NEW DELHI: New Delhi: Indian Army’s assault dog Tyson, who is attached to 2 Para Special Forces, has been honoured during the Independence Day 2026 celebrations for showing “bravery and extraordinary courage” during a counter-insurgency operation in J&K as part of Operation Rakshak early this year.The name of Tyson, a German Shepherd of Remount Veterinary Corps, appeared among 89 Mention-in-Despatches (MiD) approved by President Droupadi Murmu on I-Day eve on Friday.Tyson is the only animal hero among the 89 personnel chosen for MiD, which is an official military commendation recognising bravery and meritorious service in a combat zone.During Operation Trashi-I in Chatroo belt of J&K’s Kishtwar district on Feb 22 this year, Tyson scouted ahead of the troops and located a hidden terrorist hideout.

“Tyson displayed extraordinary courage by taking the first bullet while leading the entry into the terrorists’ hideout. Undeterred by his injuries, he pressed forward and launched a fierce assault, compelling the terrorists to open fire and thereby confirming their presence. His fearless action enabled troops of White Knight Corps, J&K police and CRPF to precisely engage and neutralise three Pakistan-sponsored terrorists,” Army had said in a post on X.

Tyson was then airlifted to Command Hospital Udhampur for emergency treatment and has now recovered. “Wounded yet in high spirits, alert and recovering well, Tyson exemplifies unwavering devotion to duty, a true warrior and a soldier in every sense,” Army said later.

Tyson is part of the elite squad of Army assault dogs, which are trained like soldiers for high-risk operations. They are used in a situation where a human soldier may be exposed to immediate danger, locating hidden terrorists, detecting threats and helping troops establish the enemy’s position.The honour formally acknowledges the frontline role military dogs play in counter-terror operations. Mention-in-Despatches recipients do not receive a gallantry medal, but they get an official certificate and the right to wear a specific emblem on the ribbon of their campaign medal.