Fitting Memorial for Fallen Heroes
As a bagpipe played the poignant notes of Amazing Grace, and more than 100 police service dogs and their handlers watched in eager anticipation, the state's newest memorial was unveiled in Phoenix.
I would like to mention just one of the many tributes. Hunter was a German Shepherd who was certified as a narcotics canine and also helped Phoenix police apprehend major felony offenders. Ten years ago this month, Hunter was involved in an early morning search near 30th Street and Cactus Road for a felony suspect who was carrying a rifle and who, it was later learned, was under the influence of meth. When Hunter found the suspect in a backyard, he was shot five times, but did not go down. Hunter continued after the suspect and was able to bite his hand, which helped lead to his subsequent apprehension. Hunter, who had taken part in nearly 700 searches and 94 felony arrests, did not survive.