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Honoring a fallen hero: MWD Nemo

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Abbigayle Williams
  • 90th Missile Wing Public Affairs

An empty kennel with a bowl and leash were placed on the stage during the memorial.

The kennel remains empty as a reminder of the sacrifice, bravery and dedication to the duty Military Working Dog Nemo had. The now unused leash and collar on top is a symbol of freedom Nemo has as he roams free with his fellow K-9s, as this world no longer binds him.

On this day, March 22, 2019, F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyo., said their final goodbye to MWD Nemo.

Lt. Col. Nicholas Petren, 90th Security Forces Squadron commander, said Nemo was just one of those dogs that brought extreme energy and devotion to their work. He was always happy to see his handler or any member of the kennel staff. 

Though Nemo only lived nearly five years, he was able to impact many Airmen at F.E. Warren AFB, and most notably his final handler, Senior Airman Tyrik Hannon, 90th SFS MWD handler.

“From the time I handled him, he taught me a lot of lessons. The first thing he taught me was patience. To perfect your craft you have to stay consistent with it,” said Hannon. “You can’t expect the dogs to learn anything if you don’t have patience. Up until the very end, the last lesson he taught me was time. No matter the age, everyone’s time is limited. Before during and after every shift I always told him I loved him. Don’t take any moment for granted. I love you Nemo, rest easy up there.”

During the memorial Senior Airman Kevin Santos, 90th Security Forces Squadron defender, read the poem, Guardians of the Night.

Additionally Staff Sgt. Kyle Snape, 75th Security Forces Squadron MWD handler, sent in a video in honor of Nemo.

 “We were a team in the winter of 2017,” said Snape. “Nemo, I appreciate you as a dog and as a companion. You taught me a lot as a handler. You will be greatly missed. Thank you Nemo. Rest easy buddy.”

MWD Nemo was diagnosed with kidney cancer and was eventually laid to rest due to the stark prognosis.

Finally, an American Flag was placed on the empty kennel and the final call was given.

Military Working Dog Nemo… Military Working Dog Nemo X443… Calling MWD Nemo. Military Working Dog Nemo X443 United States Air Force F.E. Warren Air Force Base this is your final call.

End of watch March 18, 2019.

Military Working Dog Nemo May 2014-March 2019.