President Donald Trump issued an official message on Thursday in honor of National K-9 Veterans Day 2025, which honors heroic working dogs for their “unwavering devotion,” bravery, and more.
“Dogs are not only man’s best friend, offering companionship and loyalty, but also guardians, instinctively protecting their loved ones with unwavering devotion,” Trump’s message read. “On National K-9 Veterans Day, the First Lady and I join our Nation in honoring the dedicated service of those working dogs serving alongside our military and law enforcement to defend our citizens and our Homeland.”
Happy K-9 Veterans Day! Today we honor the efforts of active-duty service dogs since WWII 🐕 In March of 1942 the K-9 Corps officially joined the US armed forces and are still serving today! pic.twitter.com/1wodfkAdZF
— US Navy Memorial (@USNavyMemorial) March 13, 2025
“Since the U.S. Military began employing Military Working Dogs, over 30,000 dedicated working dogs have served,” it added. “The K-9 Corps has played a vital role in strengthening America’s safety, with over 1,600 active Military Working Dogs currently providing support to our brave men and women defending our freedom.”
“These dogs are specially trained to detect explosives, drugs, and other contraband, often risking their lives alongside their handlers,” the message continued. “During search-and-rescue operations, these dogs use their keen sense of smell and unparalleled agility to support military personnel. Serving on the front lines, in combat zones, and at our borders, these fearless four-legged fighters are an invaluable part of protecting America.”
Today, we honor the courageous K9 veterans who have served with loyalty and dedication.🐾🐕🦺 These four-legged heroes have protected and stood by our service members, making a lasting impact. Thank you for your service! ❤️💙 #NationalK9VeteransDay #K9Heroes #USSMidway pic.twitter.com/MI2GJWHxvC
— USS Midway Museum (@USSMidwayMuseum) March 13, 2025
A post on X from the White House read, “Happy K-9 Veterans Day to all of our heroic working dogs, including Conan who fearlessly participated in the military operation that ended ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in 2019.”
Happy K9 Veterans Day to all of our heroic working dogs, including Conan who fearlessly participated in the military operation that ended ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in 2019. 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/FcVlWHM378
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) March 13, 2025
The post included a sweet photo of Trump posing for a picture in the Oval Office with Conan, who was previously presented a medal and a plaque from Trump for his efforts with Special Forces soldiers in 2019. “After Conan retired, he was adopted by his former handler and, after many years of pleasant walks and peaceful naps, he passed away in 2023,” the president’s message stated.
Trump’s message also honored Hurricane—the most decorated four-legged hero in United States History, who defended the White House before his retirement from the United States Secret Service Special Operations Canine unit.
The most decorated K-9 in U.S. history, he bravely defended the White House and spent retirement helping other working dogs through @Hurricane_K9. His legacy of courage and loyalty will live on.
Rest easy, Hurricane. 🇺🇸📷🐾 pic.twitter.com/4mvD6zDcia
— US Embassy SA (@USEmbassySA) February 26, 2025
“After a long tenure of service, punctuated by the takedown of a White House intruder, Hurricane earned a place in all our hearts and in the Guinness Book of World Records with numerous awards,” it said of the pup who just recently passed away.
“There was also Cairo, a member of the U.S. Navy’s SEAL Team Six, who participated in the raid on Osama bin Laden; and Rex, who saved countless lives by detecting explosives in combat in Iraq,” it added. “These dogs, along with so many others, exemplify extraordinary courage and dedication to supporting our military service personnel.”
Happy National #K9VeteransDay to all our furry friends in service and their handlers!
These highly-trained canines are a valuable part of our police and military, who protect and serve our country every day.
Let’s all recognize a K9 Veteran and thank them for their service. pic.twitter.com/OOCewUlcqi
— Texas General Land Office (@TXGLO) March 13, 2025
“Today, we salute the sacrifices and service of our dedicated working dogs for their incredible acts of canine courage. As we remember the fallen, we thank all of the brave veterans of the K-9 Corps who protect the American people and our way of life, living up to the name of man’s best friend,” the message concluded.
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