In the UK today is Remembrance Sunday (a few days ago there was also Veterans Day in the US) a day in which we remember those who have served and sacrificed in countless wars throughout history. Whilst we all yearn and pray for a time when wars are no longer fought, especially where they benefit the few at the cost of the many, we remain thankful for those who do step forward. The traditional red poppy signifies the remembrance of service personnel and all who have paid the ultimate price.
In 2006 the Purple Poppy was released to remember the animals that served alongside our soldiers. Historically this was mostly horses and ponies, but in contemporary times this is now mostly working dogs. Throughout history, many species of animals have been utilised in warfare from rats to elephants.
Dogs were first recorded in warfare dates to over 2,500 years ago and were formed into fast assault units thrown at the enemy. In 525 BC they were used in psychological warfare at the Battle of Pelusium, Cambyses II against the Egyptians taking advantage of the Egyptian religious reverence for animals. Sadly dogs even though highly prized were generally used in an expendable manner. For the main part, this continued into the 20th century although as technology advanced and units became more specialised so did the animals,
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In modern times the British Army in particular uses dogs for two main purposes: Protect and Detect. Sentry and patrol roles are used to protect bases and units and despite the rapid progress in technology dogs are still a superior choice due to their incredible sense of smell, intelligence and ability to operate with their handlers in a vast range of environments and operations. Those same advantages are even more applicable for their detection roles sniffing out explosives, drugs or people. It is without a doubt that these military dogs have saved countless lives throughout the years and notably in the counter-insurgencies British forces have engaged in since World War II.
An interesting write-up of dogs used by the RAF can be found here:
https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/dogs-war/
Not only have dogs provided stalwart service throughout the years (20,000 dogs were trained for service in WWII) they have also been recognised for outstanding bravery. In 1918, Airedale called Jack, helped same some troops of the Sherwood Foresters when pinned down by German troops, after delivering their message for help. Sadly he died from bullet wounds shortly after delivering the message.
More recently, Sasha, a Labrador received the Dickin bravery award from the PDSA. She'd located 15 bombs and ammunition caches in Afghanistan before being killed with her handler Lance Corporal Kenneth Rowe in July 2008.
While there are controversies with dog service in the forces their utility and unique abilities make them an important part of modern forces.
To all who've served - we salute and remember you.
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