Sasha (dog) facts for kids
| Species | Dog |
|---|---|
| Breed | Labrador Retriever |
| Sex | Female |
| Born | c.2004 |
| Died | 24 July 2008 (aged 4) Helmand Province, Afghanistan |
| Nation from | British |
| Employer | British Army |
| Notable role | Bomb detection dog |
| Years active | 2004–2008 |
| Appearance | Yellow coat |
| Awards | Dickin Medal |
Sasha DM (2004–2008) was a very special Labrador Retriever. She worked as a bomb detection dog for the British Army in Afghanistan. Sasha and her handler, Lance Corporal Kenneth Rowe, sadly died in July 2008. In 2014, Sasha was given the Dickin Medal. This award is often called the animals' Victoria Cross.
Sasha's Army Career
Sasha first worked as a bomb detection dog with Marianne Hay. Later, in May 2008, Sasha was assigned to Lance Corporal Kenneth Rowe. They became a great team. Sasha and Rowe were well known at the 104 Working Dog Unit in North Luffenham, Rutland. Sasha was a very friendly dog. She was known for her amazing skills.
Serving in Afghanistan
Sasha served with the Royal Army Veterinary Corps. She worked with the 2nd Battalion of the Parachute regiment in the Kandahar area. Sasha helped find many dangerous items. These included mortars, mines, and other hidden weapons. She made 15 confirmed discoveries of hidden explosives or ammunition. Sasha was very popular with the soldiers. She helped keep their spirits up during patrols. She also enjoyed chasing the wild cats around the base.
Sasha and her handler were killed during an attack on their patrol on 24 July 2008. Sasha was hurt but bravely went back to her handler. Enemy forces then found their location. They attacked, and both Sasha and Rowe died. They were supposed to return to the UK the day before. But Rowe chose to stay. He was worried about his regiment's safety.
Sasha's first handler, Marianne Hay, helped bring Sasha's ashes back to the UK. Sasha's ashes were in a special brass case. Rowe's coffin and Sasha's ashes arrived at RAF Lyneham on 29 July 2008. A special service was held for them.
The Dickin Medal
In April 2014, it was announced that Sasha would receive the PDSA Dickin Medal. This award was given to her after her death. Jan McLoughlin, who leads the PDSA, spoke about the award. She said Sasha's amazing dedication in Afghanistan saved many lives. She saved both soldiers and civilians. This medal honors Sasha's service and her ultimate sacrifice.
The Dickin Medal is a very important award for animals. It is often called the animal version of the Victoria Cross.
