An exhibition celebrated the military role of animals in wars

Initiated by the Association des Collectionneurs pour la Sauvegarde du Patrimoine de la Maréchaussée à la Gendarmerie (ACSPMG), a very beautiful exhibition, which required several months of work, paid tribute to the animals that endured the same suffering as men during the war. 'From the accomplishment of the most perilous missions to their role of moral support to the soldiers, animals are celebrated in this exhibition. They deserved to be recognized for their sacrifices,' explains Nicolas Moulin, president of the ACSPMG.

Une exposition a célébré le rôle militaire des animaux dans les guerres

AN EXHIBITION WITH CHARACTER The president adds: 'Since the dawn of time, man has dragged animals in his wake onto battlefields (horses, dogs, pigeons, cats, rats, etc.) These heroes, on four or two legs, played an important but sometimes unrecognized role for the general public. Millions of animals were mobilized alongside men.

Thus, horses, mules, and donkeys were indispensable for transporting equipment, troops, and the wounded. Many did not survive the war conditions and the dangers of the front.'

Nicolas Moulin continues: 'Similarly, dogs, trained for numerous tasks, served as messengers and rescuers, recognizable by their white bib with a red cross. They located the wounded and brought comfort to the soldiers. Not forgetting the homing pigeons which were used for transmitting messages in complete safety.

Obviously, there are all the other animals (rats, rabbits, oxen, elephants) used for military purposes. Millions of animals participated, on all fronts, in the war effort.'

BRIGITTE BARDOT, GODMOTHER OF THE EXHIBITION Not without some emotion, the organizers unveiled Brigitte Bardot's letter. The president of the eponymous foundation agreed to be the godmother of this exhibition. Placed in a frame, this letter is presented to the public for the duration of the exhibition.

Furthermore, several panels highlight the role of the gendarmerie during the Great War. A role that is sometimes little-known. Far from clichés, the gendarmes were more than simple guardians of order, but essential actors in the war.

'The mayor of the municipality thanked the ACSPMG for this memorial initiative, Joël Ory, a resident of Garéoult and history enthusiast, the creator of this exhibition. His research and presentation work were praised. The testimonies written in the guestbook will not contradict me,' admits Nicolas Moulin.

Finally, many partners contributed to this success (Municipalité de Garéoult, Centre d'instruction cynophile de la gendarmerie nationale de Gramat, musée de l'Artillerie de Draguignan, fondation Brigitte Bardot, Souvenir Français, Médaille militaire, UNPRG (gendarmerie retirees), Richard Maisonnave, expert in history and military heritage, Jean-Marc Tinant, Jean-Pierre Poglio, Bruno Poirot, Grégory Negro, Surf Photos, and Kikou the cat).