All Things Dogs

This Sunday, Ursula and I had the incredible honour of taking part in the Remembrance Parade in Hereford. It felt strange standing there in a suit rather than my Number 2s. A quiet reminder of how life changes, yet our sense of duty never fades. As we always say in the forces, adapt and overcome, and that’s exactly what we do, no matter where life takes us.

This year, Hereford Council reached out to me and Ursula with something truly special. For the first time, a purple wreath was to be laid, in memory of the animals who have served alongside soldiers throughout history. Horses, pigeons, donkeys, and of course, the dogs our loyal comrades who’ve stood shoulder to shoulder with us in times of war and peace. The council wanted to do it right, so they asked us to represent all those animals who gave everything and asked for nothing in return.

Laying that wreath was one of the most emotional moments of my life. As I stood there beside Ursula, I thought of every dog I’d worked with over the years the ones who saved lives, who protected their handlers, who made it home, and those who didn’t. I thought of Freddie, of the countless others whose pawprints are forever etched in the sands of conflict zones and in the hearts of those who served with them.

It was a moment of pride, remembrance, and deep gratitude. I can only hope we did justice to all the animals and service members who came before us and those who will come after us.

Lest we forget.

For all who served — human and animal alike.