What:

The U.S. Postal Service recognizes Military Working Dogs, the four-legged heroes of the nation’s military with a special stamp dedication. This event is free and open to the public.

Who:

Robert Carr Jr., Postmaster, San Antonio, TX

When:

Thursday, August 15, 2019, 10:15 a.m

Where:

Military Working Dogs Monument
2434 Larson Street
Lackland AFB, TX 78236

Background:

Brave and loyal military working dogs are essential members of America’s armed forces. Courageous canines have aided U.S. soldiers in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the Afghanistan and Iraq wars. Today, the 341st Training Squadron at Lackland Air Force Base, just outside of San Antonio, TX, trains American military working dogs and their handlers. Dozens of dog breeds have served in the U.S. armed forces. Modern military working dogs are predominantly Belgian Malinois, German shepherds, Dutch shepherds and Labrador retrievers.

German shepherds are tall, strong, fast, athletic and easily trainable. Dutch shepherds are similarly built but their coats differ in look and feel. Muscular but slightly smaller than shepherds and light on their feet, Belgian Malinois are also ideal military dogs. A Belgian Malinois named Cairo accompanied Navy SEAL Team Six on its mission to find Osama bin Laden.

The military prizes retrievers, including Labradors, for their extraordinary sense of smell. Labrador retrievers are often trained as specialized search dogs.

When military working dogs reach retirement age, they are usually adopted by their handlers or civilians. Across the country, there are memorials dedicated to these animals. The bravery, loyalty and service of all past and present military working dogs will never be forgotten.

Customers may purchase the Military Working Dogs stamps at The Postal Store at usps.com/shop, by calling 800-STAMP24 (800-782-6724), by mail through USA Philatelic or at Post Office locations nationwide. Forever stamps will always be equal in value to the current First-Class Mail 1-ounce price. Information on ordering first-day-of-issue postmarks and covers is at usps.com/shop under “Collectors.”

The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

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