With this issue we remember the valour and sacrifice made by countless animals during Australia’s involvement in war. Animals have been indispensable during wartime: we have relied on them for transport, logistics, communications and companionship. Mules, camels, donkeys, pigeons, dogs and horses have all served their human masters in conflict. Dogs carried messages, ammunition and medical equipment as well as located wounded men and enemy soldiers. By sniffing out explosives dogs have saved many lives in Afghanistan, where Improvised Explosive Devices were one of the biggest threats to Australian soldiers. Millions of horses, including thousands sent from Australia, served and died on the Western Front during World War I. The mounted troops known as the Australian Light Horse first served in the second Boer War (1899–1902) and a number of units still exist today. To commemorate all animal deeds and sacrifices in war, a commemorative purple poppy is worn on 24 February, Australia’s official War Animal Day.