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The Citizen

Durban North residents called to honour animal veterans this Remembrance Day

THE South African Legion North Coast Branch invites the public to attend its annual Purple Poppy Parade on Saturday, May 17, at 10:30 at the Queen Nandi Mounted Rifles base at 101 Isaiah Ntshangase Road (formerly Walter Gilbert Road). Also read: Durban North babies and carers need temporary shelter This unique and poignant event pays tribute to the often-overlooked animal veterans of war — dogs, horses, donkeys, camels, pigeons, and even falcons — who served with bravery and loyalty alongside human soldiers in conflicts past and present. The purple poppy, worn internationally, symbolises remembrance for these unsung animal heroes. The ceremony will feature a formal wreath-laying, a dog display on the parade ground, and a social bring-and-braai following the service. Fires will be provided, and a cash bar will be available. Members of the public are encouraged to attend and take part in this special moment of reflection and gratitude. 'Service animals played a vital role in many theatres of war,' said Legionnaire Rupert Meyer, media liaison for the North Coast Branch. 'From horses carrying troops in the Anglo-Boer War to dogs detecting landmines in modern peacekeeping missions, their contribution is undeniable. This parade is an opportunity to honour their bravery and sacrifice.' History offers no shortage of remarkable stories. Among them is Sergeant Stubby, a dog who served in World War I, credited with saving an entire unit by warning them of a gas attack and even capturing a German spy. In another tale of valour, a homing pigeon named Cher Ami, gravely wounded during World War I, delivered a critical message that saved over 190 American soldiers from friendly fire. 'We may not all wear medals or uniforms,' added Meyer, 'but remembering these silent veterans reminds us of the broader cost of war and offers a meaningful way to teach younger generations about sacrifice and courage.' Wreath layers are asked to report at 09:00 with clearly labelled wreaths. Military participants should attend in Dress Code 1A, military spectators in Dress Code 1B, and civic representatives in official robes of office. For more from Northglen News, follow us on Facebook , X or Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok. Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!