Tomi, a 9/11 Search & Recovery K9 passed away this week. 

A decorated hero, Tomi was 1 of 5 dogs that entered the World Trade Center, and 1 of 2 that was able to be brought out by the first responders on that day. 
Sadly, his handler did not come out. 
Tomi went into shock and was difficult to work with until he was adopted and brought  to Los Angeles to continue his Search & Recovery work.

Tomi continued to work as a Search & Recovery dog and brought closure to many families lives.  I was lucky enough to have Tomi in my CGC class so he could become a therapy dog, his 2nd career.  Tomi visited Children's Hospitals and went to many schools across the United States, bringing joy to many children with his calm, loving demeanor.
A dog that had been through so much continued to share his love! 

He retired in November of 2010 and led a happy retirement
with his human and the rest of his pack.

Just this week, on Wednesday, 7 September at 1252 hours
Tomi passed away in his handler's arms. 
Although he helped so many,  his handler and doctors could not save Tomi. 

Let us not forget our canine heroes on this precious day of remembrance on the 10-year Anniversary of 9/11. 

Tomi, R.I.P., you deserve nothing less.