Book description
Sergeant Gander is a fascinating account of the Royal Rifles
of Canadas canine mascot, and his devotion to duty demonstrated during
the Battle of Hong Kong in the Second World War. Armed only with his
formidable size, an intimidating set of teeth, and a protective
instinct, Gander rought alongside his fellow Canadian soldiers. As the
Royal Rifles' position become more precarious, the men were forced to
retreat into the hills of Hong Kong, and it was here that a group of
wounded Canadians, threatened by a live grenade, came to fully
appreciate the loyalty of Gander.
For his service in battle, Sergeant Gander was awarded the Dickin
Medal, the animal equivalent to the Victoria Cross for humans. This
honour is dedicated to animals displaying gallantry and devotion to
duty while under any control of the armed forces. Sergeant Gander is
the nineteenth dog to receive this medal and the first Canadian canine
to do so.
Robyn Walker is a school librarian and freelance writer. She does
regular book reviews for The School Library Journal. She lives
in St. Thomas, Ontario.
