78th SFS bids farewell to military working dog Tosca Published June 1, 2007 By Holly Birchfield 78 ABW/PA Robins Air Force Base, Ga. -- To the military working dog handlers of the 78th Security Forces Squadron, Tosca, a 13-year-old Belgian Malinois, is valued as much as any other family member. The military working dog, with brand number X004, was born on July 8, 1993. She entered military service on Nov. 15, 1994, and began sniffing out drugs and apprehending bad guys. Tosca died May 22 as a result of an age-related medical problem. Tech. Sgt. David Barber, kennel master in the 78th Security Forces Squadron's military working dog section, said he and others in his squadron are going to miss their four-legged partner. "She was a sweet dog," he said. "She was very loving and always wanted attention. She'd do anything to work for you. In her prime, she was as good as any of the military dogs. She was a real good dog." Although she never was able to take an oath or sign papers sealing her military fate, Tosca spent her years providing protection and drug detection services to the military and surrounding community alike. From local high schools to U.S. Customs in El Paso, Texas, and distant Air Force bases, Tosca was on the frontline of defense against drugs and crime. Sergeant Barber said the canine defender was always willing to lend her skills. "She mainly worked with the local police departments and assisted with school searches," he said. "Last year, she went to Houston County High School and assisted the PDs (police departments) with drug prevention down there to show enforcement to the kids." In March 2006, Tosca captured a Newton, Ga., man who sought refuge from police inside Robins' gates. It was just one of the many acts of service the dog provided in her 12-year career. Random drug checks on base were common territory for Tosca. In the span of her career, Tosca notched 21 drug discoveries, with her biggest find uncovering 33.4 pounds of marijuana. Tosca came to the squadron on April 5, 1995, and has left lasting paw prints on the hearts of many squadron members ever since. Staff Sgt. Edward Conell, a trainer in 78th SFS military working dog section, said the bond with Tosca and others like her is very strong. "We almost look at them as being closer than any other member," he said. "Not only are they dogs beside us, but they can comfort you and other soldiers, especially on deployments. It's kind of nice to see that dog there. It makes you think of your dog at home." Tosca came to Robins Air Force Base when she was just under two years old. She had just come from Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, where she trained for her military career. Sergeant Conell said the devoted dog taught her comrades a lot on the job. But her final days were spent doing what came natural, being a dog. "She was able to go outside and run around, with no commands given," he said. "She didn't have to do any obedience or obstacle courses. She could come up and lounge around with us in the office."