At Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas, Military Working Dogs (MWDs) play an essential role in ensuring base security. These highly trained canines are not just part of a security team; they are beloved partners to their handlers, each with their own unique personality.
Whether patrolling the base or conducting searches, these dogs showcase their specialized skills while also forming deep bonds with their human counterparts.
“The military working dogs come in day-to-day and work the road, searching the commercial vehicle gate, or conducting psychological deterrence at our gates,” said Staff Sgt. Jordan Courtney, kennel master at the 19th Security Forces Squadron.
“When they’re not working the road, we’re at the kennels training or out throughout the base, making sure we’re staying ready for any challenges.”
Military Working Dogs at Little Rock AFB perform a variety of tasks, from conducting patrols to maintaining base security. Their training is rigorous and ongoing, ensuring that they are always prepared for whatever situations arise.
While they spend significant time training, these dogs are also ready to respond to real-time security threats at a moment’s notice, maintaining a constant level of preparedness to ensure the safety of the base and its personnel.
Each dog brings its own strengths and characteristics to the table, creating a unique relationship between the canine and its handler.
“Every dog has its own personality and way of doing things,” Courtney explained. “It’s our job to build that relationship while maintaining their training standards.”
One such personality is MWD Harry, a dog known for his affectionate nature, working alongside Staff Sgt. Hannah Healy, a handler with the 19th SFS. “Harry is a big cuddle-bug and very lovable,” Healy said. “Every day, we’re constantly working on detection, control, and aggression, and Harry’s always ready to give his best.”
Similarly, MWD Mirco, paired with Senior Airman Clayton Aston, showcases the dual nature of these dogs. Mirco can swiftly transition from a working military dog to a calm, relaxed companion during downtime.
“My favorite thing about him is his ability to turn it on and off from work to just hanging out with you,” Aston shared. “He can go from working as a military dog to just being sweet and hanging out like a normal dog.”
This blend of discipline and companionship highlights the deep bond between the handlers and their dogs, a relationship built on trust, respect, and shared responsibility.
These dogs are not just trained security assets but also provide emotional support to their handlers, balancing the stress of their demanding roles.
Training for these dogs is ongoing, with obedience courses held at least twice a week. They also engage in multiple drug detection scenarios to maintain their proficiencies, ensuring they are always operationally ready.
The dogs’ ability to combine constant preparedness with their loyalty and affection underscores their indispensable role in the security and safety of Little Rock Air Force Base.
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Conclusion
As Military Working Dog teams continue their operations at Little Rock Air Force Base, they remain an irreplaceable asset to base security. These dedicated dogs, each with their unique personality, not only perform essential security tasks but also form deep, trusting relationships with their handlers.
Their ability to balance their working role with their affectionate nature makes them both vital protectors and beloved companions, proving their value in safeguarding the base and contributing to the overall mission of Little Rock AFB.
FAQ’s
What roles do Military Working Dogs (MWDs) perform at Little Rock Air Force Base?
- MWDs are involved in base security, patrolling, vehicle searches, psychological deterrence at gates, and conducting detection and control tasks.
How do handlers train Military Working Dogs at the base?
- Training includes regular obedience courses held at least twice a week, as well as multiple drug detection scenarios to keep the dogs’ skills sharp and ensure operational readiness.
What makes the bond between MWDs and their handlers so unique?
- The bond between handlers and MWDs is built on trust, respect, and shared experiences. Each dog has its own personality, and handlers develop strong relationships while maintaining strict training standards.
Can Military Working Dogs be affectionate despite their serious role?
- Yes, many MWDs, like Harry and Mirco, balance their working role with affection and loyalty, often becoming close companions to their handlers during downtime.
What kind of tasks does MWD Harry perform at Little Rock Air Force Base?
- MWD Harry works on detection, control, and aggression tasks, while also displaying a very affectionate nature, making him a lovable partner to his handler, Staff Sgt. Hannah Healy.
Why are Military Working Dogs considered essential to base security?
- MWDs provide key security functions, from detection to patrol work, ensuring the safety of military personnel and operations. Their highly trained skills make them an irreplaceable asset in protecting the base from potential threats.
