Kangaroos, a kookaburra and even a Tasmanian devil were smuggled overseas by Aussie soldiers during World War I, not just as pets but as symbols of home.

Two retired military service dogs have been given Australia’s first Distinguished Service awards for animals. We find out more about the award and the long history of animals in the armed services.

Picture: Evan Morgan “Today means that we get to pay our respects to those animals that have served through Australian military conflicts, WWI, Vietnam and through to Afghanistan, these animals, they ...

Soldiers and their explosive detection dogs were among those who laid a purple poppy to commemorate War Animal Day at Thuringowa RSL. SEE THE PHOTOS The annual ceremony is to remember the service ...