The first national monument to America’s military dogs was dedicated this week at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. So many working dogs have risked everything to fulfill their duty and protect our soldiers and, sadly, many of them were not allowed to return to the U.S. after serving alongside their handlers.

“Inscribed with the words ‘Guardians of America’s Freedom,’ the nine-foot tall bronze statue at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, features four dogs and a handler.”image from news.msn.com

 

In Alison Hart’s newest historical fiction novel for middle grade readers, Darling, Mercy Dog of World War I, we follow the story of one such service dog, Darling. Having been volunteered to serve in the British army, Darling is trained to be a mercy dog. She finds wounded soldiers during battle so they can be brought to safety. 

http://www.care2.com/causes/national-service-dog-month-salute-our-canine-heroes.html#
The photo that inspired the Darling, Mercy Dog art!
image from care2.com


Not only is Darling good at what she does, she is also loved by her handler and all the soldiers she works with. This story is, at its heart, a gripping tale of friendship set amidst the harrowing battle fields of World War I.

Having recently wrapped up our blog tour for Darling during National Service Dog Month, military dogs and their handlers have been on our minds lately. We’re so glad to see that a memorial statue is now dedicated to preserving the memory of and honoring military working dogs!

Keep an eye out for our interview with Alison Hart later this week!