Many animals helped soldiers in World Wars I and II: reindeer, pack horses, mules, carrier pigeons and dogs. Some animals played different roles and were mascots. Research the "Tunnelers' Friends" and learn about the roles of these animals.

Read about and research the following animals that were symbols and heroes to their military friends:

First World War

• A black bear cub named "Winnipeg" (“Winnie”) became the mascot of army surgeon Captain Harry Colebourn's regiment, the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry. Winnie was later immortalized in a series of children's books and is the subject of a Historica Minute.

Second World War

• A Newfoundland dog, "Gander," mascot of the Royal Rifles of Canada, was credited with saving the lives of Canadian soldiers during the defence of Hong Kong, as he twice halted the enemy's advance and protected groups of wounded soldiers. He was killed in action while gathering a grenade, saving many more lives. Gander was posthumously awarded the Dickin Medal, popularly known as the animals' Victoria Cross. Gander was the first Canadian dog to be awarded the medal for heroism.

See Tales of Animals in War by Veterans Affairs Canada for a complete resource on this topic.

For more information on the theme of "Remembrance" at Parliament, visit the virtual Memorial Chamber and the Books of Remembrance.