New military working dogs train for deployments

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Frances Locquiao
  • 23rd Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  Air Force military working dogs are more than just "man's best friend," they are an Airman's guardian, their partner, and most importantly a comrade in battle.

The 820th Security Forces Group recently received three new military working dogs, also known as MWDs.

The dogs are partnered with a handler and both are continuously training together in preparation for upcoming deployments. The dogs provide detection skills that reach far beyond that of the human senses and they also assist with area defense and combat patrols.

"Dogs have a sense of smell five to 10 times stronger than humans do," said Staff Sgt. Keenon Green, 823rd Security Forces Squadron handler of Rex, a German shepherd. "They have the ability to detect things such as explosives, drugs and even the presence of people, which makes them an invaluable asset to our mission.

"They are placed at the front of a patrol squad to ensure that the area is safe to pass," he added. "Even though they don't realize it, they are putting their lives on the line to keep everyone they're with out of harm's way."

Before the dogs arrived at Moody, they attended the Department of Defense Military Working Dog School at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. Initial training to become MDWs can last up to two years, depending on the dog.

"They are mostly taught the basic courses at Lackland, such as obedience commands," said Master Sgt. Jamie Morris, 820th Combat Operations Squadron kennelmaster. "They also learn how to patrol, detect different types of odors and explosives and how to conduct searches."

Three of the four squadrons that make up the 820th SFG have their own kennel, which is supervised by a kennelmaster. There is a training supervisor for each kennel, who can manage up to nine MWDs at a single time, and each dog is assigned a handler.

It is ultimately the handler's job to advance basic skills in preparation for deployment operations such as outside-the-wire missions.

"We train our dogs every day in different scenarios and work to improve a variety of their skills," said Staff Sgt. Gary Magnelli, 823rd SFS dog handler of Argo, a German shepherd. "We are a team and it's important to build a strong relationship with your dog because they'll listen to your commands better and are easier to work with."

After approximately 30 days of advanced day-to-day training with a handler, MWDs are considered to be deployable. In addition, MWDs are also used to help secure military bases as well as use during special missions.

"A handler and his dog can go on different assignments other than deploying to a forward operating base," said Sergeant Green. "I've done secret service missions and also assisted during an Air Force Week."

The majority of the MWDs used by the 820th SFG are German and Dutch shepherds and Belgian malinois.

"These are common MWD breeds because they tend to have the highest drive," said Sergeant Magnelli. "They get excited and motivated to do the actions you want them to do."

The characteristics of these dog breeds combined with the relationship they build with their handler create a bond that strengthens with time, not only at home station, but also while deployed.

"I love training and working with Rex every day because it doesn't get boring and I constantly learn new traits about him," said Sergeant Green. "I've deployed twice with Rex and because of him I knew I always had a partner and was never alone. In fact, I know that if it came down to it, Rex would give his last dying breath to try to save my life."