War On Terror News

Royal Marines in Helmand gone to the dogs

Lance Corporal Tom Welstand, a dog handler with 103 Military Dog Squadron, shares a moment with his search dog Steegan, during an operation in Helmand province. The pair are working alongside 42 Commando Royal Marines, who are operating with Afghan troops to help improve local people's access to the central and provincial Afghanistan government.

CROWN COPYRIGHT

MWD Fanata on the job

06/20/2011 - Fanta, a U.S. Air Force military working dog assigned to the 51st Fighter Wing, barks during an exercise at Osan Air Base in Songtan, South Korea, June 20, 2011. Military working dogs are trained to work with their handlers and perform duties that range from drug and explosive detection to patrol. (DoD photo by Senior Airman Evelyn Chavez, U.S. Air Force/Released)

 

(c) DoD

USAF gone to the dogs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

06/15/2011 - U.S. Air Force Capt. Greg Auerbach, an KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft instructor pilot with the 54th Air Refueling Squadron, receives a high-five from his dog Ronnie, a search and rescue K-9 German Shepherd on the flight line at Altus Air Force Base, Okla., June 15, 2011. Auerbach and Ronnie were one of three K-9 Search and Rescue handler volunteer teams from the Central Oklahoma Search and Rescue who found the body of a missing boy from Piedmont, Okla., May 26, 2011. (DoD photo by Senior Airman Leandra D. Stepp, U.S. Air Force/Released)

 

When Troops Need Care, K9's Are Important

Army vet receives help from Air Force medics
by Tech. Sgt. Stacia Zachary USAF-C

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – One of the very real possibilities that exist in war is the threat of harm. For the military working dogs serving alongside their human counterparts here, being shot or blown up by improvised explosive devices is a very real threat for them, too.

In the event something should happen, man’s best friend will receive the same care as his handler. In those all too frequent occasions, the K9s will be medevaced from the battlefield and given immediate medical attention.

Pictured: Capt. Michael Vietti, 451st Expeditionary Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron Detachment 1 Contingency Aeromedical Staging Facility physician's assistant, assists Army Sgt. Adelyn Perez, 358th Medical Detachment Veterinary animal care specialist, as they prepare to draw blood from military working dog for a lab test during a routine physical entrance exam at Camp Leatherneck veterinary clinic. Vietti routinely volunteers at the 358th Medical Detachment Veterinary Services Clinic. The veterinary clinic is responsible for providing medical care for all the MWDs on the camp. (U.S. Air Force photo/Master Sgt. Adrian Cadiz)(Released)

Not only man's best friend but a Marine's best friend, as well.

Marine, Canine Make a Good Team

By Marine Corp Cpl. Jenn Calaway
Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton Public Affairs

Marine Corps Cpl. Angelo Melendez gives Rocky, his military working dog, the command to roll over at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., May 3, 2011. Military dog handlers spend between 8 to 14 hours-a-day training their dogs for missions such as bomb-sniffing, Improvised Explosive Device detection, vehicle extraction, and other security duties. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Jenn Calaway (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif., June 1, 2011 - Two Marine Corps members, one somewhat hairy for a Marine, work together to make this military base safe for its workers and residents.

Military working dog handler Cpl. Angelo Melendez said he enjoys working with Rocky, his German shepherd partner.

"That's a good boy, Rocky," cooed Melendez, as he gave Rocky a good petting.

Rocky barked and playfully licked at his handler.

"He likes it when you talk to him like a baby," Melendez said of his canine partner.

Rocky is a bomb-sniffing, Improvised Explosive Device detecting, attack dog capable of vehicle extractions and patrolling the base, Melendez said. In conjunction with Marines from the Provost Marshal's Office here, he said, Rocky helps to ensure the safety of Camp Pendleton's workers and residents by providing security and sniffing out dangers.

The Dogs of War Bring Victories

On the front lines with ‘man’s best friend’
by Spc. Thomas Duval 25th ID

ZABUL, Afghanistan - As the war in Afghanistan enters its tenth year, improvised explosive devices remain a major threat to the thousands of men and women in the armed forces.

The military has continuously seeks to employ the latest technology to counteract this hazard with creations such as specialized vehicles including mine resistant ambush protected vehicles and innovations such as electronic countermeasures.

While such technological advancements undoubtedly contribute to save the lives of many U.S. and coalition warfighters, soldiers stationed in at Forward Operating Base Lagman, in Zabul, Afghanistan, don’t hesitate to put their faith and ultimately their lives in the hands, or more specifically, the paws of "man’s best friend."

Homeless Veterans and Man's Best Friend Winning Combination

Two Needs – One Great Solution

Homeless Veterans need an opportunity to rejoin society and relearn competence and responsibility.

America needs explosive detecting canines to help fight terrorism.

Gabe is just one of the puppies being trained by homeless Veterans.

At the Carl Vinson VA Medical Center in Dublin, Ga., the two needs have come together in a one-of-a-kind program that will make a positive difference in the lives of homeless Veterans, and provide Federal and private organizations worldwide with highly trained explosive detection dogs in the fight against crime and terrorism.

Canine Attacks Stress, Retrieves Joy

Who wants to pet an E-7?
Story by by Sgt. Stephen Scott 29th MPAD

JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – Sgt. 1st Class Zack has been in the military for less than two years and already holds the rank of a senior non-commissioned officer. All he had to do to achieve this feat was learn to follow instructions, walk on four legs, and let other service members pet him.

The secret to Zack’s success may not be helpful or appropriate for most soldiers who are not a Labrador and Golden Retriever mix, but his presence here on Joint Base Balad, Iraq, is a very important one.

Pictured: Maj. Carlos Esparra, the mobility land chief with the 310th Expeditionay Sustainment Command and an Indianapolis, Ind., native interacts with Sgt. 1st Class Zack, the military therapy dog on Joint Base Balad. Zack and his handler Sgt. Brian Christman, an occupational therapy assistant with the 98th Medical Combat Stress Control Detachment, paid a visit to the 310th ESC's joint operations center May 10.

“As far as the effect Zack has on people, there is always a smile on everybody’s face,” said Sgt. Brian Christman, an occupational therapy assistant with the 98th Medical Combat Stress Control Detachment, a native of Niceville, Fla., and Zack’s handler. “People tell me, ‘that lightened my day’ [or] ‘that made my day’.”

Medics learn first aid for deployed MWD

BritishForcesNews  May 11, 2011

Military dogs provide a vital role on the frontline, hunting out deadly IEDs, and just like the troops they work with they are in constant danger. Now medics in Afghanistan are being trained to treat man's best friend as well as the soldiers they serve and work with. It means a vital resource in the fight against Taliban bombs can live to sniff out a device for another day -- safeguarding the servicemen and women on future operations.

 (c) BFBS

 

Marines Bring a New Dog to the Fight in Afghanistan

New Breed: Corps unleashes Labradors in counter-IED fight
  by Sgt. Jesse Stence RCT-1

CAMP DWYER, Helmand province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – The Marine Corps believes it has found the right dog for the counter-IED fight, but it’s not the traditional military working dog.

It’s a Labrador Retriever, and it resembles Lassie more closely than Rin Tin Tin.

Unlike the German Shepherd, which was carefully bred to herd sheep and fend off predators, the Labrador Retriever was bred to go fetch.

 

'Dog Whisperer' goes to the dogs at Ft. Hood

'Dog Whisperer' visits Fort Hood: Works with military families, their dogs

May 4, 2011

By Rachel Parks, III Corps & Fort Hood Public Affairs

FORT HOOD, Texas, May 4, 2011 -- Three Fort Hood families, including the four-legged members, got the chance to work with Cesar Millan, who is better known as the "Dog Whisperer," during his recent visit to Central Texas.

Millan visited Fort Hood, Texas, to film episodes of his popular show, but he also met with fans at the Clear Creek Post Exchange and watched a military working dog demonstration.

Photo Credit: Daniel Cernero, III Corps and Fort Hood Public Affairs .

Cesar Millan walks with Ciarra Walker and dogs Maggie and Patches, April 19, 2011, in Kouma Village at Fort Hood, Texas. Millan is highly regarded for his ability to understand dogs.

Before coming to Fort Hood, Millan spoke about his goals for the visit, which included working with families to create a "balanced" state for their dogs.

"To me, it's not about the dog as much as it's about how the family interacts," he said. "The dog is an outcome of people. Dogs don't develop issues unless they live with humans."

Release the Hounds: Kelly and K9 Kevin update from Helmand

by ukforcesafghanistan

Kelly and Kevin 2 – Settling in

Hello again!!

It’s now been a good couple of weeks since we last blogged and a fair bit has happened so let me bring you up to speed…

Firstly on the 5th of April Kevin and I went for our licence, this involves a few test scenarios given by a RESA (Royal Engineer Search Advisor) and my own Sgt Maj which we have to pass as a team before we are allowed “out on the ground”. At this point Kevin had been working like a dream for a good few days now so I was sure that he was due a “Kevin” day at any time!! However we passed the morning search with flying colours and broke for lunch at midday before our afternoon scenario. At 1300 Kevin and I were first up for the final scenario, as i walked towards the RESA, Sgt Maj and my own Sgt I noticed that Kevin was acting like “Kevin” and pulling towards them in an eager fashion. As I reached them the RESA came over to brief me on the following search, while being briefed I realised Kevin was no longer pulling, instead he was indicating on the RESA’s bag telling me that he had a bomb in it!! I tried to ignore him and set up for the task in hand (in the opposite direction to the RESA’s bag) but despite my best efforts I couldn’t unfocus Kevin from the bag to which end I asked the RESA if I could let Kevin have a good sniff of his bag to satisfy his curiosity otherwise he would be unfocused on the task.

The RESA had no problems with this at all so i turned Kevin around and allowed him to investigate the bag… I should have known better!! Kevin sunk his teeth into the his bag and started to shake it from side to side as if it was his chew toy until I managed to wrestle it from him! Luckily the RESA saw the funny side of it, as do most when it comes to Kevin and luckily Kevin went onto do a flawless search resulting in us passing our licencing and we are now ready to crack on with our tour!

Later that week Nick (the editor of this site) came to the dog section in Bastion to meet Kevin and take some photos of him before we deploy on the ground. Surprisingly Kevin was on his best behaviour which hopefully meant Nick got some good shots and I’m sure they will end up on here along with the blog.

MCLB Barstow K-9 Unit motivates Scouts with K-9 demo

4/15/2011  By Staff Sgt. Houston F. White Jr., Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow 

MARINE CORPS LOGISTICS BASE BARSTOW, Calif.  — The capabilities of the Marine Corps Police Department Working Dog Unit were on display here during a working dog demonstration at Sorensen Field April 8.

On hand for the event were 22 eager members of Boy Scout Troop 224 from Lafayette, Calif., who were finishing a weeklong road tour and had previous experience at MCLB Barstow.

MARINE CORPS LOGISTICS BASE BARSTOW, Calif.-Marine Corps Police Department Working Dog Unit supervisor Lt. Robert Ortiz (right) looks on as 2-year-old German shepherd Tina attacks working dog handler Nadeem Seirafi on command April 8 aboard Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow. During the canine demonstration at Sorensen Field for Lafayette, Calif., Boy Scout Troop 224, former Scouts Ortiz and Seirafi gave the group of 6-12th graders a glimpse of the teamwork and discipline it takes to train their dogs to perform various tasks., Staff Sgt. Houston F. White Jr., 4/8/2011

Valdo, the Super Dog, Saves Lives in his Final Military Action

Heroic bomb, attack dog ‘Valdo’ saves 4 coalition lives
by Tech. Sgt. Kevin Wallace

HERAT, Afghanistan – Petty Officer 1st Class Valdo is a Navy military working dog and he’s trained to smell explosives.

Though Valdo is a veteran at bomb and improvised explosive device detection, the 7-year-old patrol dog’s abilities were tested on an April 3 combat foot patrol north of the Bala Murghab security bubble in Badghis province, Afghanistan.

Pictured: Petty Officer 3rd Class Ryan Lee, military working dog handler, gives a silent command to Petty Officer 2nd Class Valdo, his Navy military working dog, during a training session at Forward Operating Base Todd, Bala Murghab District, Baghdis province, Afghanistan, April 2, 2011. During an April 4 fire fight, Valdo was wounded by a rocket propelled grenade and as of April 5, was in stable condition at Camp Arena, Herat. Valdo likely saved the lives of four service members during the RPG attack.

Canada's Wounded Warriors Go To The Dogs

Rescue dogs help heal wounded soldiers

(c) Canadian Army

Connecticut NG K-9 unit bites into Exercise Balikatan 2011 in Philippines

By Master Sgt. Cohen Young
Defense Media Activity

CLARK FIELD, Phillipines (4/12/11) - Soldiers and Airmen exchanged K-9 training methods with the Armed Force of the Philippines during Exercise Balikatan 2011 here April 7.

A joint team of six U.S. military personnel are currently working with more than 30 members of the Philippine army, marines and air force working dog teams.

 

Army Sgt. Jeffrey R. Holyst, 11th Military Working Dog Detachment, Connecticut Army National Guard, gets "Jury," a MWD to bite his toy while U.S. Soldiers and Airmen exchanged K-9 training techniques with their Philippine military counterparts at Clark Field, Philippines, during Exercise Balikatan 2011, April 7, 2011. The training helps maintain readiness and sustain the long-term security assistance relationship shared between the two countries. (Photo by Master Sgt. Cohen Young, Defense Media Activity) (Released) 

The U.S. team consists of three active duty Airmen from the 36th Security Forces Squadron, Andersen Air Base, Guam, and three Guard members from the 928th Military Police, Connecticut Army National Guard.

The main focus of this joint training is to reinforce obedience skills, combat tracking and some refresher aggressive tactics.

Release the Hounds: Kelly and Kevin in Afghanistan

Kelly and Kevin

April 5, 2011

Lance Corporal Kelly Wolstencroft

by ukforcesafghanistan

 

“If he isn’t breaking into my locker and ripping up every T-Shirt I brought out here with me, you’ll be sure to find him dragging one of the C-IED searchers across an ICP by their goggles!”

As I reported last week; 104 Theatre Military Working Dogs Support Unit (TMWDSU) have now left Afghanistan and replaced by 103 TMWDSU. New teams and new characters, both human and canine; all with interesting stories to tell. One such team is Lance Corporal Kelly Wolstencroft and her dog, Kevin – yes, Kevin!

Kelly and Kevin have agreed to tell their story and keep a diary of their time in Helmand. In the first of these articles, Kelly tells you a little about herself and what she does; as well as all about her canine companion – “the most mischievous dog in the whole of Helmand!”

‘Hi my name is L/Cpl Wolstencroft (Kelly) I am 25 years old and I have been in the Army for 4 years as a dog handler for the Royal Army Veterinary Corps. I studied Animal Care/Management for 4 years at Myerscough College before I joined up in 2007 and was posted to 103 Military Working Dog SQN in Germany where I am currently still based. My first tour of Afghanistan (Herrick 9) was in 2008/9 where I was a Vehicle Search (VS) Dog handler. This time around I have deployed on Herrick 14 as a High Assurance Search Dog (HASD) handler and my Dog is called “Kevin” who may I add is the most mischievous dog in the whole of Helmand!! I’m sure you will agree after reading all of his antics which are bound to end up on my blog throughout our tour together!

Sarbi the Explosive Detection Dog receives Purple Cross

RSPCA awards Sarbi the Purple Cross

Sarbi the Explosive Detection Dog received RSPCA’s most prestigious animal bravery award today, the Purple Cross, at a ceremony at the Australian War Memorial.

Sarbi was awarded the Purple Cross by The National President of RSPCA Australia, Mrs Lynne Bradshaw.

“It recognises the deeds of animals that have shown outstanding service to humans, particularly if they’ve shown exceptional courage,” Mrs Bradshaw said.

Photo © Commonwealth of Australia 2011

“I think there’s no doubt that Sarbi has shown an incredible resilience and strength that should be recognised.”

K9's Keep Contributing to Iraq Successes

Dogs play vital role in search missions

by Spc. Paul A. Holston, USF-I: CAMP VICTORY, Iraq - Some dogs are known for being uncooperative, disobedient and naturally lazy. Other dogs are rambunctious, playful and energetic. However, here in Baghdad, Iraq, along with those many traits, canines have a hard-working role in finding explosive devices and human remains.

The Camp Victory K-9 military unit and civilian handlers are responsible for training these skilled canines in these specialties in order to contribute to the many military operations that require their assistance.

“Dogs have a more sensitive nose than humans do, so with their sense of smell a lot stronger than our own, they are able to sniff out and discover a lot more,” said Byron Snyder, from Milledgeville, Ga., a human remains detection handler.

K9 Kit Kat gets new Marine partner

Crime Fighter Works With New Partner

By Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Houston F. White Jr.
Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow

MARINE CORPS LOGISTICS BASE BARSTOW, Calif., March 22, 2011 – Crime fighting can be a dog-eat-dog world, but with his new four-legged partner by his side, Nadeem Seirafi, a Marine Corps Police Department working dog handler, is ready to face the challenges that lay ahead.

Marine Corps Police Department working dog handler Nadeem Seirafi kneels alongside Kit Kat, his new crime-fighting partner, at Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Calif., March 16, 2011. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Houston F. White Jr.

Seirafi is teamed up with Kit Kat, an energetic 2-year-old German shepherd, after switching to one of his dream jobs.

“My partner’s never sick, he’s never late, he doesn’t talk back and he’s always happy to see me,” Seirafi said with a smile.

The Fighting 69th - and their Irish Hounds - join St. Patrick's Day Parade

When the New York Guard's 69th leads the parade, their dogs come along

By Army Spc. Jay P. Lawrence
New York Army National Guard

NEW YORK, N.Y. (03/18/11) – On 5th Avenue St. Patrick's Day, military tradition trotted on four legs.

With wagging tongues and eager, upturned tails, Benny and Jerry, two shaggy, hulking Irish wolfhounds, enjoyed a long walk up and down Manhattan's avenues with the Soldiers of the New York Army National Guard's 1st Battalion, Fighting 69th Infantry Regiment.

 

New York Army National Guard Sgt. Adam Drobecker with one of the 69th Infantry's Wolfhound Mascots. (U.S. Army by Spc. Jay. P. Lawrence)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For 160 years, the Fighting 69th has led New York City's 250-year old St. Patrick's Day parade, and for as long as anyone can remember, Irish wolfhounds like Benny and Jerry have been there at the front of the line.

Ask the Soldiers holding the leashes, however, and they'll say it was less of a walk, and more like a pull.

Former Marine handler adopts partner

Former handler adopts partner, civilian police working canine 

3/17/2011  By Marti Gatlin  , Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany 

 

MARINE CORPS LOGISTICS BASE ALBANY, Ga.  — Relaxing on a couch by a fireplace will be one member of the Marine Corps Police Department’s Civilian Police Working Dogs Section’s new home after serving as a patrol and explosives detection canine here for at least three years.

Jon Reynolds, a former Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany kennel master, adopted Cindy, a 5-year-old Dutch shepherd, during a brief ceremony at the Base Corporal Dustin Jerome Lee Kennel, March 7.

 

 

 

MARINE CORPS LOGISTICS BASE ALBANY, Ga.-Cindy, a 5-year-old Dutch shepherd, kisses her former handler, Jon Reynolds, March 7. Reynolds adopted the patrol and explosives detection canine, that broke a leg and couldn't return to full duty., Marti Gatlin, 3/7/2011 8:17 AM

 

 

 

 

 

 

The brindle-colored dog broke one of her back legs in June 2010 during a training exercise. A veterinarian at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas, where the dog received her rehabilitation, determined Cindy could not return to full duty, according to Angela Dunwoodie, kennel master, Civilian Patrol Working Dogs Section.

Therapy Dogs: By Veterans, For veterans

Therapy dogs helping with more than PTSD, TBI

By Rob McIlvaine (ARNEWS)

FAIRFAX, Va. (Army News Service, March 11, 2011) -- Launched just eight months ago, Veterans Moving Forward vows to provide service dogs, at no cost, to veterans with physical and mental health challenges, including those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injuries.

"We want to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our veterans by increasing their safety and independence within their environment," said Karen Jeffries, founder of Veterans Moving Forward, or VMF, and a service-disabled veteran herself. She retired as a commander from the Navy nine years ago.

"We differ from similar services that only focus on vets with PTSD or those from certain wars. I don't care if somebody lost their leg because of diabetes or they lost a leg because of an IED (improvised explosive device) explosion. If they're a wounded veteran, we will engage with their health care team, to analyze their needs and see if one of our dogs can help them," she said.

'FOR VETERANS, BY VETERANS'

The organization not only provides skilled companion dogs to veterans, it also employs veterans.

"Our motto and our goal is 'for veterans, with veterans and by veterans,'" said Jeffries.

Lassie 2.0 - Marine Bomb Sniffing Dogs

Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay

03.15.2011 Story by Cpl. Colby Brown MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. — With noses to the ground and tails in the air in a combat zone, Marine bomb sniffing dogs bring yet another asset to the table in the fight against improvised explosive devices.

These canine Marines are enlisted into the Corps for the purpose of attaching to a platoon and clearing an area of IED threats before a patrol passes through. For 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, having these military working dogs increases their confidence in the ability to deter the IED threat while on patrols during their upcoming deployment to Afghanistan.

“The fact that these dogs are smelling odors of explosives [from their training only weeks ago] makes me confident that they can find threats when we get to Afghanistan,” said 2nd Lt. Joshua Castillo, platoon commander, 3rd Platoon, Bravo Company, native of San Antonio.

4 legged Soldier inducted into Order of the Spur

Written by Spc. Terence Ewings, 4th Advise and Assist Brigade Public Affairs 1st Cavalry Division, U.S. Division-North

Monday, March 14, 2011 CONTINGENCY OPERATING SITE MAREZ – Soldiers assigned to 85th Medical Combat Stress Control Detachment were recognized for their hard work providing behavioral health services for the deployed troopers of 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, during an awards ceremony March 8. Of the 10

CONTINGENCY OPERATING SITE MAREZ, Iraq – Sgt. 1st Class Jonathan Zeke, a combat stress-relief dog assigned to 85th Medical Combat Stress Control Detachment is inducted into the Order of the Spur by Lt. Col. Paul Reese, deputy commander of 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, March 8, 2011. Reese also recognized nine other Soldiers assigned to 85th Medical Combat Stress Control Detachment, based out of Fort Hood, Texas, with awards and honors for their hard work in providing behavioral health services for the deployed 4th AAB troopers in Ninewa province, Iraq. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Terence Ewings, 4th AAB PAO, 1st Cav. Div., USD-N)

Soldiers who received certificates of appreciation during the ceremony, Spc. Lawrence Shipman, a patient administrative specialist, and Sgt. 1st Class Jonathan Zeke, a combat stress-relief dog, were inducted into the Order of the Spur for their outstanding work with the cavalry unit.

The military hospital dedicated to dogs

An Equipment and Logistics news article

4 Mar 11 As soldiers aren't the only ones who can be injured on operations, the UK has its very own military hospital dedicated to nursing canine casualties back to health.

Lance Corporal Chris Emberson and his dog Pip search beneath a flatbed lorry in Lashkar Gah (stock image)
[Picture: Corporal Steve Wood RLC, Crown Copyright/MOD 2009]

The Defence Animal Centre in Leicestershire has five vets who treat dogs who have been injured whilst on operations, whether they are suffering from blast injuries or have been shot.

Dogs play an extremely important role alongside British forces, as they are able to sniff out roadside bombs and hidden ammunition stashes, but this also means that they are at risk of being hurt by Taliban fighters or IEDs.

Dogs injured in Afghanistan are flown to Camp Bastion, just like human soldiers.

K9's Key in Combatting Drugs/Explosives in Afghanistan

Bringing more bark to fight
by Tech. Sgt. Stacia Zachary USAF

FORWARD OPERATING BASE LAGMAN, Afghanistan -- To counter the growing improvised explosive device threat in Afghanistan, as well as detect the well-established drug trade here, the increased use of military working dogs have become a critical part of daily operations. Not only can they detect explosives and drug hoards, they can actively engage the enemy and alert the patrols of imminent danger.

"The dogs bring to the fight an inherent ability to sense things that we couldn't even begin to perceive," said Tech. Sgt. Paul Rasmussen, Combined Team Zabul kennel master.

A Dog of War Unleashed

Unleashing the dog of war
by Tech. Sgt. Stacia Zachary USAF

FORWARD OPERATING BASE LAGMAN, Afghanistan -- I have been training for this deployment since enlisting. For two years, I have learned as much as I possibly can along with other security forces
airmen. Finding explosives and weapons caches are my specialty but I will defend my Wingman with my life if necessary.

I am not just a military working dog. I am a weapon.

Edy, or military working dog identifier Edy N300, is a 3-year old Sable Shepherd who has been an airman since November 2009. He is an explosive detection dog who can identify at least 15 different scents that serve as explosive markers for bombs.

Eli Comes Home to the Colton Rusk Family

Eli: Everyday Hero

Brady Rusk, 12, gets a somber kiss from Eli, a bomb-sniffing military working dog, during a retirement and adoption ceremony at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, Feb. 3, 2011. The Labrador retriever was assigned to Brady's older brother, Marine Corps Pfc. Colton Rusk, who was killed in Afghanistan. U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Bennie J. Davis III

Theo the superhero dog

A People In Defence news article

14 Feb 11

Theo, a Springer spaniel cross who holds the record for finding the most improvised explosive devices and weapons in Afghanistan, has had his tour extended due to his amazing success.

Military working dog Theo is put through his paces by handler Lance Corporal Liam Tasker at Camp Bastion, Helmand province, southern Afghanistan
[Picture: Corporal Mark Webster, Crown Copyright/MOD 2011]

Theo is an Arms and Explosives Search (AES) dog. The 22-month-old 'superhero' spaniel and his handler, Lance Corporal Liam Tasker, are part of the Theatre Military Working Dog Support Unit (TMWDSU) based at Camp Bastion.

Theo is on his first tour of duty in Afghanistan. A tour is normally six months, with the dogs then returning to their home at 104 Military Working Dog Support Unit at North Luffenham, Rutland, but due to his success rate, Theo's tour has been extended by a month.

Before coming to Afghanistan, Theo had to undergo a rigorous period of training to ensure he would meet the highest standards expected of the dogs in the TMWDSU. The first stage was 16 weeks' basic training and assessment before being given to a handler. Theo and Lance Corporal Tasker then spent 15 weeks on a handlers' course, where man and dog learn to work as a team.

As an AES dog, Theo's task is to

Military working dogs join TF Currahee

U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Enyzi, a 3-year-old Belgian Tervuren military working dog attached to Task Force Currahee, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, practices a patrol or attacking during a drill Jan. 31 at Forward Operating Base Sharana, Afghanistan. The trainers/handlers work with the canines throughout the deployments to keep their skills sharp and to maintain readiness. Photo by Spc. Luther Boothe Jr.

02.02.2011 CJTF 101 Story by Spc. Luther Boothe Jr. PAKTIKA PROVINCE, Afghanistan — A typical work day may include a nice walk, a brush of the hair, some chow or just gnawing on a chew toy, but do not be fooled, U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Bodro, U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Beny and U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Enyzi are in Afghanistan to work.

Officer takes a bite in Helmand for charity

A People In Defence news article

7 Jan 11 A novel fundraising idea saw a British officer start his New Year running from the jaws of a deadly attack dog at Camp Bastion in southern Helmand province.

Spectators watch as Lieutenant Colonel Jez Hair is bitten by patrol dog Rex as part of the 'Bite the Boss' fundraising event for Macmillan Cancer Support  [Picture: Sergeant Corrine Buxton RAF, Crown Copyright/MOD 2010]

Lieutenant Colonel Jez Hair, Commanding Officer of 16 Medical Regiment, drew the short straw in the 'Bite the Boss' charity event, conceived by one of his own non-commissioned officers to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Warrant Officer Class 2 Michelle Lewis came up with the dastardly idea when visiting the Theatre Military Working Dog Support Unit (TMWDSU) one Sunday morning to help walk the search dogs as a bit of relaxation time.

Timmy and the Freedom Restoration Center helps Troops get Back to Duty

U.S. Army Sgt. Shawn Fouste of Decatur, Ill., the noncommissioned officer in charge of the Freedom Restoration Center with the 455th Expeditionary Wing, Task Force Med, plays with Timmy, a therapy dog, at Bagram Air Field Jan. 3.  Photo by Spc. Adam Mathis

01.03.2011 Story by Spc. Adam Mathis CJTF 101 BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan – “Before coming here, I was having more difficulty being myself and reacting like I normally would to everyday situations,” said U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Spencer Ledyard of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, N.C.

Ledyard had two months left in Afghanistan, meaning two months of difficult situations and the feeling of having lost himself. So, like more than 500 service members before him, he accepted help from a place with a 97 percent success rate: the Freedom Restoration Center at Bagram Air Field.

Any number of hardships can drive servicemembers to the center. For some the problems may be temporary but for others the problems may be more long-term and can lead to even more problems, such as

U.S. Army Sgt. Shawn Fouste of Decatur, Ill., the noncommissioned officer in charge of the Freedom Restoration Center with the 455th Expeditionary Wing, Task Force Med, plays with Timmy, a therapy dog, at Bagram Air Field Jan. 3.  Photo by Spc. Adam Mathis

01.03.2011 Story by Spc. Adam Mathis CJTF 101 BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan – “Before coming here, I was having more difficulty being myself and reacting like I normally would to everyday situations,” said U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Spencer Ledyard of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, N.C.

Ledyard had two months left in Afghanistan, meaning two months of difficult situations and the feeling of having lost himself. So, like more than 500 service members before him, he accepted help from a place with a 97 percent success rate: the Freedom Restoration Center at Bagram Air Field.

Any number of hardships can drive servicemembers to the center. For some the problems may be temporary but for others the problems may be more long-term and can lead to even more problems, such as

Wingmen: Airmen look after military working dogs

by Senior Airman Nathanael Callon
52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs

1/3/2011 - SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany (AFNS) -- Every day Airmen take care of each other, and the 52nd Security Forces Squadron's military working dog handlers have a furry wingman that requires a little extra care during the winter here.

Robson, a 5-year-old German shepherd, jumps over an obstacle Dec. 29, 2010, at the 52nd Security Forces Squadron military working dog facility at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany.(U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon)

"There are a few extra precautions we have to take during the winter months while working and training the canines," said Staff Sgt. William Washer, a 52nd SFS military working dog handler.

The winters in Germany are typically accompanied by bitter cold and freezing precipitation, which can pose a hazard to the dogs.

"Just because they have a fur coat doesn't mean the dogs don't get cold," Sergeant Washer said.

K9's Get Afghan Training to Secure Explosives

TF Dolch mine dog teams get ready for action
Sgt. Robert Larson CJTF101

BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan -- Ever heard the phrase, “Every dog has its day”?

Well, the mine detection dogs and handlers from the 49th Mine Dog Detachment, 54th Engineer Battalion, Task Force Dolch, based at Bagram Air Field, know that better than most. These highly trained animals are used to help soldiers on the ground find some of the most elusive enemies in theater - landmines and improvised explosive devices.

Nellis Air Base Train Local Canine Units

Nellis hosts joint explosive detection training exercise for local canine units

99th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

12/27/2010 -by 2nd Lt. Laura Balch NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. (AFNS) -- Military working dog handlers from the 99th Security Forces Squadron here worked with 25 canine teams from Las Vegas during an explosive detection training exercise here recently.

Staff Sgt. Bobbie Ohm walks with Nero, a MWD, to search for explosives during a joint explosive detection training exercise Dec. 16, 2010, at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev. Sergeant Ohm is a 99th SFS MWD handler. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Brett Clashman)

Handlers and dogs from local casinos, including the Las Vegas Convention Center; Hoover Dam; Las Vegas Monorail; University of Nevada, Las Vegas; Transportation Security Administration; Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms; and the U.S. Marshals Service participated in the exercise.

"There are so many handlers and dogs

A K9 Wounded Marine Needs YOUR Help

Few understand better than a Warrior the unconditional love of a Dog, of a Brother in Arms, of the relationship steeled in combat.  These relationships can only be amplified between K9 Handlers and their Partners.  And it is only fitting loyalty that brought Lex to the Lee Family after Lex earned the Purple Heart in the same event that took his partner's life, and the Lee Family's Marine.

In words written for Lex by John Burnam:

"My partner is lying next to me severely wounded and bleeding. I move to him and touch him but he's not responding. I feel sharp pains in my side and back. I'm bleeding but deal with it and concentrate on comforting my partner and protecting him from further harm."

The Lee Family cares for Lex with the loyalty earned by Lex's own undying love and protection for their son.  While, I can only give you part of this story, the Brat as Assoluta Tranquillita has been on top of it from day one.  Please read this wonderful story of Love & Loyalty there.  Please do what you can to help this K9 Warrior and the family he helps heal as they give back what he gave their son. 

 

Explosive Dog Teams Enhance Iraq’s Security Check Points

Written by United States Forces – Iraq PAO Friday Nov. 19, 2010 BAGHDAD – The Iraqi Police Canine Program and Canine Handlers School certified 26 explosive-detection dog handlers, 14 veterinarian assistants, and three veterinarian doctors at the Baghdad Police College Nov. 7.

These graduates will now return to their provinces, where they will work as explosive-detection teams, and serve at several security check points throughout Iraq.

The purpose of the IP’s two-month Canine Program is to

Sailor, Working Dog Go to Djibouti

Navy Visual News Service Story by Petty Officer 2nd Class Corwin Colbert

10.22.2010  SANTA RITA, Guam - A sailor assigned here deployed Oct. 20 to Djibouti with his unique partner.

Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Daniel Padilla said he has prepared for his Africa mission alongside his canine partner, Petty Officer 2nd Class Brit E295.

Brit is a German shepherd explosives-detecting dog and Padilla is his human handler. Both sailors are assigned to the U.S. Naval Security Forces Military Working Dog Unit based here.

Devil dogs help sniff out IED’s

1st Marine Division
Story by Cpl. Eugenio Montanez

09.24.2010  COMBAT OUTPOST SHABU, Afghanistan – Leading patrols and sniffing out improvised explosive devices may seem like a game for Cpl. Twister, but what she doesn’t know, is that this "game" is saving the lives of many Marines.

Twister is a four year-old black labrador used to find IEDs for Marines with the 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion. Many dogs such as her are being used with great success throughout the Marine Corps.

“There are many dogs in the battalion that have found IEDs,” said Lance Cpl. Cody Campioni, a dog handler with the Dog Handler Platoon, Headquarters and Service Company, 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion. The dogs can find IED’s a lot more accurate and faster than a metal detector can.”

Dogs were first used in the Marine Corps to find the enemy during