Animals in the Second World War

Description

Throughout the course of the Second World War, many millions of animals were enlisted to serve. Though they had no choice, yet they demonstrated loyalty, determination and bravery as they shared the burden of war with their human companions both on active service and on the Home Front. From the dogs trained to locate air-raid victims buried under rubble, to the mules that carried ammunition and supplies through the jungles of the Far East, each animal played a crucial role in the war effort. In fact, such was their contribution that those animals that showed exceptional gallantry or devotion to duty were recognised officially with the introduction of the Dickin Medal in 1943. This fascinating book draws from first-hand accounts and contemporary sources to reveal the wide-ranging contributions that animals made both on and off the battlefield.

Neil R. Storey is a social historian and lecturer specialising in the impact of war on society. He has written over forty books, numerous articles for both national magazines and academic journals and features as a guest expert on television and radio programmes and documentaries. Neil is an animal lover and is the author of the companion volume Animals in the First World War.