Axel, a two-year-old Indian Army sniffer dog, was posthumously awarded a prestigious ‘Mention-in-Despatches’ for his bravery during an anti-terrorism operation in Jammu and Kashmir’s Baramulla district. This honor, announced ahead of India’s 76th Independence Day, is one of the highest given to military dogs and recognizes Axel’s heroic service.
Serving with the 26 Army Dog Unit, Axel was deployed during an eight-hour counter-terror operation alongside 29 Rashtriya Rifles. After his fellow dog Bajaj cleared the path, Axel entered a building and was shot by a terrorist while searching for threats. Despite being injured, he continued for 15 seconds before succumbing to his wounds.
The terrorist, identified as Akhtar Hussain Bhatt of the banned group Jaish-e-Mohammed, was later killed. Axel’s sacrifice and Bajaj’s role in the mission highlight the vital and courageous contributions of Army dogs in combat zones.