It’s the photo that’s been shared over 130,000 times, and for good reason. When schrapnel from an improvised explosive device (IED) injured both “Rocky,” a Military Working Dog, and his handler, SPC Andrew Brown earlier this month during operations in Afghanistan, they were flown to Kandahar where both received the Purple Heart. They both stayed in the same room, and both are recovering. Brown said, “‘Rocky’ is “an American soldier, and his ‘rank’ is one above his handler’s.
“He does everything. “I’m just really a guy with a leash. I bring him to the area and let him do his thing. If he responds, I translate that … let them know my dog got a response right here. I know the way he works, I know his change of behavior.”
Brown is now in DC where he’ll undergo more surgeries and treatment. “Rocky,” a German Shepherd Dog, will remain in Germany until he fully recovers. In the meantime, Brown holds both Purple Hearts until he is reunited with “Rocky.” For anyone who’s wondering about the muzzle, we suspect it’s reasonable protocol when treating an injured dog. For more on this story, click here:
Image via 89th Military Police Brigade / Via Facebook: 356125125415