In remembrance of the events of 9/11, it’s important to acknowledge the heroes that have risen up from the ashes of the tragedy. Not only were there hundreds of volunteer police, firefighters, medical teams, and other countless support responders; there were over 300 teams of dogs and handlers that worked tirelessly to rescue live victims and later to bring closure to families of relatives who did not survive.
Unsung Heroes Finally Given Their Due
Up until last year, there was very little recognition for the hundreds of dogs that served in the aftermath of 9/11. An organization called Finding One Another, a Tails of Hope Foundation program, has become a key establishment to rectify this oversight. Last year, on the 10-year anniversary of tragic act of terrorism, they helped to organize a tribute event that honored search and rescue dogs and their handlers.
Finding One Another (FOA) has been a touch point for people who participated in the search and rescue teams to connect to each other. They also work to educate the public, including students, about the importance that dogs play in protecting our country. They seek to offer financial support for expenses incurred for their valuable volunteer service.
Education for the Future
FOA has also put together school programs that inspire kids to consider careers in training, research, or providing veterinary care to search and rescue dogs. This is particularly important since, even with all the advancements in modern technology, there is nothing that compares to the skill set these dogs demonstrate in disaster response teams.
Another Hero Dog Advocate
Kenn Bell of the Dog Files has once again been using his gift at visually communicating about the importance of dogs in our lives. I leave you with his video to share with others so that we may never forget. Please feel free to share his tribute!