Digger the bulldog remembered ahead of veteran fundraiser

A veteran of Gallipoli and the Western Front, Digger the bulldog has caught the attention of a team of Territorians who hope to raise funds for a noble cause. Read Digger’s inspirational story.

Digger the bulldog served in the First World War and would sustain wounds during his service.

Inspired by a bulldog that saw combat more than a century ago, a former tank commander turned political hopeful hopes to support fellow his veterans ahead of Anzac Day this month.

On Wednesday, Clinton Howe, who will run as a candidate for Drysdale with the Country Liberal Party, announced he had combined forces with charity organisation Mates4Mates in a bid to raise funds for vulnerable veterans.

With a handful of sponsors in support, Mr Howe said a movie fundraiser would take place on the lawns of Sanctuary Lakes Park this Saturday.

CLP candidate for Drysdale Clinton Howe is a Territory-born veteran.

Mr Howe said the fundraiser would screen ‘Red Dog’ in line with the event’s inspiration ‘Digger’ who was a bulldog mascot for Australian soldiers in the First World War and served in both Gallipoli and France.

According to Mr Howe, Digger’s story of courage and resilience and the bond between soldiers and their loyal companions had caught his attention.

“I’m a history nerd and when I was organising this event I wanted the film to relate to people,” he said.

“I was researching and stumbled across the story of Digger and his owner Sergeant James Harold Martin.

“For families that have a dog, that relationship is really special and something people can understand.”

Digger survived the war but sustained wounds on the Western Front and, after his return to Sydney, funds were raised to help the furry veteran recover from his injuries.

Mates4Mates regional manager Erin Leech said the opportunity to fundraise for veterans ahead of Anzac Day was great opportunity.

Clinton Howe says he hopes his daughters “sense” the quality of service this Anzac Day.

“(We) are thankful and honoured that a unique group of veterans and co are raising funds for the continued support of services to the veteran community,” she said.

“With Anzac Day coming up, we need to rally together to focus our supports and commemorate the acts of service for our veterans and the families who have served and continue to serve.”

Mr Howe, who served a decade in Army, said he hoped the story of Gallipoli would not be lost for the younger generations.

“It’s important for me to show my daughters what Anzac Day means and what people have given to make this country what it is,” he said.

“The idea of service – if I can help them sense that quality I will be really happy.”

The event will take place at Sanctuary Lakes Park in Gunn on 20 April with a start time of 6.00pm.