RICHLAND, Wash. - EM Richland Operations Office and contractor Hanford Mission Integration Solutions (HMIS) have introduced their newest team members, Dee and Freda, two highly skilled explosive-detecting K-9 officers.
These police dogs, vetted by Hanford Patrol Chief Lorin Cyr and Capt. Robert Maier, have impressive resumes that meet the requirements for health certification and training records. They have also passed the Washington State Patrol Canine Association test for explosive-detecting dogs.
"We are excited to welcome K-9s Dee and Freda to the One Hanford team," said Brian Vance, manager of EM’s Office of River Protection and Richland Operations Office. "Their expertise and dedication will be instrumental in our ongoing mission to provide the highest level of security and safety at Hanford."
Dee and Freda will replace retiring K-9 officers Martha and Chance, who have served critical roles on the Hanford Site for the past nine years. Dee and Freda will be assigned to their own Hanford Patrol handlers, who completed an extensive 400-hour training program in explosive detection.
To ensure the well-being of these K-9s, handlers are trained to provide the necessary care and attention. Handlers undergo a two-week training session with their new partners, followed by site certification then Washington State Patrol Canine Association certification as a K-9 team.
The addition of Dee and Freda represents an ongoing commitment by HMIS to maintaining top-level security and safety at the Hanford Site. These exceptional K-9s will contribute to the continued success of Hanford Patrol, allowing them to safeguard Hanford and the local community.
"We consider Dee and Freda crucial members of the Hanford Patrol family," said Cyr.
Source: U.S. Dept. of Energy, Office of Environmental Management