Rifleman Khan facts for kids

Rifleman Khan was a brave German Shepherd Dog. He became a military dog during World War II. He worked with a group of soldiers called the Cameronians (Scottish Rifles). Khan showed great courage during the Battle of the Scheldt. For his bravery, he received the Dickin Medal. This medal is like the Victoria Cross for animals, showing incredible heroism.

Khan's Military Service

Khan was a family pet belonging to the Railton family in Tolworth, England. In the summer of 1942, his family lent him to the British government for the war effort. Khan was then assigned to the sixth battalion of the Cameronians (Scottish Rifles). A soldier named Lance Corporal James Muldoon became his handler. They worked together as a team.

Heroism at Walcheren

In November 1944, Khan's battalion was part of an Allied attack. They were sent to capture Walcheren island in the Netherlands. This island was very important for the invasion of Germany. Khan and Muldoon were in a boat heading towards the island. Suddenly, a bright light shone on them. Their boat came under heavy enemy fire. The boat then flipped over, throwing the soldiers into the water.

Khan swam to the shore first. He immediately started looking for Muldoon. Muldoon could not swim well. Even with bombs falling around them, Khan swam about 200 yards (180 meters) back to Muldoon. He pulled his handler from the water. Khan continued to pull Muldoon past the muddy shoreline. He dragged him onto solid ground. After getting Muldoon to safety, Khan collapsed next to him.

The Dickin Medal

Khan was given the Dickin Medal for his bravery. This happened on March 27, 1945. The Dickin Medal is often called the "Victoria Cross for animals." It is the highest award for animal bravery. Khan's award said he rescued Lance Corporal Muldoon from drowning. This happened during heavy shelling at the Walcheren attack in November 1944.

After the war, Khan and Muldoon were reunited. This happened at a special parade for war dogs at Wembley Stadium. Khan was then given to Muldoon to live with him permanently. Rifleman Khan and Lance Corporal Jimmy Muldoon spent their remaining years together in Strathaven, Scotland.