Page 23 - Chiron Autumn 2017

Major Frank receiving a gift Col Smith presenting a gift to the Mayor of Pozieres
All creatures great and small
A permanent memorial to the millions of animals killed or wounded in WWI has been unveiled in Pozieres, France.
WWI was one of the deadliest con icts in human history – not only for the 18 million people who lost their lives, but also for the estimated nine million animals that were killed or wounded. These innocent animals from around the world have nally been recognised in the rst war animal memorial erected on the Western Front.
The memorial stands in Pozieres, France, the scene of some of the most bitter and costly ghting for Australian troops during the war. It was of cially opened on July 21 by the Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation (AWAMO), in cooperation with Pozieres residents.
AWAMO raises awareness of the deeds and sacri ces of animals in war, and the memorial was designed by the charity’s president Nigel Allsopp. It has been a momentous year for Nigel, who was also named 2017 Queensland ANZAC of the Year.
“We should never forget that not only two-legged, but four-legged Diggers served this nation, and continue to do so
today,” Nigel said. “These animals have demonstrated true valour and an enduring partnership with humans, and they will now be honoured with this beautiful new memorial and rose garden.”
Nigel represented AWAMO at the opening in Pozieres, alongside several hundred people. Other special guests included Director of the Australian War Memorial Dr Brendan Nelson, veterinarian and television personality Dr Harry Cooper, Pozieres Mayor Bernard Delattre, Australian Defence Force Veterinarian Major Kendall Crocker, and Australian couple Barry Gracey and Yvonne Gracey- Hall, who were awarded the Legion of Honour in 2016 for their work in Pozieres.
Novato artist Susan Bahary, who specialises in animal sculptures, created two pieces for the memorial. The main sculpture is a bronze horse called Emerging Spirit, with a mule, donkey, pigeon and dog carved into its mane; while the second sculpture of a German shepherd has “our spirits live on” inscribed on a dog tag around its neck.
The memorial in Pozieres also includes a stone of remembrance for the Australian
Abby DuBaree receiving a mememto from Nigel Allsop
Army Veterinary Corps, who saved and cared for thousands of war animals, cast iron seats for contemplation, and rose bushes honouring animals and soldiers.
Brisbane artist Suzanne Bosanquet played a vital role in the day, delivering an installation of 250 pinwheel poppies inscribed with messages of love from Australian school children.
“The pinwheel poppies came alive at the windmill site at Pozieres, whirling the messages of love into the air, thus creating a dynamic installation that framed the memorial site,” Suzanne said.
After the opening, the installation was given to the Pozieres community and it now resides at the Town Hall in Albert.
Numerous Australian and French school children made wreaths and sent them to Pozieres for the opening, and a host of animals were part of the day, including military dogs, horses and donkeys.
Nigel expressed his appreciation to everyone for their passion and commitment.
“Together, we have made a lasting memorial to honour the winged and fourlegged soldiers of WWI.”
Col Smith and Maj Crocker exchanging gifts
Sgt Maj Needham
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