Thursday, March 10, 2011

Fallen soldier, Liam Tasker and the ashes of his dog, Theo, return home to the UK

L/Cpl Tasker and dog Theo
L/Cpl Tasker's body returned to the UK, with the ashes of his dog Theo
BBC News The body of a soldier who died along with his record breaking sniffer dog in Afghanistan last week has returned home to the UK.

Lance Corporal Liam Tasker, from Kirkcaldy in Fife, was shot dead while on patrol in Helmand province. The ashes of the 26-year-old's dog Theo were flown home on the same plane.

L/Cpl Tasker, who was called a "rising star" by Army chiefs, was shot by Taliban snipers and Theo died of a seizure shortly after his master.

The soldier and his 22-month-old dog had made 14 finds in five months while on the frontline.

The pair's successes at uncovering so many explosions and weapons had resulted in their tour of Afghanistan being extended by a month.

Just three weeks ago, springer spaniel Theo was praised as a record breaking Army sniffer dog.

The body of L/Cpl Tasker and the ashes of Theo were flown to RAF Lyneham in Wiltshire at lunchtime, before a cortege passed through Wootton Bassett, the Wiltshire town which has built up a tradition of welcoming back fallen heroes.

Mimi's note: It's time to bring them home - all of them - every last one.

National Canine Cancer Foundation

12 comments:

Two French Bulldogs said...

what a story!
Benny & Lily

Frankie Furter and Ernie said...

OH... this story just takes my breath away. It makes me PROUD and Sad at the same time. They gave their full measure.

♥I am Holly♥ said...

A very sad and proud story....we agree...it is time to bring them all home. Lots of love, Holly and mom

Diana Chiew said...

We are saddened by this news.

Maureen said...

My mom read this story at work today and had a leaky eye attack. I think she is still crying. Both of them, gone too soon :(

White Dog Blog said...

May they have peace in the afterlife and know that they are honored as heroes.

Yes, it is time to bring all of them (two- and four-legged) home to lead full lives of peace, and health, and normal pursuits.

Asta said...

We are indebted and so sowwy fow these fallen hewoes.
mommi and I agwee. they should all come home
sad sad smoochie kisses
ASTA

Sam said...

Sigh. So sad. 26 years old. It does just need to end..

Angel Ginger Jasper said...

We watched on the Tv and saw the love of a man and his dog. So sad that they had to die.His parents said they were happy that he had not had to leave his dog behind. Seems the dog was also thinking the same and didnt want to go on without his master. So sad.. Hugs GJ xx

An English Shepherd said...

This is such a sad story. We watched him come home on the TV so very sad.

Tweedles -- that's me said...

2 very brave hearts.
you are right, it is time to bring them home.
why can't we all live in peace?
why?
love
tweedles

ForPetsSake said...

I read about this loyal dog's passing just after the young soldier and it broke my heart. Who says don't have the capacity to love?
I agree with you, too - send them all home now!