2. The Cat Among the Pigeons

Alongside the 32 messenger pigeons awarded the PDSA’s Dickin Medal for devotion to duty during wartime, sits just one cat.

Simon was the captain's cat on-board HMS Amethyst.

In 1949 he became caught up in what was to become known as the "Yangtze Incident" in China.

Dylan Winter finds out how, during the 100 days when the ship was held captive, Simon ensured himself a place in history and his medal.

Producer: Sheena Duncan

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2004.