Purple poppies to salute our service animals

The sacrifices and exploits of animals in war and in service will be commemorated at a service at the Thuringowa RSL this morning.

Former Explosive Detection Dog Ned, mascot of the North Queensland Sappers Association, is set for the War Animal Day service at the Thuringowa RSL. Picture: Evan Morgan

The sacrifices and exploits of animals in war and in service will be commemorated at a service at the Thuringowa RSL this morning.

February 24 each year is Purple Poppy Day to remember the many uses, including as protectors, mascots, beasts of burden, transport and pets, Australian forces have used animals in times of war and peace.

Thuringowa RSL president and Afghanistan veteran Jeremy Browne said it would be the fourth annual service held at the club.

“Animals in service are so often overlooked and forgotten about and if you look back at it, they saved so many lives,” he said.

EDD Ardy and retired EDD Ned at the War Animal Day service at the Thuringowa RSL last year. Picture: Evan Morgan

The president said the day held significance for him because he had served alongside explosive detection dogs (EDD) from Townsville-based 3CER and they had saved countless soldiers’ lives during the Afghanistan conflict.

“We owe so many lives to the explosive detection dogs. It’s uncountable,” he said.

“I can’t explain how important they were. They found things that we, as searchers, especially the dedicated search teams, could not find.”

He said animals continue to serve in various military roles.

Lance Corporal Tom Page with EDD Ardy lays a purple poppy at the War Animal Day service at the Thuringowa RSL last year. Picture: Evan Morgan

“The dogs that find the bombs in the roads, the attack dogs that keep their airfields safe, and the mascots – they are the unsung heroes who bump up the morale of the troops when things are down.

“It is my belief is that would it be remiss of us if we didn’t remember them and give them a day because all they are focal point of the units,” he said.

The president is encouraging everyone to come to the service at the Thuringowa RSL Club, 13 Kelso Drive.

“We’d love to see everybody there on Monday morning 9.30am for a 10am start,” he said.

Originally published as Purple poppies to salute our service animals