A Career on the Front Lines

During his distinguished eight-year career, RRoddie served as a Dual-Purpose Patrol/Explosive Detection K-9. His service record stood as a testament to his immense skill and bravery:

Three Combat Tours: RRoddie completed two tours in Afghanistan and one in Iraq.

Special Operations: In Afghanistan, he was attached to multiple U.S. Army Special Forces Teams (ODA). In Iraq, he served with Special Operations Task Force 1, attached to the SPMAGTF-USMC.

Protecting the Commander-in-Chief: RRoddie completed over two dozen U.S. Secret Service missions. He stood watch over the President of the United States in Montenegro, Chile, Colombia, the Philippines, Korea, and in countless cities across America.

The Battle After the Uniform

When his time in uniform ended, RRoddie faced a new set of challenges. In retirement, he was diagnosed with Vestibular Syndrome (seizures) and underwent a Splenectomy due to a large mass.

Because medical care for retired K-9s was not covered by the government, the burden of his life-saving treatments was significant. RRoddie required frequent veterinary visits and emergency care, including a critical 48-hour stay to stop uncontrolled bleeding. In a single year, his specialized care totaled $7,533.01—costs that were fully covered by Project K-9 Hero to ensure this veteran lived with the dignity he had earned.

His Final Patrol

MWD RRoddie (R881) served his country with everything he had, from the dust of combat zones to the highest levels of presidential security. On July 19, 2025, he was solemnly interred at the Michigan War Dog Memorial, where he now rests among his brothers and sisters in arms.

Rest easy, RRoddie. Your watch is ended, and your legacy is forever secured.