Project K9 Hero
K-9 Callie retired from service on January 24th, 2025, and immediately became the 323rd program member to the Project K-9 Hero Pack. She is a 7-year old female Dutch Shepherd trained in Search and Rescue, who distinguished herself in the performance of meritorious service in the United States Air Force as Air Force Special Warfare Search and Rescue K-9, from the 123rd Special Tactics Squadron, with the Kentucky Air National Guard, based out of Louisville, KY.
During this time, K-9 Callie served as the only Search and Rescue K-9 in the entire Department of Defense (DOD). K-9 Callie deployed on six major events within the United States, proving invaluable in identifying the location of six deceased individuals and searching two thousand acres, two multi-story collapsed structures, and one avalanche debris field. Her tireless efforts provided critical data to rescue forces and closure to the families.
An example of K-9 Callie's resilience was demonstrated after the collapse of the Mayfield, KY candle factory, where despite significant wounds by metal and glass she continued searching and located the final two people. While serving, K-9 Callie participated in three military exercises and a Joint Combined Exchange Training (JCET), increasing U.S. military efficiency in finding and recovering isolated personnel.
Her unique capabilities included 15 military free fall jumps, riding snowmobiles and jet skis, rappelling off buildings, bridges, cliffs, and naval vessels, 45 fast ropes, and more than 150 hoists from helicopters, while accruing 750 flight hours in military aircraft. K-9 Callie's presence in difficult situations provided comfort and purpose to her team and the community. Her selfless dedication, exceptional skill, and unwavering commitment to her critical role have earned her numerous accolades and reflect great credit upon herself, the 123rd Special Tactics Squadron, and the United States Air Force.
All of this operational experience has left her with severe arthritis in her hind legs and hips. Now retired, all medical costs are the responsibility of her still actively serving handler. Project K-9 Hero is covering all of Callie’s medical expenses at 100% for the rest of her life. They are also committed to provide any further treatments, surgeries, or medications she may need to live out the retirement she has earned.
For every K-9 Callie garment sold by Nine Line Apparel, Project K-9 Hero will receive $5 per unit to help fund the medical costs associated with K-9 Callie, and the hundreds of other retired Police K-9s and Military Working Dogs they serve throughout the nation.
About Project K-9 Hero:
Project K-9 Hero is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring the best quality of life for retired Police K-9s and Military Working Dogs by providing medical care, prescription food, and death benefit assistance, as well as rehabilitation and rehoming services, to those who need them. The organization’s vision is to honor their unwavering dedication by creating a global environment that celebrates their heroic service. They strive to reshape perceptions, ensuring these valiant animals are revered and respected for their loyalty. Through their efforts, they aim to provide these remarkable companions with the dignified post-service life they rightfully deserve, offering access to comprehensive healthcare and advocating for a quality way of life in recognition of their selfless contributions.
Learn more about them at: WWW.PROJECTK9HERO.ORG
Follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and X @ProjectK9Hero
