K-9 Corps - Unsung Heroes

(1998) Since ancient times, dogs have served as part of the military. However, it was not until World War I that the United States used dogs as part of its military. It is estimated that some 40,000 dogs have served the United States with honor in war since that time. Many perished. Many were decorated heroes. One hundred dogs died at Iwo Jima alone.

Although the majority of war dogs have been Doberman Pinschers, Labrador Retrievers, and German Shepards, 32 breeds, as well as mixes, have seen duty in the military. It is estimated that 2,000 dogs served in Vietnam. Only a handful of the Vietnam service dogs survived. Most died of disease or in the line of duty, or were slaughtered after U.S. forces left the country.

This Memorial in honor of our War-dogs and their handlers is the only (known) K-9 Memorial in the United States to reach completion making this Memorial a National Memorial.