Full Story
Military working dogs essential tool in Iraq mission
Submitted by: II Marine Expeditionary Force (FWD)
Story Identification #: 20055304858
Story by Cpl. Christi Prickett
CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq (May 3, 2005) -- When people talk about the United States Armed Forces, images of light-footed Marines or large Naval ships may come to mind. Not often mentioned are the nonhuman counterparts within the ranks.
Military working dogs first entered the service in March of 1942 to serve in the Army’s “K-9” Corps. Today, the dogs, who have an actual military service record book assigned to them, are still playing an active role in searching for explosives and seizing the enemy.
Master Gunnery Sgt. Samuel G. Colon, provost sergeant Multi National Force - West, and sergeant major of 2nd Military Police Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force (FWD), is in charge of making sure the dogs are safe when they are out with Marines and Sailors on missions.
“Our battalion provides well trained military working dogs and handlers,” said Colon, a Brooklyn, N.Y., native. “The dogs here are used to support the Marine Air Ground Task Force, first and foremost.”
Daily dog duties include trips to entry control points, maneuver and mobility support operations, cordon and knocks, main supply route security and mandatory training.
Training is constant with the dogs. Each dog must be certified before entering the area of operation, and they must be recertified with their handler each year.
The dogs are not a replacement for service members, but instead, offer strengths in areas where humans may be weak. They are capable of working in any type of combat environment.
“The best way the dogs are used is that they can chase down anyone,” said Air Force Tech. Sgt. Robert P. Hansen, military working dog handler assigned to 2nd MP Bn., II MEF (FWD). “A Marine might not be able to catch someone, but the dogs will.”
Another way the working dogs are used is for their sense of smell.
“At ECPs, dogs, Marines, and technology work together,” said Colon, a former dog handler. “The dogs are trained and capable of detecting all sorts of explosives.”
The dogs know progression of force just as service members are taught. Different voice and hand signals are given to clarify what the dog is to do.
“If someone is being belligerent, the dogs can sense it,” said Hansen. “The handler assesses the situation and if we feel the need to go further, the dog will do so when given the commands.”
Obedience is the first priority of the handlers, said Hansen.
“From day one, trust and rapport are essential between the dogs and their handlers,” said Hansen. “It’s like the dogs know we’re going to be there for them the same way they’re there for us.”
The dog handlers are responsible for feeding, grooming and veterinary appointments. The Army provides all veterinary needs at the kennels.
“I was a dog handler a long time ago,” said Colon, with a smile. “I have a special bond with all my Marines, but especially with the dogs and their handlers.”
The main purpose of the military working dogs is to alleviate positions where a service member would have to be put in harms way.
“Our dogs keep Marines and Sailors alive,” said Lt. Col. Richard A. Anderson, commanding officer, 2nd MP Bn., II MEF (FWD). “Whatever the commanding general deems as our main effort, we are there. We are tremendously flexible.”
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