Naval Special Warfare Canes Pugnaces No Ordinary Dog Challenge 2" Challenge Coin

The front of the coin features a striking image of a Belgian Malinois, the breed of dog famously known for its role in SEAL Team Six's mission to capture or kill Osama Bin Laden. The back of the coin displays the Naval Special Warfare insignia and the Latin phrase "Canes Pugnaces," which means "Fighting Dogs." This challenge coin is a tribute to the bravery and dedication of military working dogs and their handlers who risk their lives to keep our country safe. It is a must-have for collectors and those who want to honor the extraordinary service of these remarkable animals.

Cairo - Operation Neptune Spear

Two dozen Navy SEALs descended on Osama bin Laden’s compound in May 2011. After the mission, only one name was made public: Cairo, a Belgian Malinois and military working dog. 

Starting in 2008, when Will Chesney was introduced to the SEAL canine program, he and Cairo worked side by side, depending on each other for survival on hundreds of critical operations in the war on terrorism. But their bond transcended their service. Then, in 2011, the call came: Pick up your dog and get back to Virginia. Now.

What followed were several weeks of training for a secret mission. It soon became clear that this was no ordinary operation. Cairo was among the first members of the U.S. military on the ground in Pakistan as part of Operation Neptune Spear, which resulted in the successful elimination of bin Laden.

As Cairo settled into a role as a reliable “spare dog,” Will went back to his job as a DEVGRU operator until a grenade blast in 2013 left him with a brain injury and PTSD. Unable to participate in further missions, he suffered from crippling migraines, chronic pain, memory issues, and depression. Modern medicine provided only modest relief. Instead, it was up to Cairo to save Will's life once more―and then up to Will to be there when Cairo needed him the most.