Let’s not forget – Suffolk poet Hugh Lake’s poignant reminder of animals’ experience in war

HISTORY BOY: Hugh Lake.

Poet Hugh Lake has penned an emotional tribute, see below, to the contribution and experience of animals in war which he is sharing with us.

Hugh, from Sufolk, said: “I love what you are doing at The War Horse Memorial so please keep up the good work. He added: “My poetry covers all sorts of subjects but it often has a story or some historical content. I am really ‘old school’ and prefer some sort of structure, be it rhythm and/or rhyme. After retiring I resurrected writing during [Covid] lockdown.”

Here at The War Horse Memorial we were delighted when Hugh, a keen drummer, made contact about his poem which has a particular resonance at this time of year when we remember the service and sacrifice of animals in war. You can explore more of Hugh’s work by going to his website www.hughlakesomewherein.co.uk.

Let’s not forget the horses

those that had no choice

whatever words they said

we did not heed their voice

Unmindful of the shrapnel

or how to duck or dive

that if they took to shelter

some might just survive

Let’s not forget the pigeons

like Gustav and Cher Ami

the mercurial messengers

with news from across the sea

Flew faster than the gunfire

knew not that they were brave

instincts pulled them home

many lives they came to save

Let’s not forget the dogs

our four legged friends

war’s history holds a place for them

for countless diverse ends

They fought and they fetched

medical aid to those in need

asked no more than loyal love

a role for every breed

A purple poppy has a place

helps hold ourselves to task

putting creatures at man made risk

is more than we should ask