Cezar, in his 7 years of duty as a patrol/explosive MWD, had a total of six handlers with SSgt John V. Helms logging the most time on leash. They were partnered together for a total of 23 months as a team.

While assigned duties as an EDD, MWD Cezar conducted a variety of searches for numerous VIPs to include TDY’s in support of Vice President Al Gore, first lady Hillary Clinton and Vice President Dick Cheney, He also deployed without hesitation to Eskan Village, Saudi Arabia in 1999 for 120 days. With SSgt Helms, they deployed as a team in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom assigned to Ali as Salem AB, Kuwait from January to July 2003. Upon returning to home station he also provided security while TDY to Holloman and Cannon AFBs for two air shows. They also were praised for their diligence for conducting sweeps for the Homeland Security conference. This team was commended by Secretary Tom Ridge, Homeland Security Director, for their professionalism and diligence in ensuring the safety of all participants of the conference. They also met the call during our Creek Bridge taskings. Enduring 90-degree temperatures, Cezar pressed on without hesitation ensuring that all vehicles and equipment that came in his area of responsibility was cleared. Even the very tough SSgt Helms would say “it’s getting hot but Cezar would look up at me and give me a look that would say ‘follow me, I will get you back to the A/C in the truck, just let me finish searching the Pad.’” Yes – Cezar was a true warrior and his actions will be fondly remembered.

I can honestly say without hesitation that they were the best team that I have worked with or witnessed in my career. Without reservation SSgt Helms and Cezar was my go-to team, for both TDY’s and MWD Demonstrations. MWD Cezar — you will be sorely missed. Thank you for all that you have given to John and Jennifer Helms and the section, the unit and the Base. You made us all proud, and we will forever remember you for your work.

Mc Gowan M. Anderson Jr., TSgt, USAF
Kennel Master / NCOIC MWD Section
377 Security Forces Squadron
Kirtland AFB, New Mexico