Page 24 - Chiron Winter 2020

A History of the Royal Army Veterinary Corps 1961-1996 by R G Mares MRCVS
by Chris Ham
Avery recent publication. Richard Mares’s book depicting the history of
the Royal Army Veterinary Corps from the early sixties until the mid 90s is a pleasant, compelling and very interesting read, and is not complicated in any manner. Sadly, Richard Mares passed away in 2010
before completing his vision. However, his efforts in researching the Corps history over recent years may not have been in print, if it were not for his son Tim Mares who has been the principle mover in editing and the publication of his father’s diligent work.
I like the detail Richard Mares captured in this latest volume, and it is interesting to see comments made many decades ago still ring true today. “Major Brian Thompson commented during 1973, in Northern Ireland that Forces personnel had to be taught the capabilities and more importantly the limitations of working dogs.’’ In Chapter 8, the unending war: Northern Ireland makes a fascinating read, at times even heartbreaking when things go badly wrong.
From a few Private soldiers, but mainly RAVC Officers narratives have contributed significantly to the contents of the historical record. The late Brigadier John Clifford features heavily in many chapters of this edition, without any doubt Brigadier John’s contribution to the Corps was exceptional during this time.
The Defence Animal Training Regiment (DATR)
are at present instructing on the use of Pack Animals, ‘Horse and other Animals’ perhaps a controversial issue at times, Chapter 11, like so many other chapters is appealing and a revered read.
The many Appendices, which provide interesting historical information about the then RAVC organisation, personnel, the Corps vets etc.
Those who may comment that they don’t feature in the book or any other prominent facts that are omitted, have another opportunity to contribute their input and should put pen to paper and ensure that their account is not omitted in the next volume which we are currently writing.
A History of the Royal Army Veterinary Corps 1961- 1996 by R G Mares MRCVS.
ISBN 978 0646 93457 0, to date I have had difficulty in locating in the UK as this volume was published in Australia where Mavis Mares and Tim Mares reside.
Another print run of this version will be available in early 2021.
22 / Chiron Calling
Unveiling of New
Zealand War Dog
Memorial
On Saturday 24 October in Michigan USA, the New Zealand War Dog Memorial was opened. US President of the Military Working Dog
Memorial Phil Weitlauf stated ‘This was an historic day this is a first, three Nations coming together USA, Australia and New Zealand sharing the brotherhood of Military Working Dog handlers and honouring our K9 Heroes’.
The New Zealand memorial was funded by the Australian War Animal Memorial Organization CEO and Founder Nigel Allsopp having served in the NZDF as an RNZAF Police Dog Handler. Even though Covid meant limited attendance from NZ, A small group of ex- military dog handlers from the USA did the honours and opened the memorial on behalf of all New Zealanders.