Pledge to Support and Thank Our K9 Veterans

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Sponsor: The Veterans Site

K9s have been fighting alongside our military since the Civil War. Join us in pledging to honor and support our K9 veterans!

Pledge to Support and Thank Our K9 Veterans

On March 13, America celebrates National K9 Veterans Day to honor the contributions of military and working dogs throughout history. These loyal canines have been an integral part of the U.S. Armed Forces since 1942 when the Army began training dogs for the War Dog Program, also known as the “K-9 Corps1.”

The significance of National K9 Veterans Day dates back to March 13, 1942, when the U.S. Army officially began training dogs for military service2. This historic moment marked the first time that dogs were officially a part of the U.S. Armed Forces. The War Dog Program was initiated to train dogs as sentries for supply depots, messengers, and scouts. However, the capabilities of these four-legged soldiers quickly expanded, and their contributions during World War II proved to be invaluable3.

Throughout history, dogs have been trained to serve our country in various roles, including search and rescue, detection, and combat4. K9 dogs have been an essential part of the military for many years and have been involved in many famous battles, including the raid on Osama bin Laden’s compound5.

Some of the most famous military dogs in history include Sgt. Stubby, the original war dog6; Chips, the most decorated dog in World War II7; Lex, who retired with his fallen owner’s family8, and Cairo, the Navy SEAL working dog on the bin Laden raid9. These canine heroes have played a crucial role in protecting our country and saving countless lives.

Military working dogs have been trained to perform various tasks such as detecting explosives and mines, tracking down enemy combatants, and protecting their handlers10. They have been an essential component of U.S. military operations, especially during times of conflict.

While the contributions of military working dogs have been significant, they often go unrecognized. National K9 Veterans Day is a time to honor these courageous and loyal dogs who have served our country with distinction. It is a time to reflect on the incredible contributions that these dogs have made to our country’s military and law enforcement efforts.

Take the pledge and show your support for our K9 veterans!

More on this issue:

  1. Amy Bushatz, Military.com (2023), "National K9 Veterans Day."
  2. US Army Quartermaster Foundation (23 April 2011), "War Dogs."
  3. Army Quartermaster Foundation (2023), "Quartermaster War Dog Program."
  4. Jenna Stregowski, The Spruce Pets (9 March 2021), "7 Types of Working Dogs and the Jobs They Do."
  5. Ben Forer, ABC News (5 May 2011), "Osama Bin Laden Raid: Navy SEALs Brought Highly Trained Dog With Them Into Compound."
  6. Task & Purpose (21 August 2015), "Sgt Stubby Was The Original War Dog."
  7. Dwight Jon Zimmermann, ARGunners (2021), "Chips – Most decorated Dog of World War 2."
  8. Tara Ross (13 December 2022), "This Day in History: Lex & Other Military K-9 Adoptions."
  9. Claire Goodman, Chron (7 February 2020), "‘He deserves to have his story told’: Navy SEAL K9 handler credits dog for saving his life after Osama bin Laden raid."
  10. U.S. Department of Defense, "Four-Legged Fighters."

The Pledge

As we commemorate National K9 Veterans Day, I pledge to take the following actions to honor and support our furry heroes:

1. I pledge to support organizations that help K9 dogs. These organizations provide essential care and training for active-duty K9 dogs and help retired K9 dogs find loving homes.

2. I pledge to thank a K9 dog for their service. Whether it's a dog I encounter on the street or a K9 handler I know personally, I will take the time to express my gratitude for their contributions to our country's safety.

3. I pledge to attend a K9 Veterans Day event in my community. These events provide an opportunity to show support for K9 dogs and their handlers and learn more about their important work.

4. I pledge to share K9 stories on social media. By spreading awareness and appreciation for these furry heroes, I can help ensure that their contributions are recognized and valued.

5. Finally, if possible, I pledge to adopt a retired K9 dog. These dogs have already done so much for our country, and providing them with a loving home is the least I can do in return.

As we reflect on the service and sacrifices of K9 veterans, let us all do our part to honor and support these important animals. By taking these actions, we can help ensure that K9 dogs receive the care and recognition they deserve.

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