Lucca is a German Shepherd with extensive specialized training. She was in the Marines and deployed in Afghanistan and Iraq on numerous occasions. Her major responsibility is to locate bombs, which she has accomplished while commanding over 400 patrols. Her amazing skill has saved thousands of lives, and while she was on the job, no soldier was harmed or perished.
In 2012, when she discovered an improvised explosive device, her remarkable career came to a sad end. A nearby secondary bomb detonated, and the dog was caught in the explosion. Lucca survived, although one of her legs was gravely injured and had to be amputated. After that, she needed to be removed from fieldwork and so her tours of duty had to come to an end.
However, she continued to serve in various capacities.
Lucca’s remarkable personality and love for life made her the ideal candidate for the position of Military Working Dogs Program ambassador. She demonstrated the sacrifices she and other K9 dogs make and the essential service they give.
Lucca was awarded the Dickin Medal, the highest honor bestowed on any animal delivering immaculate service and devotion to all branches of the U.S. military, in recognition of her accomplishments. Her longtime handler, Marine Master Sergeant Christopher Willingham, stated that Lucca brought attention to military working dogs and earned them the respect they deserve.
Lucca passed away at the age of 14 due to old age. She was cremated and buried at the Michigan War Dog Memorial after enjoying a full life. The faithful canine was given a complete military burial.
Willingham led the way to her property, followed by a large number of K9s. There were also numerous active-duty service members present for the ceremony. And as Lucca’s remains passed, the audience would salute her. It was an emotional and appropriate tribute that demonstrated the type of dog she was.
Source: Gazette Visuals
