Tales of Animals in War - 2023 edition

“Hey everyone! Here I am with my Remembrance Clubhouse friends in Ottawa. We are at a special memorial called Reconciliation—The Peacekeeping Monument,” woofed Gandy the dog excitedly. “We are so proud to be here. Did you know that we are a nation of peacekeepers? Many Canadians have taken part in efforts around the world to try to resolve conflicts. To recognize their service, this memorial was created to honour them.”

“It’s very cool and its design actually tells a story. I love flying over the statues because I have a bird’s-eye view,” squawked Squeaker the pigeon. “The three figures standing on the high wall are peacekeepers. Two of them are looking into the distance watching out for trouble. The other has a radio and is in communication with other soldiers. On the ground, the broken concrete symbolizes the destruction caused by wars. My feathers ruffled just visiting this unique place.”

“Yeah, and the monument’s walls rise and form a point, like an arrow,” Win the bear growled. “That represents looking toward the future, to a time when the fighting is over and there is hope for reconciliation. Peace is so fragile. This monument helps us reflect on the brave Canadians who have done so much to help protect others around the world. Did you know that 2023 is the 75^th anniversary of United Nations peacekeeping?”

“It is pretty amazing that Canadians have been helping keep peace in countries around the world for so long,” neighed Bonfire Jr. the horse. “But this year we are also remembering important anniversaries from the Second World War and the Korean War. Not only did our troops serve in these conflicts but animals did too. For example, my relative was a donkey who carried supplies for our soldiers in the mountains of Italy during the Second World War.”

“I am so proud of Canadian military members across the generations,” purred Simone the cat. “They have fought in wars and have been peacekeepers. But they have also served here in our own country. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they performed important duties from coast to coast to coast. This is only one recent example. For instance, 25 years ago they also assisted in search and recovery efforts after a passenger jet crashed off the coast of Nova Scotia. Canada’s service members are always ready to help when tough situations arise.”

“Yes, and that also includes natural disasters across our country,” Ellie the elephant trumpeted. “You may have heard of Hurricane Fiona that hit Atlantic Canada last fall? The wind knocked down so many trees and power poles! Tens of thousands of people had no electricity and water for many days. The residents needed help to clear the debris and get life back to normal. Canadian Armed Forces members were called to assist during the recovery efforts there. I wish I had also been on the scene to use my powerful trunk to move large branches from the roads!”

“It’s important to remember that many Canadians in uniform served and sacrificed here at home and around the globe,” Gandy barked. “We will always remember them. Canadian Armed Forces members have always given the best of themselves to help others. What can you do to make your school and community a better place?”