WARK9

Wanted to get these handsome fellows' faces out there as quickly as possible - ya know though ... the dogs are better lookin'

From left: Sgt. Larry Lack, Sgt. Tray Stephens, Sgt. Patrick Hahnlen, General Long (visiting), Ssg. John W. Hanna, Sgt. Aaron Barrier, Sgt. Al Felker and Sgt. Kelly Cole

OOOps, shrank this too much ... maybe I should leave it small so that flash smile of Roger's (Ssg. Goodspeed) doesn't blind anyone :) Don'tcha think this needs pics of all without the hats to go with bios? Yes, I am incorrigible, and proud of it. Pester 'em ladies. The fine-looking furry dude who's been with Roger for about 8 months is Brit. He's 6 years old, working bomb/patrol.

Rocko going for a bite (training). The Belgian Malinois is a very hyper breed. When they get excited, they like to spin on their hind legs. That can cause their tails to beat on kennel walls to the point of bleeding. Vets can try to fix the tails - the majority of the time they are cropped. Tray handles Rocko.

Malinut
Pronunciation: "mal'-i-nut"
Function: noun
Date: 1995
1: affectionate name for the variety of a breed of squarely built working dogs known as the Belgian Shepherd, having relatively short hair with a dense undercoat, fawn to red with black points and overlay. Characterized by their zeal for life and sense of humor.
2: a fancier of the Belgian Malinois.
Called also: Malinois, Mechelaar, Mechelse Herder, Belgian Shepherd
Etymology: French, one from Malines (from Malines (Mechelen), Belgium) Old High German, nuz nut and perhaps Latin nux nut. - Merriam Woofster

Found link (one of hundreds) on search as Helen recommended, "I was reading about the Mals, and how they were having their tails docked, to stop them from banging them against the kennels. Rush isn't quite that nuts, but when Beth tells him to do the Malinois, he jumps straight up in the air, above her head. It's funny to watch. Another thing about Mals, they don't react to pain like a normal dog. Rush has scars all over him. He'd get hurt on a search and never complain. Beth spends a lot of time stitching him up. BTW, they're referred to as Malinuts. When you get a chance, do a search for Malinuts, honest. If Rush is an example of most Mals, they are the smartest K9s on the planet."

Helen is my civilian expert, see more and her search and rescue link several places below.

Cain, a.k.a. Bubba, not to be confused with my two-legged Bubba, a.k.a. Mike ... although, Patrick tells me the nickname is for his "too-goofy" moments, hmmm ... too perfect, Bubba Sr. has a Jr. now. Cain is a 5-year-old shepherd, explosives- and patrol-trained. He had a bad ear infection when he was a pup. It killed the majority of the blood vessels at the base of the ear, leaving it crooked.

Patience please, I'll get 'em all on here a.s.a.p. In the meantime, check out Patrick's own site, http://www.k9mp.8k.com - great pics (including celebs). Some of the dogs not pictured here are there, and you can see what they do in their spare time.

What can I say? Waited all this time (since day one) for a K-9 soldier, why not grab a whole unit! OK, I will share, in fact I'd like to see these guys and the dogs spoiled rotten. If they get too much stuff, they can pass some along. This unit will remain as the primary focus. Input welcome from all K-9, happy to list snail and e-addresses too, for home and away.

Update: I have found it impossible to keep up with all my guys and addresses (e-mail and sites). However, I'm leaving links as they are. When checking, sometimes they work, sometimes not - that's simply the way it is on the 'net.

http://uswardogs.org/id40.html
As of 12-9-04, the above is most reliable link for sending care packages. Anything is appreciated any time. Food, necessities and extras ideas are listed for dogs and handlers. Site is approved and recommended by my contact at Lackland AFB.

Make it Christmas for the troops all year! Below are links that were set up specifically for holiday greetings. I'm leaving as is, and will add new info as it becomes available. At least one of the sites is setting up for Valentine messages.

The motive for holding out for K-9 was simple. While every soldier does his or her part and each is equally important, I have the greatest respect for anyone lucky enough to establish the kind of communication it takes to handle these magnificent creatures. Frankly, I have always liked dogs better than most people and have little in common with anyone who doesn't like animals (read that: why bother?). I certainly get along better with critters - there's almost never been a dog I didn't like. Any time an animal has a problem with people, it's people who caused the problem.

Public awareness is the secondary reason for my choice and this page. Most people probably don't know these units exist or have any idea what they do. As time goes on the guys will be contributing more pics and stories. For a general explanation, they are military police. The dogs have special training in narcotics and explosives detection. Any time I'm able to publish "hero" news, it reflects well on the entire animal population. I get a lot of satisfaction out of pushing humane education and values as my end of the deal.

Most of us are, by now, familiar with the significant roles the search and rescue teams played. Incidentally, to the dogs, work is play. They are chosen for their natural instincts. Example: the retriever who, simply, will not give up on catching the "prize" - under any condition. Training and practice fine-tunes "fun" to specific need.

From Helen, http://www.geocities.com/hck9sar/ - Hendricks County K-9 Search and Rescue coordinator (more info below), "All dogs have the natural instinct for survival, that's why they exist. Any dog, usually, except sight dogs, can be trained for search. Much depends on the desire to please, and drive. Referred to as 'ball drive.' A ball is thrown to see if the dog is interested. Ha, throw a pork chop, that'll get attention, kidding of course. The point: what excites one doesn't mean it will excite all. I have always had a problem with the stereotypical attitude with the word play. Even though it is play. Every canine I have ever known in search, has known the difference between training and actual. When the job is real, it becomes serious. Know that canines have that intuition, and are close enough to their handlers to pick up the difference.

"In order to teach a dog, you have to be able to think like one. Good luck. This is true, I promise. Take contagious behavior - one dog barks, only he knows why, then all bark, simply because one barked. The others don't know why, seemed like a good idea at the time.

"Often mimics people, doesn't it? So, theoretically, (may be Pavlovian), if we know dogs, maybe we can figure out people. Nah, I like dogs."

Canine service to man has been overlooked and under-appreciated for far too long. The dogs are the stars. The person - military, police or civilian - who happens to be holding the other end of the lead is there only to give directions and to keep the dog from overworking and out of danger. Canine abilities are nothing short of awesome. Ponder this ... dogs work the final cargo security check for Air Force One.

Another good think-on: Bub and I were discussing the recognition/appreciation positives when he said, "Dogs are real soldiers, they have rank." I didn't know that.

Tray confirmed, "One rank above the handler. Rocko is Ssg." I say, all right!

Roger added, "It is somewhat of a lost thing. It depends on where you go whether or not they will have rank.

Little side: I already had "person ... holding the other end of lead" on the page when I started wondering if the guys might take offense, get "ranky," or something. Ranky's not a word of course, you know what I mean. Basically those were Helen's words from a conversation a while back. Now we know why no offense taken :) In any case, when I'd asked about the attitude earlier, they said they felt the same way. In fact, Tray had a good respect comment to be added when I have new pics posted shortly. Can I pick 'em or what? As I get to know each one a little better, "mom" here is prouder and prouder. Don't you guys even think about calling me that!

"It's amazing to hear that people out there actually appreciate what we are doing. It's also nice to hear from people period. Just to let you know, every one of us here love our jobs, and our country or we would not be here. We are not doing anything out of the ordinary, we just love what we are doing for our country. What better way to serve than to be a dog handler."

The one negative to be addressed here is prior treatment. Hundreds of dogs were left in Vietnam as expendable equipment. There are several wonderful tribute and memorial sites (linked on previous WAR pages: http://www.therealmartha.com/WAR/index.htm) authored by handlers. No matter how they felt about leaving their dogs, there was nothing any one of them could do. Their hearts were broken but what guy is actually going to put those words in print?

There was a helluva lot wrong with Vietnam, no argument there. There is absolutely no excuse for disregard of life - a complete disgrace, never to be lived down, forgiven or forgotten.

The idiot who made that "call" has to be roasting in perdition, even if still on earth. Certainly no one with a soul could have been responsible. Thanks to the 'net, this kind of info and hindsight is available to anyone who cares. Do your part to circulate the enlightenment.

As of April, most of these guys have been reassigned. Communication has not been the best - will post new info as soon as possible.

Update #2: Tray is in Cuba, with a promotion (Rocko too!). Still having difficulty keeping in touch. New pics on the way a.s.a.p.
New address:

He'll be going to Lackland AFB in Texas in about six months to train new handlers.

Bonus from a reader, "Here is address of the K9 unit I found on the Any Soldier site."

SSgt Anthony P Caskey
Attn: Any Airman
376 AEW / ESFS / K-9
APO AE 09353
Good as of 11-04-04: http://www.anysoldier.us/index.cfm

General note: Nobody knows for sure where they're going be for any length of time. However, as above with Tray, if SSgt Caskey is gone, surely somebody else should be there to enjoy goodies. You'll find the latest, best list on the link above.

They need all kinds of personal things that never seem to be available even when they should be. For instance, when the new guys arrive, they get first crack at the new stuff. Following is a general suggestion list, send your ideas too. And don't forget the dogs! Also find a list of greeting links below you can use to send mail through or post messages on pages to any service member. These guys' personal e-addys are also below.

After holiday note from Tray: Tell everyone who sent things thank you and it was a big help for us.

Reminder - direct, fast communication isn't always available or reliable. Please be patient and understanding while waiting for personal replies. Most important, it's our job to support the troops, not the other way around. We have no idea what they're doing, or why, or even where they are in a lot of cases. It's none of our business anyway. Keep on sending notes and whatever else comes to mind, and know that all efforts are appreciated.

Don't seal boxes, they have to be inspected* (see below, maybe not) at the post office. I have more suggestions on a couple of pages, the following, from WA - A mixed bag, will give you a start. Best thing is to ask any ex-service person what would have been most appreciated. Bub suggested boot socks - Tray confirmed they were, indeed, still always in short supply.

Hard candies - Sarah (http://members.tripod.com/adoptsoldier) said her dad used to love getting Lifesavers - double meaning there
Snack foods: Pringles, cereal and power bars, nuts, dried fruit, beef, mini-muffins ... choices are endless
Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, lotion, chapstick, soap, eye drops
Clothing: socks (specifically thick boot socks), underwear, handkerchiefs - there is always a need, sand cuts fibers, especially when laundry is beaten on a rocks - yes they do that
Books (anything but romances - that comment from a guy - female adoptees may very well enjoy a bodice-ripper escape)
Playing cards, dice, baseballs
Magazines, crosswords, other puzzle books
Notepaper, pens, pencils
Audiobooks (with batteries and a tape player, blank tapes for recording to send home too), tapes: compilation of music, home radio shows
Prepaid phone cards
Blank birthday and anniversary cards for those who have family back home - and/or you might offer to do the "remembering"
Vitamins
Drink mixes: Kool-aid, Gatorade, coffee, tea, hot chocolate, hot cider - anything to help the taste of water (it gets cold at night in the desert too)
Band-Aids, anti-itch stuff, sun block/sunburn relief
Plastic tableware
Dry coffee creamer, sugar cubes/sugar substitute packets
Newspapers
Instant packets like soup (bouillon cubes too) or oatmeal
Wet Ones or the like in single packets
Foot powder, after shower talc
Harmonicas and kazoos
One-use cameras or find out if they have a camera and what kind of film it takes http://hometown.aol.com/adoptsoldiercpi/CPI.html - More ideas

Specific requests from female sailors have been made for bootie-type slippers, knit or crochet. I'm quite sure my feet would always be cold living in a bucket. Hats, scarves and gloves are also needed, don't forget the guys: http://www.angelfire.com/il2/ruglady/index11.html

Hot Chocolate Mix
11 c. powdered milk
1 c. confectioners' sugar
11 oz. Coffee-Mate
2 lbs. Nestle Quick powder
4 tbsp. cocoa powder
1 sm. box instant chocolate pudding
(Could add mini marshmallows as well)

Mix all ingredients well and store in an airtight container. In any size cup, use 1/3 mix to 2/3 hot water.

*From Jennie, a Navy mom of two and vet herself, hubby too, "I checked with the post office in Ft. Worth, where I live, and they said they are not inspecting packages to APOs/FPOs. They can be sealed up before taking them in for mailing. Maybe it depends on where one lives about the inspection thing? I'm gonna try to make it over to the Navy base here and check with them as well. Will let you know what they tell me. Best bet, check with your local post office." That will save a lot of trouble, and waiting in line. Also means you can wrap individual items - much more fun! Let me know what's happening where you live.

As promised: "I just checked with the post office at the Navy base in Ft. Worth. They said to the best of their knowledge, no package inspections are happening before mailing. They also said, any packages being shipped to APOs/FPOs are subject to inspection at any time. Still best bet, check with local post office to be sure. If sending baked goodies, be sure to include a list of ingredients on the inside of package (allergy alert), or the recipe, so if the package is inspected, they know what is inside. Recipes also give the recipients the opportunity to make the same baked goodies if/when they have the chance to do so." Thank you Jennie.

Also, send recipes that you know travel well for me to add here. Have one that looks really good - not too sure how the butter would do - anybody have a report? MarthaJones1@aol.com subject line: WAR recipe

See note at the bottom of page about e-mail problems to avoid, as in I have to delete if I don't recognize name and subject line is not specific - too much spam wasting time already. Virus/worms still a huge problem too, can't risk unknowns.

Interesting: Answers a bit about the egg-travel question, and I hadn't thought about the allergy factor. Golden Chocolate International Inc. of New York has recalled its Raisin Pound Cake due to undeclared egg content (posing a hazard to people with allergies). It has a shelf life of 7 to 14 days.

Just sent first package on its merry way, from our regular private box place - no problems. I had left it open in case.

Had a disturbing notice from one of the "any service member" site managers. She is closing her PO box due to packages from people who expected them to be forwarded. That offer was never made, "I've requested on the site and e-mail lists several times that this not be done. It continues to happen, I have to assume that our address has been published somewhere and is being distributed."

From Lois: "I did not see anything about filling out a customs form. You might want to give folks a heads up on that one. It is PS Form 2976-A and you get them at the post office. I always keep a stack of them at home since I mail a lot of stuff to my friends overseas."

I do recall info going around earlier about the customs form. Haven't seen anything for a long while now. I asked Lois to double-check for me. Might be different rules for military (APOs/FPOs) and/or in/out of war zones.

From Elizabeth: "Be careful sending cakes or anything similar unless it is already packaged (like mini-muffins and stuff). My mother sent my husband Rum cakes when he was on his Med cruise and when he got the box he had "Chia" cakes instead. Also, clothes make great cushioning for cookies. I used to buy my husband shirts and jeans and then wrap the cookies in them. (Trust me when I say they would rather have clothes smell like cookies then ships laundry!!) They also like to get homemade cards and pictures from the little ones. My husband said that those went quicker then the cookies. Believe it or not, they really do decorate with pictures made by the kids."

This is one of my favorite graphics. OPattiAnn@aol.com made it for me after I saw something similar but done very poorly. Patti added the background and spiffed it up otherwise in her very special way. Unfortunately, I do not have a credit for the text. If anyone knows who wrote the original, please tell me.

Update: Too cool! The original author contacted me, find proper credit and why he wrote the poem here: http://www.therealmartha.com/WAR/index.htm, includes a link to his Patton Society site.

Update: Find longer version of the above - http://www.raskys.com/vwelcome.html with first appearance credit to The Special Forces Association Magazine, "The Drop" - Fall 1998 issue.

It is with great pleasure that we award the WAR site with our first *All American Award* from K9 Web World E-Zine!

The truly successful person doesn't use others, other people use the successful person.

If you can contribute to others, no matter how small your talent, you too can become successful. The measure of anyone is the number of people that they serve.

Service to others is the essence of success.
No one achieves success without being of service.
All great men and women became successful because they gave some talent or ability in the service of others.

Everybody has to be somebody to somebody else, to be anybody.
�2001 MotivationMentor@aol.com

TheBub brought up the idea of adopting a soldier's family too. At the least, anyone can make it their business to check in on neighbors and friends. Pay screw-ups or any number of problems may exist. Pride often stops people from asking for help. Remember, the soldiers have each other, there's a great big hole left at home. No one can fill mom or dad's spot of course, but it's a safe bet newly "single" parents will appreciate almost any gesture. Take the kids for ice cream, to a movie, fly a kite or make a big deal out of walking the dog. Use your imagination - hey, if nothing else, you'll have a brand new audience for the stories your own family has heard a million times.

Regarding metal content (using coffee cans to pack goodies as some recommend): "The metal cans would warrant customs to open the boxes before delivery. This might hold up your carton or stuff may be missing from the inside when it gets to its final destination. Customs regulations for food are really strict. Better to send baked goodies wrapped in foil and/or zipper bags, packed in a smaller box so they don't get crushed inside the big one. Foil (packets) OK, it's see-through. I would try to stay away from regular food all together ... if a glass jar breaks, it will spoil and ruin whatever else is in the package," from Heather (who had the patience of a saint putting up with all my questions).

Mike said oatmeal cookies with raisins were always most prized. Use M & Ms for less messy chocolate chips. Rice Krispies treats were another favorite (recipe below). I have already promised the following recipe (with a note: Think chewy, gooey and millions of calories). There are similar recipes all over, this is a family hand-me-down. I still have not come across the exact set of ingredients anywhere else. Just one problem, soooo good you may be on the hook forever :)

Spoon light or dark brown sugar into one-half cup Karo corn syrup (light or dark) until the Karo gets to the one cup mark. Heat just to a boil in a large sauce pan. Take the pan off the burner and stir in one cup crunchy peanut butter. Then add three cups Special K cereal and mix until just coated, not pulverized. Dump into one large or two small cake pans (disposable - or line a pan with wax paper); press out evenly, using a butter wrapper or wax paper to protect fingers.

Ordinarily, next, you would melt one 6 oz. package each semi-sweet chocolate and butterscotch bits together over very low heat. Could do it over a double boiler if you ever heard of such a thing but it's not necessary. Spread on top of the other stuff. For sending, just include the bags, should be melty enough by the time they arrive to squeeze out.

Note: Since they were going to cold country, I frosted as usual - made it just fine, "It's all gone already, the two pans of goodies went like the wind." Took about 10 days to get there, not too bad considering the time of year.

On one recipe list, someone said she included cans of ready to spread frosting with cakes. I'm not a baker, but obviously a light cake wouldn't be the best choice. Pound cake or the like from a bakery (check expiration dates) would probably make it in reasonably good condition; even safer would be the little bags of mini-muffins and brownies.

Popcorn ships light and doesn't spoil or crush. Another someone said she popped it, added butter flavored Pam and salt, then put it in zipper bags. "It also worked well for a good packing material for cookies (separately wrapped)." Popcorn cookies also travel well.

Google Search: recipe for popcorn cookies

Popcorn Cookies
from Elam
4 teaspoons margarine, melted
1 1/2 cups minced popped corn
2 egg whites
2/3 cup of sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla
blanched, toasted almonds

Add margarine to popped corn. Beat egg whites until stiff. Add sugar gradually. Add to corn mixture. Add salt and vanilla. Drop mixture from teaspoon onto greased cookie sheet. Shape into rounds. Decorate with nuts. Bake at 325� for 7 minutes.

Rice Krispies Treats
3 tablespoons margarine
1 package (10 oz., about 40) regular marshmallows or 4 cups miniature
6 cups Rice Krispies� cereal
vegetable cooking spray

Melt margarine in large saucepan over low heat. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted. Remove from heat. Add cereal, stir until well coated.Using buttered spatula or waxed paper, press mixture evenly into 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan coated with cooking spray. Cut into 2-inch squares when cool.

Marshmallow Creme Directions
Melt margarine in large saucepan over low heat. Add 1 jar (7 oz.) marshmallow creme and stir until smooth. Cook and stir constantly 5 minutes longer. Remove from heat. Continue as directed in steps 2 and 3 above.

Microwave Directions:
Microwave margarine and marshmallows on high 2 minutes in microwave-safe bowl. Stir to combine, nuke on high 1 minute longer. Stir until smooth. Add cereal. Stir until well coated. Press into pan as directed in step 3.

     1 1/2 c graham cracker crumbs
     1 box powdered sugar (1 lb.)
     1 1/2 c peanut butter
     1 c butter
     1 pkg. chocolate chips (12 oz)

Mix first 4 ingredients together. Press into pan or onto cookie sheet. Melt chocolate in microwave and pour on top. Let top harden and cut into squares.

Melt the butter in a sauce pan. Add the brown sugar and syrup. Stir in the oats mixing well. Spread the batter in a 11 by 7 inch pan. Bake at 350 for 20 to 25 minutes.

Peanut Butter Oat Treats

1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted
1/3 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 cup oatmeal, not instant

In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, peanut butter,and brown sugar. Stir well. Add oatmeal and stir well. Roll mixture into 1-inch balls, place on waxed paper. Makes 20 treats

To measure dry ingredients, use individual cups in graduated sizes - 1 cup, 1/2, 1/3 and 1/4 cup - in metal or plastic.

To measure flour, stir it a bit right inside the package, then gently spoon into exact-size cup until overflowing. Level off with spatula or knife. Be careful not to shake cup, tap on counter or otherwise pack down flour.

Spoon nuts, coconut or small fruit into cup and pack down lightly.

Pack brown sugar, fats and solid shortening firmly ... or, as above with the Karo and brown sugar, liquid first, then dry. Or, for instance, for 1/2 cup shortening, fill to half with water, then add solid to raise water level (pour off after measure). Teeny bit less waste that way too.

Use large eggs in all recipes. I would not use eggs in anything going overseas, still waiting for butter reports.

Use cookie sheets at least two inches narrower and shorter than your oven for proper heat circulation.

Always place dough on a cool cookie sheet (dough spreads on a hot one).

Bake one sheet at a time, using center rack unless recipe states otherwise. Fill another sheet while the first is in the oven.

Check at the minimum baking time. One minute can make a difference. More important than specified time is look, feel and smell.

I have this thing with the leadership here that really has me chapped in the butt. I arrived in Bosnia back in September to replace one dog handler from my base who was getting out of the Army. I was on the next rotation so I was sent early so he could do what he had to do to get out. On that note, the command here was 3ID from Ft. Steward, Ga. and they had morale things set up for soldiers.

One of the morale things was the general had beer night once a month. They could buy two beers once a month and drink them at the little club here on post. Now I had never seen any one get out of hand off two beers. It was a morale booster for them and if you didn't drink it was a social event to look forward to.

But since our new general has taken over, he took that away. But he allows soldiers to go to Budapest on pass to drink and get drunk and be in an area were the locals don't really like us and it's very expensive. Now what sense does that make? You trade two beers for a drunk and out-of-control solider in a danger zone.

Plus on Veterans Day we didn't have anything going on. Now out of all days of the year this day should have been the best. But nope it was a normal duty day. They had some war heroes here but you to meet them like at 8 that night. With all due respect ... after working a 12- to 14-hour day, I have to do it all over again the next day.

And Thanksgiving again a normal duty day and as far as we know, Christmas and New Year's will be the same. Now I have no problem with working holidays - it's my job. But due to my job I can't go on pass or leave because if a dog goes down like one is now, we will be hurting big time. And it would just be nice to get half days or slight duty days for the holidays because we are not the only ones here to where we are short-numbered.

Your comments welcome, military or civilian. Please see e-mail caution notes at the end of this page.

Mine-Sniffing Dogs Head to Lebanon to Save Lives
by Susan Rubinowitz

The U.S. State Department sent six highly trained canine heroes to war-torn Lebanon to sniff out deadly land mines in an effort to save human and animal lives.

The dogs, called the "K9 Demining Corps,’’ were sent to Lebanese handlers who have been trained by the United States. It was the latest contribution in a U.S. program that’s cast hundreds of dogs as heroes in the fight to eradicate an estimated 100 million buried land mines in 65 countries across the globe.

An unknown number of the hidden killers are in Lebanon, a country torn by a 16-year civil war that ended in 1991 and now partly occupied by the Arab terrorist group called Hezbollah. The United States has contributed more than $100 million to defusing mines in various countries, $2.3 million for Lebanon.

Paul Irwin, president of the Humane Society of the United States, has endorsed the dog recruiting effort because injuries to the animals that sniff out the mines are rare, said Dr. Randall Lockwood, Humane Society vice president for research and education outreach.

Detect, Retreat, Freeze

The dogs are trained to detect the odor of explosives, then retreat and freeze. It’s the human experts who move forward and either defuse or safely detonate the mine, Lockwood said. The Humane Society also embraced the program because it will save the lives of thousands of animals, he said.

In many war-torn nations, the threat that deadly mines could be looming anywhere, ready to maim or kill, stops children from going to school or their parents from walking to the village market, said Lockwood. And for every human life taken, an estimated 20 to 50 animals – livestock and wildlife – are killed by a live mine, he said.

Most of the Lebanon-bound dogs, trained by companies like Global Humanitarian Demining in Washington, D.C., are German shepherds, but one is a Belgian Malinois, and there’s a new effort to recruit other breeds – including mutts – in the lifesaving effort, according to Lockwood.

Respect for Animals

Having the nations that are plagued by old mines start training their native dogs for the task also helps teach more respect for the animals, he said. "This is often the way for countries that may not recognize the special role dogs play in our country to experience that special bond,’’ he said.

Most dogs that show a good sense of smell and concentration can be trained for the task, according to Lockwood, a specialist in animal behavior and dog training. "It’s being done in Southeast Asia and Iraq,’’ he said. "You don’t need a guard dog to sniff.’’

The nonprofit Humpty Dumpty Institute, based in New York City, raised the $125,000 to train the latest cadre of lifesaving dogs largely because of the efforts of board member Bill Rouhana, chairman of Windstar Communications and his wife, Amy Newmark, said Paul Chatalas, institute spokesman .

At their wedding, the couple asked invitees to contribute to the training of the six dogs, instead of buying the newlyweds gifts. The institute was set up to find private-sector solutions to public policy problems, or to "put the pieces back together again,’’ Chatalas said.

From Tray, "I think it's great what they are doing to help that country. We are in the same situation in Bosnia. There are more than 1 million mines here from the war that ended in '95. We are using American dogs for the American mission here, and we train the locals how to train their dogs to locate explosives and mines. Giving them dogs to start their program is fine but we are giving them something they can get from their own country. Dogs are everywhere. Yes, we like certain breeds - most dogs have the ability to sniff out (and distinguish odors) if they are properly trained."

Smoky pulled a string with vital phone wires attached under a taxi strip preventing the need to place 40 US fighter and recon planes in peril of destruction by enemy bombings. The three-day digging task to place the wires was instead completed by this little dog in two minutes.

http://www.pupsforpeace.org/ - Pups for Peace, a common sense, innovative program being developed for a previously nonexistent problem: the wide-scale use of suicide (homicide) bombings and bombing attacks against a civilian population.

Next on my list: Contacting Walgreens, K-mart, etc. about running special care package goodies sales. I bet at least one of the biggies will jump at the idea. In the meantime, anyone can go bug local managers. Walgreens' sale on boot socks and hand warmers recently popped the idea - check their flyers for the coupon deals, especially on house brands. They also run big fat, individually cello-wrapped muffins at two for a buck. Can't say much for the chocolate variety, the others are great. Thinking if you wanted to wrap them yourself, when inspected at the other end, opening one might satisfy for the lot. Now of course you could eat one, then pack the wrapper to show ingredients. Who knows? I doubt the inspectors really want to ruin the fun. Make it easy on 'em.

Check out the clearance bins at any department store. You'll find all sorts of small items anyone can enjoy. Some might be a little goofy - silly is fun for "stuffers" - stocking-type or fill in the care package holes. Colorful/seasonal socks and accessories, hand-held games, odd decks of cards, picture frames, CD and GameBoy cases - all this and more can be found at one time or another. Don't forget the female troops - hair items, end/odd-lot make-up, joke jewelry (skip anything you wouldn't wear). Sample sizes of lotion, fragrance, almost any personal item can be appreciated by men and women.

Note: Tray* (24, 6' 1", 210 lb.) and Patrick (28, tallest in pic above) are single :) Some of the other guys are too - waiting on their OKs to use individual e-addys. More stats and bios coming soon too - see Tray's extra info below and Aaron's on next page.

I happen to be an incurable matchmaker. This may have started 300 years ago when I had all my high school girlfriends writing to the guys in my brother's outfit in Vietnam. It was soooo much fun to flirt with "older" men. Gawd, we're all old enough now to be these guys' mothers. Use your own judgment, and be nice. Everybody can always use an extra friend or two - you don't have to flirt, just say hey. The world really is pretty small after all, you may find out you already have pals in common.

Since most of the other pen-pal set ups seem to disapprove of dating services, I may set up a special page for any single who wants a military mail exchange. Already have one little "agency" going anyway - it's still pretty new - only recently figured out how to run it my way (classy listings, not tacky ads) on the 'net. Info/questions: MarthaJones1@aol.com or MsAtte2ude@aol.com - subject line: WAR singles. Do be aware that my former in-person clients, in a very small town, knew me as Sheriff Attitude. Nobody got away with playing games then and I have no intention of putting up with any now.

*Tray, from Macon, Ga., holds a BA in education - went into the Army after two years of college in Ga. He's been in five years, stationed at Ft Carson, Co., Panama and Puerto Rico. He worked as a regular patrol man and SRT member, which is SWAT team for the civilian side PSD - security for a general, like Secret Service does for the President before moving on to K9. "Hopefully be going to Germany one day."

Just to give you an idea how much all our troops need support, Melissa sent this after writing to an "Any service member" link from some I'd sent around to newsletters before doing this page.

Do you believe I posted a message last night and received a response already:

Hello. I am Petty Officer M. K. (waiting on permission to use his full name and location), currently stationed in Italy. Some of my co-workers and I had come across letters that where posted addressed to any service member. I wanted to extend my thanks and appreciation. I have been away from my family for three years now, and at times I feel forgotten about and isolated from my fellow Americans. Everyone offers our thanks for your letters. They give us the motivation to keep the Navy flying 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Sending a simple "Hi" is about as easy as it gets. I have to say, after finally getting my care package in the mail, it was exactly what I needed to get the holidays rolling right. Try it, you'll like it too. If money is tight (if??? - dumb question, have slapped self) - send the Sunday paper, pick up a couple of used paperbacks, ask for extra ketchup packets and such at the drive-through. I threw in a couple of jingle bells (oops, spoiled that surprise) and some other small stuff to fill in holes. Cut out snowflakes, snowpeople, trees, stars, whatever - let the kids color or make up anything else decorative that comes to mind. Any simple reminder of home goes a long way. BTW, on the homemade edibles - you will feel most virtuous and unfat by not piggin' on a whole batch - just save yourself a little stash. Sneaky ain't I ...

Nut that I am for new words - in light of the incredible amount of BS thrown by the media, and the war connection, this should be a fun one for play. Find more service-related trivia/info and funnies on other WAR pages: http://www.therealmartha.com/WAR/index.htm

furphy (FUR-fee) noun: a rumor

After the Furphy family of Victoria, Australia, manufacturer of Furphy carts, for water or trash. These carts where used during World War I, around which troops gathered and exchanged gossip. This word was formed in much the same way as scuttlebutt, from nautical terminology. A scuttlebutt was an open cask of drinking water, a favorite meeting place of the crew to swap stories. From http://wordsmith.org, Word-a-Day newsletter

"If this doesn't make you stand and salute (literally or metaphorically) you need your ass kicked," from forwarded intro.

I have no idea who the author credited below is, or even if he's legit. No matter, I liked the piece, and will add it to a future page also. Asked the guys to vote for it here and to add anything they thought of too.

"This is good but it needs to amplify the hatred for Jane Fonda expressed by the military. That bitch needs to be tranquilized and sent to Afghanistan as a gift to the Taliban. She has no business calling herself an American!!" From Ssg. Roger Goodspeed, britroger@hotmail.com (It would make Roger's day to hear from herself.)

Side note before reading on: If you have not seen the protest going around about "Hanoi Fonda" being honored as one of the "100 Women of the Century," I'll be happy to send a copy. Or, go to http://www.snopes.com/inboxer/outrage/fonda.htm for more.

Also on that page, find a reference to Mike Benge, who is pictured on http://www.therealmartha.com/WARJingostill/index.htm (POW/MIA focus), in the bamboo cage he and other former POWs take around the country and to DC for various functions and on veterans holidays. The live display raises public awareness and funds for SEARCH Inc. (233 Richter Road, Bourbon MO, 65441), an organization that sends teams around the world looking for information and 'Live POW's.

Claim: During a 1972 trip to North Vietnam, Jane Fonda propagandized on behalf of the North Vietnamese government, declared that American POWs were being treated humanely and condemned U.S. soldiers as "war criminals" and later denounced them as liars for claiming they had been tortured.

Back to the recruiter: So you want to be in the military now?!?! Now I know that the current affairs of our great nation have many of you civilians up in arms and excited to join my military. Even though your intentions are well, and you might very possibly make it into the service, there are some things that we need to clear up/get straight first before we even consider you.

1) Next time you see someone (an adult) talking during the playing/singing of the National Anthem ... kick their ass.

2) When you witness firsthand someone burning my American Flag in protest ... kick their ass. If you see this on television, as many of us have, you are simply required to have a deep burning suddenly arise inside of you ... then go and kick their ass. Our forefathers did not intend freedom of speech to be the "get out of jail free" card for an act of a traitor.

3) Regardless of the rank they maintained while they served, pay the highest amount of respect to all veterans. If you see anyone doing otherwise, quietly pull them aside and explain how these veterans fought for the very freedom the confused bask in every second. Enlighten them on the many sacrifices veterans made to make this nation great. Then hold the idiot down while the veteran kicks their ass.

4) If you are not in the military, do not pretend that you are. Wearing battle dress uniforms (BDUs), telling others that you used to be "Special Forces" and collecting G.I. Joe memorabilia might be OK if you were still 7 - now it will only get your ass kicked. (Veterans are exempt from this rule.)

5) If you witness someone calling an enlisted Marine, "Sir," stand back ... the Marine will kick their ass.

6) Next time you come across an Air Force member, do not ask them, "Do you fly a jet?" You are ignorant if you ask this. A Marine will be called to kick your ass. (Children are exempt.)

7) Roseanne Barr's singing of the National Anthem is not a blooper ... it was a disgrace and disrespectful. Laugh, and sooner or later, your ass will be kicked.

8) Next time Old Glory prances by during a parade, get on your damn feet and pay homage to her and the military member or veteran lucky enough to carry her. Your stupid funnel cake will forgive you if you stand for five minutes with your hand over your heart. You might as well be throwing the funnel cake at the flag if you don't stand ... of course, either will earn you a severe ass-kicking.

9) What Jane Fonda did about Vietnam makes her the enemy ... hate her or else. (Ass will be kicked.) http://www.snopes.com/inboxer/outrage/fonda.htm.

10) Don't try to talk politics to a military member. We might vote as separate parties, but that doesn't mean we don't all bleed the same. We are, simply put, Americans. Our military Chain of Command, to include our Commander in Chief ... the President ... (for those who didn't know) is all that we acknowledge. We have no inside track on what happens inside those big important buildings where all those "representatives" meet. The military member might direct you to Oliver North. I can see him kicking your ass already.

11) "Your mama wears combat boots" never made sense to me ... stop saying it! If she did, she would most likely kick you in the ass with them!

12) Bin Laden and the Taliban are not communists. Stop saying, "Let's go kill those Commies!!!" And stop asking us where he is!!! Crystal balls are not standard issue in the military. That reminds me ... if you see anyone calling those damn psychic phone numbers, let me know, so I can kick their ass.

13) Last but not least, whether or not you become a member of my military - support our troops and their families. Every Thanksgiving and Christmas that you enjoy with family and friends, there are thousands of troops overseas longing for just a taste of homemade pumpkin pie or fresh eggnog and turkey. Wanting for just one hug on a Christmas morning from a loved one. Thank God for our military and the sacrifices they are making every day. Without them, our country would get its ass kicked. - SSgt. Jamie (Jed) Nichols

Dear Ms. Jones,

I see that my little dish of patriotism has been placed on your Website (WARK9 page). Let me assure you that I am for real and I am the original author ... although I am now on the "dark side" as an officer (went through OTS last winter). I wrote my feelings down immediately after the 9-11 attack. I'm honored that you have posted it ... I appreciate the credit. Originally, I had composed and sent it to a select group of people when I was stationed at Offutt AFB, Nebraska. Amazing how fast that got out!!!

It's funny though, seeing your Website ... I'm now in Bosnia for a tdy, and I just happened to come across it on a "Dogpile" search. Small damn world.

Respectfully,

Snail mail:
Lt. Nichols
Joint Contracting Center-Tuzla
Operation Joint Forge-TFE
APO AE 09789

More, "Holidays" in Bosnia: http://www.therealmartha.com/troopsholiday/index.htm

These are all very cool, will be adding as found - send any you know about too please - but only after you've had a direct response, some others I've tried have been a disappointment.

The Navy has developed a Web-based alternative (to snail mail program suspended due to anthrax threats) to benefit members of all services: www.lifelines2000.org

Those who want to send a message of support or holiday greeting will find a simple process for delivering messages at these sites. The "Any Servicemember" program allows participants to select from one or all branches of the military. To receive a message, service members will log onto the site and choose their service branch and home state. Those sending a message who wish to receive a response may include an e-mail address.

I shared these links before - over the weekend, the news is they're working again: http://nbcsandiego.com Many people have received responses from these e-mails.

WWW.MILITARY.COM has really nice e-cards (including holiday) that can be sent by branch of service.

Amazon.com has worked with the DOD to create an online destination (www.amazon.com/saluteourtroops ) where customers can purchase a $20. gift certificate to be delivered to any service member. The certificates will be available through December 26, 2001, and are valid through January 2003. Purchase includes the opportunity to share a personal note of support directly on the certificate. All gift certificates will be delivered to the Department of Defense, which will then distribute them.

The site will also feature select messages of support and a continually updated meter, which will track the number of service members who will receive gift certificates.

The equivalent of 10 percent of all gift certificates that are redeemed as of January 31, 2003, as well as 100 percent of all gift certificates that are unredeemed as of that date, will be donated to the USO (www.uso.org). The USO's mission is to provide morale, welfare and recreation-type services to uniformed military personnel and represent the American people by extending a "Touch of Home."

The above is one I think I tried a while back, Sarah's last newsletter had several reports from people who had received responses. Why not try a few notes and see what happens. Costs nothing but a little time.

The latest: I want to send a huge thanks to the wonderful sailors of the USS Peleliu! They have been so wonderful and so many of them signed up with OAS. They are terrific guys and I hear that the members of OAS are keeping them well stocked in homemade cookies. If you would like to send a card to the USS Peleliu the wonderful Chaplain Warnke has agreed to accept the mail and distribute it to the guys.

Chaplain ML Warnke
Office of the Chaplain
USS Peleliu (LHA 5)
FPO AP 96624-1620

Please remember to always write Operation AdoptSoldier on the outside of all of your soldier mail so they know where it is coming from.

Let me (Martha) know about success or problems please. Give it time, links don't always work the first time and our forces are a little busy ya know.

http://www.therealmartha.com/justmydog/index.htm - A must-read - (s)he's not just a dog appreciation - lots of links, including Miss Liberty's pages (The Mutt Extraordinaire, my baby girl, lost almost three years ago to liver failure - there'll never be another like her ... still very much will me in spirit, and serving as official guide for fallen K9 heroes when they reach the Rainbow Bridge)

Buster's speaks for itself, my sweet little unabashed hussy embarrassed me all the time. Miss Liberty was named for the Lady while she under renovation. Most appropriate as the heavenly mascot for all the WAR pages, definitely on this one. We all know how soldiers are, be they man or beast - good sports all.

http://www.geocities.com/hck9sar/ - The Hendricks County K-9 Search and Rescue Team is an all volunteer, not-for-profit organization.

Jazz helped set a legal precedent for future search and rescue teams as one of three who gave court testimony on a homicide case. It was the first time in Indiana that non-police dog testimony was accepted.

Jazz was also instrumental in the search for Zachary Snider who was killed by Christopher Stevens, previously convicted child molester. Stevens now sits on death row. Due to the crime, Zachary's Law was established. It passed March 2, 1994, Zachary's 11th birthday.

From left: Amy Taylor, Sandy Snider (Zachary's mother), Niki Snider (sister), Governor Evan Bayh, Beth Miller, Daisy Ablog, Mark Dewitt and Josh Wolley. Taylor, Miller, Ablog, Dewitt and Wolley were part of the Hendricks County K9SAR Team.

Jazz later discovered land wasn't nearly as cool as standing on a boat doing water search. He's done many, and he's never been wrong. A man had drowned - the body could not be found, so Beth (Helen Hufford, team coordinator's daughter) put Jazz on a boat. He alerted about 20 minutes into the search. Police pulled up a body, except it was the wrong man. Then Jazz found the right one.

Helen has a wealth of records we are organizing for a page about Jazz and the other team members. Most of the stories are very disturbing, especially the ones involving children. Happy endings, such as finding one who was hiding because she was mad at her parents, are few and far between. The work takes it toll on handlers and the dogs. Helen said, "Jazz laid on the floor for three days and stared at a wall after the Zachary search. He knew. When these things affect the K9s, we have to do 'play searches,' commonly referred to as 'Puppy Tracks,' making certain they find the 'victim.' The K9s have to have this, they can't get to the stress center like we can. Actually, we did have to call in counselors to talk to the team after that search."

K9s Falco and Allee, Houston Police Canine Detail and Officer Monroe Gage
www.hpdk9.com

http://www.therealmartha.com/toottoot/index.htm - Toot-Toot from Buster, doing his part for the Red, White and Blue! The Boston terrier is the one and only true, pure American breed (no offense to the German shepherds and Belgian Malinois on duty). I swear Buster knows his heritage. That don't-mess-with-me-strut just kills me.

A 7-year-old boy surprised his grandmother one morning by making what had to be the worst cup of coffee ever. When she got to the bottom, she found three little green army men, "Honey, what are the army men doing in my coffee?"

"Grandma, it says on TV - 'The best part of waking up is soldiers in your cup!'"

"The Whispering Activist" a.k.a. Martha Jones - Opinions and ideas, mine and from others, that everyone can use to get involved, make a difference and lighten the load. Find hoax busters, media hype alerts, timely info, controversy, common sense, commiseration, empathy, household tips, easy recipes, critter stuff, variety links, and a little humor along the way.

Please use a clearly defined subject line (WAR K9 is fine - "hey there, hi, this is great ... " do not cut it, that's what spammers use). I have at least 10 tons of junk to sort every day - if I don't recognize a name, I delete. Unfortunately, due to virus/worm problems, downloads also have to be automatic deletions. Way too many people do not realize their scanners can't catch the latest. Embedded images or copies of doc. files are welcome. Typing in all caps is not, I do not have time to retype. All caps is extremely irritating and should never be used unless you mean to be screaming, which is even more irritating. I will not read, no matter the subject. If you have a great piece you haven't seen everywhere, go ahead and send the first few lines. I may ask you to retype the whole thing if I don't already have it in proper form. Double spaces between sentences are a giant pain too.

This page and some of the above links are just a few of the side-trips I take. If you need a break in the kitchen, holiday or any day, what I really do is real easy recipes for real busy, real people. Warning: not for fans of the UnReal Martha.

This was included in a thank-you note to Rexanne about her parenting newsletter, "I especially like the cooking tips from Martha. What a blessing to this inept mom who desperately wants to do something right foodwise for my bunchkins!"

Thank you Jennifer, particularly nice to hear from real moms considering I don't have any real kids.