A retired K9 from Vineland has earned a medal commending his actions in saving his handler’s life 10 years ago. K9 AGIR of the Vineland Police Department was awarded the revered Animals in War & Peace Distinguished Service Medal, which stands as a tribute to animals whose service to the United States has been marked by exceptional merit and unparalleled dedication in roles of great responsibility.
In March, on Capitol Hill’s Rayburn House Office Building in Washington, D.C., the Fifth Annual Animals in War & Peace Medal Ceremony honored seven exceptional canines. Members of Congress had the honor of presenting each canine with a medal, recognizing their contributions.
In 2015, K9 AGIR’s precipitous actions were credited with saving the life of his handler Sgt. Louis Platania (now retired) during the arrest of a suspect who was high on PCP and acting erratically.
As reported on msn.com, Platania said during a physical altercation, the suspect had his hands on the officer’s gun, was attempting to wrest it away, and Platania could not gain control. Another officer released K9 AGIR who then subdued the suspect.
