Dogs have been used in the military for centuries, with their loyalty, intelligence, and keen senses making them valuable assets. They have been used for a variety of purposes, including tracking, search and rescue, bomb detection, and even as combatants. Here are five well-known military dogs that have made a significant impact:

Sergeant Stubby

Sergeant Stubby was a Boston Terrier that served in World War I with the 102nd Infantry Regiment. He was a war hero who was involved in 17 battles and four offensives, and he was even wounded in action. Stubby was known for his ability to detect gas attacks before they happened, which saved countless lives. He also helped to locate wounded soldiers and was able to catch a German spy. After the war, Stubby became a celebrity and was even given a lifetime membership to the American Legion and the YMCA.

Cairo

Cairo was a Belgian Malinois that served in the United States Navy SEALs. He was a highly trained explosive detection dog and was part of the team that helped to capture and kill Osama Bin Laden. Cairo was strapped to the chest of one of the SEALs during the mission to ensure that they would be able to detect any explosives.

Lex

Lex was a German Shepherd that served in the United States Marine Corps. He served two tours of duty in Iraq and was trained as a bomb detection dog. Lex was injured in action and lost his handler, Corporal Dustin Lee, in 2007. Lex was awarded the Purple Heart and later retired to live with Corporal Lee’s family.

Chips

Chips was a German Shepherd-Collie-Siberian Husky mix that served in World War II. He was the most decorated dog in the war and was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, Silver Star, and Purple Heart for his actions. Chips was able to capture a pillbox full of enemy soldiers and even helped to take down an enemy machine gun nest.

Lucca

Lucca was a Belgian Malinois that served in the United States Marine Corps. She completed over 400 missions in Iraq and Afghanistan and was trained to detect explosives. Lucca was injured in action and lost her leg, but she continued to work as a detection dog until she retired in 2012. Lucca was awarded the Dickin Medal, which is the highest award for animals serving in military conflict.

These five dogs are just a few of the many that have made significant contributions to the military. They have shown bravery, loyalty, and a willingness to serve, and they will always be remembered for their heroism.