Animals at war

Throughout military history, animals have gone to war alongside humans. These photos will be part of an exhibit titled "Loyal Force: Animals at War" at the National World War II Museum in New Orleans from July 22 through Oct. 17.A German soldier poses with his horse during World War II. Early in the war, the German Army had a cavalry division: Thoughout the war it used horses for reconnaissance and to transport much of its ammunition and other supplies.

A Marine Corps dog handler comforts his German shepherd while the dog is X-rayed after being shot by a Japanese sniper on Bougainville in the Solomon Islands. Sadly, the dog died of its injuries.

A U.S. sailor has his picture taken with a monkey in Bermuda during World War II.

A mule stands ready to work during World War II. Animals were often used to carry supplies then, and a great deal of artillery was still horse-drawn.

A U.S. soldier and local children ride an elephant in Burma during World War II. Servicemen often had encounters with exotic animals like monkeys, camels and elephants.

A soldier crouches down while his four-legged best friend stands by. A great deal of love existed between the animals and the soldiers they worked with during World War II.