Four types of animal have been honoured: dogs, horses, pigeons and one cat. Simon the cat is credited with saving an entire ship’s crew. Canine breeds include Alsatians, terriers, collies and spaniels. The majority of awards were related to war service and the conflicts include the Second World War, Korea, Iraq, Yugoslavia and Afghanistan. The Al-Qaeda attack on the Twin Towers as well as the Blitz saw great courage exhibited by animals such as Rip, the dog who saved many lives.

In addition to British animals, there are American, Canadian, Australian and Egyptian winners of this unique award.

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