At Terma, we work closely with those who dedicate themselves to the protection of our way of life. Our commitment to developing technology that enhances safety, strengthens defense, and supports those on the front lines is deeply personal to us — because we know that lives depend on it.
Our advanced electronic warfare systems integrate sensors that detect threats the human eye can’t see and effectors that respond with agility to protect crews.
Military Working Dogs also play a vital role in protecting our troops, often by detecting invisible threats — much like Electronic Warfare Systems. Military Working Dogs and their handlers train together to identify these hidden dangers and recognize cues that alert troops to explosives, intruders, and narcotics. That’s why we recognize K9 Veterans Day — a day to honor the bravery, loyalty, and sacrifice of these incredible dogs and their dedicated handlers.
We had the privilege of speaking with Sergeant Austin Moore, a former 31K Military Working Dog handler for the U.S. Army. Sergeant Moore has firsthand experience with the bond between a handler and their K9 partner, as well as the critical role these teams play in military operations. We were honored to hear his story and gain insight into the life of a Military Working Dog handler.
How did you become a Military Working Dog handler?
I joined the Army in 2013 as a Military Police Officer. At the time, I didn’t even know military dog handlers existed. It wasn’t until after I completed basic training that I learned about the opportunity to become one. I loved dogs and knew I would enjoy working with them, so I jumped at the chance to volunteer. Fortunately, out of 15 candidates, I was one of six accepted into the program. I then went to Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, for training.
The 341st Training Squadron at Lackland Airforce Base is the epicenter of the Military Working Dog program. Known as the “Puppy Program”, the 341st is responsible for breeding about 13% of all DOD Military Working Dogs. About 50 to 90 puppies are born into the program every year. At Lackland, 10 MWD teams (handlers and dogs) are trained three times a year.
Tell us about your first experience as a Military Dog Handler.
I served as a handler for about nine years, and it was an amazing experience that allowed me to travel the world and work with many different departments.
My first assignment was in Stuttgart, Germany, where I was paired with Cubu. Together, we trained to become a certified explosives detection team.
What does it take to get certified as a Military Working Dog team?
Training with your K9 is essential for any assignment. Just as soldiers go through basic training, so do their K9 partners. While basic training ensures that the K9 meets minimum standards, additional preparation is required for the real-world, day-to-day tasks specific to their assignments. Handlers and their dogs work together to pick up on cues that help them understand each other’s behavior. Military Working Dog (MWD) training demands a great deal of learning and patience on both sides of the leash.
How many K9s did you work with and what were some memorable moments?
Throughout my career, I worked with five dogs: Cubu, Astor, Chengo, Bbailey, and Rudo. Astor and I were certified as a narcotics team and successfully secured bases throughout Europe.
Chengo and I were certified as a Patrol Explosive Detection team. Our job was to patrol military installations, work at vehicle checkpoints, and assist in search missions to locate explosive devices.
Rudo was my last assignment—and his first. Fresh out of the training program at Lackland Air Force Base, Rudo and I became certified as a Patrol Drug Detection Team.
I enjoyed working with all my dogs, but my most memorable moments were with Bbailey. She was born in the Puppy Program, and we were paired together during my time at Fort Moore in Columbus, Georgia.
Bbailey and I completed many missions together, including a nine-month deployment to Iraq. In 2017, we worked alongside the Secret Service to sweep vehicles at Mar-a-Lago Club for Christmas and New Year's events at President Trump’s estate. That year, Bbailey and I even got to have Christmas dinner at Mar-a-Lago.
We also assisted the Secret Service in searching and clearing Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, before the 2018 College Football National Championship Game. Turns out, Bbailey is a Bulldogs fan.
Bbailey in Georgia Bulldogs locker room with Georgia jerseys.
How did you and Bbailey support the mission while deployed in Iraq?
Bbailey and I were attached to an infantry unit to search for IEDs and explosive devices, as well as to provide a psychological deterrent. We both took great pride in helping to keep the platoon safe.
Sergeant Austin Moore and Bbailey securing building while deployed to Iraq.
What happens to Military Working Dogs after their service ends?
Once a dog reaches a certain age or level of health, they are retired from service. The current handler is generally given the first opportunity to adopt them. If the current handler is unable to adopt the dog, they are offered to previous handlers in order. Lucky for me and Bbailey, the timing worked out, and I was able to adopt her.
Like all MWDs, Bbailey is a Belgian Malinois, meaning she is very high-energy and smart. They thrive when they have a job, so it took her a few weeks to settle into civilian life. However, it didn’t take long before we found her snoring and sprawled out on the living room couch.
How can people support Military Working Dogs and their handlers?
There are organizations that specifically support deployed MWD teams. When Bailey and I were deployed, we both received goodie bags and essential items, like wet wipes, from the Military Working Dog Team Support Association (MWDTSA). It’s nice to know that people are thinking of you while you're deployed.
Sergeant Moore and Bbailey retired together from the U.S. Army in 2021, both after almost 9 years of honorable service. Bbailey spent her golden years as every hero should—in a loving home with a beautiful family.
By honoring K9 Veterans Day, we recognize the bravery and sacrifice of these incredible dogs and their handlers. At Terma, we remain committed to supporting the warfighter and ensuring they have the tools and resources needed to complete their mission and return home safely.
Bbailey enjoying the retired life in her backyard at home.
How to Support
The Military Working Dog Team Support Association (MWDTSA) has been supporting MWDs and their handlers since 2006. Each year, approximately 800 care packages are sent to MWD teams deployed in global combat zones. They are actively seeking program sponsors and volunteers. You can learn how to support MWDTSA by visiting their website at www.mwdtsa.org.
Terma Inc. is honored to support numerous Veteran organizations including, Honor Flight Middle GA, Fisher House Foundation, Medal of Honor Society, Wreaths Across America, among others.