LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- The 47th Security Forces Squadron at Laughlin Air Force Base retired one of its oldest K-9 service dogs on Friday, Aug. 25.
During a ceremony at Anderson Hall, Major Matthew McGinnis, 47th SFS commander, retired Foxo, a nine year veteran who has served his country all around the world.
“It’s not often we get to retire our four-legged friends,” McGinnis said. “Foxo, however, has served his duty, and he’s ready for a long, great retirement.”
Foxo has seen action in both Afghanistan, where he assisted expeditionary forces in identifying trails and improvised explosive devices, and in Texas where he assisted Security Forces.
Staff Sgt. Cody Davidson, Military Working Dogs patrolman and Foxo’s handler for most of his service, has taken Foxo for many of his high-profile missions.
“He did two tours in Afghanistan, one of which he helped escort the Secretary of State across the country,” said Davidson. “Here in Texas, he helped identify a pineapple grenade that was left under a bridge in Eagle Pass, which told us to sweep and secure the entire area for any more hazards.”
With a certificate, salutes from the 47th SFS MWD team, and an excited bark, Foxo is ready to retire with days full of relaxation and fun.
“[Foxo] is a fantastic dog. He was not only my partner but my friend,” Davidson said. “I wish the best in his retirement, because he absolutely deserves it.”