Armed Forces charity host Purple Poppy Day in West Lothian honouring animals who served in wars

Purple Poppy Day is celebrated on August 23 and honours the animals who have served and sacrificed in wars and conflicts worldwide, such as horses, dogs, pigeons, and camels.

ASA Scotland Charity held their annual Purple Poppy Day in Uphall.

Purple Poppy Day is celebrated on August 23 and honours the animals who have served and sacrificed in wars and conflicts worldwide, such as horses, dogs, pigeons, and camels.

Unlike the red poppy which symbolizes fallen human soldiers, the purple poppy specifically recognizes the contributions and hardships faced by service animals.

Lord Lieutenant, Moira Niven MBE, spoke of the importance of remembering the animals who have served for more than a century and who continue to support our Armed Forces and Police Service today.

She said: “I would like to congratulate ASA Scotland Trustees and Members on their 10th anniversary year.

“I remember in 2017, one of my first engagements, I was invited by Ancre Somme Association Scotland to Uphall for the Battle of Passchendaele 100th Commemoration, where we also paid tribute to local hero Robert Beveridge MM.

“It was a fantastic community event involving the local school, our military and veterans. Since then, the charity has gone on to achieve even greater things, arranging events across West Lothian, Falkirk and other regions of Scotland.

“I commend the hard-working Trustees and Members of the charity and look forward to attending more of your events. Keep up the great work.”

ASA Scotland President, Baillie Buchanan, added: “We are truly honoured to have His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant Moira Niven MBE attending our annual Purple Poppy Day event here in Uphall.”

The day pays tribute to the animals that have served alongside military forces in every conflict, from the Boer War to modern-day operations.

It aims to educate the public about the essential role animals have played and continue to play in military service.

ASA Scotland Chairman, Councillor Harry Cartmill, said: “We are honoured and blessed to have the support of HM Lord Lieutenant Moira Niven MBE.

“Over the years she has inspired us, and both she and her team have given us tremendous encouragement.

“Purple Poppy Day is a time to reflect on the birds, dogs, horses, mules and other animals who have served across the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth.”

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