The Belgian Malinois was described as strong-willed yet affectionate and quickly won over the members of his squadron.

One of his handlers in Afghanistan, Warrant Officer Class 2 (WO2) J, said Fax integrated quickly with his troop and was always excited about getting out and working.

“His kind nature was infectious and he always put a smile on everyone’s face when he was around,” WO2 J said.

In Fax’s short period of operating with his troop, he proved to be a strong and capable dog in the detection and apprehension of insurgents.

On January 6, 2013, Fax and his handler were tasked to locate and detain an insurgent observed moving along a creek in Uruzgan.

Fax gave his life so his team could come home

Special Air Service Regiment Combat Assault Dog FAX has been posthumously awarded the Australian Animal Distinguished Service medal in a moving ceremony in Perth The Belgian Malinois was recognised for outstanding gallantry during Operations Slipper in Afganistan.

On 6 Jan 2013 Fax sensed an ambush position in a creek line in Urguzgan. He sprinted ahead to engage an armed insurgent, drawing fire away from his patrol enabling his team to engage the threat.

Fax was mortally wounded in the action, but his interventions aved the lives of his handler and patrol members.

Commander SASR Colonel S, described Combat Assault Dogs as “both our shield and our sword”.

Fax joins a legacy of service, with more than 200 Military Working Dogs currently serving across the ADF.