Press Release

The American Animals of World War II Celebrated and Remembered in More Than 150 Photographs

The National WWII Museum hosts Meet the Authors event for "Loyal Forces" Book Release

NEW ORLEANS (March 1, 2013) — Join The National WWII Museum March 7 to celebrate the launch of Loyal Forces (LSU Press, March 2013), written and compiled by Museum curators Toni M. Kiser and Lindsey F. Barnes. At a time when every American was called upon to contribute to the war effort — whether by enlisting, buying bonds, or collecting scrap metal — the use of American animals during World War II further demonstrates the resourcefulness of the US Army and the many sacrifices that led to the Allies’ victory. Through 157 photographs from The National WWII Museum collection, Loyal Forces captures the heroism, hard work, and innate skills of innumerable animals that aided the military as they fought to protect, transport, communicate, and sustain morale. From the last mounted cavalry charge of the US Army to the 36,000 homing pigeons deployed overseas, service animals made a significant impact on military operations during World War II.

Authors Toni M. Kiser and Lindsey F. Barnes deftly illustrate that every branch of the armed forces and every theater of the war utilized the instincts and dexterity of these dependable creatures, who, though not always in the direct line of enemy fire, had their lives put at risk for the jobs they performed.

The March 7 program begins at 5:00 p.m. in the Museum’s new US Freedom Pavilion: The Boeing Center and includes a reception, 6:00 p.m. presentation with audience Q&A and a book singing at 7:00 p.m. The event is free and open to the public with registration strongly encouraged. To RSVP please call 504-528-1944 x 229.

The National WWII Museum tells the story of the American Experience in the war that changed the world — why it was fought, how it was won, and what it means today. Dedicated in 2000 as The National D-Day Museum and designated by Congress as America’s National WWII Museum, it celebrates the American Spirit, the teamwork, optimism, courage and sacrifice of the men and women who served on the battlefront and the Home Front. For more information, call 877-813-3329 or 504-527-6012 or visit www.nationalww2museum.org. Follow us on Twitter at WWIImuseum or visit our Facebook fan page.