Veterinary College unveils War Dog tribute

Auburn University's College of Veterinary Medicine unveiled a War Dog Tribute sculpture April 29 during its Fourth National Detector Dog Conference, highlighted by an address from retired U.S. Marine Commandant Carl Mundy.

"This bronze sculpture will pay respect to all dogs that serve mankind and will honor all of Auburn's veterinary alumni who have served in the military," said Dr. Gary Beard, assistant dean.

The sculpture was donated by Betsy Putney of Woodland Hills, Calif., wife of the late Dr. William Putney of the Auburn veterinary class of 1943. He was the commanding officer of the 3rd Marine War Dog Platoon in World War II that helped liberate the island of Guam. He later penned his experiences into a book titled "Always Faithful."

Twenty-five dogs gave their lives in the effort and will have their names listed on the sculpture – an exact replica of a monument established by Dr. Putney on Guam in 1994. Artist Susan Bahary of Sausalito, Calif., sculpted both the original and Auburn's replica.

Serving as the conference's guest speaker will be retired Gen. Mundy, former commandant of the Marine Corps and former member the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He graduated from Auburn in 1957 with a degree in business administration and a commission as a second lieutenant.

The War Dog Tribute will be the first structure in the college's new Centennial Garden, which offers an opportunity for donors to make memorial donations to fund trees, engraved granite pavers, a wall of honor, benches and sculptures.