Rest Easy, K-9 Duke—A Hero Remembered.
The bond between a K-9 and their handler is unbreakable. It is forged through long nights, dangerous calls, and countless moments of trust when lives hang in the balance. This week, the Brick Township Police Department shared heartbreaking news: Retired K-9 Duke #915 has passed away.
Duke served from 2013 until his retirement in 2022, faithfully standing beside his partner, Captain Paul Catalina. For nine remarkable years, he was not only a police dog—he was a hero, a protector, and a cherished friend to all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Duke’s career was nothing short of extraordinary. Trained in narcotics detection, suspect tracking, and search and rescue for missing persons, Duke’s skills saved lives and safeguarded the community. He participated in hundreds of deployments, seizing dangerous substances, locating individuals in danger, and ensuring officers could return home safely. His efforts earned him numerous awards, each one a testament to his remarkable ability and unyielding spirit.
But Duke was more than his accomplishments. He was a presence—a bold, confident, yet playful soul who touched hearts everywhere he went. Whether he was on duty showing his incredible skill during a K-9 demonstration or walking the halls of police headquarters, Duke had a way of bringing smiles to those around him. He especially loved visiting the dispatchers, who always looked forward to his presence. To them, and to so many others, he wasn’t just a working dog—he was family.
After nearly a decade of service, Duke transitioned into retirement. And in those golden years, he was finally free to just be a dog. He enjoyed simple pleasures: daily walks with his family, feeling the wind during boat rides, playing ball, camping under the stars, and spending his days surrounded by those who loved him most.
When Duke passed away peacefully at 14:35 hours, he was cradled by the family who had given him love, companionship, and dignity in his final moments. It was a gentle end to a life lived with intensity, loyalty, and courage.
Captain Paul Catalina, Duke’s longtime partner, shared words that captured the heartbreak and the gratitude of this farewell:
“We are heartbroken over losing Duke, but I don’t want that to overshadow everything he did for our Township and its people. As a handler, you know this day is coming, but it still hits hard. I owe so much to Duke, my incredible partner, and to everyone who helped us be the best team we could be. He was such a special dog who gave it his all. If you were lucky to meet him, think back to those moments and smile. We miss you so much and we’ll always love you, Duke.”
Duke leaves behind a legacy that will never be forgotten. He was the department’s gold standard, setting an example of service, loyalty, and bravery for every K-9 team that will follow. More than that, he was living proof of how deeply a dog can impact not only a handler’s life, but an entire community.
The grief is heavy, but so is the gratitude. Gratitude for Duke’s years of service. Gratitude for every officer he protected. Gratitude for the joy he brought during both his working years and his retirement.
Rest easy, K-9 Duke. Your watch has ended, but your spirit will live forever in the hearts of your partner, your department, and your community. You were one of a kind, and you will never be forgotten.
