Bretagne (given the name of the region of France), the golden retriever, who assisted in the search for survivors after the events of September 11, 2001, received a heroic goodbye when she passed away in June, 2016, at the age of 16. Bretagne was one of the last working search and rescue dogs to operate in the “rescue” phase of Ground Zero. With her passing, an era of courage, loyalty, and silent service came to an end.
Early Deployment to Ground Zero
Bretagne was deployed to Ground Zero in New York City with her handler, Denise Corliss with Texas Task Force 1, at the age of 2. In the chaotic aftermath of the attacks in September, Bretagne worked tirelessly, crawling, jumping, and climbing through twisted steel and debris searching for signs of life. Alberta and her partner Denise recognized that fewer would be found alive than all would hope, however, dogs like Bretagne provided inspired hope, love, and/or comfort simply as they were living, breathing, reminders that live rescue dogs were there.
Continued Service after 9/11
Bretagne continued her search and rescue career with Task Force 1, following 2001, completing several damage assessments after severe events, including hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Upon her retirement, Bretagne continued her service work visiting schools as a therapy dog serving children, veterans, and others in need.
An Honorable Goodbye
When the time came for Bretagne's goodbye she's was honored with a very special farewell. When Bretagne walked into a human's vet for the last time in Houston, Bretagne received a salute from a line of real firefighters and rescue workers along with her service dog vest. Bretagne had her body draped in an American flag and was carried with dignity and with gratitude like a national hero.
Legacy of Silent Service and Loyalty
Bretagne's story is a story of one who knows the silent courage of the dogs that work, and their handlers, who 'go' when everyone else 'runs seven directions for cover.' And ask for nothing, but give everything. Bretagne is no longer with us in body, but exists in our history from 9/11. Her spirit will continue to live on with many that honor service, loyalty, and love.
