Osan celebrates life of MWD Fanta

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Kristin High
  • 51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  The 51st Security Forces Squadron held a memorial service Aug. 10 to honor the life of a military working dog, Fanta.

"Sit, down, stay, heel, out, get'em," said Staff Sgt. Bernardo Cortes, 51st SFS MWD handler.

These are commands given to MWDs as they are trained and expected to perform the tasks desired.

"Fanta executed the commands with honesty, the greatest dedication and excellence I have ever seen as an MWD handler," said Cortes. "Fanta commanded respect and had a loving disposition about her. She brought me and so many others so much joy."

Fanta entered the MWD program on July 14, 2009, where she started training as a patrol explosive detector dog. Although detection was not her forte, she excelled in patrol work and was certified as a patrol dog on March 17, 2010, arriving to Osan AB a few months later.

"Fanta made a huge name for herself among the handler corps," said Cortes. "All seven of her past handlers knew her as a loving companion and eager to please. We regularly posted at night in the cold, keeping each other warm and she would always be watching and listening, ready to spring into action at a moment's notice."

Throughout her service, Fanta assisted with more than 25 arrests or detainments.

Fanta was an eight year-old German Shephard. She spent a total of eight years in active service, six of which were here.

"She put her life in my hands and I trusted her with mine," said Cortes. "Unfortunately, everything that has a beginning has an end. Fanta exemplified the Air Force core values through honesty, dedication and excellence. Rest easy, Momma. I'm proud to have called you my partner."

On June 25, she was diagnosed with cancer. On, July 28, 2015, Fanta ended her watch.