Celebrating Brave Canines in Honor of Memorial Day

As summer approaches so do summertime holidays, and Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial kick off of the season. Soon the air will be filled with the scent of BBQ and freshly cut grass, and the sounds of  outdoor play will fill the air. Dogs are often happy anywhere, but there’s no denying the joy that crosses their faces when they’re able to run free in the great outdoors.

Since Memorial Day is a celebratory event on many levels, we’re commemorating this important holiday with a list of pups who’ve made the most of the call of duty. From military dogs to canine unites to therapy dogs, here’s a roundup of outstanding pups who lived as heroes and will be frolicking in our hearts forever.

Chips the WWII Hero

When it comes to brave pups, this one is top notch! Chips was German Shepard mix that served during World War II. He began his career in 1942 as a sentry dog and went on to travel the world serving in countries including Africa, Italy, France and Germany. He was the catalyst of a surrender during the invasion of Sicily, attacking gunmen and sparking an American victory. He was awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart, and went down in history as the most decorated K9 to serve in WWII. 

Apollo, First Responder for 9/11

On the morning of September 11, 2001, America was hit with the worst terrorist attack in their history to date. Apollo was courageous German Shepard that was part of the NYPD and one of the first dogs to learn search and rescue. Shortly after the 9/11 attack, Apollo was sent out as a first responder the World Trade Center. He sustained burnt paws, charred fur, and cuts to find survivors and victims. He was awarded the Dickin Medal, the highest honor for the work of animals in war.

Finding Nemo

Considering this pup had a name associated with the sea, it may come as surprise that he was in the Air Force! Nemo was stationed at the Tan Son Nhut Air Base which fell under attack by the Viet Cong in 1966. Nemo attacked the enemy in the night and in the process lost an eye. Despite his injuries, he saved the life of his handler and went on to become a war hero.

Meet Stubby

Stubby was American Pit Bull Terrier and the only canine to be given the rank of sergeant. He came into his career quite by chance, after wandering onto the campus of Yale University. At the time the field he had wandered onto was being used for military training, and the cadets took him in as a mascot. When many of the soldiers were deployed, including his primary caregivers, the decision was made to take Stubby over to Europe. While in active duty he alerted soldiers to gas attacks, saved a little girl from a car, and helped apprehend a German spy. This courageous passed on in 1926 and his body can be visited at the Smithsonian museum.

Caesar, The Service Dog That’s Still Serving

Caesar is an It’s A Dog’s World K-9 Academy alum who works as therapy dog for veterans. His calming disposition and quirky charm make him the perfect canine to sooth vets who have proudly fought for our country. It’s A Dog’s World offers training sessions for therapy dogs that fit the personality type and have strong positive behavior traits. If you think your dog may be a good fit to work as a therapy dog for veterans or others in need of a four-legged friend, visit www.ItsADogsWorld.biz.