Final salute

  • Published
  • By 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  After countless missions in support of the War on Terrorism, Retired Military Working Dog Arco fell victim during his most recent and final battle--his battle against cancer. With a final salute from his fellow service members, Arco walked into the base vet for the last time April 14. Shortly after arriving at Tyndall, Arco's wingman, Staff Sgt. Axel Rodriguez-Rodriguez, 325th Security Forces Squadrons MWD trainer, became concerned over the dog's lack of desire for food or water. Veterinarians found several tumors in the Belgium Malinois during an exam in late February 2014. During his time in service, Arco deployed to United Arab Emirates and conducted base search pit duties searching approximately 10,000 vehicles during his time spent there. Arco also deployed to Balad, Iraq and conducted 88 combat missions outside the wire. During those combat missions, Arco found one improvised explosive device, several mortar tubes and numerous unexploded ordnances, which saved countless lives in the fight to counter terrorism. After retiring from service, Arco found a new home with Rodriguez. The 325th SFS Centurions provided their four-legged Airman a police escort onto Tyndall.