THE Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne will mark National Day for War Animals at its Last Post Service on Sunday, February 23.
This special commemorative service acknowledges and celebrates the unique bonds forged between service animals and their human companions on the front line, and back at home.
This special 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.
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, 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, his DCD Service dog, is his 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,” Andrew said.
President of the Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation, Nigel Allsopp, is also hosting a special online event on Monday, focusing on the remarkable contributions of pigeons during conflict.
Private Denis “Fergie” Ferguson with Marcus on the left and Private Peter Haran with Caesar on the right at Nui Dat, South Vietnam 1967–68 (image” department of Veterans’ Affairs).
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,” Mr Allsop said.
Free webinar on the remarkable contributions of pigeons during conflict.
Register here: https://www.shrine.org.au/feathered-heroes-stories-pigeons-during-wartime
Last Post Service: National Day for War Animals
4.45pm-5.15pm, Sunday, February 23
Second World War Memorial Forecourt
Shrine of Remembrance
Birdwood Ave, Melbourne VIC 3001
