Memorial Day… a time to remember those who have given their service to our country. Words really aren’t enough to describe this sacrifice and to truly honor those who have made it so that we can be free. So these simple words will have to do instead: thank you.
Last year, I shared my tribute to human and canine heroes alike. (I hope you’ll take a moment to revisit that post if you haven’t read it before – and even if you have – as it contains some fantastic links and information about War Dogs and Military Working Dogs. Also, if you are in the market for something to make you cry today, I have a feeling that post will provide what you need.)
I did want to share some links with you today:
- As you probably know, a dog helped in the raid on Osama bin Laden’s compound. This amazing dog, a Belgian Malinois named Cairo, has received quite a bit of press (and even met the President). Ever since, it seems like hero dogs have been all over the news.
- Countless dogs have served our country over the years. Check out the history of war dogs in these two amazing photo . (Thanks to and Phetched for the tip.)
- As always, The Dog Files has a moving and visually stunning saluting Military Working Dogs.
- I also urge you to visit FiveSibes for a touching tribute and some fantastic videos that are just perfect for today.
- Check out this great post from Bocci’s Beefs about dogs of war and what would have happened if cats were helping us out instead. (Just kidding… after all, there are some truly patriotic cats out there too.)
- Last year, the National World War II Museum honored some four-legged heroes in an exhibit. You can learn about some of these heroes here.
- Can’t get enough of these fabulously furry heroes? Read about five more here or watch a movie about some heroic dogs or horses..
- Not all heroic dogs are on official duty, as illustrated by this tale of a unit in Afghanistan that was saved by some local strays.
As I mentioned last year, when these hero dogs retire from service, they need homes. After Cairo’s participation in the bin Laden raid, inquiries about war dog adoption have increased, but these heroes will need homes even after the initial rush slows. If you are interested in giving a home to one of these retired heroes, learn more at Fido Friendly and then head over to Military Working Dog Adoptions. (You can also check out the Department of Defense’s Official Military Working Dog Adoption Website.)
If you have any stories about Military Working Dogs (either in action or in retirement), click on over to Dogster and read about Maria Goodavage’s new book project, Soldier Dogs.
Take a moment to remember today…
I will always remember all of our special heros, and these are near and dear to our hearts!
Oh, I can't wait to read some of your links. We watched a documentary about the dogs used in the Vietnam War. Most of them were originally pets – the military asked people to lend their dogs to the war effort and people did. Tragically, most of the dogs were considered equipment and left behind when the Americans pulled out. The film interviewed many of the soldiers who were still (years later) heartbroken that they had to leave their fellow soldiers behind. It was SO SAD.
We will always love our hero dogs and honour them. Lots of love, Holly & Mom
Thanks for sharing these stories and their links! I'm madly in love with all working dogs and the amazing abilities they have!
What a wonderful post! Thanks for sharing and Happy Memorial Day to you!
What a great idea to adopt a retired military dog! They've given their service to our country and deserve to be spoiled rotten when they're done.
Amy, I agree! From what I've gathered, many of these canines were left behind in the past, until the government began to allow their adoption.
Thank you for your support