'Grandma Rose' hangs up leash after 10 years of service

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Nicole Sikorski
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  Airmen come in all shapes, sizes and colors--some even have paws.  Military working dog Kira from the 39th Security Forces Squadron plays a vital role in the safety and security of all personnel at Incirlik Air Base. 

After 10 years of dedicated service to the U.S. Air Force as a narcotic K-9, eight years of working at Incirlik AB, the two-foot tall, gray and brown haired Belgian Malinois is hanging up her police leash. 

Kira's former handler Staff Sgt. Alexandra Woodlee, 39th Security Forces Squadron MWD handler, will be making the transition to civilian life with Kira.

Woodlee looks forward to the next chapter in their lives at Ramstein Air Base when they both join her husband.

"I knew I would adopt her from the first day she was assigned to me," Woodlee said. "She's a great dog, and seeing all of the things she is capable of is amazing. Her skillset is a valuable one that a human couldn't bring to day-to-day operations."

She has mastered skills in controlled aggression, and as a police officer on Incirlik AB, Kira worked the midnight shift keeping the base free of illegal substances.
Kira, like all Airmen, was an Airman 24/7. However she managed to hang onto her 'doggy' ways.

Kira took her job seriously and from the time she woke up to the time she went to sleep, she maintained a military bearing. She was also energetic and playful in her off-time, and especially lite up in the presence of a tennis ball, but when it was time for business she immediately puts on her game-face, explained Woodlee. 

"She's really energetic," Woodlee said. "She loves everybody but she can control it very well."

Not only is Kira a hardworking Airman who brings a unique and experienced skillset to the squadron, but she has a stand-out personality that will be missed. 

"I nicknamed her Grandma Rose," said Tech. Sgt. Kenneth Fresquez, 39th Security Forces Squadron kennel master. "With her personality, she can act like a snobby old lady when she wants to. She's set in her ways."

In her retirement she will be chasing her tennis ball and going for walks as she enjoys her domestic life with Woodlee and their newborn on the way.