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Since the twentieth century more than a hundred thousand dogs of many breeds and
their handlers faithfully served our country as U.S. War
Dog Teams. Such military K-9 teams guarded perimeters,
led combat patrols, and fought and died beside our men
and women of all services. Our nation’s military War
Dogs served in World War I, World War II, the Korean
War, the Vietnam War, the Persian Gulf War, the Iraqi
War, and peacekeeping missions in Afghanistan, Bosnia,
Kosovo, and on many other foreign shores. War Dogs are
not mascots, but highly trained, efficient, and loyal
four-footed soldiers who know no fear. They served and
continue to serve daily in harms way putting their lives
on the line without hesitation to save military and
civilian lives. |
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During the Vietnam War, patriotic families across America came
forth to donate their beloved pet dogs by the thousands, to be
trained as War Dogs and serve alongside their handlers in
Vietnam. Some military analysts estimate that as many as ten
thousand American service men and women lives were saved due to
the courage and heroism of War Dogs; many of those saved were
Alabamians. However, of the approximately 4,000 War Dogs that
served in the Vietnam War, only about 250 got out alive. The
rest died in combat, were left behind, or euthanized by our
Government when the Vietnam War ended; a sad legacy.
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It is only fitting that Alabamians, as patriotic as they
are, recognize the War Dogs who gave so much for so many
for so little. We owe it to ourselves to remember those
faithful creatures that served with, protected, and
fought beside our men and women, and whose countless
deeds saved so many American lives and helped protect
our freedom. Yes, we remember, we need to remember man’s
best friend and we owe it to these unsung warriors to
never forget.
The Alabama War Dogs Memorial will endear and educate
Alabamians about the heroic sacrifices War Dogs made and
continue to make in protecting and saving the lives of
America’s finest. What better time is there than now to
erect a memorial of remembrance to War Dogs?
The Alabama War Dogs Memorial will be a unique addition
to Alabama military history and an extension of the
National War Dogs Memorial soon to be erected in
Washington, D.C. Alabama has always led the way in
honoring its veterans. Establishing a War Dogs memorial
is another Alabama way of expressing its appreciation
and respect for its veterans and War Dogs. There is no
doubt that the proposed War Dogs memorial will be heart
felt by so many Alabamians, her veterans and her
children. As Alabamians we can say, “Yes, we remember!”
and it shows. |
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The proposed AWDM will be erected on appropriate grounds
within an existing Veterans memorial or municipality
park, and situated in a suitable place of honor for all
who visit to reflect on the deeds of War Dogs who
enabled so many of our sons and daughters serving in the
military to return home to their loved ones. Around the
world, War Dogs and their handlers continue to help
America preserve our freedom. |
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