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20.
Horses
that had proved to be very effective in winning previous wars
in previous centuries were still used in World War 1 but in the role of
carrying supplies, artillery pieces and ammunition to the front. With
regard to our soldiers and horses in the Middle East, the only place where
their involvement was significant was in battles against Ottoman Empire
(Turkey) at places like Beersheba. Veterinary Units to care for the horses
became very important as the horse carted artillery and supplies from
battle to battle - see photograph below. At the conclusion of the war
horses were either sold or in many cases shot by their owners, rather than
leave them to endure an uncertain future.
The Australian War Memorial’ photograph collection shows:
Horses and carriages taking artillery pieces to the front
Australian War Memorial AWM Photo E03128
and Army vetinarians undertaking surgery on a horse.
Australian War Memorial AWM Photo E04440
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