Purple Poppy Day honours the courage, loyalty and sacrifice of animals who served alongside Australian Defence Force personnel.
A commemorative event at Reg Hillier house in Bees Creek highlighted the vital role animals have played in the Northern Territory's military history.
The Northern Territory is home to one of the largest veteran communities per capita in Australia with around 20,000 current and ex-serving personnel and their families.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is proudly recognising Purple Poppy Day today, observed annually on 24 February, honouring the courage, loyalty and sacrifice of animals who have served alongside Australian Defence Force personnel.
In our year of growth, certainty and security, we are backing our veterans, strengthening community connections, and ensuring that every contribution to our nation's defence is remembered - including those who served on four legs.
Chief Minister and Minister for Defence NT Lia Finocchiaro said Poppy Day is also a time to recognise the service and sacrifice of our veterans and Defence personnel, whose dedication protects our nation and our way of life.
"In the Territory, Defence is part of who we are, and our government is committed to supporting veterans, current Defence personnel and their families, ensuring their service is respected, their stories are remembered, and their ongoing contributions to our community are valued."
Purple Poppy Day is symbolised by a purple poppy worn alongside the traditional red poppy, acknowledging that service and sacrifice have never been carried by people alone.
Minister for Veterans Jinson Charls said Purple Poppy Day recognises the often-unseen service of animals who have worked alongside our Defence personnel in times of war and in times of peace.
"These animals have demonstrated extraordinary loyalty and courage. It is only fitting that we honour their deeds and acknowledge the bond they share with those who serve," said Mr Charls.
"The CLP Government is proud to stand with our veterans and their families, and we will continue to ensure that the contribution of service animals is remembered and respected here in the Territory."
On Saturday 21 February, veterans, Defence personnel, families and community members gathered at Reg Hillier House in Bees Creek to commemorate the day and honour service animals.
Lieutenant Ingrid Reitermeier of the 1 Combat Engineer Regiment spoke about the critical role of Explosive Detection Dogs in protecting Australian troops in operational environments.
Royal Australian Air Force Chaplain Darren Loechel delivered a short benediction alongside Connie, a welfare dog, acknowledging the enduring bond between service personnel and the animals who stand beside them.
Representatives from B Company, 1 Military Police Battalion showcased the work of Military Working Dogs, with an interactive display and a G-wagon vehicle with kennels.
Historical stories of animals in conflict were shared by Library & Archives NT and the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, highlighting the important role animals have played in the Territory's military history.
Veterans Australia member, Bruce Thatcher reflected on his service and role of dogs.
"I was a National Service conscript and served as a cover man with a tracker dog team with 2RAR, later to become 2RAR/ANZAC Battalion, in Vietnam in 1967-1968. Along with 7RAR, we were the first to utilise tracking dogs in the war.
"The usual four-man team comprised the dog and his handler, an M16 cover man with an M60, a visual tracker armed with an SLR 7.62, and a team leader also armed with an SLR 7.62.
"We had two teams, Caesar, a black kelpie cross handled by the late Peter Haran, and Marcus, a black purebred Labrador handled by the late Dennis Ferguson. Our battalion colours were black.
"We were sometimes attached to a rifle company and, after enemy contact, would be called on to follow blood or scent trails. The dog would track until indicating close contact with the enemy, from a few metres up to 100 metres, and the back-up company would then sweep through to engage or check the area.
"Mostly, though, we were on 30 minutes' standby to be winched in by helicopter if called for a track. Apart from our own packs, we carried extra water and food for the dogs.
"When my tour ended, we had to leave the dogs behind for the next team. That was difficult. The dogs were later given to various homes in Vietnam. We believe Caesar ended up at the High Commissioner's residence in then Saigon."
Today the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory will host a Curator Talk exploring the stories of military mascots that served in the Northern Territory, including Gunner the dog and Min the donkey.
