MWD Bady (H-163)

MWD Bady (H-163) was born in April 2002. He entered military training in October 2004 and the United States Navy as a PEDD (Patrol Explosive Detection Dog) in April 2005. His first duty station was the Naval Submarine Base New London at Groton, CT.

In late 2005, Bady was deployed to Kuwait, spending several months patrolling for explosives. He deployed to Iraq in 2006, conducting the same duty. During this deployment, he served on several special operations with Navy SEAL Team 5, the 9th Engineering Support Battalion, and the 3rd Battalion/ 2nd Marines, Lima Company.

In 2007, Bady returned and was assigned to a new duty station: the Naval Air Engineering Group at Joint Base McGuire/Dix/Lakehurst in New Jersey.

In 2008, Bady was again deployed to Iraq and is credited with leading a patrol in the apprehension of 8 personnel on a Time-Sensitive Target scout mission. On another mission, he found (and bit) an Iraqi insurgent hiding in a “spider hole”. While on patrol, he alerted and uncovered 5 weapons, 2 bags of ammunition and a bag of propellant. His MWD Team was awarded The Army Commendation Medal.

In 2011, Bady was assigned to the 87th Security Forces Squadron, with handler Petty Officer John Winjum, who is here with us today. The Veterinary Corps decided in 2012 to retire Bady for medical reasons and he was then adopted out to Petty Officer Winjum.

Bady’s lifetime achievements include: 10 Secret Service Missions for the President and Vice-President of the United States and the President of China, participation in 3 Navy ”Fleet Week” traditions, 3 deployments in Operation Iraqi Freedom, and assistance in Operation Unified Response after the Haiti earthquake of 2010.

In 2013, Petty Officer Winjum was deployed. SSgt. McKenna Price agreed to care for Bady, having been a handler for the past 6 years, and he was housed with Price’s personal K-9 “Sidney”. Bady had a strong personality and was selective concerning whom he allowed into his pack. In later years, he was even able to tolerate most people. Although he’d lost his hearing, he overcame this adversity by napping in front of his “sister Sidney’s” crate. She became his “ears” and he knew exactly when SSgt

Price arrived home each day. He was awakened by the excited vibrations Sidney created and together they would run to greet McKenna. Walking was difficult for Bady, but he was still full of spirit and willpower during their daily strolls. On November 4, 2014 due to failing health, Bady passed on.

Those who knew and worked with Bady are very proud of his heroic accomplishments and he will be missed by many. Rest in Peace, K9 Warrior, until we meet again. Thank you for your service!

Petty Officer 2nd Class John Winjum

United States Navy