16th Annual Hero Dog Awards
Military Dog Semifinalist
Meet Sage
Superpower: Melting away stress for our nation’s heroes.
Norfolk, VA – Labrador Retriever – 6 years old
Sage serves as the Expeditionary Facility Dog aboard the USS Gerald R. Ford, where she just completed a record-breaking deployment of more than 11 months at sea. Rather than detection work, her mission is entirely focused on the ship’s crew. Sage enhances resiliency among Sailors and Marines, strengthens operational readiness, breaks down barriers around mental health, and bridges the gap for those hesitant to seek professional support.
During one especially harrowing moment, when her handler was deeply involved in fighting a serious shipboard fire, Sage provided the calm, steady presence he and his fellow Sailors needed to keep going until the danger passed. Whether reducing stress for crew members or simply being a familiar, loving face far from home, Sage reminds an entire ship that courage and strength can walk on four legs. She’s proof that even on one of the world’s most advanced warships, kindness is essential equipment.
Vote for Your Favorite Military Dog
Cast your vote for a military dog semifinalist. You can vote once every 24 hours until voting ends on September 18.
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Get to Know the Semifinalists
Help us celebrate the incredible dogs making a difference in communities nationwide.
Service & Guide/Hearing
Dogs that provide crucial support, safety and independence through their specialized skills.
Therapy
Credentialed therapy dogs that help those in need of physical, social, emotional and cognitive healing.
Law Enforcement & First Responder
Dogs who provide critical law enforcement, rescue and detection capabilities.
