Page 34 - Chiron Autumn/Winter 2023

Lance Corporal John Paschal RAVC
During the research of the recently published ‘History of the RAVC 1962-2021’, further
detail concerning the untimely death of LCpl John Paschal was established. As there was no memorial stone for him at 1 MWD Regt it was decided that a suitable memorial must be laid, to commemorate the life of John Paschal, who died during the Indonesian Conflict.
The image right shows LCpl John Paschal ad his tracker dog Blackie, taken shortly before John was KIA whilst tracking Indonesian enemy forces.
The second image shows a local stone mason, Mr Sam Herbert taking a rubbing in July 2022 of an existing memorial stone. Thus, ensuring a matching likeness to the memorials already dedicated for other handlers, who sadly also paid the ultimate price for their vocation.
The final image shows LCpl John Paschal’s completed memorial stone laid at North Luffenham. Further details of the tragic incident are contained within the latest historical record available from the RAVC Regimental Secretary priced just £25 for RAVC Association Members plus P&P if required.
AWAMO
by Nigel Allsopp MA, President AWAMO, ANZAC of the year 2017-18
While in Geneva Switzerland discussing proposed changes to
the status of animals in war zones with the Australian United Nations Council representative, I had an invitation to visit the Swiss Armies Veterinary, Equine and Canine unit in Bern. Many thanks to Dr Stephane Montavon DVM and his team, a wonderful day at both their complex in Bern and operational
facilities in the mountains.
Dr Stéphane Montavon, apart
from being the Swiss army’s Colonel in charge of this unit
is a veterinarian and equine practitioner, breeder, rider and passionate equestrian sports
and scientific researcher. He has published numerous works and conducts conferences all over the world.
The historical architecture was
amazing. Some of the facilities date back hundreds of years with one of the arena’s wooden roofs supported by metal beams left over from the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
The Swiss army uses several equines, Swiss Warm Bloods for formal riding and carriage work. The Freiberger as logistical pack animals, and limited numbers of mules for high mountain pack work.
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