Service animals around the world give their all to their respective countries. Military Working Dogs (MWDs) in particular risk literal life and limb in warzones every day. This includes the Australian military, which deploys troops to military theaters all around the world.

One Australian MWD is being recognized for his service and making the ultimate sacrifice while on the field of battle.

Serving with distinction

MWD Kuga served alongside his handler as a part of the Australian military operations with the Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) in Afghanistan. When the pair were called on to take part in a mission in support of “Operation Slipper,” they had no idea what that day would bring.

As Kuga and his handler departed the helicopter that had transported them, they had no idea that they were walking into an ambush. As Kuga, a Belgian Malinois, swam across the river, he came under fire. He was shot five times as he tried to reach the opposite bank.

Despite his wounds, Kuga continued to perform his duties, chasing off the insurgents before returning to his handler’s side.

“Kuga took rounds as part of his job he was trained to do, but certainly didn’t shy away from it, he kept swimming and closing the gap towards him,” Kuga’s handler told The Canberra Times.

Giving everything for his fellow soldiers

It was only after his return that Kuga’s handler realized the extent of his injuries. Kuga was evaced out of the warzone and taken to a hospital in Afghanistan, where he received immediate attention. Eventually, he was flown to a hospital in Germany and then Australia for care.

Despite all of their valiant attempts, Kuga ended up passing away from his injuries a year later. To honor his sacrifice, Kuga was awarded the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) Dickin Medal.

What is the PSDA Dickin Medal?

The PSDA Dickin Medal is awarded to animals around the world who serve in wartime activities. Equated as the service animal version of the Victoria Cross, the Dickin Medal is the highest and most prestigious award given to service animals to honor their military service.

Kuga is the first Australian service animal to receive the Dickin Medal

“Kuga’s actions undoubtedly saved the lives of his patrol. He took on the enemy without fear, saving his comrades despite suffering serious injuries, and is a thoroughly deserving recipient of the PDSA Dickin Medal,” said Jan McLoughlin, the PDSA Director-General.

Posthumously awarded the medal

MWD Odin stepped in to receive the medal in Kuga’s stead. Giving him the award was Corporal Mark Donaldson, who has also received the Victoria Cross for his service in Afghanistan.

“Kuga’s actions that day in Afghanistan were heroic. There’s no doubt in anybody’s mind that he saved lives. He just wouldn’t give up on his mates and doing his job,” Corporal Donaldson said.

Watch the following video for more on Kuga and his heroic actions.

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Sources: YouTube – PDSA, The Veterans Site, YouTube – Australian Army