Page 17 - Chiron 2024

to respond to the changing needs of today’s expeditionary Armed Forces and assessment of how MWDs work in hostile climates. The use
of military resources in training
for Operations explore the effects of warfare on soldiers, animals
and equipment through strenuous Exercises and Expeditions across the world. Proving the challenges of adapting to different environments, the sheer physical demands of climate and terrain, from jungle to artic warfare, from extreme heat
to extreme cold. Along with issues
of maintaining health, condition, and performance of MWDs training ensures the highest standards of soldiering and personal discipline, tactical awareness, and weapon handling. Exchanges with overseas armies such as the USA and Sweden develop close working partnerships with our Allies and their military and civilian working animals.
The many examples of winning ‘Hearts and Minds’ is a fascinating aspect of the book highlighting
the versatility and skills of RAVC personnel in providing veterinary and humanitarian support to communities in peacetime at home and abroad, on Exercises and on Operations, winning ‘Hearts and Minds.’ Collaborative initiatives, military and civil, delivering animal care and education for local peoples. Containing and treating endemic and outbreaks of contagious diseases in foreign based countries and where applicable working with private practice and for example,
the International Society for the Protection of Wildlife. Examples include veterinary assistance to the civil power in Kosovo with a feral dog problem (some 40,000) risking the spread of rabies and other canine dog diseases. In Afghanistan advising and guiding local farmers on best practice all the time working on
the front line under the watchful eye of insurgents. Versatility in animal management in its broadest sense e.g. canines, equines, camels, monkeys (Gibraltar Barbary apes designated ‘Army’ animals), goats, sheep, cattle, elephants, pigeons, ferrets, rabbits, pigs, poultry and
of course Army pets, horses, and
regimental mascots. In Iraq Corps personnel supported Royal Engineers in finding water supplies, testing, purifying and water production. In the role of upholding the standing
of the Army in society the Corps, for example gave a demonstration at the 2008 Crufts Dog Show.
Once again, the unique skills, depth of knowledge and versatility of Corps personnel has facilitated a role in assisting foreign governments and provision of global support, assisting over fifty-four countries, for example, Nepal, Zimbabwe, Rwanda, Kenya, Caribbean, Pakistan, and USA. The Corps’ reputation for innovative and exacting standards of training and care for Military Working Animals has meant civilian organisations, military, and police forces, at home and abroad have always called on RAVC expertise and experience. This has included training Americans
and Australians as dog handlers (Tracker dogs) for Vietnam. Since
the 1960s Corps personnel have worked across the globe to assist the Commonwealth of Nations in the protection of endangered animals; working with a global vision to determine the application of the best training techniques for conservation and the protection of the animals we live alongside.
Chris Ham is to be congratulated on producing a treasure trove of information relating not only to Corps history in the 20th and 21st Centuries. A book that reads like
a history of the British Army but with the RAVC at the ‘heart’ of the Army where it will be seen and not forgotten. Touched with humour
but also the sadness at loss of life and pride in memorials and bases that represent the commitment
and bravery of Corps members past and present. The author should have the last word ....“The RAVCs footprint - and pawprint - has been planted worldwide. Introducing the capability of MWAs the Corps has led by example and left behind the skills of their trade and veterinary knowledge that inevitably saved many [human and] animals’ lives.” This is a book well worth purchasing for anyone interested in civilian or Military Working Animals.
What readers
have said so far...
“A well put together and very informative history of our Corps and a great read.”
“After 24 years at Canine, I didn’t realise the people I’d forgot reading the Index of people in
the book and in my mind’s eye putting faces to the names and remembering great times. I urge anyone who hasn’t purchased
the book to do so highly recommended. (P.S. Thanks Chris brilliant).”
“Well done on the Corps History, what a fantastic book. It covers the history really well. Until you see it in writing you don’t realise how much the Corps has achieved over the last 60 years.”
“Fantastic work you’ve done with the book and left a legacy. The HERRICK section brought many memories.”
“It’s a great book Chris, which brings back so many memories.”
“The Book has arrived and what an awesome piece of work – you have done the history credit.”
“A must read for anyone interested in this unique Corps – An education.”
“I reiterate an absolutely splendid book.”
“Well worth the long wait – Impressive to say the least.”
“Thanks so much for the book, at what appears to be at a modest price! At first flick through it looks fascinating and very readable, (from a ‘civvie’ thank you for the glossary).”
“I found the book a little emotional as I found some bits about Mike. Some really brave men in the RAVC.”
“Well received Sir, its pleasure to own a copy.”
“Congratulations on the book – an impressive tome indeed!”
“What a superb book... just browsing the pages it oozes quality. That was a real labour to put all that together and well done on getting colour pictures in.”
Chiron Calling / 15