The Dickin Medal, instituted by Mrs Maria Dickin, founder of the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals in England, was popularly referred to as "the animals’ VC". It was awarded to animals displaying conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty associated with, or under the control of, any branch of the Armed Forces or Civil Defence units during World War II and its aftermath.

The gallery below has photos, newspaper articles, a description of this particular award to Gander, a newfoundland dog with the Royal Rifles of Canada during WWII, as well as the text for the award ceremony. Marcarpents Kennels was proud to have been asked to bring Rimshot to stand in for Gander at the event.