Hurricane, the courageous Belgian Malinois who defended the White House from an intruder during Obama’s presidency, has passed away.

In September 2014, the Secret Service faced controversy when a fence jumper managed to infiltrate White House grounds, coming dangerously close to the building.

Just a month later, another individual attempted a similar breach, but this time, the intruder was swiftly subdued—thanks in part to Hurricane, a Belgian Malinois and Special Operations Canine for the Secret Service. Serving from 2012 to 2016 during President Obama’s second term, Hurricane went on to become the most decorated dog in U.S. history. He passed away this week at the age of 16.

Here are three key facts about Hurricane:

1. His bravery during the White House incident, alongside fellow canine Jordan, earned him numerous accolades, including the USSS Award for Merit, the DHS Award for Valor, and the PDSA Order of Merit. In 2022, he became the first dog ever awarded the Animals in War and Peace Distinguished Service Medal.
2. Due to injuries sustained during the White House breach, Hurricane was medically retired in 2016. He spent his remaining years with his handler, Marshall Mirarchi, who became his owner.
3. After retiring Hurricane, Mirarchi established Hurricane’s Heroes, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping retired law enforcement and military dogs receive affordable veterinary care as they age.

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