Host A War Animal Day Event
The Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation (AWAMO) is at the heart of War Animal Day, an annual national commemoration recognising the courage, sacrifice and service of animals that have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Australian defence personnel in times of war and peace. As a registered not-for-profit charity, AWAMO is dedicated to preserving the stories and legacy of service animals, establishing memorials, delivering educational programs, and supporting contemporary veteran animals and community initiatives that honour their contribution.
A central symbol of this remembrance is the Purple Poppy. Worn on War Animal Day Australia, the purple poppy represents respect and gratitude for the loyal animals whose service has often gone unrecognised. Proceeds from the Purple Poppy collection directly support AWAMO’s mission: funding memorials, educational resources, veteran canine care programs and other activities that ensure these remarkable animals are never forgotten.
What Is War Animal Day?
War Animal Day is observed nationally every year on 24 February, with community events often held during a suggested remembrance window from 21 to 24 February this year. The day brings Australians together to honour the vital roles played by horses, dogs, pigeons, camels, mules and other animals , from battlefields to support roles, recognising their loyalty, courage and sacrifice.
The Role of AWAMO in Preserving History and Service
AWAMO’s work spans far beyond a single commemorative day. Their initiatives include:
Establishing war animal memorials across Australia and internationally to physically honour these service animals.
Veteran canine assistance programs, offering retired military working dogs support including veterinary care and comfort in their later years.
Education and awareness efforts, distributing resources to schools, libraries and communities to ensure future generations learn about these service animals.
Global animal welfare support, extending assistance to conflict-impacted animal communities around the world.
By connecting local remembrance with broader historical recognition, AWAMO ensures that the contribution of service animals remains a respected and remembered part of Australian military heritage.
What the Purple Poppy Means in Australia
While the red poppy symbolises general remembrance across Australia and around the world, the purple poppy specifically commemorates the service of animals in war and peace. Wearing a purple poppy on War Animal Day is a powerful visual tribute, sparking conversation, raising awareness and inspiring education on the roles animals have played alongside human service members — from frontline missions to acts that supported wellbeing and morale.
The funds raised from Purple Poppy badges and merchandise are vital in supporting AWAMO’s ongoing work, from funding memorial development to enabling education programs that teach future generations about these heroes.
How Organisations Can Host a War Animal Day Event
AWAMO actively encourages schools, RSL sub-branches, councils, veterans’ organisations, service clubs and community groups across Australia to host their own War Animal Day ceremonies during late February. These events are meaningful ways to bring communities together in remembrance, educate local audiences about service animals, and foster connection through shared tribute.
AWAMO Provides Full Support
To make hosting easier and more impactful, AWAMO offers participating organisations:
Official Ceremony Guide. A complete suggested running order, speeches and tribute formats.
Marketing & Media Support. Customisable press releases, social media graphics and captions, event flyers, website banners and logos.
Ongoing Guidance. Assistance with event planning, local promotion and community engagement.
This support means even first-time hosts can deliver a respectful and memorable War Animal Day ceremony that resonates locally and honours the sacrifices of these animals.
Get Involved This Year
Whether you plan a small school remembrance assembly, a community wreath-laying or a larger public ceremony, hosting an event for War Animal Day Australia offers an opportunity to honour the faithfulness, bravery and service of animals whose stories deserve to be remembered.
Register your event with AWAMO here and tap into their support resources to ensure your ceremony is meaningful and well-supported.
Remember: every purple poppy worn, every story shared and every ceremony held helps keep alive the legacy of Australia’s unsung animal heroes. Wear and share a Purple Poppy today.
