In September 2014, the Charity Life Wisdoms began a Heritage Lottery Funded project: “Animals in the Great War”, with pupils in year 6 of St Thomas Church of England Primary School in Groombridge, Tunbridge Wells.
Although this was not a Sound Architect Creative Media project we are very close to our friends in Life Wisdoms and have published this information with their permission.
It is important to remember those who sacrificed so much at one of the bleakest times in our history. In what was the centenary year of Britain joining the War, it was especially poignant to remember and honour not only the people that gave their lives, but the animals too.
It is less well known that animals played a vital role: more animals were used in that War than any other, before or since. Their actions saved hundreds of lives, and vitally affected the outcome. There is even a special poppy: a purple poppy, for remembering animals in War.
What these 10 and 11 year olds discovered about animals surprised everybody. They learned about the role of messenger pigeons and even sent messages on carrier pigeons. They learned about the role of dogs, first aid and mercy dogs for example, helping the wounded on the battle field. They visited working horses, the type that would have been used for hauling equipment and supplies. They learned how glow worms helped soldiers read maps in the dark. They learned how to research, how to ask questions, and were inspired to reflect on the sacrifice of people and all sorts of animals in the First World War.
The monument to animals who served in wars on the edge of Hyde Park says: “They had no choice”. The children learned that these animals were capable of incredible bravery and sacrifice, as well as essential companionship and comfort to soldiers who were living in horrific circumstances.