Many thanks to my family for their support, and for encouraging me to go from writer to author. I wish to thank my friend, Monique Pappas, for the wonderful book cover illustration. Also, I want to acknowledge Melinda Copp, the Writer’s Sherpa, for her professional editorial services (2008).
Several years ago, while doing research for a story that was to be about the adventures of two little doves, I became inspired by the true story of Cher Ami, the carrier pigeon that saved a lost battalion in World War I. Documents obtained from the U.S. National Archives revealed that many birds distinguished themselves in the American Army on the front, an excerpt of which is provided at the end of the story.
World War I, the war that was to end all wars, killed over nine million soldiers, collapsed four dynasties, and transformed the boundaries of central and western Europe. Perhaps this story will inspire readers to review world history, as it may provide a better understanding of modern wars.
The terms pigeons and doves are used interchangeably, and are the same species. They were domesticated hundreds of years ago for their intelligence services. They mate for life, so it is not surprising that in ancient times, some trainers would hold families in the lofts to insure the message carriers would return. During the Great War, the use of wireless transmitters, telegraph services, and telephone equipment often proved unreliable, leaving thousands of troops stranded with no hope. As a result, the legend of the carrier pigeons lives on with the maxim – when all else failed.
It was a pleasure to write the story of Doveland, and perhaps it will reunite the kindred spirit of readers with the invisible bond that exists between man and animals. It is a privilege to help preserve the historical legacy of the intelligence services of the carrier pigeons, and to support all dedicated bird advocates in their efforts to secure a protective environment for these wonderful birds.
-M Moore