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  • Writer's pictureJennifer J

Animals: What Is The Purple Poppy?


Poppy Wreaths At The Cenotaph In London

Today is Armistice Day.


Armistice Day is a day that is commemorated annually on the 11th of November. Each year, the 11th of November is a day were remember the war dead; especially for those who fought during the two world wars.


Red poppies are to remember the war dead. They are worn on Armistice Day and the days leading up to it. They are also laid at war memorials as wreaths.


Purple poppies are a way to remember the animals that have died in wars. The purple poppy was created in 2006, by the charity Animal Aid.



Cute Dog In Helmet

Animals were part of the two world wars.


Several animals have gained medals over the decades for their service in helping people during war times or war-related events. A recent example of this is Magawa the mine-detecting rat. Magawa won the PDSA Gold Medal this year for helping people clearing mines in Cambodia; Magawa is the first-ever rat to win this award.


Other animals have also won awards for the service during war times. For example, there have been 65 animals who have won the Dickin Medal.


The Dickin Medal was established in 1943 as a way to celebrate the animals who helped people during the second world war. The Dickin Medal is also known as the Animal Victoria Cross. There are several different types of animals that have won the Dickin Award, this includes 32 pigeons, 18 dogs, 3 horses, and a cat.


The purple poppy is a way to give thanks to the animals who helped people during war; especially during the second world war.


Lest We Forget.

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