Memorial service set for Chesco police dog Ricky

A memorial service for Ricky, an 11-year-old Chester County K-9 with a history of public service, will be held March 5, the West Caln Township Police Department said yesterday.

The longtime partner of West Caln Police Chief Curt A. Martinez, Ricky was euthanized less than two weeks ago after the discovery of a softball-size tumor in his spleen. At the time, Martinez said the loss would extend well beyond the township because Ricky, who was trained in Philadelphia for bomb detection and patrol, was called into service by many regional departments.

Ricky's accomplishments included helping protect two presidents, assisting at ground zero after 9/11, apprehending numerous criminals, checking hundreds of potential bomb sites, and locating two missing children.

The 11 a.m. public service will be at the Wagontown Fire Company, 412 W. Kings Highway, Wagontown. Any K-9 units wishing to participate in the processional are asked to arrive 30 minutes early. For more information or directions, call West Caln police at 610-384-3115. - Kathleen Brady Shea