The Secretariat of National Defense of Mexico (SEDENA) has actually commemorated Proteo, a search and rescue dog who lost his life while performing a rescue operation in Turkey.
Proteo was one of the 16 Mexican search and rescue dogs released to Turkey to aid with rescue operations following the devastating earthquake that struck the nation, along with neighbouring Syria, on Monday 6 February. Working amongst ruins, Proteo had the ability to find 2 survivors prior to his death.
In a declaration launched on 12 February, Sedena said, “The members of the Mexican Army and Air Force deeply regret the loss of our great companion the dog: Proteo. You fulfilled your mission as a member of the Mexican Delegation in the Search and Rescue of our brothers in Turkey. Thank you for your heroic work!”
Mexican Secretary of Foreign Relations, Marcelo Ebrard, said, “I regret the sensitive death of Proteo, a member of the SEDENA rescue team in Turkey. He raised the name of Mexico and our people high.”
Other dogs released with Proteo existed at a roll call to honour their lost buddy prior to they went back to work, attempting to find more survivors and help the healing of bodies.
