Meet Charlie: This dog has received one of Mississippi's highest honors for valor. Here's why

A Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks law enforcement K-9 and his partner recently received medals of valor from the department for their efforts in locating three missing children.

According to a news release from the department, Cpl. Bradley Starling and K-9 partner Charlie were requested by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office on July 25 to help search for three children who had been missing for around two hours from their home in Monroe County .

Starling and Charlie arrived on the scene and Charlie was presented a piece of one of the children's clothing to identify scent. Charlie picked up the scent and tracked for 200 yards and footprints were found. Within 15 minutes, Charlie located the children, who were safely returned home.

The department's K-9 Unit is made up of four dogs that specialize in search and rescue across the state.

The Medal of Valor is awarded to officers who exhibit exceptional courage in the attempt to save or protect human life. It is the department's highest honor and given to those who stand out for their bravery, heroism, or other creditable actions beyond their normal duties.

“We are proud of the K-9 Unit for their hard work, continued training, and efforts to assist communities in situations like these," Chief of Law Enforcement, Col. Jerry Carter stated in the release. "Congratulations to Cpl. Starling and K-9 Charlie for this outstanding achievement.”

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This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Meet Charlie: This dog has received one of Mississippi's highest honors for valor. Here's why