India, March 13 -- Every year on March 13, the United States observes K9 Veterans Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the service and sacrifice of military working dogs that have supported troops in dangerous missions for decades.

According to Soldiers' Angels, the observance pays tribute to the "incredible service and sacrifice of Military Working Dogs (MWDs)" that have served alongside service members, helping detect threats, save lives and protect troops in challenging environments.

March 13 was chosen for K9 Veterans Day because it marks the anniversary of the US Army launching the War Dog Program during World War II.

As Soldiers' Angels explains, the Army officially began training dogs for combat roles on that date in 1942, creati...