The Shrine of Remembrance will mark National Day for War Animals with a special Last Post Service on Sunday 23 February. This commemorative event celebrates the unique bonds forged between service animals and their human companions on the front lines and back at home.
The service will be attended by a variety of organisations, including the Victoria Police Dog Squad, 4th/8th Light Horse Association, Defence Community Dogs, Integra Dogs, and local pigeon handlers. Members of the public and their furry (leashed) friends are encouraged to attend.
War animals have played crucial roles throughout military history—from horses and mules carrying supplies and wounded soldiers, to pigeons delivering vital messages, to dogs serving in roles from sentries to bomb detection. Even today, military working dogs continue to serve alongside forces worldwide.
The bond between service members and their animal companions can be profound, both during active service and afterwards as support animals for veterans dealing with PTSD and other challenges. These relationships often provide comfort, purpose, and emotional support in extremely difficult circumstances.
Community organisations such as Defence Community Dogs (DCD), who train rescue/rehomed dogs as Assistance Dogs for veterans with PTSD, are changing the lives of both veterans and animals in need.
Veteran Andrew said, “Gertie, my DCD Service dog, is my pride and joy. She has brought me more independence than I could ever have imagined, not only through the specific tasks she has been trained in, but also giving me greater confidence in both social and work environments.”
Nigel Allsopp, President of the Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation (AWAMO), is also hosting a special online event on Monday, 24 February, focusing on the remarkable contributions of pigeons during conflict. From their crucial roles in wartime communication to their complex training, this webinar will uncover the courage and resilience of these remarkable creatures.
“When we honour the soldiers who gave their lives in war, let us also remember the four-legged heroes who fought and fell beside them—and the animals that continue to serve our nation today,” said Allsopp.
From storied heroes like Sandy, the only horse to return from WWI, Murphy the Donkey, who helped Simpson save lives, and Sarbi, the explosives detection dog, to dedicated companions who remain by our sides at home, these special animals will be remembered and celebrated for their service and companionship in the darkest times of war.
Program Details:
- Attend the War Animal Remembrance Day Last Post Service at the Shrine at 4:45 pm on Sunday, 23 February, with your furry (leashed) friend.
- Purchase a purple poppy item from the Shrine Shop. All proceeds support AWAMO.
- Attend “Feathered Heroes: Stories of Pigeons in Wartime” online event on Monday, 24 February.
