Dog who lost a leg while serving in Afghanistan was awarded a medal

A 12-year-old German Shepherd named Lukka was awarded a medal in London on Tuesday for her participation in military operations in Afghanistan. Lucca has more than 400 missions with the US Marines during his six years of service.

The Mary Deakin Medal was presented to the brave dog by the Lord Mayor of London. The medal is the UK's highest military award for animals, given for bravery and dedication to service in times of war, and its motto is "We also serve".

(Total 9 photos)

Pictured is Lucca with her former owner and boss, Chris Willingham.

According to colleagues, Lukka is an amazingly talented dog, and, having an amazing sense of smell, she has received special training to detect weapons and explosives.

But while patrolling the area with Corporal Juan Rodriguez in March 2012, the shepherd stepped on an improvised explosive device and blew up.

Rodriguez immediately provided first aid to his four-legged friend, applying a tourniquet and calling the doctors.

For a while, Lucca was on the verge of life and death. Despite everything, the shepherd survived and recovered, but the doctors failed to save the paw, and Lucca was dismissed.

Now the hero dog lives with his former boss Chris Willingham in California.

Willingham said that Lucca is very smart, loyal and is the best partner you could wish for. It is to her that Chris Willingham owes his life.