Medal for hero military dog Kuno who tackled al Qaeda gunman and saved UK soldiers' lives
Kuno, a Belgian Shepherd, had to have one of his rear paws amputated after he suffered bullet wounds to both back legs in a raid.
A military dog who charged through enemy gunfire to save the lives of British soldiers as they fought off al Qaeda insurgents has been awarded the animal equivalent of the Victoria Cross.
Kuno, a Belgian Shepherd, had to have one of his rear paws amputated after he suffered bullet wounds to both back legs during a compound raid in 2019.
As the British troops came under enemy fire, Kuno ran towards one of the gunmen, managed to break the deadlock and change the course of the attack so the soldiers could complete their mission.
On Tuesday, the four-year-old received the Dickin Medal from vet charity the PDSA during a virtual presentation ceremony.
Kuno, who is now retired, received emergency treatment from his handler and medics in the back of their helicopter before being flown back to the UK for specialist treatment after the attack last year.
His injuries were so severe he underwent several operations before becoming the first UK military dog to be fitted with a custom-made prosthetic limb.
PDSA director General Jan McLoughlin said: "Kuno is a true hero.
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"His actions that day undoubtedly changed the course of a vital mission, saving multiple lives in the process.
"And despite serious, life-changing injuries, he performed his duty without faltering."
After a lengthy programme of rehabilitation, including sessions on a hydrotherapy treadmill, he has been rehomed.
He is said to be enjoying his retirement, and is the 72nd recipient of the prestigious honour - joining a line-up of brave dogs, horses, pigeons and a cat.
The location of the attack in which Kuno was hurt has not been disclosed for security reasons, the Ministry of Defence said.
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