Base bids farewell to three canine warriors Published Jan. 4, 2007 By Capt. Karyn A. Havas Veterinarian Clinic GRAND FORKS AFB, ND -- As 2006 comes to a close, the Grand Forks Section US Army Veterinary Services shares the sacrifices of a small group of dedicated Airmen; military working dogs. This past year we said good-bye to three members of that crew, one from a dedicated lifetime of service, one due to unbridled enthusiasm and the third from a medical tragedy. Military working dog handlers build incredible bonds with these amazing animals and join our fellow Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors and Marines in Iraq, Afghanistan and all over CENTCOM to bring these dogs to do their job in extremely dangerous locations. This is where these dogs are needed most and serve their greatest purpose. As any of our handlers or security forces Airmen could tell you, these weapons are in high demand, and they serve admirably. We have had dogs take fire, find weapons, take down insurgents, identify improvised explosive devices and provide a deterrent stronger than a Soldier loaded to the teeth can bring. It is an honor and a privilege to work with these intelligent and loyal animals; they risk everything for the men and women who have trained them diligently. So, as we pause in memory of what our three downed servicemembers did for the Global War on Terror and for the safety of Grand Forks Air Force Base, we are thankful. Bato was a young gun, he was enthusiastic and just couldn't sit still. He loved to work and was always willing to go. He left us prematurely upon his early return from a mission to Southwest Asia. He will be missed, but not forgotten, especially by his handlers who trained him, raised him and took care of his needs. Rambo had gusto, he let you know he was there and wasn't afraid of anyone. Unfortunately, it was this same unbridled fearlessness that made him a little too dangerous as a MWD. He was lost to us last winter, but we won't forget the continuous efforts his handler made on his behalf and the no holds bar attitude he brought to each mission. Then there was Kelly, our old girl. Time got her in the end, but she was still ready to go when she was called up to 14 years-of-age. Her teeth were worn down to the gums, but that didn't stop her from chasing her wrap and listening to the commands sent her way. She was the queen of the kennel, a quiet leader who respected her handlers and still served her purpose well. In memory of the loss of these three members of the 319th Security Forces Military Working Dog, section we extend our appreciation to the MWD handler's, our thanks to the dogs that remain and our tribute to the dogs that we lost. For more information about these amazing assets and their history of service to our country see the links below. http://www.uswardogs.org/ http://www.militaryworkingdog.com/history/