Guardian of patrols: Afghan dog fights like Marine

From marines.mil

FORWARD OPERATING BASE PAYNE, Helmand province, Afghanistan

He defends Marines and sailors with love and tenacity, protecting them as any Marine would protect a brother-in-arms.  He is the epitome of man’s best friend, shielding service members from the enemy while providing companionship and camaraderie.  His name is Willy Pete, and he’s a warrior, a protector, a friend.  He’s also a dog…

Willy began to demonstrate the same protective traits of his mother as he grew.  He also learned how to patrol with the Marines, what a patrol formation was, and how to react when they came in contact with the enemy.  Willy has gone through three complete combat rotations since then as each LAR unit has taken charge of the area in the past two years.  

The veteran dog usually takes the lead when the Marines go on patrol now.  He stays in front until the Marines pass through the bazaar outside the combat outpost.  Local residents often look up in recognition of the dog, who seems to fancy himself a Marine.  Willy relocates to a new position once he establishes a clear path for the Marines and begins moving from one side of the patrol to the other, warning Marines of anyone’s approach with a quick bark or a low growl. 

Please read this whole, wonderful story here …