1SOSFS Airman first to complete ATF Odor test

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Andrea Posey
  • 1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
Hurlburt Field, Fla. --  Staff Sgt. Terrell Beasley, 1st Special Operations Security Forces Squadron military working dog handler, is the first Air Force Special Operations Command military dog handler to complete the Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosive, National Odor Recognition Testing. NORT is familiarizing, training and certifying detector dogs on the most common explosives involved in Homeland terrorist threats.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, National Canine Division trains explosives and accelerant detection dogs for federal, state, local, international law enforcement and fire investigation agencies. Congress has recognized the NORT certification as the proficiency standard used for effective canine explosives detection, according to ATF.

Beasley traveled to the superdome in New Orleans, La. to complete the training and testing.

Beasley’s canine partner had to be taught and tested on seven odors he’d never been exposed to before. The process usually takes two months; however, this training was completed in just three days.

“Knowing your dog’s behavior is crucial, if you want to meet their standards,” said Beasley. “My team’s success is a testament to the training I receive at my kennel.”

Beasley feels it is vital to take advantage of opportunities presented outside of work, and important for outside agencies to witness Hurlburt dog teams’ capabilities.

“I wanted to complete this training to advance myself and my dog,” said Beasley. “We were the only military team in attendance, so our presence alone was a big deal.”

Beasley said the training gave him a better understanding of what his dog is capable of and what they can accomplish together. He believes this training will benefit Hurlburt because his military working dog is familiar with new explosive scents that will allow him to keep people safe and continue the mission.