Army salutes ‘Sniffer Dog’ soldier for finding 12 IEDs

A soldier from Blackpool has been given the nickname ‘Sniffer Dog’ for his ability to find and secure improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Afghanistan.

His superiors and comrades have heaped praise on 21-year-old Christopher Stagg, who has found 12 IEDs during his tour so far.

It is his job to identify and avoid any of the devices that his patrol, the 2nd Battalion The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment, may come across.

Lieutenant colonel Robbie Boyd, his commanding officer, paid tribute to kingsman Stagg, saying his great work has saved many soldiers’ lives.

"Sniffer Dog is the bravest of the brave. He has saved countless lives with his skills and drills. These skills were learnt in preparation for the tour and Sniffer Dog has excelled himself – he should be proud of his actions," he added.

In other news, troops from C Company, 3rd Battalion The Rifles recently highlighted the work of Tangye the black Labrador, whose super nose has saved their lives on more than one occasion.

Posted by Samantha Thompson