Retired combat assault dog Manic received the inaugural Australian Animal Distinguished Service Award at the Australian War Memorial on Monday.

The award was established by the Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation (AWAMO) to recognise the outstanding actions, deeds or service of individual animals to the community.

Manic, who is the 2024 recipient, was joined by the 2025 awardee, Aslan. Both dogs are Honorary Cronulla RSL members who have served with the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

The awards were presented in front of the Animals in War memorial in the Sculpture Gardens on the National Day for War Animals, 24 February, commemorating the deeds and sacrifices of animals in war, according to the AWM.

Cronulla RSL community projects manager Natalie Hawkins said when Manic walked through their doors four years ago, they never imagined he would receive the highest honour.

“We’re really proud to see Manic and Aslan recognised at the most important place of remembrance in the country.”

Manic is a Belgian Malinois that served with the ADF’s 2nd Commando Regiment, Special Operations Command Australia for six years as a combat assault dog, which included being deployed to the Middle East. He is now retired.

Ms Hawkins said Manic came into the RSL’s life when his handler was looking for a place to commemorate Anzac Day and couldn’t take him anywhere.

“So, Cronulla RSL opened their doors to Manic, and he ultimately became an honorary member of the club,” she said.

“That led us to the story of the limited support that these dogs receive when they retire.

“The club now provides support to both Manic and Aslan to help cover the cost associated with their medical care and their food and ongoing costs throughout their life.”

Ms Hawkins said Manic started his life in the pound.

“He was destined for the Royal Australian Air Force, then he was sold to the ADF for $8 – so he’s known as the $8 dog,” she said.

She said the breed was used for their intelligence and athleticism.

“For a dog like Manic to progress from the pound to receiving a medal like he did today, it’s one of the top honours for Australian dogs, it’s really fantastic,” Ms Hawkins said.

AWAMO chief executive officer and founder Nigel Allsopp said Manic was a worthy recipient.

“The award also recognises the hard work and dedication of their human handlers and caregivers, who play a pivotal role in nurturing and training these extraordinary animal heroes,” he said.

Mr Allsopp said the new award came about from his work with the UK-based Blue Cross Award.

“I’ve issued three Australian animals those Blue Cross Awards from the UK since 2017,” he said.

“However, they said to us recently, even though it’s a UK and Commonwealth award, they suggested why don’t Australia have their own recognition?”

Mr Allsopp said a second category recognised the work of civilian dogs, which included guide and assistance dogs and those who help people deal with post-traumatic stress. He said this award could be given to any animal that had served.

It was posthumously awarded to Smoky, a Yorkshire Terrier, who Mr Allsopp said served with the Allied Forces in World War II.

“He was born in Brisbane and used by an Australian soldier in Papua New Guinea but was lost as a gambling debt to an American Serviceman,” Mr Allsopp said.

“Because he wasn’t an official military dog – he just happened to be in the trenches,” he said.

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