WHILE the world and local communities commemorate fallen war heroes, on Friday, Clifton School chose to highlight the significant roles of horses, pigeons, and dogs in the world wars, which sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. War veterans made a bold appearance at the event.

Armistice Day – now known as Remembrance Day – is commemorated on November 11, when an honour is bestowed on men, women, and animals who have served in wars, and those who have died in the line of duty. Remembrance Day has been observed since the end of the First World War in 1918.

In his address, Preparatory Principal at Clifton School, Jason Brown, shared, “As we gather for our Remembrance Day service, we pause to reflect on the words: ‘Remember yesterday, act today.’ They remind us that remembrance is not only about looking back, it is about learning, honouring, and then living differently because of what we remember. These are, in many ways, the very tenets of history teaching.

“When we think of those who served in times of war, we often picture soldiers standing bravely on battlefields. But they were not alone. Alongside them were loyal companions – horses, dogs, and even pigeons – each serving faithfully, without question or hesitation.
“Horses served with strength and courage. They carried soldiers, pulled supplies, and helped deliver messages across dangerous ground. Many horses did not make it home, but their loyalty never wavered.

“Dogs, too, played a vital role. They searched for the wounded, carried messages, and offered comfort in moments of fear. And then there were the pigeons, humble birds that carried life-saving messages when all other communication failed. One pigeon flew through gunfire and injury to deliver a message that saved nearly 200 soldiers,” Brown added.

The event saw the laying of wreaths, and was graced by the Army, Navy, Air Force and Durban Metro Police Service, and by the veterans from the SA Legion, the SA Air Force Association, the Naval Officers’ Association and the Gunners’ Association.
The roll of honour also highlighted 21 fallen heroes of war between 1939 and 1945.

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