Famous Archers Inspired Dog Names

If there is one commonality amongst famous archers, it’s that they always seem to have the stuff of heroes. Throughout history, fictional characters and real life personalities alike have been held in high regard in nearly every society they find themselves a part of. Robin Hood stole from the rich and gave to the poor. Katniss Everdeen tried to upend a corrupt system. Daryl Dixon saved numerous lives on just about every occasion he was given the opportunity to. 

In reality, while the storylines may not be as epic, there were certainly people who deserved similar accolades as their fictional counterparts. Jack Churchill, for instance, charged into battle in WWII with a broadsword and a longbow and was one of the only members of the British military (let alone any other) to help his country by taking out enemy soldiers with technology that dated back centuries even when faced with the threat of gunfire. 

But not all heroes need a bow and arrow to be heroes or held in high regard. Sometimes it is the quality of their attributes and integrity that define them as unwavering and meaningful souls, one of which even shares the name of a Marvel Comics archery legend: Hawkeye.

The story of Hawkeye the dog originally broke in 2011, shortly after the Labrador retriever’s owner, Navy SEAL Jon Tumilson, perished in a helicopter crash along with 29 other service members. During the funeral service, Tumilson’s friend who had been taking care of Hawkeye, walked to the casket to pay his respects, and the dog followed in tow. Knowing his best friend and master was inside, the dog ambled up and laid down next to the casket with a huge sigh. The moment was captured by Tumilson’s cousin as she snapped a photo, then proceeded to put it on her Facebook page as a testament to loss and loyalty. The image spread like wildfire the moment it hit the Internet, becoming an overnight sensation as a shining pinnacle of the kind of dedication that the best human/dog relationships seem to embody and circulate in both directions. 

And although it was easily one of the most heartbreaking forms of viral media, Hawkeye’s story did have a happy ending. Scott Nichols, the friend who had taken care of Hawkeye while Tumilson was serving in Afghanistan, decided to adopt the dog. It was not only Tumilson’s wishes prior to departing for service, but a favor to both dog and friend alike, as they had formed a tight bond during his absence and were able to lean on each other after the loss of their mutual friend.