The Air Force is finding that its military working dogs, which are integral to saving lives on the front lines, can suffer long-term like humans from traumatic events in combat. Take Gina, for example, a four-year-old German Sheppard with the 21st Security Forces Squadron at Peterson AFB, Colo. During a recent five-month tour in Southwest Asia, Gina was frequently exposed to intense sounds and sights, including an improvised explosive device going off near her. When she returned, Gina was “messed up” and “terrified of everything,” explained MSgt. Eric Haynes, one of her handlers. He began a long process of rehabilitating her. The work has paid off. On July 1, Gina was re-certified to continue working as a MWD, but she probably won’t deploy to a frontline base for at least another two years, said Haynes. (Peterson report by Monica Mendoza)
Air Force Changes Rules for Pregnant Aircrew—Again
April 3, 2025
The Air Force is changing its policy for pregnant aircrew, generally reverting to rules set in 2019 that barred female aviators from flying during the first trimester—or from flying in aircraft with ejection seats at all—due to potential risks to the pilot and her unborn fetus.