In Memory of Delaware's Most Decorated Police Dog
Nero,Delaware's most decorated police dog,died peacefully in his handler's arms September 19,2000.
Nero was a member of New Castle County [DE] Police,for over 10 years,a feat virtually unheard of.
Cpl. Phil Auferio,Nero's handler,got Nero,when the dog was only 18 months old.Phil had to learn how to give commands in Hungarian,Nero's "native" language.
From the time Phil saw Nero, a friendship and partnership was formed.
In August 1992, Nero saved Phil's life and placed his own in extreme danger. A man had pulled a handgun out of his pocket and was going to shoot Phil.Phil gave Nero the command to attack,and fearlessly,Nero did.The man was captured without any harm to Phil,Nero or the other police officers,thanks to Nero. In appreciation, Nero was given New Castle County Police's highest award, the Medal of Valor.
Nero went on,during his career,recovering over $1 million in property and drugs,finding lost children,missing Alzheimers patients,along with tracking suspects from crimes.
Nero worked almost to the end,retiring shortly after being diagnosed with cancer. Unfortunately,cancer was a bigger foe than he could handle, and Nero went on to wait at the Rainbow Bridge."Nero the Hero",as he was also known,was given a memorial service,complete with 21 gun salute.His handler was given the flag that was held over Nero's cremation urn during the services. Phil receiving the flag was a touching and heartbreaking scene.
Nero will be missed by all and his spirit will be carried in the hearts of all of us. "Nero,we love you and miss you. You set the definition of Police Dog"
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