Wlaf1450By George Hackler
JACKSBORO, TN (SPECIAL TO WLAF) – Throughout history, dogs have shown tireless devotion, endless loyalty, and unwavering love for their human companions. They have worked and played alongside people since time immemorial. Their bond with humankind is unparalleled in the animal kingdom. Campbell County Sheriff’s K-9 Cowboy (top photo) was no exception.
Cowboy entered this life on Nov. 7, 2008. He departed this life on Feb. 25, 2020. He lived only a few years but there was much “life” in those years.
Cowboy was trained to be an explosive detection dog. Throughout his career in the military and in civilian law enforcement, he saved countless lives doing what he did best – protecting his human counterparts from explosives.
During his time in the United States Marine Corps, he served two tours in Afghanistan. Ultimately, he was rose to the rank of staff sergeant. After his military service, he worked for the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office for more than two years where he served as deputy.
Cowboy’s record of service is commendable and deserves our collective admiration. His life was focused on service to his community, state and nation. It seems fitting that his marker should be placed the week of Veteran’s Day – a time when we honor and remember those who have served our great nation.
Those of us at Jellico Monument Company and Cox & Son Funeral of Jellico are honored, and humbled, to provide this marker as a token of our appreciation to Cowboy – and to the legions of other dogs whose names we may never know – who have served humankind for countless generations.
There will be a dedication ceremony on Tuesday morning, Nov. 10 beginning at 10:30 am at the Campbell County Sherriff’s Office.
The community is invited to join in commemorating and memorializing Cowboy’s life and service to our community, state, and nation. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 11/10/2020-6AM)