The faithful dog who died just hours after his owner in war-torn Afghanistan could receive a posthumous award.
Springer spaniel Theo never left Lance Corporal Liam Tasker’s side and, working in perfect harmony, man and beast found a record number of hidden bombs and weapons caches during patrols of battle-scarred Helmand province.
Kirkcaldy-born Liam died a hero in March when he was shot by a Taliban sniper.
Loyal Theo passed away just a few hours after his beloved master. Many believe his death was the result of a broken heart.
Earlier this week Liam’s family received the Elizabeth Cross in recognition of the soldier’s courage and commitment.
Now heroic hound Theo could receive his own award after he was shortlisted for a Dogs Trust honour. He had been nominated in the hero dog category.
Liam’s mother Jane Duffy was among those to nominate Theo, saying her son was besotted with the dog.
“I am so pleased that Theo is a finalist for the hero dog category,” she said. “Even if he doesn’t win, it means a great deal to us that the loyalty and support he showed for our troops, and in particular my son Liam, has been recognised.
“He truly was a very special dog.”
Liam and Theo’s story captured hearts across the world.
Lieutenant Colonel David Thorpe, commanding officer of 1 Military Working Dog Regiment, described the pairs’ bond as “extraordinary.”
“Liam and Theo came as a matched pair, they died as a matched pair and we will remember them as a matched pair,” he said.
A spokesman for the Dogs Trust said the spaniel fully merited his nomination.
“Liam and Theo had together found a record 14 bombs and weapons caches in five months, helping to save countless lives,” he said. “Theo was nominated by Liam’s mother Jane, as well as several other family members for his courage and dedication to his job.”
The winners will be announced at a ceremony in London on June 1.
The judging panel includes Martin Freeman, Graham Norton, Miranda Hart, John Partridge, Brian Sewell, Clare Balding and Nicky Campbell.