Military K-9 dogs are responsible for saving thousands of soldiers during military conflicts around the world by using their keen senses to sniff out danger. Like any brave soldier, their service deserves to be recognized and honored.
In just six years, one German Shepherd U.S. Marine dog named Lucca managed to complete 400 missions and protect thousands of lives while serving with the allied troops in Afghanistan and Iraq before ultimately having to retire after losing a leg on the battlefield.
To honor her for her service, Lucca and her handler Gunnery Sergeant Christopher Willingham were flown from California to London where she received the PDSA Dickin Medal, the animal version of the Victoria Cross, which is the highest British military honor. “Thousands of service members have come home because of the capabilities of our dogs,” Willingham said. “It’s always great to see their actions on the battlefield being recognized.”
Before losing her leg in an explosion, Lucca’s loyalty, intelligence, and drive made her the perfect partner for Willingham, and luckily none of that changed after her injury. “She had her surgery and amazingly within 10 days she was walking around again,” Willingham said. “The best part is that she has the same personality as she had before the blast.”
The PDSA Dickin Medal has been given to 29 dogs, 32 WWII messenger pigeons, three horses, and one cat, yet this is the first time an American military K-9 is being honored with the award. “I know you don’t understand the words but I hope you sense the human warmth, gratitude and pride that we all feel for your heroism and for a job extremely well done,” said Retired Maj. Gen. Dean G. Sienko as he addressed Lucca directly.
“It is very humbling to be part of this entire process,” Willingham said. “I think more importantly is that Lucca’s accomplishments are going to help bring awareness and recognition to all our military working dogs and their handlers.”
Watch the entire video below to see more about how Lucca saved thousands of lives.
Can you believe how much one military dog was able to accomplish? Let us know what you think in the comments below, and please SHARE Lucca’s incredible story on Facebook.
[Featured image credit: ABC News]
Wounded Military K-9 Gets Awarded With Highest Honor For Her Bravery is an article from: LifeDaily