US Marine Corps Dog Honoured for Serving Bravely in Conflict

Lucca, a 12-year-old German Shepherd, is the first US Marine Corps dog to receive the honor.

A US Marine Corps dog that protected thousands of troops has been honored with a prize for animals serving bravely in military conflict. (Photo: AP)

A US Marine Corps dog that sniffed out explosives and protected thousands of troops has been honored with a prize for animals serving bravely in military conflict.

Lucca, a 12-year-old German Shepherd, won the Dickin Medal, the animal equivalent of the Victoria Cross, a decoration for bravery. She is the first US Marine Corps dog to receive the honor.

She is credited with saving thousands of allied troops and never had a human casualty on one of her patrols. On her final patrol in Afghanistan, she discovered a 13.6 kg improvised explosive device and was searching for more when a second device detonated. Lucca lost her left leg, but survived.

Lucca, a 12-year-old German Shepherd, won the Dickin Medal, the animal equivalent of the Victoria Cross, a decoration for bravery. (Photo: AP)

Her owner, Gunnery Sergeant Christopher Willingham of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, was by her side Tuesday in London as she received the medal.