It was a static photo used on the Department of Defense Global Directory login page (a visual ‘greeting’/background image), not an audio or in-person role.
The dog’s name is Nick (nicknamed “Doggles”); he served in the U.S. Army with the 2nd Military Police Detachment (Military Working Dog) kennel at Fort Meade and earlier deployed with 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division.
Nick was a patrol explosive-detection MWD: he worked with explosive ordnance disposal technicians, screened vehicles and convoy cargo (e.g., semi-trucks), conducted patrols in deployed areas, and supported missions like Secret Service details, NATO and UN events, the DNC, state funerals and other protective/security tasks.
Retirement decisions are made by the military service (the Secretary or delegated authority of the concerned service) when a dog is judged no longer serviceable—typically for medical, behavioral, age, or fitness reasons; U.S. law and service policy govern disposition and adoption priority.
Nick will live with his handler: he was adopted by Staff Sgt. Justin Peyton and will reside with Peyton and his family in retirement.
Yes—units commonly hold formal retirement ceremonies or parties for MWDs (often open to base personnel and livestreamed); separate legal/policy recognition and adoption procedures are set by the services and federal law, and exceptional animal service can be formally noted by the military.
