Army dog Tyson gets Mention-in-Despatches for J&K op bravery

Indian Army assault dog Tyson, a German Shepherd with 2 Para Special Forces, has been awarded the Mention-in-Despatches (MiD) honour on Independence Day eve. President Droupadi Murmu approved 89 MiDs on Friday, with Tyson the only animal among the recipients. The Times of India and Deccan Chronicle report that the honour recognises his bravery during a counter-insurgency operation in Jammu and Kashmir earlier this year.

During Operation Trashi-I in Kishtwar district on February 22, Tyson scouted ahead and located a terrorist hideout. He took the first bullet while leading the entry and pressed on despite his injuries, forcing the terrorists to open fire. His action allowed White Knight Corps, J&K police, and CRPF troops to neutralise three Pakistan-sponsored terrorists, according to both outlets. Tyson was airlifted to Command Hospital Udhampur and has since recovered.

The MiD is a formal military commendation for bravery in a combat zone. Recipients receive a certificate and an emblem for their campaign medal ribbon. The honour underscores the frontline role of military dogs in counter-terror operations.