White House Secret Service dog and most decorated K-9 in US history dies

Hurricane, the most decorated K-9 in U.S. history, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 15. The Belgian Malinois had an illustrious career spanning over a decade in the Secret Service, where he bravely defended the White House. The news of Hurricane’s death was shared on the White House Twitter account, with a tribute to the canine hero.

“Hurricane was a true American hero,” the post read. “The most decorated K-9 in U.S. history, he bravely defended the White House and spent retirement helping other working dogs through @Hurricane_K9. His legacy of courage and loyalty will live on. Rest easy, Hurricane.”

Hurricane rose to national prominence in 2014 when he apprehended an intruder who had breached the White House gate. The intruder, Dominic Adesanya, had scaled the fence and landed on the North Lawn during the Obama administration. Hurricane, along with another Secret Service dog named Jordan, confronted the intruder and successfully subdued him.

Former President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama were reportedly just yards away from the incident, watching a movie in the White House theater at the time. Hurricane’s handler, Marshall Mirarchi, recalled the bravery displayed by the K-9 during the altercation, despite sustaining injuries.

“He beat Hurricane really bad,” Mirarchi said. “But Hurricane did not give up.”

Hurricane received numerous accolades for his service, including the Award for Meritorious Service from the Secret Service in 2014, the Secretary’s Award for Valor from the Department of Homeland Security in 2015, and the Distinguished Service Medal in 2022. The brave canine retired in 2016 and was adopted by Mirarchi.

During Hurricane’s retirement, he continued to make appearances and was able to visit the White House one last time to say goodbye to his former team. Mirarchi reflected on Hurricane’s unique personality, describing him as both ferocious and brave in his work, yet loving and kind at home.

“What made Hurricane so special was that he could be so ferocious and brave, yet be so loving and kind at the same time,” Mirarchi shared. “He could be biting and doing apprehension all day long, and when he comes home, he was this loving, caring, kind soul.”

Hurricane’s legacy as the most decorated K-9 in U.S. history will continue to inspire and honor his service to the country. His contributions to the Secret Service and his dedication to protecting the White House will not be forgotten. Rest in peace, Hurricane.