Purple Poppies
The Animal Poppy
Most people are unaware that as well as the traditional red poppy worn to mark Remembrance Day, that there is also the purple poppy, remembering animals that died during conflict. To commemorate all the animal deeds and sacrifices in war, the Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation (AWAMO) has issued a purple poppy, which can be worn alongside the traditional red one. Just like other countries including the United Kingdom people are encouraged to wear the purple poppy alongside the traditional red poppy as a reminder that both humans and animals have and continue to serve. This poppy was created to remember the animal victims of war. During human conflicts, animals have been used as messengers, for detection, scouting and rescue, as beasts of burden and on the frontline. Wearing a purple poppy helps to raise awareness of these forgotten victims.