CISF at CIAL bids farewell to canine heroes

Two dogs from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) at Cochin Limited International Airport (CIAL) retired on Tuesday after a decade of loyal service.

Sparky, a 10-year-old Labrador, and Ivan, a 10-year-old cocker spaniel, were the dogs of honor at a retirement ceremony.

Communication from the airport said the dogs were called to the stage and awarded medals in recognition of their service. They were treated to the traditional “withdrawal” ceremony in which CISF officers and staff pulled a decorated jeep, in which the dogs sat, onto a red carpet. Flowers were poured over the vehicle by CISF staff.

Meanwhile, two new dogs were introduced recently – Ruby and Julie. They joined the forces after undergoing rigorous six-month training at the Ranchi Dog Training School. New inductees were also called to the stage and introduced.

The CIAL Aviation Security Group canine team was inducted on June 14, 2007 along with two dogs received from the Indian Army. Currently, nine dogs are on duty in different shifts.

C. Dinesh Kumar, Airport Manager and Sunit Sharma, Senior Commander, CISF, honored the dogs during a ceremony held in front of the CIAL kennel building, the communication added.