Jony, the United States Air Force dog that just retired after nine years (68 dog years) of meritorious service with the 20th Security Forces Squadron, was celebrated by the US with its fame suddenly spreading across the world.
Jony in action
The retirement was announced by the U.S. Department of Defence in a statement on its website which detailed how the dog served the country and helped the security agencies achieve some feats.
“Jony’s performance during his initial training determined what certifications he received; military working dogs can receive narcotics and explosives credentials as well as certification as a patrol dog.
“All their physical traits: their sight, their hearing, their nose, their speed, their teeth, dogs bring so much to the table – things we can’t do and the equipment we’re provided can’t do.
“Although the physical traits are necessary for success, it takes more than just advanced senses for a dog to pass initial training.
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“They must be able to listen to commands. If they can’t do that they’ll automatically be disqualified. Some dogs just don’t have the drive,” the statement said adding that Jony retired due to a compressed disc in his spine, and has been permanently put in the hands of its handler, Air Force Staff, Sergeant Anthony Despins.
The stamen added: “Together, the two used their individual skill sets to make a formidable team, eventually becoming certified as an explosives detection and patrol unit to keep people around the world safe and their fellow airmen out of harm’s way.
“Jony was really excited, always happy to see people and very energetic.
“Even back then, Jony knew what was expected of him and how to do his job."
Jony was also deployed to Afghanistan together in 2013.
“During one of his deployments, Jony went on more than 60 missions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, finding six explosives and enduring five firefights.
“Jony also went on seven explosive detection missions with the Secret Service in support of the president and vice president of the United States.
Jony with its handler
“Thanks to Jony’s acute sense of smell, Davis and his team were able to come back home to their families.”
Its retirement was really celebrated. A pulling out ceremony was held for the dog.
According to the statement, Staff Sergeant Kathryn McCarthy, also a military working dogs handler, read a poem titled “Guardians of the Night,” dedicated to military working dogs and their service, and traditionally read at their retirement ceremonies, in honour of Jony.
“Friends, family and those who may have only known Jony through his acts of courage gathered to commemorate nine years, or 68 dog years, of distinguished service.
“Jony barks throughout the ceremony, joining the crowd in celebration of his accomplishments.
“Like so many airmen before him, Jony receives a retirement pin to symbolise his transition from an active-duty service member to retiree.
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“Unlike most airmen, Jony is also presented with a bone to symbolize his transition from the kennel to the couch, reclaiming his place at the side of an old familiar friend.
“After nine years of service alongside several partners, Jony’s leash is relinquished and permanently put in Despins hands, and together the two go home,” Pentagon said.
Meanwhile, watch this video of the devastation caused by Boko Haram:
