02/28/2026
Today, I want to share something truly special!🤩
Sam, my son, is participating in the art competition hosted by the National Museum of the Marine Corps.
This year’s theme is “Heroes.”
And he chose a story that reaches deep into the heart.
Lucca — a true legend of the USMC.
She was one of the most famous military working dogs of the United States Marine Corps. A German Shepherd who completed more than 400 combat missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, specializing in explosive detection.
Throughout her entire service, not a single Marine was lost under her protection.
She found deadly devices before they could take a life.
She walked first.
She took the risk upon herself.
In 2012, Lucca was injured by an IED.
She lost a leg… but she survived.
After a long recovery, she retired with honor and lived with her former handler — the Marine she had gone to war with.
For her extraordinary bravery, Lucca was awarded the Dickin Medal — the highest honor for valor awarded to animals (the equivalent of the Victoria Cross).
Her story is not just the story of a dog.
It is a story of loyalty.
Of duty.
Of protection.
Of a phrase spoken without words:
“I’ve got you.”
Sam poured so much emotion into this drawing.
He wanted to show not only military service, but the deeper meaning of a true hero — someone who protects others, even at great personal risk.
I am incredibly proud of the theme he chose.
And of the respect and care he brought to telling this story.
Heroes come in many forms.
Sometimes, they have four paws. 🐾