403 www.on.legion.ca ONTARIO COMMAND Remember For years and years, I have heard the stories of war ... how people fought, died, healed the injured, buried the dead, and saved the future lives of our nation. And those sacrifices do not go unnoticed. But something most people forget is that not only people were in war, but animals too. When people think of war, they think of soldiers. When I think of war, I think of every creature, big or small, who was impacted. Over 16 million animals served in the First World War. They were used for transportation, communication, and companionship. There were six different types of animals that were at war: horses, dogs, bears, cats, elephants, and pigeons. The horses served in war by carrying soldiers on their backs and by pulling weapons, supply wagons, ambulances, and more. Horses were also mascots and loving companions to their humans. Dogs were trained to serve in war as messengers by caring secret messages in their collars. They were also used as watch dogs, search and rescue dogs and support animals. Bears were often thought to be good luck to the soldiers because they shared love and affection with humans. Cats were often kept as mascots on ships during war because they killed the mice and were good pets for the soldiers. Elephants were trained to carry and place thick logs along a road or bridge. They were also used for construction. Pigeons were used as carriers to carry messages. On November 11th, when we remember and pay our respects to the soldiers, I hope everybody remembers the animals too. Thank you animals, thank you soldiers, thank you for all that you have done.
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