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War Animal Day

24th February 2026 - Official Day

Suggested Community Event Window –
Saturday 21st to Tuesday 24th February 2026

We Need Your Support

Join us in honouring the courage, sacrifice, and service of the animals who stood alongside our armed forces.

In 2026, we invite communities across Australia to host a local War Animal Remembrance Day event to recognise the loyal horses, donkeys, camels, dogs, pigeons and other animals who served - and often gave their lives - in times of war and peace.

Your participation helps ensure that their legacy is never forgotten.

Every year on War Animal Day, we pause to honour the extraordinary contributions of animals in Australia’s military and peace-keeping history - those four-legged and winged heroes who supported our service personnel with loyalty, courage, and resilience.

In this video, Sue McNeill, retired CEO of Cronulla RSL, shares why formally recognising war animals is so important and how both individuals and organisations can play a meaningful role in preserving this legacy. By taking part, you help acknowledge the vital role of service animals, demonstrate compassion and respect, and strengthen community connection through a shared act of remembrance and gratitude.

How You Can Participate

This date has been dedicated to remembering the bravery, loyalty, and sacrifices of animals who have supported the armed forces. Their service is a vital part of our history, and their stories deserve to be remembered.

We invite communities across Australia to take part in War & Service Animal Day:

Purchase a Purple Poppy Badge:

Wearing a purple poppy is a simple but powerful way to honour the animals who served alongside Australia’s military personnel. By purchasing an official badge, you help raise awareness and support ongoing remembrance activities.
Buy Here

Lay a Purple Poppy Wreath:

Volunteers are encouraged to approach their local RSL (Returned and Services League) and request that the day be recognised, laying a purple poppy wreath to honour these animals.

Host or Attend Local Commemorations:

RSLs, schools, councils, and community groups across Australia hold ceremonies to honour the service and sacrifice of war animals. You can attend a local event to show your support, or host your own commemorative service to help raise awareness in your community.

Share Their Stories:

Help spread awareness by sharing stories of courage and loyalty of service animals on social media or within your community.

Maintain Memorials:

Many war animal memorials, such as those at Pozieres in France and along the Kokoda Trail, rely on volunteers to help maintain them. This can include cleaning around monuments or polishing plaques to ensure their legacy continues.

Hold a War Animal Day
Ceremony in your area.

Register Your Interest / Event

Fill out the form to show your interest in hosting a War Animal Day Ceremony at your venue, or send us the details of your planned event.

We will get in touch with you and provide advice and support.

How We’ll Support You

To make hosting your event easy and impactful, we’ll provide:

Official Ceremony Guide:
A suggested running order, speeches, and tribute format.

Marketing & Media Support Package – Including:
• Customisable press release and media advisory template
• Social media graphics and captions
• Website banners and event logo
• Event flyer template for local distribution

Ongoing Support & Guidance – Our team will assist with event planning, promotion, and local engagement where needed.

Show your Support
© 2025 Australian War Animal Memorials Organisation Inc.
ABN: 50 224 792 966
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