Thursday, March 11, 2010

TOP STORY > >Base loses fellow defender, war dog

On March 6, the 19th Security Forces Squadron lost a fellow defender, war dog and 9-year veteran of the United States Air Force.
Military working dog, Uran, was euthanized following an irreversible injury sustained during patrol training.

Uran had a distinguished career as an explosive detector dog while assigned to Little Rock Air Force Base. Uran deployed five times in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. His search efforts resulted in four explosive finds along Iraqi roadways during the initial surge in the spring of 2003, aiding U.S. Army infantry units to converge on Baghdad.

His skills were repeatedly employed by the United States Secret Service in protection of Presidents Barack Obama and George Bush, vice presidents Joseph Biden and Richard Cheney and Gov. Sarah Palin on 20 occasions. Uran’s assignments ensured Air Force One, motorcade routes, hotels and other key venues were cleared of potential hazards for the safety of high level dignitaries.

Uran’s capabilities and training illustrated the strength of Combat Airlift and Homeland Security by clearing bomb threats in Bryant, Jacksonville, Conway and Lonoke County. His camaraderie resonated among local law enforcement, the Arkansas community and the seven handlers who had the opportunity to work alongside such a valuable security forces member.

His zest for life will be dearly missed by the men and women of the 19th SFS.

(Courtesy of 19th Security Forces Squadron)

No comments: