HORSES, mules, pigeons and dogs were among the service animals honored through performing arts and ceremony at the 66th Annual Newcastle and Hunter Combined Schools Anzac Commemorative Event.
With a theme of "Australian Animals at War", students from Callaghan College, Merewether High, St Francis Xavier and St Philip's led Tuesday's commemorative event at Civic Theatre.
While the red poppy is used as a symbol of remembrance for the human cost of war, the event had a focus on the "purple poppy" which is used on February 24 each year to recognise animal sacrifice and loyalty in times of conflict.
Through performances by Aspire and Kotara High, students highlighted the contribution of animals in conflict zones - including horses at the Battle of Beersheba, Simpson and his donkey at Fromelles and carrier pigeons at Normandy.
According to the student performance, 32 out of the 53 Dickin Medals for animal gallantry handed out during World War II were awarded to pigeons.
In her address on behalf of the lord mayor, councillor Deahnna Richardson said the event demonstrated a "growing movement to recognise the service of animals in times of war".
"Today we are seeing that service and sacrifice is something that involved those creatures that are part of our everyday life," Cr Richardson said.
Students recounted the story of Guy Haydon from Murrurundi as he led the charge at Beersheba on his horse Midnight.
"Although it is the heaviest fire I have been under I never felt less afraid," a student speaking in the part of Guy Haydon said.
"Midnight was shot, injured, never to be seen again."
Of the more than 120,000 horses - known as "walers" - Australia committed to World War I, students said only Sir William Bridges' horse Sandy returned to Australia.
Explosive detection dog handler, Seargeant Stuart Conlin and retired detection dog Trip were welcomed on stage as students acknowledged the service of detection dogs during more recent conflicts such as Afghanistan.
Merewether-Hamilton-Adamstown RSL Sub-branch secretary Phillip Frawley thanked the students and organisers for their commitment and effort.
"Today they have bought to life and to our attention the recognition of animals in service to our nation in times of war," Mr Frawley said.
"In particular for the new generation of veterans the role of animals in wartime and the service of animals have become a cherished memory and one worthy of commemoration."
