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The Omaha Police Department made a heartbreaking announcement on Friday as they shared the news of the unexpected passing of one of their Mounted Patrol horses.
In a statement on Friday, officials said that Eastwood, a Percheron/Thoroughbred cross Gelding, passed away due to complications during a bowel surgery Friday morning. Eastwood joined the Omaha Police Department on March 22, 2012 after coming from from Ashbury University in Wilmore, Kentucky.
The Police Department's statement in part read:
Eastwood was a valued member of the Omaha Police Department Mounted Patrol Unit. During his nearly seven years with our department, he will be remembered for his love of attention, loyalty to our officers, and commitment to the Omaha community.
He proved his dedication to protecting our officers while working many protests and rallies. He showed gentleness with the citizens of Omaha during public barn events. Most of our community will remember him for his watch over the Old Market during the busy hours.
Eastwood served his rider, Officer Marc Van Sickle faithfully. Officer Van Sickle was by his side when Eastwood left his post.
We are thankful for his dedicated service to our department and the Omaha community. He will be missed.