Retired Combat Assault Dog, Manic has passed away. Picture supplied

Cronulla RSL Club has announced "with the heaviest of hearts" the sudden passing of much-loved retired Combat Assault Dog, Manic.

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Manic was well-known throughout the Shire and attended the recent Anzac Day dawn service at Cronulla.

The club's statement continued:

Manic passed peacefully surrounded by those who loved him most, leaving behind not only his handler and family, but an entire community who had come to know and adore him.

Retired combat assault dog Manic with his handler and family at the wreath laying during the 2026 Cronulla Dawn Service. Picture by Murray Trembath

More than a Military Working Dog, Manic was a symbol of courage, loyalty and quiet strength. There was something deeply special about him, something impossible to fully explain unless you stood beside him. He carried a presence that touched people instantly. Manic drew people in with his calm spirit and unmistakable heart.

Manic's life began far from the honour and recognition he would later receive. Surrendered to a pound as a puppy, he was later purchased by the Royal Australian Air Force and sold to the Australian Defence Force for just $8. From there, he would go on to become one of Australia's elite combat assault dogs.

Manic becomes Cronulla RSL Club's first honorary four-legged member in 2022.

Manic, a Belgian Malinois, served with distinction for six years as a combat assault dog with the 2nd Commando Regiment, Special Operations Command Australia. His service included deployments to the Middle East, where he provided critical mission support to Australian training teams and coalition forces.

Additionally, he played a key role in Australia's Tactical Assault Group, demonstrating unwavering courage and dedication to his team. In retirement, Manic continued to serve as an ambassador for military working dogs, advocating for greater recognition and support for these exceptional animals.

Manic at an awards ceremony. Picture supplied

Following his retirement in 2021, Manic settled in the Sutherland Shire with his devoted handler Jason and family, where he began a new chapter. In retirement, he became Cronulla RSL's first honorary four-legged member and quickly captured the hearts of members, veterans and the wider community.

Through Manic, Cronulla RSL deepened its connection with the Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation (AWAMO) and the Veteran Assistance Dog Program, helping raise awareness for the ongoing care and recognition of retired Military Working Dogs.

Even in retirement, Manic never stopped serving.

He became an ambassador for Military Working Dogs and their handlers, helping Australians better understand the sacrifice, loyalty and bond shared between these animals and the people beside them. He reminded all who met him that service takes many forms.

In 2025, on National Day for War Animals, Manic and fellow retired combat assault dog Aslan were awarded the inaugural Australian Animal Distinguished Service Award at the Australian War Memorial. The honour recognised their extraordinary contribution to Defence, security and service to Australia.

But beyond the medals, recognition and remarkable service record, Manic was deeply loved.

In retirement he loved the beach, naps and his 'Kong' toys. He loved his family. He loved being beside his handler and "brother", Jason.

Manic's legacy will endure through the lives he touched, the conversations he started, and the awareness he helped create for retired Military Working Dogs across Australia.

Cronulla RSL extends its deepest condolences to Jason, his family, and all those who had the privilege of knowing and loving Manic.

Rest easy, Manic.