They don't call him "man's best friend" for nothing.
Kye, a 3-year-old Belgian German shepherd, was not just an esteemed member of the Oklahoma City Police Department. He was the partner of Sgt. Ryan Stark, the officer who worked by his side for almost two years.
Last month, Kye was killed in the line of duty, and on Aug. 28, more than 1,000 people as well of dozens of police dogs gathered at his funeral to pay their respects and to say goodbye, according to Today.com.
Sgt. Ryan Stark says goodbye to K-9 partner Kye.
The service included full police honors and a 21-gun salute, honoring the bravery of the canine.
Police dogs and their owners traveled from across the state to attend Kye's funeral.
On Aug. 24, Kye and Stark were chasing a man -- since identified as 22-year-old Mark Salazar -- who was suspected of stealing a car, according to KFOR News. Kye was the first to catch up to him. The dog was stabbed several times by the suspect before Stark arrived. The officer then shot and killed Salazar. Stark has since been placed on administrative leave as an investigation into the shooting is underway.
After undergoing emergency surgery for his injuries, Kye died the day after the incident, the Associated Press reported.
Sgt. Ryan Stark wiping away tears at Kye's full police honors funeral service.
"Without question, Kye's sacrifice saved the life of one of the officers," Sgt. Coy Gilbery said during a eulogy for the pup. "We will forever remain in your debt."
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