Military Animals
February 24 is International Military Animal Day, remembering the service and sacrifice of military animals. Throughout history animals of all kinds have played an important part during wartime, from Hanibal’s elephants, carrier pigeons, and the much-maligned Army mule.
Animal soldiers and sailors are loved, respected, honored and mourned when lost, just as their human comrades are. They serve as living mascots and emblems for the military branches and as valuable public relations icons. They are always fan favorites.
This list provides animals who served alongside Morris County soldiers and sailors. “Fala”, President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s dog, was served by a Morris Plains sailor.
If you are a Morris County military veteran and would like to contribute an animal’s history contact Jan Williams at jwilliams.co.morris.nj.us
(Camp mutts, cats, fins, fur, scales, and feathers are welcome).