Jag
Jag was a Black Labrador Retriever who served as a military working dog (MWD) with the U.S. Army. His story is a testament to the bravery and dedication of military working dogs and their handlers.
Dow and Jag have a long history together. While stationed in Germany, they went on two tours in Afghanistan, the first from 2007 to 2008 and the second in 2010. During their first mission together, Jag was able to find a hidden weapons cache in Afghanistan.
Background
Sergeant Dennis Dow: Sergeant Dennis Dow was a U.S. Army military working dog handler. He was responsible for training and working with military dogs, which are essential for various roles such as detecting explosives, patrolling, and searching.
Jag: Jag was a Black Labrador Retriever, a breed well-suited for roles in detection and search operations due to its keen sense of smell and strong work ethic.
Deployment and Service
Deployment: Sergeant Dow and Jag were deployed to Afghanistan, where their primary mission was to identify and neutralize IEDs. This dangerous work was crucial for the safety of soldiers operating in conflict zones.
Heroic Incident: On February 24, 2011, during a patrol in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, Jag was severely injured by an IED explosion. Despite the severity of the blast, Jag’s work was instrumental in locating the device and saving lives. The explosion occurred in a high-risk area, underscoring the perilous nature of their mission.
Injuries and Recovery
Injuries: Jag sustained serious injuries from the explosion, including significant trauma. The injuries were life-threatening, and Jag required immediate medical attention.
Medical Care: Jag was evacuated and received prompt and comprehensive medical treatment. His recovery involved several surgeries and extensive rehabilitation. The veterinary care provided was crucial to his survival and recovery.
Recognition and Impact
Awards: Sergeant Dow and Jag were widely recognized for their bravery and service. Jag’s heroism was celebrated, and his recovery was seen as a remarkable testament to the resilience of military working dogs and the dedication of their handlers.
Legacy: The story of Sergeant Dow and Jag highlights the profound bond between military handlers and their canine partners. It also underscores the critical role that military working dogs play in protecting lives and performing dangerous tasks in combat situations.
