25/10/2026
**THE FORGOTTEN HEROES OF WAR — REMEMBERING THE HORSES AND MULES WHO SERVED, SUFFERED AND NEVER CAME HOME** 🐴💜
As the Royal British Legion's 2026 Poppy Appeal begins, we remember the brave men and women who served their countries. But alongside them were millions of animals whose sacrifices deserve to be remembered too.
Among them were the horses and mules who carried soldiers, hauled artillery, transported am******on, delivered vital supplies and helped evacuate the wounded from the battlefields.
They endured freezing winters, scorching summers, deep mud, exhaustion and the terrifying noise of gunfire and explosions.
During the First World War alone, millions of horses and mules were used by the armies involved. Countless animals never returned home.
They didn't understand the politics of war. They didn't know why they were being sent into danger. They simply did what was asked of them, often continuing despite unimaginable hardship.
**That is why the purple poppy holds such special meaning.** 💜
While the traditional red poppy remembers those who lost their lives in military service, the purple poppy has become a symbol of remembrance for the animals who served and suffered alongside them.
Horses, mules, donkeys, dogs, pigeons and countless other animals all played their part.
These beautiful horse sculptures, adorned with purple poppies, offer a moving reminder of the animals whose contributions to history are so easily overlooked.
As this year's Poppy Appeal gets underway and we approach Remembrance Day on November 11, let us remember not only the soldiers who never came home, but also the faithful animals who stood beside them.
They received no medals for bravery. They had no understanding of the causes for which they were fighting. And they had no choice in the sacrifices they made.
**They served without understanding. They suffered without complaint. And they deserve never to be forgotten.** 💜
Will you be remembering the horses and mules of war this Remembrance season?