Editorial Summary
A Salute to Lucca – By Maria Goodavage
Meet military K-9 hero Lucca, a smart German shepherd–Belgian Malinois mix, who lost her left front leg leading Special Forces soldiers through IED-laden ground in Afghanistan in March 2012. An inside look at her bravery on the battlefield, and her civilian life today.
www.parade.com
More about Marine Dog – Lucca
Two Heroes!
Marine dog, Lucca, was given a wonderful tribute in the Parade Sunday magazine. After more than 400 missions in Afghanistan, no one had been hurt by an IED when they were with her. She was the only one that the Green Berets felt comfortable hugging after a tough day.
On the job!
Lucca’s 10th Birthday
SALUTE A HERO!
Mamma Lucca, as she is nicknamed, was injured herself. Handler Col. Juan “Rod” Rodriguez quickly applied a tourniquet and she was air-lifted to one veterinary team after another in all-out attempts to save her life. They succeeded, but Lucca lost her left-front leg in the action. You can see her honorary Purple Heart on her harness. Today she lives with her original trainer, Gunnery Sgt. Chris Willingham and his family. She continues to serve at VA hospitals and in schools.
Could someone please explain to me WHY this Hero’s Purple Heart is considered HONORARY??
If anyone is interested in adopting one of these dogs, check into – US War
Dogs.org.
