Labrador killed in Rajouri operations among 2 canines honoured on I-Day
Tribune News Service
Chandigarh, August 16
Two Army dogs — Kent and Billu — were among the 39 Mentioned-in-Despatches awarded by the President, and 719 Commendations by the Chief of the Army Staff dished out on Independence Day. The honour highlights the role of animals in the military, many of whom have been decorated for their services.
Kent, a nine-year-old Labrador, has been honoured posthumously. She was shot while clearing out a house during anti-terror operations in Rajouri last year. After leading troops to the house, she lunged to attack the terrorists.
The Army has been employing dogs, horses and mules for various security, search and rescue, logistics and ceremonial duties for a long time, following a structured programme for procurement, breeding and training.
Like Billu, whose devotion to duty has been duly recognised, the Army’s four-legged soldiers have taken part and even sacrificed their lives in wars, anti-terror operations and disaster relief missions.
Perhaps the most famous lore is that of a mule named Pedongi, who was decorated belatedly with the Vir Chakra during the 1971 Indo-Pak war. It was taken captive by the enemy, and put to work to haul their load until it managed to escape a few days later, trudging over 20 km to reach an Indian outpost.
Kent, Mansi and Axel, are among the recent examples of Army animals who were killed in action during anti-terror and anti-infiltration operations in Jammu and Kashmir and were honoured for their bravery.
