Mali with his current handler Cpl Daniel Hatley.

Mali helped to secure a key enemy stronghold in Afghanistan

A working British Army dog who helped to save the lives of troops in Afghanistan has received the prestigious PDSA Dickin Medal - the animal equivalent of the Victoria Cross.

Eight-year-old Mali received the honour for his bravery during a highly sensitive military operation in 2012. During the operation, he was seriously injured by three grenade blasts, but still managed to help an assault force secure a key enemy stronghold.

Veterinary charity PDSA presented the medal on Friday, 17 November - exactly 100 years since the charity was founded. Held at The People’s Palace, London, the presentation ceremony was attended by Mali and his now handler, Corporal Daniel Hatley.

PDSA general director Jan McLoughlin praised Mali for his ‘awesome ability and determination’ and declared him ‘an incredibly worthy recipient’ of the medal.

Mali, who is attached to the Royal Army Veterinary Corps (RAVC), is trained to sniff out explosives and detect insurgents. His expertise during one particular operation was vital in helping the UK forces and its allies secure a key enemy stronghold amid the sustained fire.

Despite sustaining serious injuries during the operation, Mali continued his duties and remained close to his handler at all times. He played a vital role in breaking the stalemate that had begun to develop in the operation, giving the host nation and UK forces the motivation they needed to continue to fight to bring about a successful resolution.

Commenting on Mali’s honour, Cpl Daniel Hatley said: “I am extremely proud of Mali. The way he conducted himself when it mattered most enabled my colleagues to achieve success in close combat. Being awarded the PDSA Dickin Medal recognises Mali’s vital role within the force that day.”

The PDSA Dickin Medal was introduced by PDSA’s founder, Maria Dickin CBE, in 1943. It is the highest award any animal can achieve while serving in military conflict. Mali’s PDSA Dickin Medal is particularly unique because it bears a commemorative ‘Centenary’ bar, to mark its presentation on the charity’s 100th birthday.