The AKC presented the United States Capitol Police K-9 Unit with the AKC K-9 Officers Award on May 1. The award recognizes the special public service role of dogs that work for government agencies and the skills and partnerships the K-9 handlers have with their dogs.
AKC President and CEO Dennis B. Sprung presented the Award to United States Capitol Police Chief Matthew R. Verderosa, Assistant Chief Steven A. Sund, Deputy Chief Fred P. Rogers and Technician Shawn Haynes, who were accompanied by Will, a black Labrador Retriever.
“I am honored to present this award,” said Sprung. “It is a token of our immense respect and admiration for the outstanding and rigorous job the dedicated U.S. Capitol Police K-9 teams perform daily. There is no doubt about the enormous role that these dogs play in assuring the security of the U.S. Capitol, and our national security.”
“We appreciate this recognition of the important role our K-9 teams play in keeping the U.S. Capitol safe and secure,” said Chief Matthew Verderosa. “All of our technicians and canines are highly-trained and extremely dedicated to fulfilling our mission.”
The ceremony took place at the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center as part of AKC’s celebration of working and purpose-bred dogs on National Purebred Dog Day.
Congratulations to the United State Capitol Police K-9 Unit and thank you for all of your hard work and dedication!
Learn more about K-9s and handlers who have been honored for their service, here.