National K9 Veterans Day is observed annually on March 13^th and is meant to recognize and honor the bravery, service, and sacrifices of military and working dogs. These extraordinary canines have played crucial roles throughout history, standing alongside Service Members in and out of combat zones, detecting explosives and drugs, and performing search-and-rescue missions. Their unwavering loyalty, courage, and sacrifice make them heroes in their own right.  

Joe White, a Vietnam War Veteran from Jacksonville, Florida created K9 Veterans Day as a passion project in 1987. As a dog handler and trainer, White witnessed firsthand the bravery of these canines. Troubled by military dogs’ abandonment, he envisioned a holiday to honor them and raise awareness of their significance.

March 13 was chosen as the date for National K9 Veterans Day due to its significance back in 1942. On this day, the United States Army officially launched the War Dog Program, also known as the K-9 Corps. This marked the first time dogs were formally recognized as part of the U.S. Armed Forces. Today, military dogs are seen as important members of their units, even having their own retirement ceremonies and memorial services.

In honor of this year’s holiday, here are just a few of the many incredible dogs who have bravely served.

Conan 

Conan, a Belgian Malinois who served with the Army Special Forces, played a crucial role in the October 2019 raid to capture ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in northwest Syria. As al-Baghdadi attempted to flee his compound, Conan pursued him into a dead-end tunnel, where the ISIS leader detonated a suicide vest. During the mission, Conan was injured after encountering live electrical wires but fully recovered and returned to active duty. His bravery earned him national recognition, including an appearance at the White House, where he was honored by President Trump. Conan passed in November 2023 after battling cancer and injuries sustained during service. 

Smoky

After being found in a New Guinea foxhole in 1944, Smoky became an unlikely hero as a four-pound Yorkshire Terrier. She participated in 12 combat missions and survived over 150 air raids and a typhoon alongside her companion, Corporal William Wynne. Her most famous act of service occurred in Luzon, where she navigated a narrow 70-foot pipe to help engineers run a telegraph wire. This not only saved construction time but protected troops from enemy fire. In addition to earning eight battle stars, Smoky saved Wynne’s life by warning him of incoming shells. She was laid to rest at the age of 14, in the Cleveland Metroparks, buried in a World War II ammo box. Her memory was later honored with a bronze statue of Smoky sitting in a GI helmet. Her remarkable story was later chronicled by Wynne in his book “Yorkie Doodle Dandy”, ensuring her legacy lives on.  

Nemo

A German Shepherd who served with Airmen Bob Thorneburg demonstrated extraordinary courage while on patrol in Vietnam in December 1966. When under enemy fire, Thorneburg was shot in the shoulder and Nemo in the face, losing his right eye. Despite his severe injury, Nemo continued to go after the enemy which allowed Thorneburg time to call for reinforcement. When Thorneburg fell unconscious, Nemo lay on top of him, preventing any more harm to his handler. Nemo was reported to refuse anyone from coming near his handler, resulting in a veterinarian having to intervene. Thanks to Nemo’s bravery, both he and Thorneburg survived. Nemo was given a permanent retirement kennel where he lived out his remaining years under military care. He passed away in December 1972 at the age of 11.  

How We Can Support K9 Veterans 

K9 Veterans Day is an opportunity to reflect on these heroes’ sacrifices, recognize their invaluable contributions, and express gratitude for their dedication. There are several ways to support K9 Veterans, including adoption, donations, and spreading the word. Below are a few organizations dedicated to helping K9 Veterans: 

• Warrior Dog Foundation – Provides mental and physical rehabilitation, rehoming options, and a peaceful retirement home for retired K9s who cannot be adopted.
• Mission K9 – Nonprofit that helps retired working dogs find homes, provides medical care, and reunites K9s with their former handlers.
• K9s for Warriors – Their primary focus is on pairing service dogs with Veterans however, they also assist with finding retirement homes for K9 heroes.
• Hurricane’s Heroes –  Provides financial assistance for medical care to retired law enforcement and military K9s. Ensuring they receive the veterinary care they need while easing the burden on their adopters and handlers.

How You Can Help Through Soldiers’ Angels

While Soldiers’ Angels doesn’t have a specific volunteer program for Military Working Dogs, you can “adopt” a deployed Service Member and support them throughout their deployment. Many deployed dog handlers register to be adopted through Soldiers’ Angels.

Right now, over 400 deployed Service Members are waiting to be adopted by an Angel volunteer. Whether they have a brave K9 by their side or not, these heroes need our support. By signing up to adopt a Service Member, you can help ensure that both two-legged and four-legged warriors feel the appreciation and encouragement they deserve. Join us today and make a difference!

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