On the nineteenth anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, American Humane helped a K-9 hero complete his journey of 6,700 miles around the globe. Military Working Dog Ramos was stationed in Japan when he retired, but his former handler, U.S. Marine Corps veteran Brendan Cabey, was already back home in Boston.
Through cooperation with the USS Constitution, the USS Constitution Museum and the National Parks of Boston, American Humane was able to honor the reunification of Ramos and Brendan with dignity.
The National Park Service, which maintains the Charlestown Navy Yard, relies on working dogs to keep public areas safe. John Curwen, Director of Visitor Experience and Engagement with National Parks of Boston and an Iraq War veteran, spoke to the somber anniversary of 9/11 and the role of working dogs in the Armed Forces.
Visitors to national parks are often accompanied by their four-legged friends, which is why the National Park Service works to make sure these environments are as conducive to animals and humans as possible. Michael Cancelliere, a Park Ranger with National Parks of Boston swore in MWD Ramos as a B.A.R.K. Ranger, a program to help companion animals have a safe and fun time at national parks.
The historic USS Constitution, which is the world’s oldest commissioned warship afloat, served as the backdrop for the ceremony. The battleship has a special K-9 in its history – Guerriere the Terrier, a sea dog who once spotted a ship his fellow sailors failed to notice! Anne Grimes Rand, President and CEO of the USS Constitution Museum, presented MWD Ramos with a Guerrier the Terrier plushie as part of the ceremony.
When MWDs retire, their path home isn’t always clear. In 2016, American Humane worked hard so that the first rights of adoption are given to these brave heroes’ former handlers. Whenever active service members or veterans need aid in bringing their dogs back stateside, American Humane is happy to help. Learn more about our lifesaving programs and work alongside the U.S. Armed Forces at www.AmericanHumane.org.
