Brits honor hero dog
TSO sends this article about Treo, a working dog in the British Army who was awarded his country’s highest honor;
In August, 2008, while working as a forward detection dog in Sangin, Treo found a “daisy chain” improvised explosive device (IED) – made of two or more explosives wired together – that had been carefully modified and concealed by the Taliban at the side of a path.
A month later, his actions saved another platoon from guaranteed casualties, again by finding a daisy chain IED.
Now he is being rewarded with the Dickin Medal – the animal equivalent of a Victoria Cross – the highest accolade for a military animal.
This fellow looks a little too young, but apparently he’s joined the ranks of the retired;
Treo retired and is now enjoying life with handler Sergeant Dave Heyhoe back at 104 Military Working Dogs Support Unit, in North Luffenham, Rutland.
We, at This Ain’t Hell, love dogs and we’re glad that this little cutie survived the war and gets to enjoy his retirement. I wonder if there’s anything else we should know about that goes along with being awarded a medal named “Dickin”.
Category: Military issues
Surprisingly big story outside of the UK.
Unfortunately Britain is having trouble honouring many of his deserving bipedal comrades:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/onthefrontline/7119280/Afghanistan-soldiers-turned-down-for-bravery-medal-under-quota-system.html
Anyone know whether the Afghan Army has decorated anyone for valour in the field yet?
Watch that animated movie Valient- they explain the medal, and who has won it, at the end of the movie.
About 20 PIGEONS have won it…. and even a CAT
Canine Comments…
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Screw the medal, wheres the steak?
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translation Woof woof bark yelp woof?
Treo looks like a black version of TSO’s dear sainted Forrest. The medal was started by Maria Dickin.
There’s really no need to award a Dog for protecting his people. The Dog knows who is in charge of Saftey in the field. I am, but a simple bird hunter, when out in the field. It was a hard lesson learned, and many dirty looks from my leader Dogs when the bird would be pointed and I did not see it until too late, or missed with my shot. Anyone that hunts over pointers will tell you one thing, “always, trust the dog!” You’ll have a better day, and come home a success. Thanks, Pal.