Famous dog ‘Arkadas’ carries forward Proteo’s heroic legacy

A young German Shepherd named “Arkadas” is continuing its training and rescue missions in Mexico, dedicated to the memory of the later search and rescue dog “Proteo.”

The donation of Arkadas (Friend) from Türkiye to the Mexican Army’s Canine Training Unit serves as a tribute to the loyal dog who lost its life in the February 6 earthquake in Kahramanmaras.

‘Arkadas’ promoted to sergeant major in ceremony

In a heartfelt ceremony held in Mexico’s capital, Mexico City, Arkadas was promoted to the rank of Sergeant Major. This promotion highlights Arkadas’ important role in the ongoing search and rescue operations, underscoring its potential to follow in the heroic pawprints of Proteo.

Remembering Proteo: Hero’s journey

Proteo (June 16, 2013 – February 10, 2023), an esteemed search and rescue dog and police canine, was a German Shepherd. Trained by the Mexican Ministry of Defense (SEDENA) from a young age, Proteo’s primary mission was the protection of people and the detection of explosives and narcotics.

He served as a member of the First Military Police Battalion stationed at the 1-A Military Camp in Mexico City.

Throughout his career, Proteo participated in numerous humanitarian operations across Mexico and internationally, including in Haiti, Guatemala, and Ecuador. He was part of the rescue efforts following major natural disasters, such as the 2015 landslide in Guatemala and the 7.8-magnitude earthquake in Ecuador in 2016.

His service also included responding to the landslides in Chiapas in 2017, the 7.1-magnitude earthquake that struck Mexico City in the same year, and the Agatha Hurricane in Oaxaca in 2022.

Proteo’s final mission in Türkiye

Proteo’s remarkable skills and high-level training led to his selection for the rescue mission in Türkiye after the 2023 Kahramanmaras earthquakes. He was part of the Mexican Ministry of Defense team that arrived in Türkiye to assist with search and rescue efforts.

During his time in Türkiye, Proteo was credited with helping to recover 29 bodies from the rubble and rescuing three people alive.

Sadly, on Feb. 10, at 16:34, Proteo passed away during his mission, succumbing to age-related health issues. The news of his death was officially announced by the Mexican Ministry of Defense on their Twitter account on Feb. 12.

His trainer, Juan Carlos Villeda Marquez, clarified that Proteo did not die while on duty but during his service due to a health issue unrelated to the rescue operations.