Winnipeg Jets name new security puppy for famed fan 'Kroppy'

In a fitting tribute for Remembrance Day, the Winnipeg Jets have named their newest security dog after a Second World War veteran who was one of the team's most loyal fans.

Len Kropioski, better known asKroppy, died last year at age 98. He made the 2-hour drivefromKenora, Ont.,to the MTS Centre (now Bell MTSPlace) for every home game, except when his health wouldn't allow it.

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He wasa fixture on thescoreboard videoscreenabove centreiceatthe end of O Canada, when he would give a salutefollowed by a wide smile andthumbs up.

True North Sports and Entertainment, which owns and operates the Jets and Bell MTS Place, recently brought two dogsDaisy and Danteon to its security team.

There are also three pups in training. One is named Ryp,forlate Manitoba Moose player RickRypien. The second is named Grace, after the song by the Tragically Hip, in honour of the band's late lead singer,GordDownie.

The third eight-week-old Labrador puppy still didn't have a name when he was added to the roster earlier this month.Soseason ticket holders were asked for suggestions.

"Like his brother and sister, he was hand-picked for his fearlessness, responsiveness, and investigative nature, as well as for being friendly and full of energy,"handler and trainer Dave Bessason said.

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