There is an unusual war memorial in London on a traffic island outside Hyde Park that I found beautiful and moving. It is the Animals in War Memorial, unveiled in 2004, commemorating all the animals that have served in 20th century wars beside the human soldiers.
All types of animals that have served are represented, from dogs, birds, and horses to camels and elephants.
"They had no choice."
These two halves of a semicircle with an opening at the center form the front.
This dog, called Sargeant Gander, served in World War II. He died by grabbing a grenade about to explode and saved the lives of several Canadian soldiers.
From the back of the memorial, looking through at the pack animals in the front
Animals at the back of the memorial
The horse seems to lead the animals into eternity, the dog looking back at the donkey and pony coming from the front of the memorial. It's beautifully done art, thought-provoking and moving.
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It looks beautiful, I have heard about it but never visited.
ReplyDeleteWhat an incredible memorial to those animals, and I love the expression that they had no choice. My husband's grandfather was a mule tender in WW1.
ReplyDeleteYou have chosen a wonderful memorial for your post today. Excellent photos.
ReplyDeleteWhat an interesting memorial! :)
ReplyDeleteCynthia it is a great idea to commemorate animals which took part in the war. I am going to send you a recipe for tincture at the weekend by email.
ReplyDeleteLove Gosia
I've never even heard of it before. I don't think I'll visit though as I'm nearly blubbering looking at your pictures. You always find the most interesting and thought provoking places to visit though x
ReplyDeleteA good slant on remembrance, reminding us of the waste beyond our own sorrows. Nice post, nicely photographed!
ReplyDeleteTouching monument, so very beautiful made.
ReplyDeleteIt must have been very moving in person. It certainly is very touching via your photos. Beautiful.
ReplyDeleteLovely are the animals. The Memorial looks lovely.
ReplyDeleteWhat a remarkable memorial! And what a wonderful concept - so well deserved. Thanks so much for the photographs.
ReplyDeleteEnjoyed this post. The story of Sargeant Gander touches my heart...all the animals touch my heart! Glad for the memorial.
ReplyDeleteI loved this post, so moving. At our Shrine of Remembrance we have a tribute to war horses, I put a photo on G+ so you could see.
ReplyDeleteHave a great week
Wren x
I love this memorial, close to the Dorchester on Park Lane. The writer Jilly Cooper fund raised and agitated for it and was really the reason it happened at all.
ReplyDeleteNice post and pictures shared remarkable memorial. You can even Create Free Online pet memorials in loving memory of your beloved pet. Just fill out our simple questionnaire wizard to create a memorial Page for your pet.
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