Sergeant Rex (DOWLING, Mike)

Called "a deeply affecting tale of courage and devotion in the cauldron of war" by Publishers Weekly, Sergeant Mike Dowling's heart-pounding account of an unbreakable bond between man and dog takes us into the searing 130-degree heat, the choking dust, and the ever-present threat of violent attack in Iraq's infamous Triangle of Death. In 2004, Dowling and his military working dog Rex were part of the first Marine Corps military K9 teams sent to the front lines of combat since Vietnam, It was Rex's job to sniff out weapons caches, suicide bombers, and lEDs, the devastating explosives that wreaked havoc on troops and civilians. It was Mike's job to lead Rex into the heart of danger. An extraordinary chronicle of loyalty in the face of terrible adversity, Sergeant Rex isan unforgettable story of sacrifice, courage, and love.

"A moving portrait of a relationship between battle buddies that transcends gender and species.' — The Washington Post

"Truly heartwarming." —The Hollywood Reporter

"An unusual wartime narrative . . . with a clear extra appeal to animal lovers." — Kirkus Reviews

"A blend of harrowing action and a tender story about the close bond between a Marine and his dog" —The Orange County Register

MIKE DOWLING was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal for his and Rex's Iraq operations. He currently lives in Los Angeles, where he serves on the advisory board of two wounded-warrior nonprofit organizations.