LAZING around his backyard, enjoying the beautiful Queensland sunshine, special operations soldier No.19 no longer has to worry about early morning rises, tracking down the dreaded enemy, detecting explosive devices and never knowing how his day will end.
Gone are the days of him parachuting out of planes, jumping out of helicopters, abseiling down buildings, bland mess food and having orders barked at him. No sirreee, this military hero is now enjoying a much quieter life in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.
Combat Assault Dog Koda has proudly served within the Special Air Service regiment, having been deployed to Afghanistan and other countries, where he was a “standout dog” says his handler, retired SAS soldier, Andrew Hanson.
Koda, like all combat assault dogs which put their own lives on the line to protect troops, has been a valued part of a military team.
Now aged about 13, he’s earned a rest and is loving the retired life, Andrew said.
“He was a bit of a grumpy dog back in the day. I like seeing him with my two kids, he’s really just kind with them, never had any issues with the kids at all.”
Indeed, he loves nothing more than hoovering up the scraps left by Andrew’s two toddlers, who also like to ride him like a horse.
Koda has recently moved with his human family from Perth to Maleny, to be nearer other family members. But, unlike many other newcomers to the area, has no plans to become involved in any community organisations. He’s just happy to be a dog, and to be spoilt by his owners who believe, given his meritorious service to his country, he deserves a happy retirement.