Acting like a true soldier, Axel the Army Dog laid down his life during an anti-terror operation but not before pinpointing the location of a holed-up militant to ensure the success of the operation.

The two-year-old German shepherd was attached to the Army’s 26 Dog Unit and played a key role in this operation against militants on Saturday. The canine was laid to rest yesterday after a solemn military ceremony that was held in Pattan to pay homage to the brave soldier.

Final adieu: Wreath laying ceremony of Army's sniffer dog Axel, KIA during anti terrorist operation at Baramulla yesterday.

Country Salutes You Braveheart 🙏🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/ZVHxJPXVug

— Rijul (@RijulJK) July 31, 2022

The holed-up terrorist was killed by the security forces after an eight-hour-long gunfight that took place in Wanigam Bala area of Kreeri in Baramulla district. The militant was identified as Kupwara-resident Akhtar Hussain Bhatt who was affiliated with the banned Jaish-e-Mohammed.

Axel was pressed into action during the operation by the security forces after an Army jawan and a policeman suffered injuries during the encounter. A body camera was attached to the German shepherd to help the forces locate the terrorist. Sharing details, an official said: “The presence of a mosque within 10 metres of the target house further necessitated operation calibration and no high calibre weapons were used to neutralise the terrorist.”

After pinpointing the terrorist’s location, Axel fell to enemy bullets. The canine was hit by three bullets. Thanks to Axel, the forces were able to gun down the militant without violating the sanctity of the mosque and any damage to it.

Taking to Twitter, Army’s Srinagar-based Chinar Corps posted Axel’s file photo with the caption: ”Thank you for your service, Axel.” The General Officer Commanding of the Kilo Force, Major General S. S. Slaria, paid homage to the canine soldier.

Axel was buried in the 26 Army Dog premises in the presence of unit personnel and officials.