“We can’t underestimate the heroic work that the animals have done right from the Boer War to the present day.”
The third edition of the Nelson RSA hosted Purple Poppy Day commemorations to honour beings who sacrificed in conflict without question or hesitation will pack into Marsden Valley Cemetery on 23 February.
Coordinator Brian Ramsay says while the event is internationally recognised on 24 February, having it a day early as a sunset service should add to the climbing attendance which has ensued since the first local event of this kind in 2023.
“When people realise there were 8 million animals that died just in WW1, the message comes home,” he says.
“It’s only now with Purple Poppy Day that people are taking it on board and realising what an important role all those animals play and still do.
“We’re fine-tuning every year, and all we ask is people attend, bring their animals along, wear something purple, and just appreciate what the animals have done over the years in the military environment.”
Brian says attendees could also bring an animal-themed soft toy to the commemoration.
He says he began planning a local commemoration after learning of the trials, tribulations and triumphs of animals in conflict through works by New Zealand-born Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation head Nigel Allsopp.
Brian says Nigel unveiled a New Zealand war animal memorial at Marsden Valley Cemetery at their inaugural service, and the rock containing the bronze plaque was donated by Wakefield Quarry.
Nigel also unveiled a similar plaque at the National Army Museum in Waiouru for the first Purple Poppy Day in Aotearoa in 2018.
The formalities for the 5pm to 6pm service will include a ceremonial riderless horse led through purple smoke, a wreath laying, guest speaker Nelson MP Rachel Boyack, and the release of 40 pigeons which will return to their Richmond base.
An Alsatian dog dressed in a WW1 Red Cross rescue kit, Richmond Riding for the Disabled horses to represent the animal’s civilian side, and a police dog handler will also be among the attendees.
