In our industry we love to share that every shipment has a story - whether it’s flowers for Mother’s Day, e-commerce goods to support someone’s business, or tropical fish for an aquarium in a child’s room. And at times, Southwest Cargo transports items with deeper meaning including those celebrating heroes of the past and present.

Recently our Team transported a life-sized sculpture of "Torque," a Belgian Malinois who holds the World Record for the Dog with the Most Flights in a Huey Helicopter. The sculpture, symbolizing Torque’s service and the broader contributions of law enforcement and military working dogs, was proudly showcased earlier this year at Verticon 2025, the world’s largest international helicopter conference and trade show.

The sculpture was displayed as a new and proud edition within the Bell Helicopter trade show booth. Bell Helicopter manufactures the Huey helicopter.  Adding to the excitement, the real Torque was also there, further bringing her legacy to life and making the experience even more unforgettable. "Torque’s story, rooted in life-saving missions, loyalty, and service, was an all-around hit for guests of all ages who just couldn’t wait to get a picture with Bell’s very own hero", said Lane Evans, Managing Director of North America Sales at Bell Flight. Torque’s addition to the booth made Bell Helicopter not just a hub of innovation but one of connection.

“Having Torque and her sculpture at our booth was more than just an exhibit - it was a reminder of why we do what we do,” said Evans. “Torque’s countless hours within our very own Bell Huey, and the symbolism of her name itself - a term deeply familiar to those in aviation, highlighted a powerful connection between Bell’s innovative technology and the compassion that drives both canine and human heroes forward.”

Beyond her work in the skies, Torque is one of only a few dogs trained in detecting electronic storage devices. “Torque’s journey began as a young pup with a nose for justice, quickly excelling as an electronic storage detection dog.” says Torque’s owner and handler. She plays an active role in assisting law enforcement in combating crimes against children. But it’s her bond with veterans, her time in the Huey, and her role as a living bridge to those left behind in war, including the more than 4,000 U.S. military dogs who served in Vietnam, that make her a symbol of healing and remembrance.

As an official crew member with EMU, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to education and veteran support, Torque has participated in countless flights designed to provide comfort for veterans suffering from PTSD. Her calm and stoic presence provides silent support to service members reliving the psychological scars of war.

“Torque also flies in this Vietnam War era Huey to honor the service and sacrifice of the U.S. War Dogs who were left behind when we pulled out of Vietnam after the war.” explained Torque’s handler.

Through the collaboration with Southwest Cargo, the sculpture’s journey to Dallas ensured that Torque’s legacy reached the audience it deserved at the helicopter convention. There, veterans, aviation enthusiasts, and supporters gathered to honor a dog who flies not just for the mission, but for the hearts of those who need her most.

“From start to finish, Southwest Cargo consistently delivers professionalism, dignity, and care,” says Torque’s handler. “Southwest’s willingness to go above and beyond ensures that Torque’s sculpture arrives safely and can continue its mission of inspiring, honoring, and sharing her story with communities across the country.”

Torque’s handler also shared how integral Southwest’s dedicated Customer Service Manager, Shawn S., has been to every transport operation involving Torque’s sculpture. “Shawn’s efforts have truly set a standard of excellence, and we are deeply grateful for his assistance in making each transport a success.” She went on to say, “The professionalism and kindness displayed by the teams in San Jose, Denver, LaGuardia, and Dallas [Love Field] was exceptional throughout the entire process. From handling the sculpture with dignity and care to capturing photos and videos to document the journey. Torque’s sculpture represents resilience, service, and connection, and Southwest Airlines’ commitment to excellence helps bring her story to life in a way that resonates with so many. We are deeply thankful for the incredible support shown at every step.”

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