A heroic Army Ranger dog died defending U.S. soldiers in Afghanistan last week. 

Maiko, a multi-purpose canine (MPC) in the 75th Ranger Regiment’s 2nd Battalion, was killed while carrying out a raid on Al-Qaeda militants in the Nimrov province on Nov. 24. Sgt. Leandro Jasso, who was not Maiko's handler but was part of the same unit, died as well. 

“The loss of Maiko is devastating to all that knew and worked with him,” an online biography for Maiko read. “Rest assured Maiko never backed down from a fight.”

His actions reportedly saved the life of his handler and other Rangers. 

Maiko, 7, was the MPC with the most training and combat experience. He had been deployed six times, his biography said. 

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