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Releasing a carrier pigeon from a British tank
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Releasing a carrier pigeon from a British tank
Releasing a carrier pigeon from a British tank near Albert, 9th August 1918
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Media ID 32383882
© The Keasbury-Gordon Photograph Archive / Mary Evans
Carrier Pigeon Releasing Tank Albert
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This vintage image, taken on the 9th of August 1918 near Albert, France, showcases a poignant moment during the final stages of World War I. A British soldier, clad in heavy gear, stands at the hatch of a tank, his expression a mix of determination and relief. In his hands, he holds a carrier pigeon, its wings clipped and a message tied to its leg. The tank, a symbol of modern warfare, contrasts sharply with the ancient tradition of using pigeons for communication. Carrier pigeons were essential messengers during wartime, particularly before the widespread use of radios and telephones. They could fly faster than horses and were less susceptible to interception than human messengers. The pigeons were trained to fly back to their lofts, allowing for a reliable and efficient means of sending messages between troops. The soldier carefully opens the hatch, the metal creaking softly as he releases the pigeon into the sky. The bird takes off, its wings flapping powerfully as it ascends, carrying the vital message to its destination. The image is a poignant reminder of the intersection of old and new technologies during the tumultuous era of World War I. This photograph, part of The Keasbury-Gordon Photograph Archive Collection from Mary Evans Prints Online, offers a glimpse into the past, transporting us back to a time when the world was on the brink of change. The image is not only a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of soldiers during wartime but also a poignant reminder of the enduring bond between man and animal.
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