Yesterday, Sunday, September 11, marked the sad 21st anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks. Attacks that claimed thousands of lives, hijacked planes that crashed into the twin towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, into the Pentagon near Washington, D.C., and into a field in Pennsylvania.
Commemorations in various forms were held throughout the United States. Dogs also took part, such as those specialized in search and rescue missions, and belonging to the Alabama Task Force-1 (AL-TF1 K9 Team) canine team.
At their training ground, located in Mobile, Alabama (Southern USA), several tandems of dog handlers held a symbolic exercise in a metal structure consisting of 6-story stairs.
They hitched climbs there until they reached the equivalent height of the World Trade Center towers. An ordeal that forced the duos’ muscles and nerves to work hard, even if they were broken there.
“We have the ability to do this. It is important to remember this, no matter how sad it may be. It’s good to remember to never forget,” said Rachel Leard, a member of the unit.
According to fellow dog handler Brian Lilienthal, «if that means sweat, tears and muscle pain, it’s the least we can do to show our gratitude» to the rescuers, people and dogs who participated in the rescue effort before and after the collapse. twin towers in 2001.
According to the AKC (American Kennel Club), about 300 dogs and trainers were sent to Ground Zero, the scene of the attack.
“Today we honor those who have passed away,” the Alabama Task Force-1 Facebook page says. We will never forget.» Text accompanied by several photographs taken during the exercise.
