Amputee war dog to be given UK highest honors

Photo from Lucas K458 Facebook Page

A military dog who served for six years under the United States (US) Marine Corps and lost her leg during an operation was bestowed the Dickin Award, the prestigious animal award equivalent to the Victoria Cross, on Tuesday.

Lucca, a 12-year-old German Shepherd, lost her left front leg after a 2012 hunt for improvized explosive devices in Afghanistan. She suffered burns and a fracture that led to the amputation of her leg. After her surgery, she retired and is now a cherished family pet of her former handler, Gunnery Sergeant Chris Willingham.

Lucca has accomplished around 400 missions with the US Marine Corps in Iraq and Afghanistan until her retirement. She also evolved to be a symbol of hope as she visited wounded and disabled warriors at military hospitals.

Willingham told Sky News that receiving Lucca’s award was an ‘incredible honor’.

“It is very humbling to be part of this entire process. I think more importantly is that Lucca’s accomplishments are going to help bring awareness and recognition to all our military working dogs and their handlers.” he said.

Lucca is the 30th dog in 73 years to be awarded the esteemed recognition. According to Sky News, she flew from California, US, to receive the Dickin Award in Wellington Barracks, London.

The Dickin Award, debuted in 1943 by the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals, was previously conferred to 29 dogs, 32 World War II messenger pigeons, three horses, and one cat. Gianna Francesca Catolico, INQUIRER.net