U.S. Marine dog receives highest animal honor

She is the first non-British animal to receive the honor.

Lucca, a 12-year-old German shepherd, was awarded the Dickin medal in London.

The dog received the honor from The People's Dispensary for Sick Animals, a British charity.

The decoration is for bravery.

NBC News reported that Lucca completed over 400 missions sniffing for explosives and protecting troops in Afghanistan and Iraq.

None of her missions involved a human casualty.

Lucca's owner, Gunnery Sergeant Christopher Willingham, who lives with the dog in California, was with her at the ceremony.

"Lucca is very intelligent, loyal and had an amazing drive for work as a search dog," Willingham said in a statement. "She is the only reason I made it home to my family and I am fortunate to have served with her."

In March 2012, Lucca was injured in Afghanistan while on patrol with her other handler, Cpl. Juan Rodriguez.

She discovered a 30-pound explosive and was searching for more when another device exploded.

She ultimately lost her left front leg, but Rodriguez stuck by Lucca throughout her recovery.

BuzzFeed News reported that Lucca will spend the rest of her life with Willingham and his family.