MWD Rex Joins 75th Security Forces Squadron

May 9, 2025 Hannah Sanchez 75th SFS, K9 MWD, Military Working Dog (MWD), SF Units, USAF, USAF MWD 0
Military working dog Rex, a explosive detection dog with the 75th Security Forces Squadron, poses during obedience training May 8, 2025 at Hill Air Force Base, Utah. MWD Rex is the newest K-9 to join the squadron and is going through his Field Transition Evaluation, where he is assessed on his ability to work in his new environment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Cynthia Griggs)
HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah — Military working dog Rex, a 2-year-old Belgian Malinois, joined 75th Security Forces Squadron here in January 2025. MWD Rex is an explosive detection patrol K-9 and is currently going through his Field Transition Evaluation, a rigorous assessment designed to ensure he is fully mission-ready before validation and certification. 



According to Tech. Sgt. Hailey Pethtel, 75th SFS MWD trainer, Rex was born at Vohne Liche Kennels in Denver, Indiana. He was acquired by the Department of Defense in January of 2024 and brought to Lackland AFB, Texas, where he was trained in detection and passed his qualification in September 2024. Rex has been identified as a dual-certified K-9, meaning he is trained for both detection and patrol—enhancing his ability to safeguard personnel and assets at Hill Air Force Base.

“His personality is best described as him being a giant puppy,” said Pethtel. “He might weigh 83 pounds, but he is a child at heart. He likes to be crazy, jump, and play constantly. When he has a toy, he likes to show it off to you by shoving it in your face, so you play tug with him.”

Pethtel said during his evaluation, Rex has shown plenty of excitement to work and play. He really enjoys doing detection.

  • Published 
  • By Cynthia Griggs
  • 75th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
Military working dog Rex, a explosive detection dog with the 75th Security Forces Squadron, jumps through an obstacle during obedience training with trainer Tech. Sgt. Hailey Pethtel May 8, 2025 at Hill Air Force Base, Utah. MWD Rex is the newest K-9 to join the squadron and is going through his Field Transition Evaluation, where he is assessed on his ability to work in his new environment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Cynthia Griggs)
Military working dog Rex, a explosive detection dog with the 75th Security Forces Squadron, shows his aggression during obedience training with trainer Tech. Sgt. Hailey Pethtel May 8, 2025 at Hill Air Force Base, Utah. MWD Rex is the newest K-9 to join the squadron and is going through his Field Transition Evaluation, where he is assessed on his ability to work in his new environment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Cynthia Griggs)
Military working dog Rex, a explosive detection dog with the 75th Security Forces Squadron, waits for his reward during obedience training May 8, 2025 at Hill Air Force Base, Utah. MWD Rex is the newest K-9 to join the squadron and is going through his Field Transition Evaluation, where he is assessed on his ability to work in his new environment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Cynthia Griggs)