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Hero K-9s Honored for Surviving Gunfire
6 Sep
Summary
- Three police K-9s shot in the line of duty will receive the Courage Under Fire Award.
- The award ceremony precedes the 8th Annual Space Coast Police K-9 Competition.
- The event supports equipment, training, and safety resources for K-9 units.
Three police K-9s, Appie, Havoc, and Ace, will be recognized for their bravery after surviving serious injuries in the line of duty. They are set to receive the Courage Under Fire Award during the opening ceremony of the 8th Annual Space Coast Police K-9 Competition on Friday, November 13. The ceremony will bring together all three K-9 teams for the first time.
K-9 Appie of the Fort Lauderdale Police Department and K-9 Havoc from the Columbus Police Department in Georgia were both shot while actively engaged in their duties. K-9 Ace of the Polk County Sheriff's Office also sustained a gunshot injury, which led to the loss of a leg; Ace will be honored in retirement.
Following the awards presentation, law enforcement and military K-9 teams will participate in the annual competition, showcasing their agility, obedience, and working skills. This event serves as a crucial fundraiser, generating support for vital K-9 unit resources such as specialized equipment, ongoing training, and safety measures, including heat-protection systems and protective vests.