National K-9 Veterans Day falls on March 13 and marks the U.S. Army’s K-9 Corps’ official birthday. Since its creation in 1942, the K-9 Corps’ has had more than 30,000 dogs serving in the U.S. military. Many strong and determined dogs still provide their services to our military and law enforcement. These brave K-9 units […]
National K-9 Veterans Day falls on March 13 and marks the U.S. Army’s K-9 Corps’ official birthday. Since its creation in 1942, the K-9 Corps’ has had more than 30,000 dogs serving in the U.S. military. Many strong and determined dogs still provide their services to our military and law enforcement.
These brave K-9 units use their acute senses to detect immediate threats, such as explosives, weapons, and illegal substances. Some K-9 dogs undergo intense military training to prepare them for war service. Their firm loyalty and bravery gives us the security we need to live normal lives.
This March, we want to commemorate the lives of some of our nation’s most courageous K-9 veterans. Here are 5 amazing K-9 dogs we will never forget:
One of U.S. history’s renowned war dogs, Sergeant Stubby started his military career during a training session at a Yale campus in 1917. Stubby, a stray, wandered inside the campus and watched the soldiers as they completed their drills. His adoptive owner, Corporal John Robert Conroy became so fond of Stubby that he smuggled him into France.
From then on, Stubby served in World War I, participating in 17 battles. Most of his duties included searching for missing soldiers in trenches, identifying German spies, and alerting soldiers of incoming attacks. During downtime, Stubby also helped lift the mood of many soldiers and was considered an amazing wartime pal.
When the war was over, Stubby returned to the U.S. as a celebrity. He was a part of various pet parades and received a gold medal for his services. Today, Stubby is seen as a highly regarded war hero.
Smoky only weighed 4 pounds, but she made up for her small size during World War II. She was first discovered by U.S. soldiers in an abandoned foxhole in New Guinea. After soldiers realized she didn’t belong to Japanese troops, Smoky was adopted into the service.
Alongside U.S. soldiers, little Smoky helped U.S. troops with several combat missions that saved their lives, such as enabling phone wiring communication between outposts and alerting others of artillery attacks. She also performed tricks for soldiers at hospitals and Special Services.
After the war, Smoky served as a therapy dog in veterans’ hospitals and is considered the first therapy dog. She’s also credited with bringing interest in the Yorkshire Terrier breed during the 1940s. In honor of her memory, a bronze statue in her image was erected in Cleveland, Ohio in 2005.
Rags, a terrier, is another little dog who served during World War II. Initially, Rags was found as an abandoned dog in Paris by U.S. soldier, Private James Donovan. Donovan then reported Rags as the missing mascot of the U.S. 1st Infantry Division, a role the little pooch played during World War II.
Rags would help carry numerous messages between outposts, an action that helped save the lives of many soldiers. Before an attack would occur, he would also drop to the ground with his paws spread out. Soldiers would keep a close eye on Rags to stay on alert.
Once Rags returned to the U.S., he became an instant celebrity in New York City, winning various awards and medals for his time in service. Today, Rags is honored with a monument that stands in Silver Spring, Maryland.
Nemo was a German Shepherd who served during the Vietnam War. Nemo and his handler, Airman Robert Thorneburg were patrolling their base when it came under enemy fire.
Nemo suffered from severe injuries in the process but continued to fight back. When Thorneburg fell unconscious, Nemo guarded his body from anyone who approached them; a veterinarian was later able to remove him. Due to his heroic acts, Nemo retired at a permanent retirement kennel after his recovery.
Dexter was a German Shepherd and Navy veteran who helped save countless lives in Baghdad. Dexter alerted U.S. soldiers of the large number of explosives inside a garbage truck that was headed towards a mess hall filled with people.
Due to his efforts, Dexter was indicted as a veteran, becoming the first military K-9 to ever receive the American Legion Post 703 membership card. After he returned home, Dexter was rewarded with a giant bone and 2-pound steak. He also retired in a K-9 veteran community that gave him the love and care he deserved.
Whether they’re detecting weapons or searching for soldiers, K-9 veterans always display loyalty and sacrifice in everything they do. We at Petland are extremely grateful for all four-legged heroes who have fought for our freedoms alongside troops. We hope that this National K-9 Veterans Day also brings awareness about K-9 veterans and their lives after service.
