– Memorial Day, 2002 –

May 27, 2002 – Today is Memorial Day. For most Americans this popular holiday marks the beginning of the summer season. Families, friends and neighbors gather together to enjoy outdoor activities such as barbecues, picnics and ball games. But Memorial Day is much more than day of fun and frolic. It's a day of remembrance.

Originally known as Decoration Day, Memorial Day was established in 1868 to honor and commemorate those who died in defense of our country. In 1971 Memorial Day was officially declared a national holiday, always to be held on the last Monday in May. It's a single day, just one out of 365, set aside to remember those individuals – our loved ones, ancestors, friends, neighbors and fellow citizens – who lost their lives in military service. It is a day of reflection.

I would like to dedicate this page to all the forgotten "War Dogs" who helped save American lives. Tens of thousands of War Dogs served our country during World Wars I and II, the Spanish-American War, the Korean War and in Vietnam. More recently they've assisted soldiers in the Persian Gulf, Bosnia and Afghanistan. Used by the Air Force, Army, Navy and Marines, America's military dogs have saved countless lives. They have a long history of devotion, bravery and courage while serving as sentries, scouts, trackers and mine sniffers. Their contributions are often overlooked by everyone but their handlers and squadrons.

For more information about this topic, please visit the following Web sites: National War Dog Memorial Fund, Charlie Cargo's Scout Dog Pages, Vietnam Dog Handler Association, and K-9 History: Dogs of War.