Chelsea Pensioner Roy Palmer launches International War Animal Day
Chelsea Pensioner Roy Palmer has helped launch the UK arm of International War Animal Day at Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens.
Roy, 87, poet and long-standing advocate for animal welfare, was invited to mark the occasion alongside the War Horse Memorial. During the visit, he met George, the Park’s oldest resident, a 90 year old giant tortoise. George’s shell was draped with a cloak of one hundred purple poppies, the symbol of remembrance for the millions of animals that have lost their lives in conflicts around the world.
International War Animal Day, marked annually on 24th February, is a partnership between the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United States and France. The initiative seeks to recognise the contribution and sacrifice of animals in wartime and to support related charitable work.
Roy said he felt proud and honoured to serve as an ambassador for the campaign.
“In war, animals can frequently be the forgotten casualties,”
“History shows us that, with their help, battles can often be won. In their name, the War Horse Memorial fundraises for animal sanctuaries, and I hope my support will help highlight their work.”
Later this summer, Roy plans to undertake a virtual 1,000 mile cycle ride for peace in memory of his late wife, Muriel. Through the challenge, he hopes to raise funds for both the War Horse Memorial and the Royal Hospital Chelsea.
Roy is also an established poet. His work focuses on the animals sent to war and the hardships, fear and cruelty they endured, often told through their imagined voices. He has published three books to date, with a fourth in progress. Her Majesty Queen Camilla holds copies of his published works, a recognition of which Roy is particularly proud.
Staff at Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens said they were delighted to host Roy for the launch. During his visit, he met several of the Park’s residents, including camels, giraffes and two recently arrived baby rhinos. He also placed the specially knitted purple poppy blanket over George’s shell, marking a moment of remembrance for what many describe as the fallen animal heroes of war.
Roy’s involvement in International War Animal Day reflects the continuing commitment of Chelsea Pensioners to service, remembrance and charitable endeavour, both within the Royal Hospital and beyond.