Fort Huachuca recently unveiled a newly renovated dog park, dedicated to honoring Military Working Dog (MWD) Bronco, a Belgian Malinois who served with distinction from 2013 to 2020.
The renovation of the park, located in Mountain Vista Communities (MVC), was a significant undertaking, costing $40,000 and requiring over 670 hours of work.
Jolene Tucker, the community director at MVC, expressed her gratitude to the team responsible for the upgrades, which included a new irrigation system, fresh sod, and additional landscaping elements.
Despite managing 1,064 homes and 29 playgrounds with just a six-person crew, the team’s dedication ensured that the dog park was restored without neglecting their daily responsibilities.
At the dedication ceremony, Chaplain (Maj.) Brandon Johnson offered an invocation, emphasizing that the new dog park stands as a testament to the importance of all creatures in our lives.
He encouraged attendees to value their companions, both human and animal, and to recognize the vital roles they play in our journeys.
Command Sgt. Maj. Terrina Anderson, who initiated the idea to name the park after Bronco, shared the military dog’s inspiring story.
Born in 2009, Bronco was trained as a Tactical Explosive Detector Dog (TEDD) and served with the 483rd Military Police Detachment.
His duties included several deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq, where his exceptional skills helped save lives.
Bronco’s legacy of service was tragically cut short due to medical complications. The newly named MWD Bronco Dog Park will now serve as a permanent reminder of the bravery and dedication displayed by military working dogs like Bronco, whose contributions to military missions are invaluable.
The park is located on Burns Street, next to Colonel Johnston Elementary School, and provides a space for both dogs and their owners to enjoy, while also commemorating Bronco’s service and sacrifice.
Contents
Conclusion
The renovation and dedication of the MWD Bronco Dog Park at Fort Huachuca is not just a tribute to a remarkable military working dog, but also a celebration of the partnership between humans and animals.
It stands as a symbol of the unwavering dedication and bravery that service dogs like Bronco bring to their military duties.
As this space becomes a hub for the community, it will continue to remind visitors of the impact and legacy of military dogs in safeguarding lives and supporting missions.
FAQs
What was the purpose of the dog park renovation?
The renovation aimed to improve the park’s infrastructure and dedicate it in honor of MWD Bronco, a military working dog who served at Fort Huachuca.
Who funded the renovation of the dog park?
The $40,000 upgrade was funded by the Mountain Vista Communities (MVC) Community Investment Fund.
Why was the dog park named after MWD Bronco?
MWD Bronco was a heroic military dog that served from 2013 to 2020, with multiple deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq, contributing to critical military missions.
What improvements were made to the dog park?
The park now features a new irrigation system, fresh sod, trees, bushes, and landscaping enhancements including rocks and additional greenery.
Where is the MWD Bronco Dog Park located?
The park is situated on Burns Street, next to Colonel Johnston Elementary School at Fort Huachuca.
What does the MWD Bronco Dog Park symbolize?
The park serves as a tribute to all military working dogs and reminds the community of their vital role in military missions and the safety they provide.
