In countries such as Canada and Australia, the poppy–described in striking detail by Sir John McCrae during World War I in his poem "In Flanders Fields"– is a symbol of remembrance and is recognized as a symbol for Veterans Day, a time set aside to thank and honor all who served honorably in the military, both in war and peace.

"Veterans Day is largely intended to thank living veterans for their service, to acknowledge that their contributions to our national security are appreciated, and to underscore the fact that all those who served–not only those who died–have sacrificed and done their duty," says the United States Department of Veterans Affairs.

Humans aren’t the only ones who served during the wars, and one way that the millions of service horses and mules are remembered on Veterans Day is through ceremonial parades held by such organizations as the U.S. Army’s 1st Cavalry Division at Fort Hood, Texas.

According to Trooper Christopher Abernathy, "The whole purpose of the 1st Cavalry Division is to remember horses in war and to serve as a link to the past. This Veterans Day, we have two parades schedule that will involve 11 rides and mounts and one wagon" to honor the fallen