Page 7 - Chiron Winter 2020

In 2019, Kuno deployed as
a Canine Protection and Detection dog in direct support
of specialist UK and host nation forces. Operating in mountainous, unforgiving and dangerous areas, Kuno had conducted 16 operations over a 5-month period. He was a pivotal member of the team and always held on high alert. His role was to detect explosives, find hidden weapons and incapacitate the enemy if so ordered. Where he led, the team were happy to follow, safe in the knowledge that he had cleared the route.
In May 2019, Kuno deployed on an operation. The enemy was expected to be well armed, well prepared and willing to fight to the death. Kuno and his handler were among the first off, the helicopter.
As they raced across the open ground towards the compound, they immediately came under a burst of machine gun fire. Miraculously, no one was injured. The assault team entered the compound, where Kuno was released to incapacitate an insurgent. He did so successfully, and then switched focus to detection, soon discovering a variety of hidden weapons and explosives in the compound.
Kuno returned to his handler
and the team continued their mission, moving towards another set of buildings. Suddenly, several grenades detonated in close proximity to the team and a burst
of machinegun fire came through
a doorway adjacent to the force. Another enemy insurgent, equipped with a Night Vision equipment, had concealed himself in a compound courtyard and was shooting at the assault force as they approached. Pinned down by accurate fire, the assault force was unable to move without sustaining casualties. Kuno’s handler, confident in the dog’s ability, relied on him to break the deadlock. Kuno did not hesitate and raced through the doorway to attack the insurgent. Surprised
by the speed and aggression of Kuno’s assault, the insurgent
fired wildly into the darkness at
the shape bounding towards him. Unfortunately, several rounds found
their mark, and Kuno received bullet wounds to both hind legs. Undeterred, and barely breaking stride, Kuno launched himself at
the insurgent, biting his arm and wrestling him to the ground. The insurgent was quickly incapacitated, but despite his wounds, Kuno continued to attack to maintain
the advantage. Kuno’s actions had altered the course of the battle; the assault force swiftly entered the courtyard, neutralised the insurgent and cleared the remainder of the building. Only then did Kuno relent.
Kuno was given immediate first aid, and was evacuated with the assault force, receiving life-saving care on the back of the helicopter. His injuries were severe; one bullet narrowly missed a main artery
and he required several lifesaving operations in theatre before he was stable enough to return the UK. Kuno’s injuries have proven life- changing and his rear paw could not
be saved and was soon amputated. His loyalty, upbeat character and courage were ever-present through a prolonged period of rehabilitation and, despite his injuries, he has recovered well and is in good spirits and health.
Kuno was a most invaluable team member. His instinctive courage and determination unlocked the stalemate and undoubtedly saved the lives of multiple coalition soldiers. The operation resulted
in the most significant success against Al Qaeda for several years; Kuno was fundamental in this. His recovery is on-going and he has been retired as a MWD. Kuno’s actions during this operation, and throughout his career, are utterly deserving of the PDSA Dickin Medal.
pr@pdsa.org.uk 01952 797219/07963 390818
Staff Sergeant Chris Byles with retired Military Working Dog Kuno. Courtesy of PDSA.
Kuno enjoying his retirement. Courtesy of PDSA
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