Hero Dogs: Secret Missions and Selfless Service

In Hero Dogs, learn about modern day heroes who run on four legs instead of two: specially trained war dogs. Today's specially trained military canines?like the anonymous canine hero that took part in the top-secret mission against Osama bin Laden?are a breed apart, assisting their human friends in locating improvised explosive devices, conducting clandestine missions, and more.

War dogs are specially trained to fight in combat alongside their soldier compatriots, and this book takes a look at some of their training as well as their combat missions. War dogs are not only trained for battle, they are also trained to stay beside their owners who may suffer from PTSD after a conflict. It is non-negotiable that war dogs are essential to the armed forces of today and for future soldiers. Many have earned recognition for heroism. Others struggle with wounds and post-traumatic stress. Dozens died in the line of duty.

Hero Dogs not only tells stories of hero dogs, but also contains beautiful photos of hero dogs in action on the battlefield and in civilian life. Filled with hundreds of dramatic never-before-seen photos, this one-of-a-kind book features inspiring tales of selfless battlefield service related by the war dogs' handlers and fellow soldiers.

Lance M. Bacon is senior staff writer for Army Times, an independent weekly newspaper serving U.S. Army personnel and their families. He covers Army leadership, weaponry, training, and tactics. His combat coverage in Afghanistan includes an award-winning piece on the Battle of Roberts Ridge. Bacon has served as city/military editor of the Jacksonville (NC) Daily News and managing editor of the Kinston (NC) Free Press. During his tenure, the Kinston newspaper was twice honored as the best in the state for its category. It also received the Associated Press' Openness in Government Award and the coveted Freedom of Excellence Award. Bacon is a Marine Corps veteran with eight honorable years of service (1989-1997). He spent two years aboard USS Independence (CV-62), two years as platoon sergeant with the 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion in Camp Lejeune, NC, and four years in Public Affairs. There, he received dozens of journalism awards, including being twice recognized as the Marine Corps' journalist of the year, and runner-up a third year.