A tearful goodbye as K9 Hurricane, the most decorated dog in U.S. history, has died. Known for his bravery, the U.S. Secret Service dog passed away nine years after retiring.

Hurricane, a Belgian Malinois, stopped an intruder from entering the White House in 2014 while President Barack Obama and his family were inside. He employed the bite-and-hold method, biting and dragging the intruder back to the fence, successfully apprehending the suspect. Due to injuries sustained in the incident, he retired on medical grounds two years later.

Hurricane’s handler, Marshall Mirarchi, a former U.S. Secret Service Special Operations officer, described him as an American hero.

Hurricane was awarded the inaugural Animals in War & Peace Distinguished Service Medal on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. — the first dog to receive the honor, which was specially created for him. He also received the U.S. Secret Service Award for Merit, the Department of Homeland Security Award for Valor, the PDSA Order of Merit, the AMC Top Dog award, and the Department of Homeland Security Secretary’s Award for Valor.

The White House posted on social media: “Hurricane was a true American hero. The most decorated K-9 in U.S. history, he bravely defended the White House and spent retirement helping other working dogs through K-9 Hurricane’s Heroes. His legacy of courage and loyalty will live on. Rest easy, Hurricane.”

K-9 Hurricane worked at the White House from 2012 to 2016.

Shortly after his passing, a heartwarming video was posted on Hurricane’s Instagram, showing the dog’s life on and off the job, embodying his unwavering service and courage. The caption read: “Your actions opened pathways for other K9s to receive care they otherwise may not have. You were expressive and a joy to be around, always creating smiles wherever you went while also keeping others on their toes. We thank you for protecting our nation, we thank you for the example you set, and most importantly, we thank you for being such a loving companion for your family.”

The 15-year-old canine passed away peacefully at home with his loved ones, according to an Instagram post from his handler.

K-9 Hurricane’s legacy lives on through Hurricane’s Heroes, a foundation created in his honor to help cover medical costs for retired working dogs. Since its launch in 2020, the nonprofit has supported more than 150 retired military and government dogs. Mirarchi, the nonprofit’s president and founder, continues to lead its mission.

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