MWD Andor retires with Master Sergeant owner

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Aaron-Forrest Wainwright
  • 22 Airlift Wing
5/20/2014 - MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kansas --  When Airmen prepare to separate, the Air Force ensures that they have the right tools and knowledge for the best transition experience possible. The same applies to those who didn't volunteer for their jobs, but honorably protect and defend their community alongside their wingmen.

Andor, a German Sheppard military working dog who has been assigned to McConnell for more than five years, shared his retirement ceremony with his new owner, retired Master Sgt. Anthony Mapes, 22nd Medical Squadron Dental Clinic.

Andor has deployed to combat zones in Iraq and Afghanistan and is experienced in detecting explosives, and finding missing people or suspects, but after being diagnosed with a heart murmur, it was time for Andor to hang up his collar. Mapes, who was approaching active duty retirement, adopted him.

"I joked that Andor and I should have a dual retirement, but then I got with the kennel master, Tech. Sgt. Martinez, and they were very helpful in making this happen," said Mapes. "We all came together and were able turn this into a reality."

Before Andor could retire, went through a transitional assistance program to prepare for 'civilian' life just like Airmen who retire or separate the Air Force do.

"Dogs must learn how to adapt into a regular lifestyle," said Tech Sgt. Tanya Martinez, 22nd Security Forces Squadron kennel master. "In 'doggie taps," dogs are no longer given commands used during combat or security. "They are exposed to people in a friendly environment where they can play, relax and just be a dog."

The duos' ceremony started with Andors' achievements read aloud. He was then handed over to Mapes and his family before Mapes official retired.

"He went from a military working dog, to just wanting love now," said Mapes. "He's a veteran, and I'm going to treat him as such. He's going to be by my side every step of the way."