In 1942, dogs across the country answered the call to arms. America could no longer ignore the tyranny in Europe or the disaster of the "day that would live in infamy." Young men and women joined up in throngs and the home front rallied to the cry of war. Every sacrifice that could be made was... even the sacrifice of the family dog was not too much to ask. Americans sent their dogs away to protect beloved freedoms. Loyal dogs happily did all, and more, that was asked of them. Of course, dogs had been companions, loyal friends and confidantes to soldier for as long as war existed. However, it wasn't until WWII beckoned Americans to sacrifice, that dogs officially became soldiers.
Now we know that dogs are actively participating in our current war effort. Dogs in parachutes and bullet proof vests are daily splashed across America's front pages. But how long have dogs been so engaged in America's military actions? Today we honor the service of our Defense Dogs but, have we as a nation always given proper credit to these most loyal American heroes? And what of the canine friends that soldiers adopted in the war zones of the world? Were they also honored for their invaluable service, of emotional and mental support, to our American service members? I hope that you will examine these stories with open hearts as "The Dogs of War; Unsung Canine Heroes of the U.S. Military," attempts to answer these questions and honor our veterans... all of our veterans.