A Tail of Courage K-9 Sonya’s Distinguished Service Is Recognized
A national hero from the U.S. Coast Guard had a lot to wag her tail about this year! K-9 Sonya, an 11-year-old Belgian Malinois, was honored with the Animals in War & Peace Distinguished Service Medal this March for her extraordinary heroism over the past nine years. The hardworking dog has a long list of achievements and continues to serve the Coast Guard proudly. Sonya was one of 18 explosive detection canines in the Coast Guard, assigned to two duty stations, the Maritime Safety and Security Team in Seattle and the Maritime Security Response Team West in San Diego. Alongside her human partner, Sonya’s primary job was to detect and detract acts of terrorism in the U.S. She has performed more than 5,000 hours of explosives detection work and more than 8,500 vehicle sweeps. The pooch’s expertise has helped other local law enforcement agencies handle bomb threats in residential and federal buildings, and she has worked with the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. One of the highlights of her career was when she found a firearm that was ditched during a high-speed pursuit that was
later linked to multiple homicides. Her work ultimately helped to identify the suspect. Sonya has also had the opportunity to attend major events in the country, protecting guests and fans. Over her career, she worked security for four Super Bowls, the Rose Bowl, the U.S. Track and Field Olympics, U.S. World Athletics, PGA tournaments, and many other mass public gatherings. Sonya has assisted in security for four U.S. presidents, high-ranking dignitaries, and world leaders. Sonya retired in 2023 and was diagnosed with a very aggressive form of cancer, but she didn’t let it stop her from continuing to serve. Sonya worked as the Coast Guard’s first-ever canine recruiter until her passing in April. In a heartfelt message online, Sonya’s handler, Chief Petty Officer James Grant, paid tribute to his partner. “Sonya girl, you were a fighter until the end,” he wrote. “Your loyalty and love will be forever remembered. K9 Sonya, you were the greatest, most loving dog I have ever met.” Sonya’s brave legacy lives on and continues to inspire.
Tasty Turkey Meatloaf This turkey meatloaf is packed with flavor and protein, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep!
INGREDIENTS
• 1 lb ground turkey • 1 onion, diced
• 2 tbsp ketchup • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce • 2 eggs • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley • Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced • 1/2 cup bread crumbs • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 375 F and line a baking dish with parchment paper. 2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, onion, garlic, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, eggs, parsley, salt, and pepper. 3. Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the baking dish. 4. Bake for 45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165 F. 5. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
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