Mexico’s Navy Honors Canine Officer Hermes as He Retires After Seven Years

Hermes, a Belgian Malinois who spent seven years and eight months serving with Mexico’s Navy, has completed his active duty after a formal retirement ceremony in Manzanillo, Colima.

The ceremony took place at the facilities of the Sixth Naval Region, attended by admirals, captains, officers and enlisted personnel. Navy officials highlighted Hermes’ technical rigor and professionalism, as well as the loyalty, discipline and teamwork he developed with his handler.

Born and inducted into the Navy on Jan. 1, 2019, Hermes trained with the Group for the Operations and Control of Canine Teams in Mexico City. He joined the Manzanillo naval command on May 14, 2020, where he specialized in searching for, locating and marking explosive materials.

During his operational career at the port, Hermes took part in inspection and surveillance deployments. The Navy said his successful positive detections contributed directly to the interception of weapons and explosives and helped neutralize threats to the public.

At the ceremony, Hermes was relieved of his collar, leash and working harness. The Navy described him as a silent hero who embodied the institution’s values during every assignment. His operational career now over, Hermes will move into a home where he can rest and receive care and affection. The Navy said canine teams remain an important part of its inspection, internal security and risk-neutralization capabilities.