Paddy the Pigeon received the Dickin Medal - the animal equivalent of a V.C. in 1944 for his role in bringing home news of the successful Normandy Landings.
'D-Day Fliers Decorated'
Mrs. A.V. Alexander - wife of the First Lord of the Admiralty - and Wing Commander Rayner present the Dickin Medal to carrier pigeons Gustav and Paddy. The Dickin Medal is presented by the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals in recognition of gallantry. It is an equivalent of the Victoria Cross. Paddy the Pigeon was born and raised in Carnlough, Co. Antrim before entering service with the Royal Air Force.