Monument Unveiled To Honor Women Military Dog Handlers’ Service To The Nation

On the eve of its 23^rd anniversary last October 17, the Military Women’s Memorial unveiled “The Pledge,” the first-of-its-kind monument honoring the services rendered to the nation by women military dog handlers.

Depicting a female handler stroking her Belgian Malinois while kneeling, the monument was designed and completed by artist, Susan Bahary, who also created “Always Faithful,” the US’ first official war dog memorial unveiled in 1994.

“As an artist this is an incredible honor,” Bahary shared, “It feels so gratifying to know that the women in the military are finally getting this kind of well-deserved recognition in our nation’s capital.”

Conceptualization of the memorial started two years ago when the US War Dogs Association approved the commission. Poring over pictures that showed women handlers in action, Bahary aimed to capture the capability, duty, compassion, and commitment shared by both the women handlers and their military canines.

The metal welding and building process, alone, took several months to complete, but Bahary was adamant at making her subjects look authentic, knowing that they represent, among others, the deeds and sacrifices of both handler and canine in the line of duty.

According to Renae Johnson, who’s a retired MWD handler, their occupation is a high-impact and intense one but, with her canine alongside her, the challenges did not matter as much. Johnson revealed how the bond with her canine was crucial to their success and survival during military operations.

Images & Feature Image Source: Army.mil