Patrick Chase, Finance Director of the NCDL, presenting Gaston Sanz with the Valiant Dog Medal and certificate, accompanied by Ian Tyson, Hon Sec of the Submariners’ Association

To mark the sixtieth anniversary of the first presentation of the Valiant Dog Medal, the owner of the first dog to be awarded the honour was recently presented with a replica medal by the National Canine Defence League.

Gaston Sanz and his dog Bacchus both served on the captured German submarine Rubis during the Second World War which was used by the allies on 26 missions. Bacchus accompanied his owner faithfully on every mission and was the first dog to be awarded the Valiant Dog Medal in 1943.

This medal was buried with Bacchus when he died. Gaston has been awarded the French Legion d’Honneur and is the only surviving member of the crew of the Rubis.

Gaston remarked, “This day has been so special to me. Bacchus was a wonderful dog and meant so much to all who served with him.”

Patrick Chase, Finance Director at the NCDL, commented, “Bacchus was a very brave dog and we were honoured to take part in this special presentation to Gaston. This presentation also highlights the unique relationship between dog and owner.”