Monmouth County Sheriff's Office K-9 'Falko,' Who Worked Presidential Details, 2014 Super Bowl, Dies

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- A New Jersey police dog was given a hero's send off Thursday.

Falko, a German Shepherd K-9 with the Monmouth County Sheriff's Office, lost his battle with lung cancer. He was 12.

On Thursday, K-9s and their handlers from numerous law enforcement agencies lined up outside NorthStar Vets in Robbinsville to give Falko a proper send off.

"The Monmouth County Sheriff's Office is extremely saddened on the passing of this exceptional and loyal member of our K-9 unit and we thank everyone for their continued support," said Sheriff Shaun Golden. "Falko played a pivotal role in helping to protect our county against criminal and terroristic threats and was an effective measure in providing a fast and specialized response to potentially dangerous situations. We are grateful to Falko for his service. He will be missed."

Falko began service with the department in 2004 and worked with Officer James Fay.

In addition to responding to numerous school bomb threats, the pair worked several presidential details as well as the 2014 Super Bowl at MetLife Stadium.

"Falko was my partner. He was a great dog, and great dogs never leave, they live in your heart forever," said Fay.

The sheriff's said it would like to thank those who sent well wishes to Falko and Fay.

A special acknowledgement goes to Falko's veterinary specialists from NorthStar Vets in Robbinsville and Four Paws Animal Hospital in Englishtown.