Dumfriesshire to Remember Animals in War
In Dumfriesshire, a special ceremony will be held at The Devil’s Porridge Museum in Eastriggs to remember Animals in War on Armistice Day. The museum will host a two minutes’ silence at 11am on Monday, November 11, at its Animals at War Memorial, followed by wreath-laying. Pet lovers are encouraged to join the event, which will honour the animals that played crucial roles during wars.
The Devil’s Porridge Museum showcases the history of HM Factory Gretna, the largest munitions factory during World War One. With 30,000 workers from around the Commonwealth, the factory produced cordite known as ‘devil’s porridge.’ The museum’s Animals in War Memorial, one of only two in the UK, invites visitors to pay their respects to the animals who sacrificed and contributed to wartime efforts.
The ceremony will commence at 11am at the five-and-a-half-foot polished granite statue, symbolising the animals’ dedication and sacrifice during wars and conflicts. The monument, costing £10,500, received approval from Princess Anne during the museum’s official opening. The memorial’s establishment dates back to 2008, supported by the Royal Pigeon Racing Association and funded by animal lovers across the UK.
Although initially planned for Carlisle, the memorial found a new home in Dumfries and Galloway at the Devil’s Porridge Museum last year. Councillor Richard Brodie, chairman of the Eastriggs and Gretna Heritage Group, expressed pride in hosting the memorial. The museum also recognises Animals in War through the PDSA Dickin Medal, akin to the animals’ Victoria Cross, acknowledging acts of gallantry during wartime.
On Remembrance Sunday, the museum welcomes visitors to join a two minutes’ silence at 11am. Additionally, representatives will lay wreaths at Eastriggs and Dornock war memorial to honour the fallen. The event serves as a poignant tribute to commemorate the invaluable contribution of animals during times of conflict.
Insights and Summary:
The memorial service at The Devil’s Porridge Museum honours the often-overlooked role of animals in wartime activities. From messenger pigeons to cavalry horses, animals played a vital part in supporting military efforts throughout history. The museum’s dedication to preserving this aspect of wartime history not only educates visitors but also ensures that the sacrifices of these animals are never forgotten. Such ceremonies not only pay tribute to the past but also serve as a reminder of the importance of compassion and remembrance in our society.