New Delhi: Six-year-old female Labrador named Kent has been posthumously recognised for her gallantry in the list of awards announced on Independence Day.

The Army’s canine soldiers continue to play a critical role in counter-terror operations, excelling in detecting explosives and tracking terrorists.

Kent, a golden-coloured tracker dog with Army number 08B2, gave her life to protect her handler during an encounter with heavily armed terrorists in Narla village, Rajouri district, J&K, in September last year.

Leading a column of soldiers under ‘Operation Sujaligala,’ Kent advanced ahead to confront the terrorists.

“Our Kent laid down her life to save her handler. She attacked the terrorists by moving ahead first,” said Army chief General Upendra Dwivedi, who was then the Northern Command chief.

Following her sacrifice, the Army honoured Kent with a ceremonial farewell.

Her body was draped in the Tricolour, wreaths were laid, and soldiers paid their last respects to the brave tracker dog.

On Wednesday, she was included in the 39 Mention-in-Despatches (MiD), which acknowledges acts of distinguished service and gallantry not qualifying for higher gallantry awards.

Army dogs like Kent have been recognised over the years for their exceptional service. In 2022, a two-year-old Belgian Malinois named Axel was posthumously awarded an MiD for locating a terrorist in Baramulla district of J&K.

Earlier in 2020, a golden-brown Cocker Spaniel Sophie and a black Labrador Vida received CoAS commendation cards for detecting explosives, including mines and grenades, in operations.

In 2016, a four-year-old Labrador named Mansi became the first Army dog to receive a posthumous MiD after she and her handler died preventing an infiltration attempt in north Kashmir.

“Dogs are force-multipliers during counter-terrorist operations,” an officer said, highlighting the indispensable role of these canine heroes in protecting the nation.