Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize March 13 as K9 Veteran's Day, honoring the courageous dogs who serve alongside our men and women in uniform. The legacy of military working dogs dates back to Sergeant Stubby, the most decorated war dog of World War I. Stubby served in 17 battles, warning his unit of poison gas attacks, detecting incoming artillery, and finding wounded soldiers. On March 13, 1942, the U.S. military officially established the K9 Corps, recognizing the importance of war dogs. Since then, these highly-trained canines have served in conflicts from Korea and Vietnam to Iraq and Afghanistan. Today, over 3,000 military working dogs are deployed worldwide protecting our troops and supporting critical missions. For decades, however, these heroic dogs were classified as ``equipment'' and often left behind after service. Thankfully, since the year 2000, retired military dogs can be adopted, usually by their handlers, ensuring they receive the care and the love that they deserve and have earned. Our canine veterans have served our country with loyalty and bravery. Today, we recognize them as the heroes that they are. ____________________”