and strong, romping around the country and embodying "semper fi" on behalf of the United States Marine Corps. But for now, this 12-week-old mascot-in-training is just a big ball of cuteness, charming everyone who meets him. Before he takes over the post at the Marine barracks in Washington, D.C., on March 29, the plump pup has got some work to do. Here's everything you need to know about Sgt. Chesty the XIV, and why you should already be following his every move. 

  • Sgt. Dengrier M. Baez, USMC
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    CHAMPION PUP

    Like those who came before him, Chesty comes from a very prestigious English Bulldog pedigree. This little guy was born into a family with five generations of championship dogs.

  • Sgt. Dengrier M. Baez, USMC
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    CHESTY XIV

    Chesty will be the 14th official English Bulldog for the Marine Corps. These dogs have been serving as mascots since the 1920s. This all started during World War I when members of the German army gave the Marines the nickname of "devil dogs." The Marines liked their moniker so much that they placed a snarling English Bulldog wearing a helmet on their next recruiting poster. 

  • Sgt. Dengrier M. Baez, USMC
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    PLACES TO GO, PEOPLE TO SEE

    Chesty has been making the rounds and meeting VIPs since being dubbed the next Marine Corps mascot. Here he is with Bonnie Amos, the wife of Marine Corps Commandant General James F. Amos. At 12 weeks old, he has already taken more photos than most 12-week-old babies! 

  • Sgt. Dengrier M. Baez, USMC
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    HOW'D YOU GET SO CHESTY?

    Chesty is named after Lt. Gen. Lewis "Chesty" Puller, the most decorated Marine. You've got some big shoes to fill, little man!

  • Sgt. Dengrier M. Baez, USMC
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    WAKE UP! YOU'VE GOT WORK TO DO

    Before Chesty is sworn in, he has to prove he's more than just a cute face. Chesty is currently enrolled in an intense obedience training course that will prepare him for his role as Marine Corps mascot. 

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    UNIFORM FITTING

    In addition to acting the part, Chesty has to look the part, too. Here he is getting an official fitting for his uniform by Rim Yi at the Southeast Uniform Company. 

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    PUBLIC SERVICE PUP

    According to the Marine Corps website, Chesty's responsibilities will include "marching in Friday evening parades and supporting various events around the National Capitol region." 

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    CHESTY XII

    There were many more English Bulldogs who came before Chesty the XIV. Here is Chesty XII rooting on the runners at the 30th Marine Corps Marathon in Chattanooga, Tenn. 

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    CHESTY XIII

    Chesty the XIV will be replacing Chesty XIII who, according to The Wall Street Journal, became "one of the most storied dogs in the long history of Marine Corps mascots."

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    Next: More Paw Stars!

    PROMISING FUTURE 

    Don't worry, Chesty XIV. You may have a lot to live up to, but you've got a lot of time to do a lot of great things!