MIDDLEBORO, Mass. — Dogs and their humans paid their respects to two K-9 officers that died this past week.
There were the familiar sights of a police funeral - the honor guard, flashing blue and bagpipes. But it was all for two K-9s that had a combined 20 years of experience on the job.
"The dog becomes a part of our family. Not just the handlers family, but the police departments family," said Rockland Chief Llewelyn.
Hax served the Weymouth Police Department and Boyar served Rockland. Both dogs came from Czech Republic and had recently retired.
"Many many criminal have not got away and were brought to justice because of these dogs," said Officer Ed Hancock, Hax's handler.
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Both K-9s were involved in some violent cases during their tenures at the police departments.
Boyar worked with Officer Steven Somers and worked as a K-9 for 10 years. He helped apprehend several serious criminals and was involved with the DARE program. Somers said working with Boyar was a treat every day.
"He was so special. As much as he was tough on the streets. He was a marshmallow at home," he said.
Hax and Boyar worked together, knew each other, and finally passed within days of each other.
"The K-9 world both HAX and boyar led phenomenal k9 lives. They're rock stars," said Chief Richard Grimes.
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Gathered on a lawn, dozens of other police K-9s honored Officers Hancock and Somers with a final farewell bark.