article_snippet: New research has uncovered the extent to which a range of animals helped our troops in amazing historical photographs.
article_snippet: Ben Mercer, Content Director at genealogy organisation Ancestry.com, said a renewed interest Australia's war-time history prompted him to start researching the role of animals in the Great War, which led him to the discovery of a rich photographic history.
article_snippet: Ben Mercer said horses played a vital role in WWI with around 130,000 sent overseas to support Australia’s war effort.
article_snippet: Originally intended to play a cavalry role, it was soon realised horses were not suited to the terrain and the men would have a better chance fighting on foot.
article_snippet: horses went from being cavalry-based to assisting with transport and communication.
article_snippet: It was presented after an animal displayed gallant devotion to serving the men and women on the field.
article_snippet: Donkeys stamina in the heat and cold made Donkeys the perfect candidate to carry soldiers and equipment .
article_snippet: The story of Simpson and Simpson donkey became a part of the ANZAC legend but there were many other donkeys and mules who’s stamina in the cold and heat contributed to The story of Simpson and his donkey ability to perform while transporting soldiers and equipment throughout WWI.
article_snippet: ‘The story of Simpson and his donkey were also used to tow field ambulances and were very important in battles like Gallipoli where it was difficult to move men and supplies from the front line.
highlights_snippet: Simpson's donkey at Gallipoli was not the only animal hero that helped Australian troops during the conflit .
  
highlights_snippet: A whole range of animals were used on the battlefields and made a significant contribution .
  
highlights_snippet: Horses and donkeys carried wounded soldiers or equipment, while cats played a crucial rat-catcher role .
  