K9 VETERANS DAY PROGRAM
THURSDAY, MARCH 13, 2025 | 3:00PM
Veterans Memorial Park*
1701 McFarland Blvd E
Tuscaloosa, AL 35404
Rain-or-shine event. Backup location is inside University Mall in front of Belk Men's store (old Catherine's entrance). Decision on location due to weather will be made by 1PM on the day of the event. Announcement will be made on PARA social media and on this webpage.
Join us on March 13, 2025, at 3:00 PM at Tuscaloosa Veterans Memorial Park for a special K-9 Veterans Day Ceremony and the unveiling of a life-size bronze statue honoring Marine Corps K-9 hero, SSD Lucca K458.
The monument, titled "Send Me," depicts Lucca in action—nose to the ground, searching for explosives with her radio harness on. The statue not only commemorates Lucca’s remarkable career but also honors all military working dogs (MWDs) who have faithfully served our nation.
Lucca, a specialized search dog (SSD), served three tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, completing over 400 patrols without a single injury under her watch. Her story is one of bravery, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication. After being wounded in service, she retired to live with her first handler, Chris Willingham—Tuscaloosa native and President of the U.S. War Dogs Association.
The statue, sculpted by Jocelyn Russell, was funded by the U.S. War Dogs Association, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting both active and retired military working dogs.
The event is hosted by Tuscaloosa County Park & Recreation Authority (PARA), the Veterans Memorial Park Association, and the U.S. War Dogs Association.
Date: March 13, 2025 (K-9 Veterans Day)
Time & Location: Ceremony & Unveiling 3pm (Veterans Memorial Park)
Free & Open to the Public — RSVP HERE
Don’t miss this opportunity to honor Lucca and all military working dogs who have served our nation.