Remembrance day is very important in my family and it has always bothered me that there is never much attention given to the war animals who served. I feel like many of them are being forgotten, when they should be honoured just like any other soldier. If you read about any of their stories, you’ll see
how much the war animals meant to their soldiers, and to us for the freedom that we have. The war animals were very close to their soldiers hearts, they would want them to be remembered alongside them. My hope is to raise awareness for the need of a wreath to be laid annually in dedication to all war animals. They also served, Lest we forget.
A very special Canadian hero is named Sergeant Gander. He was a Newfoundland dog who was the mascot of the Royal Rifles stationed in Gander Newfoundland. He was promoted to sergeant and in 1941 left with his unit for Hong Kong. Gander halted many attacks and protected wounded soldiers. He was killed in action carrying an enemy grenade away from his men. Many more lives would have been lost without Gander’s intervention. He is a Canadian war hero who deserves recognition, and to be honoured, not forgotten.
Because I have a Newfoundland dog myself, I thought I would join a parade with him to honour the war animals, especially Sgt. Gander, who is very important to us. It was a great turn out… My dog Vedder and I got an overwhelming response from the crowds and other parade participants, as well as being a highlight to children coming to pat him along theway. Many people stopped to take pictures and pose with him. The best part was seeing the veterans smiling and waving when they saw him.
