The PDSA Dickin Medal was instituted by Maria Dickin in 1943 and was immediately recognised as "the animals' VC".
Between 1943 and 1949 PDSA awarded 54 Dickin Medals: 32 pigeons, 18 dogs, three horses and one cat - "Simon" the mascot of HMS Amethyst during the Yangtze Incident in 1949 - received the Medal for displaying conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty while serving with the Armed Forces or Civil Defence units during World War II and its aftermath.
In October 2000, PDSA was pleased and proud to be able to award the 55th Medal to "Gander" a huge Newfoundland dog and mascot of the Royal Rifles of Canada during the Regiment's brave defence of Hong Kong in 1941. "Gander" courageously protected the men during the Battle of Lye Mun, but lost his life gathering a grenade that landed beside a group of wounded soldiers. The dog's Dickin Medal was presented to the Canadian veterans at a special ceremony in Ottawa.
The Dickin Medal, a large bronze medallion, bears the words 'For Gallantry' and We Also Serve' all within a laurel wreath. The ribbon is striped green, dark brown and pale blue representing water, earth and air to symbolise the naval, military, civil defence and air forces.
Several PDSA Dickin Medals have been put up for auction in recent years. The auction of "Simon" the cat's medal caused great excitement in 1993 when it went under the gavel for £23,000!
In addition to the PDSA Dickin Medal, PDSA has introduced two further awards:
* PDSA Gold Medal for Animal Gallantry - the animals' George Cross, considered for any act of conspicuous courage where the animal has been instrumental in saving human life.
* PDSA Certificate for Animal Bravery - for other acts of bravery worthy of recognition.
All are a reminder that animals continue to act courageously in the service of mankind.
Allen Parton
http://www.emmathevet.co.uk/endal.asp
