This ceremony honored the special bond shared by K-9s and their handlers

Laura Miller apologized more than once for getting emotional as she spoke at the Airborne Special Operations Museum on Monday.

But after seeing battle-hardened Special Forces soldiers dissolve into tears at the loss of their dogs, she said the love these men felt for their dogs -- and of the dogs for them -- can lead to tears at times.

Miller, a retired veterinarian technician who served 26 years, including 10 with caring for Special Operations Forces dogs, spoke to a crowd of several hundred about the sacrifices of military dogs -- and the number of military lives they have saved.

"To see these big, strong soldiers break into tears over the loss of their dog, you realize this is a special bond," Miller said. "There is a love that runs deeper."

"The love for their dog and of the dog for their handler..." she paused as the emotion of the moment again caught her. "Just appreciate everything. Life is too short. The evidence of that is right here."

She waved over to the nearby ASOM Field of honor, where more than 600 flags caught a light breeze.

In addition to the ceremony, the ASOM offered a series of concerts, exhibits, and first-person displays. Military experts offered visitors hands-on experience with military equipment from World War I through the Vietnam era.

Ron Wolfe, a retired Army sergeant, let youngsters try on his flak jacket and helmet from Vietnam, laughing when they complained about their weight and heat.

"Yeah, they can get a bit heavy," Wolfe said. "Just wait until you had to wear them all day in the summertime."

The ASOM K-9 Memorial honors more than 60 trained dogs who have died in service to Special Forces as well as partner groups in Great Britain and Australia. It was dedicated in 2013.