Four-Legged Heroes: Honoring the Military Working Dogs Who Serve in Combat
On March 13, 1942, the United States launched the War Dog Program during World War II, later known as the Army K-9 Corps. However, even before that, loyal dogs had been accompanying soldiers to war. One famous dog, Sergeant Stubby, achieved such acts of bravery during World War I that he arrived home a war hero. Held every year since 1987, March 13th has been a day to honor the dogs, as we celebrate the courageous military canines that serve and have served the U.S. military with K9 Veterans Day.
The First Military Working Dogs
The first dogs to officially work for the U.S. military were sled dogs. In the early 1900s, military personnel relied on sled dog teams to transport them through the Alaska wilderness. During WWI, the American Red Cross used messenger dogs to carry ammunition and rations to soldiers in dangerous conditions.
One heroic and well-known war dog is Sergeant Stubby, a pitbull terrier mix with a stubby tail. Sgt. Stubby performed many heroic duties, including stopping a German spy from escaping and warning troops of enemy attacks. Sgt. Stubby returned home to victory parades and an adoring public.
In WWII, the War Dog Program began, where trained dogs were sent to combat zones around the world. The dogs delivered messages, detected mines, worked as scouts and guard dogs, and helped keep up morale among the troops. Since then, dogs continued to work on the front lines in combat zones, including Korea, Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
Today’s Military Dogs
Today, there are around 1,600 working dogs in the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps. Training depends on the type of work the dog will be doing. Some dogs are trained to alert warfighters to chemical and physical attacks. Others can detect explosives or narcotics. One important aspect of a military dog’s training is the ability to stay focused in chaotic situations.
Alisa Chmielinski, director of training and operations for 3DK9 Detection Services, explained the importance of the work of military dogs in a statement: “These animals serve a multitude of purposes. The No. 1 purpose they serve is saving lives.”