Known for their discipline, loyalty and bravery, army dogs are valuable members of the defence forces. The K9 unit of NSG currently has 20 dogs who are deployed along with commandos during counter-terror and counter-hijack operations. One such example of these exemplary dogs is Rocket, a two-and-a-half-year-old Belgian Malinois dog who was recently nominated for the Sena Medal by the elite commando force, National Security Guard. Rocket has been nominated for this honour for showing extreme courage and dedication in the face of danger during the Pathankot terror attacks that took place on January 1, 2016.

Rocket had helped to discover a package from a burning airmen billet that helped the commandos identify the presence of militants inside the air base, as told to the media by a senior official. The dog got injured and singed in various places but did not give up and completed his potentially life-threatening task. He also attacked a terrorist foiling his attempt to harm the commandos.

As senior officials have stated, Rocket never once flinched from his goal and is one of the most trusted members of the NSG’s K9 unit. He is the first canine member of the NSG to be recommended for this honour since its inception in 1984. Rocket’s name has been suggested along with Late Lt Col Niranjan, who has also been recommended for the Shaurya Chakra along with two other commandos. The final decision on these awards will be made by the Union Home Ministry appointed committee. Medal or no medal, all Indians and dog lovers will be rooting for this valiant pooch with pride.