Buster enjoys his retirement from active duty as an armament and explosive search dog /PeterCorns
Posted on 10/05/2011 5:38:01 AM PDT by afraidfortherepublic
SITTING proudly to attention, displaying a row of campaign medals on his chest, this RAF veteran is a military hero.
But now Air Dog Buster is retiring after braving bombs and bullets on five operational tours.
The nine-year-old English springer spaniel saw active service on two tours of Bosnia and two of Afghanistan, fitting in a few months in Iraq in between.
The arms and explosives sniffer dog lives with his handler, RAF Police Sergeant Michael “Will” Barrow, 45, and his wife, Tracy.
But he is not turning his back on military life – Buster will be the RAF Police mascot and already has the ceremonial black and red coat.
(Excerpt) Read more at express.co.uk ...
English Doggie Ping
Buster enjoys his retirement from active duty as an armament and explosive search dog /PeterCorns
Thank you for posting this wonderful story! The pictures at the link are just amazing. I laughed OUT LOUD at the last picture of Buster and his pals. They look like they could get into some fun-trouble, don’t they? Good for Buster... may his “retirement” be filled with lots of play, well deserved naps and love.
If he were an American service dog, he’d go on Napolitano’s watch list upon retirement.
Unbelievable. Only in America could this happen. Though - to be honest - the Brits would honor this hero as well.
I love these stories.
Wow, he blends right in!
Enjoy your rest, Buster, and thanks for your service!
I stupidly attributed this story to the Americans. It’s obviously a British dog. Kudos - yet again - to the Brits for honoring their war animals.
And when he came home he collected up all the dogs’ toys and became very protective of them.
Maybe it is just me, but I swear he looks happy in the pictures. Just happy with life. He is such a cool doggie!
I agree. He has an alert expression on his face as if he’s ready for the next adventure. He’s a real beauty.
Very rare to see this breed chosen as a military service dog..they’re generally viewed as not up to the stress and rigors...
Great story and photos! Thanks so much for posting it. I had a Springer for many years, and they are nice, loyal dogs.
Delightful story bump. Thanks, Joe.
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