Page 28 - The History of the Royal Army Veterinary Corps 1962–2021

THE HISTORY OF THE ROYAL ARMY VETERINARY CORPS 1962 – 2021
including the mountainous terrain, harsh wet winters and stubborn German defenders of the campaign in Italy, necessitated the use of Pack transport to a much greater degree than some initially appreciated. Over eleven thousand mules were purchased there by the RAVC for use in the campaign.
Uniquely, in Italy, the Corps was responsible for both evacuating animal casualties and for issuing replacements with twenty-five immediate replacement mules being located at the MVS. The injured animals were passed down through to the Veterinary and Remount Conducting Sections (V&RCS) and replacements sent back up the line. The injured animal was then transferred to one of the Veterinary Hospitals for treatment and conva- lescence.
The campaign in Burma (1941-1945) also presented unique challenges including an inadequate road system, impenetrable jungle and copious rainfall all of which necessitated the prolific use of Pack animals which included bullocks. The ‘Chindits’ Long Range Penetration Groups during their Operations utilised the mule – their second Operation required five thousand, five hundred of these faithful beasts of burden.
In the immediate aftermath of World War Two, the Corps became deeply involved in the Civil Affairs and Control Commissions established in the countries devastated by the fighting – notably, Germany, Greece, Austria and Burma. The work was arduous and included animal husbandry, the disposal of surplus animals, the prevention of the spread of animal diseases, and in some countries helping re-establish civilian veterinary services.
Moving forward:
The RAVC has developed its identity and its remit over 300 years of British involvement in global conflicts. By adapting and expanding according to the requests and the demands of the time, place and people the Corps has established and secured its unique place in military history.
Arriving at the start of this volume – at the end of 1961 – knowing the responsibility that the RAVC has for the provision and training of MWDs it is perhaps odd to think that during the First World War, when war dogs were utilised in a guarding capacity and as trench messengers, the handlers and dogs came under the command of the Royal Engineers. And it wasn’t until 1942 that the Army Remount and Veterinary Services were given the responsibility for the procurement, kennelling and training of all Service dogs and this was
conducted at the Greyhound Racing Association Kennels at Potters Bar.
There has always been an element of learning to accept the rough with the smooth. After the Corps’ outstanding contribution to animal welfare during the First World War and being recognised with the ‘Royal’ pre-fix, it was only a few years later, in 1937, that the rank for the Director was downgraded from Major-General to Brigadier.
There has been a consistent need to develop a thick skin when working with military animals because not everyone immediately believes in or appreciates their value in theatre. However, where the learning and convincing has been a case of ‘seeing is believing’ the animals have never let their supporters down. Their loyalty, skill and unstinting devotion being the best qualities of any soldier.
Post-war demobilisation led to a reduction in Corps’ numbers, although the manning level was higher than the pre-World War Two period thanks to the ranks of the RAVC being filled by National Service recruits. The men were posted worldwide taking an active role in post-colonial conflicts in Malaya, Cyprus, Aden etc... and at the end of it had their own animal tales to tell.
RAVC History Books - so far.
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