MWD RRoddie R881

Hero Pack: Military Working Dog RRoddie (R881). A veteran of the United States Army, RRoddie’s life was defined by elite service, global protection, and an unbreakable commitment to his fellow soldiers.
A Career on the Front Lines
During his distinguished eight-year career, RRoddie served as a Dual-Purpose Patrol/Explosive Detection K-9. His service record stood as a testament to his immense skill and bravery:
Three Combat Tours: RRoddie completed two tours in Afghanistan and one in Iraq.
Special Operations: In Afghanistan, he was attached to multiple U.S. Army Special Forces Teams (ODA). In Iraq, he served with Special Operations Task Force 1, attached to the SPMAGTF-USMC.
Protecting the Commander-in-Chief: RRoddie completed over two dozen U.S. Secret Service missions. He stood watch over the President of the United States in Montenegro, Chile, Colombia, the Philippines, Korea, and in countless cities across America.
The Battle After the Uniform
When his time in uniform ended, RRoddie faced a new set of challenges. In retirement, he was diagnosed with Vestibular Syndrome (seizures) and underwent a Splenectomy due to a large mass.
Because medical care for retired K-9s was not covered by the government, the burden of his life-saving treatments was significant. RRoddie required frequent veterinary visits and emergency care, including a critical 48-hour stay to stop uncontrolled bleeding. In a single year, his specialized care totaled $7,533.01—costs that were fully covered by Project K-9 Hero to ensure this veteran lived with the dignity he had earned.
His Final Patrol
MWD RRoddie (R881) served his country with everything he had, from the dust of combat zones to the highest levels of presidential security. On July 19, 2025, he was solemnly interred at the Michigan War Dog Memorial, where he now rests among his brothers and sisters in arms.
Rest easy, RRoddie. Your watch is ended, and your legacy is forever secured. 🐾

MWD Roxy R682

Born on June 1, 2009, Roxy was more than just a dog; she was a partner, a protector, and a hero.
A Lifetime of Service:
Military Hero: Serving with the U.S. Marines (3rd Battalion, 4th Marines), Roxy completed two tours of duty in Afghanistan in 2011 and 2012, specialized in explosive detection.
A Second Career: Upon returning, she continued her mission stateside with the TSA, working as a package-sniffing K-9 at the New Orleans Louis Armstrong Airport.
A Gentle Soul: In her final years (2017–2022), Roxy transitioned to a new kind of service as a certified member of the "Love on a Leash Therapy K-9" program, bringing comfort to those who needed it most.
Decorated and Remembered:
On Veterans Day in 2021, Roxy was presented with the US Military Working Dog Service Award by the American Legion in a moving ceremony where the military ribbon was draped around her neck.
Roxy passed away on December 8, 2022, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering loyalty. She is interred at the Michigan War Dog Memorial, a place known as "Arlington for K9s," where she rests with full military honors.
Rest in peace, Roxy. You gave your all for all of us, and we are eternally grateful for the 5 1/2 years you blessed your retirement family’s lives.

MWD Rosso T206

Military Working Dog Rosso (T206) was a guardian of the highest order, serving his country with a ferocity and dedication that saved countless lives.
A Career of Elite Service
Rosso served for nine years at Fairchild Air Force Base in Spokane, Washington. His career was marked by missions of the highest national importance:
Protecting the Commander-in-Chief: Rosso was assigned to protect the President of the United States on ten separate details, including international missions to Japan.
Combat Operations: He deployed to the Middle East for Operation Inherent Resolve and Operation Spartan Shield, standing as the front line of defense for Soldiers, Airmen, Marines, and Sailors.
Decorated Retirement: For his exceptional service, Rosso was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal at his retirement ceremony on December 1, 2020.
The Road to Redemption
The very traits that made Rosso an elite defender—his high drive and intensity—made his transition to civilian life difficult. Faced with the prospect of being euthanized due to aggressive behavior, Rosso’s story took a turn toward hope.
Project K-9 Hero stepped in to save him. They flew to Spokane and drove Rosso across the country to Tennessee, where he spent his final years in the care of their Rehabilitation & Rehoming Facility. There, this warrior finally found the peace and understanding he deserved.
His Final Honors
MWD Rosso (T206) crossed the Rainbow Bridge on November 11, 2023. On June 29, 2024, he was interred with full military honors at the Michigan War Dog Memorial.
Rosso now rests in the company of heroes, his watch finally ended, his legacy forever secured.
Rest easy, Rosso. We thank you for your service and your sacrifice. 🐾

MWD Rex F102

A dedicated member of the 148th Military Police Detachment (759th MP Battalion) at Fort Carson, Colorado, Rex was a vital link in the chain of safety for our service members and their families.
As a dual-certified patrol and explosive detection dog, Rex served with the elite "Sheepdogs" of the 148th. His daily mission was one of immense responsibility: patrolling the rugged terrain of Colorado to safeguard thousands of personnel and securing critical military resources. Whether on duty at the gates or training in the field, his presence provided a sense of security that only a Military Working Dog can offer.
On October 8, 2022, Rex reached his final resting place. In a moving tribute to a lifetime of service, he was interred here at the Michigan War Dog Memorial. He was laid to rest alongside his handler’s other faithful partner, MWD Gina (R838), ensuring these two brave companions remain together in honored glory.
Though the 148th MP Detachment has since been inactivated, the bond between Rex, Gina, and their handler remains unbreakable. Rex didn't just perform a job; he lived a life of service, protecting those who protect our freedom.
Rest easy, Rex and Gina. Your watch is over, and your legacy is secure. 🐕‍🦺

MWD Zizi L401

MWD ZIZI - L 401

PATROL / EXPLOSIVE DETECTION DOG - US NAVY

MWD Zizi, a Belgium Malinios, was born April 04, 2005 and served in the US Navy from 2008 - 2011. She was deployed once to Camp Arifjan Kuwait in support of Operation Enduring Freedom from June 2009 to June 2010. MWD Zizi retired early at the age of six, due to Progressive Retinal Atrophy. She was adopted by her handler MA1 Cristina Collesano in February 2011. Zizi was diagnosed with Cancer in March 2014 and passed away peacefully in Cristina’s arms on September 23, 2014.

From the day you came home to the day you left the Earth, you brought love and light wherever you went. I have long since stopped counting how many times complete strangers would stop, stare and ask me “what you were”. I would say you were a Belgium Malinios to which the rely was always some form of “ She’s so beautiful / gorgeous / pretty”. And you were, babe. You were the most beautiful dog I’ve ever seen, inside and out.

The best example of who you were was shown the day Grandma died. We had been living with her for several months , caring for her, along with my parents in the final stages of Alzheimer’s Grandma passed away in the morning, surrounded by the entire family. Afterward, while we all sat in a circle in the living room sharing memories, stories and prayer, you went up to each and every person and laid your head in a lap for a few moments. You looked in our eyes and stood still while we pet you, whispered a few words or just cried.Then you moved to the next family member and did the same, for over 20 people. You knew what we all needed on that grief-filled day and you gave it gladly. My heart was so full watching you give yours and i’ve never been so proud of or grateful for anything as I was on that day.

I couldn’t let you suffer. You deserved every good things and that included a dignified end to your amazing life. So I spoiled you, snuggled you, loved you and told you how much you meant to me every day and night for the last three weeks. The last weekend when you wouldn’t eat, could barely walk and struggled to breathe, I knew it was time. I still held out hope that there was something that could be done, but when we went to the vet today I knew there was nothing more. I struggled with it, fought it even, but when you looked at me in that office, when I saw what was in your eyes, I couldn’t let you go on no matter how much I selfishly wanted you with me. And so I let you go peacefully, in my arms covered with love. It was by far the hardest thing I have ever had to do and the pain I feel is indescribable.

You were never just a dog to me or anybody who met you. You were never a tool or military property. I’ve always said I love you more than I love most people, and it’s true. You have shown and taught me so much in our time together and I will always wish we had more time. Our 5 years together went by way too fast, as time tends to do and I will cherish every memory of you.

Run fast and hit hard “Mama”. Know that I love you dearly and will miss you every day. Wait for me at the Bridge, I expect a big hug. I’ll see you soon.

 

MWD Zizi (L401)

US Navy, Retired

April 04, 2005 to September 23, 2014

SGT. Yeager

MWD Yanos

K9 Worf