Memories that Never Fade
During direct combat with the enemy, the fog of war is capable of consuming you. There are times when things slow down or speed up, periods in which you don’t remember your own actions. And then there are impressions during the fight that are ingrained in your brain forever.
Your thoughts are rarely of yourself but rather with your fellow warriors, especially if one of those warriors is like a son to you. Specialist Marc Whittaker found himself in that exact situation with his best friend and son, patrol explosive detector dog, Anax.
A relatively routine security mission? Maybe. But this is Afghanistan where nothing is routine. The enemy always has a vote and on this day the enemy was determined to ensure their voice was heard.
Withering fire erupted around Marc and Anax, forcing them to fall back as bullets whizzed by them. Marc had body armor partially protecting him, but Anax didn’t. Marc shielded Anax with his body, not caring about his safety–only Anax’s. They were completely out in the open when the fire got too heavy. Marc decided they needed to find cover.
Imagine as you are running for cover, bullets peppering the terrain around you, you glance back…your son is not by your side like normal. You stop, look back and see him whimpering on the ground, his blood rushing onto his once mahogany and black fur. Fear takes hold and panic sets in as you scream out. Your son just took the bullet that was meant to end your life. Those are the impressions that are ingrained in your head for the rest of your life.
How do you pick up the pieces after an event like this?
How do you deal with the grief, guilt and pain?
How do you go back to work with dogs?
What happens if your son survives to sees you working with another dog?
How do you explain this to him?
How do you start over with a new dog? Can you?
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48 comments on “Memories that Never Fade”
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Kevin, this is such a touching story. I’m looking forward to hearing more about Marc and his fine dog Anax.
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Kevin Hanrahan says:
Thank you Ginger. I find what Marc and Anax are going through quite gripping and am rooting for them both.
Heart breaking. What a dilemma to be in. Can’t wait for the next installment. Thanks.
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Thank you Barbara. I’m at amazed and inspired by both of these Warriors resiliency and determination.
Mary Carver-Stiehler (Writing as Mary Moriarty says: I can’t even imagine that happening to one of mine. Granted you work with these dogs but they are your family like my four dogs are to my family. They would do anything to keep us safe. From our big black lab to my pup who is a six pound chihuahua .
I can’t wait to read more!
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I know Mary. My philosophy on dogs is that they are no longer simply pets…rather family members. I know Marc thinks of Anax as his furry four legged son.
This is so touching–and you definitely leave me looking for more. When is the next installment?
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I think I will publish it next week Lisa. Thank you for your kind words.
Gripping story; I’m also looking forward to hearing more about Marc and Anax. By the way, how did the dog come by such an unusual name?
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Hi Bobbi. Thank you. Based on his name I would say the vendor game him his name. The government probably purchased Anax on a buying trip to Europe.
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O yes Ellis. Our furry legged hero Anax is in Germany waiting the paperwork for his adoption. I’ll be reporting about him and the adoption process in future posts.
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NMJune says:
I am so relieved to learn that anax has survived. Will he be adopted by Marc Whittaker?
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He was recently adopted by Marc. Anax is now in Texas at Marc’s home. You can check out the photos of the event in the photo category of the website.
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Sarah-Melissa says:
I’m so glad you asked that question! I was thinking the very same thing but was scared to ask
What a truly incredible story I cannot wait to hear more about this amazing beautiful dog! I love your blogs Kevin
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Thank you so much Dawn. It’s feels so natural to write about these subjects…..I guess because I love them.
This is a thoughtful blogpost. The skills and bravery of animals in war is often overlooked. It’s nice to see someone writing about it in this way. Well done.
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Thank you very much Jerry. I actually have a post planned within the next week that describes my inspiration. A little hint….it was the dogs!
laura thomas says: I recently answere a blog question ” has a book ever made you cry?”. This did. I”m waiting to hear more about Marc and Anax. Fingers crossed for a happy ending. Thanks for sharing this!:)
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Hi Laura. You know sometimes I think I’m initialy immune to these emotional stories….. seems like it takes someone to says…Hey, Kevin that story choked me up and put me into tears. Not sure if it’s because I’m a guy or what I’ve experienced. Maybe a little of both?
When I first started down the road with this series I didn’t quite get how powerful it would be. As I continue to write new pieces they simply blow me away.
I’m nearly complete with my final edit for my novel (Hopefully) and just changed one of the character’s name to Anax.
Bad enough that we kill each other, but worse when we drag our animals into the fray.
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Thats a tough one Russ becasue we need them. Dogs are making a difference on the battlefield. I wish that none of us were at war but I’m thankful that we have out 4-legged warriors by our side.
Lisa says: A touching story!
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For sure Lisa. I think it is very compelling. We’ll follow Marc and Anax over the next few months.
Thank you for sharing this sad story with us here at home. I’m looking forward to your next installment. God bless you all!
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Thank you Joseph. I’ll be bringing you more of the story soon!
Trey says: The bond we have with our MWD’s is certainly complicated. Our four legged friends are our friends, our partners, they make us laugh, they can aggravate us, regardless, each day is a blessing to have them walking beside us.
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I couldn’t agree more Trey. They are enhancements of our own senses and we are lucky to have them protecting our troops.
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Cheryl says:
Heroism and Courage! Beautiful story. I just put an application in to adopt a retired MWD. Do you know when he will becoming back to the states?
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Thank you Cheryl. That is wonderful that you wish to adopt an MWD!
Marc is currently working on the adoption process for Anax…….. I’ll cover that one in their next installment. They are both stationed in Germany.
I also just placed a post on my FB page detailing a retied MWD in need of a home. The phone number is listed.
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douglas mckinney says: dear sir i have known marc for some years i have to say it is a great pleasure to see that there is an article about this duo. it is something to be said about marc he is a very passionate about anax they are about as close as a team that you can get. i am looking forward to hearing more from this website and from marc
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Hi Douglas. Thank you for stopping by. I was blown away when I first read the article about Marc and Anax in the Stars and Stripes. As I chat with Marc he continually impresses me with his commitment and dedication to his dogs and being a Soldier. His story is genuine and heart felt and I’m honored to write about these heroes.
One thing that resonated with me is how Marc refers to Anax as his son. I’ve been calling my male dog Sammy my son since the first day I picked him up!
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Julia Hugo Rachel says:
Thank You Doug. Godspeed to Marc and Anax.
This is indeed a very touching story. I sure that Marc has felt like it has ripped him in half and many of the things that he has gone through is amazing tough. Many of us look at our dogs as son’s or kids because that is actually what they really are to us. The bond is just as strong, no different. I am looking forward to reading more. I hope that they are both dong OK and that Marc gets Anax with a happy ending to everything that they have gone through together.
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Hi Al. Thanks for stopping by….. this story really resonates with me becasue I’ve always called my dog, my son, as Marc does of Anax. I can’t even imagine what he going through. I’ll be posting an update soon on them both.
Rhonda Hansen says: I very recently finished reading Sergeant Rex. It amazed me, I could “feel” the fear and need to protect Rex thru the most horrific attacks and firefights. God bless and protect you Marc and Anax. Thank you both for your service and dedication. Since reading that book, (although I always keep our service members in my prayers) I include prayers for WMD’s and their handlers.
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Hi Rhonda. I have that book on my read list! Seems like there is never enough time in the day. Thank you for keeping our dogs in your prayers with our troops.
Hello. I come by way of Al Overholser of Siberian Nation…I can not even begin to imagine what you all go through…this brings a little of it home. I admire all the soldiers & K9 soldiers for the work you do. Thank you for your service from the bottom of our hearts. We had adopted a retired NYPD K9 German Shepherd years ago. A wonderful, beautiful gal who would protect and attack for our family one minute, but be belly up for rubs with us the next. I agree with Al, our dogs are like our children, we even call our Sibes “the kids.” The joys and love they bring us are immeasurable… I sure hope this has a happy ending, especially for Marc. So many good questions raised. I look forward to reading more and so glad Al posted your link on my Facebook page!
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Thank you very much for stopping by. Thank you for adopting a NYPD K9. Those pooches and their handlers are heroes. I’m sure she brought so much joy to your home! I don’t leave my house in the morning until I’ve hugged my wife and my two dogs goodbye!
I’ll be posting another update on Marc and Anax soon.
Julia Hugo Rachel says: Hi Kevin:
I was wondering if Anax was given a vest. I know many don’t get them for many reasons, yet, might this change in the future? I understand the K-9 top of the line i”INTRUDER” s 86K….but do we have an alternative that might help some dogs in the future? My heart goes out to Marc and Anex. YEP, Marc will go on. Yep, Anex will go on. Love conquers all in the canine world! Just my opinion:-) And a little experience:-)
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Anax did not have a vest. Honestly I haven’t done too much research on the vest themselves but I definitely think that is an area of concern that needs to be addressed. I had never heard or saw a single vest for a canine until last summer. I kow the vests are relativly new.
Julia Hugo Rachel says: I am so sorry…..I meant ANAX.
Blessings,
Julia
[...] Memories that Never Fade Part I [...]
[...] Memories that Never Fade Part I [...]
[...] “Memories that Never Fade.” Army Specialist Marc Whittaker’s struggled to carry on after his dog Anax took a bullet that was [...]
[...] Part I Memories that Never Fade [...]
[...] is Part VIII of this story. You may wish to skip back to Part I to start reading this dramatic story from the [...]
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Kevin, this is such a touching story. I’m looking forward to hearing more about Marc and his fine dog Anax.
Thank you Ginger. I find what Marc and Anax are going through quite gripping and am rooting for them both.
Heart breaking. What a dilemma to be in. Can’t wait for the next installment. Thanks.
Thank you Barbara. I’m at amazed and inspired by both of these Warriors resiliency and determination.
I can’t even imagine that happening to one of mine. Granted you work with these dogs but they are your family like my four dogs are to my family. They would do anything to keep us safe. From our big black lab to my pup who is a six pound chihuahua .
I can’t wait to read more!
I know Mary. My philosophy on dogs is that they are no longer simply pets…rather family members. I know Marc thinks of Anax as his furry four legged son.
This is so touching–and you definitely leave me looking for more. When is the next installment?
I think I will publish it next week Lisa. Thank you for your kind words.
Gripping story; I’m also looking forward to hearing more about Marc and Anax. By the way, how did the dog come by such an unusual name?
Hi Bobbi. Thank you. Based on his name I would say the vendor game him his name. The government probably purchased Anax on a buying trip to Europe.
Did Anax survive? What a sad and touching story.
O yes Ellis. Our furry legged hero Anax is in Germany waiting the paperwork for his adoption. I’ll be reporting about him and the adoption process in future posts.
I am so relieved to learn that anax has survived. Will he be adopted by Marc Whittaker?
He was recently adopted by Marc. Anax is now in Texas at Marc’s home. You can check out the photos of the event in the photo category of the website.
I’m so glad you asked that question! I was thinking the very same thing but was scared to ask
What a truly incredible story I cannot wait to hear more about this amazing beautiful dog! I love your blogs Kevin
Thank you so much Dawn. It’s feels so natural to write about these subjects…..I guess because I love them.
This is a thoughtful blogpost. The skills and bravery of animals in war is often overlooked. It’s nice to see someone writing about it in this way. Well done.
Thank you very much Jerry. I actually have a post planned within the next week that describes my inspiration. A little hint….it was the dogs!
I recently answere a blog question ” has a book ever made you cry?”. This did. I”m waiting to hear more about Marc and Anax. Fingers crossed for a happy ending. Thanks for sharing this!:)
Hi Laura. You know sometimes I think I’m initialy immune to these emotional stories….. seems like it takes someone to says…Hey, Kevin that story choked me up and put me into tears. Not sure if it’s because I’m a guy or what I’ve experienced. Maybe a little of both?
When I first started down the road with this series I didn’t quite get how powerful it would be. As I continue to write new pieces they simply blow me away.
I’m nearly complete with my final edit for my novel (Hopefully) and just changed one of the character’s name to Anax.
Bad enough that we kill each other, but worse when we drag our animals into the fray.
Thats a tough one Russ becasue we need them. Dogs are making a difference on the battlefield. I wish that none of us were at war but I’m thankful that we have out 4-legged warriors by our side.
A touching story!
For sure Lisa. I think it is very compelling. We’ll follow Marc and Anax over the next few months.
Thank you for sharing this sad story with us here at home. I’m looking forward to your next installment. God bless you all!
Thank you Joseph. I’ll be bringing you more of the story soon!
The bond we have with our MWD’s is certainly complicated. Our four legged friends are our friends, our partners, they make us laugh, they can aggravate us, regardless, each day is a blessing to have them walking beside us.
I couldn’t agree more Trey. They are enhancements of our own senses and we are lucky to have them protecting our troops.
Heroism and Courage! Beautiful story. I just put an application in to adopt a retired MWD. Do you know when he will becoming back to the states?
Thank you Cheryl. That is wonderful that you wish to adopt an MWD!
Marc is currently working on the adoption process for Anax…….. I’ll cover that one in their next installment. They are both stationed in Germany.
I also just placed a post on my FB page detailing a retied MWD in need of a home. The phone number is listed.
dear sir i have known marc for some years i have to say it is a great pleasure to see that there is an article about this duo. it is something to be said about marc he is a very passionate about anax they are about as close as a team that you can get. i am looking forward to hearing more from this website and from marc
Hi Douglas. Thank you for stopping by. I was blown away when I first read the article about Marc and Anax in the Stars and Stripes. As I chat with Marc he continually impresses me with his commitment and dedication to his dogs and being a Soldier. His story is genuine and heart felt and I’m honored to write about these heroes.
One thing that resonated with me is how Marc refers to Anax as his son. I’ve been calling my male dog Sammy my son since the first day I picked him up!
Thank You Doug. Godspeed to Marc and Anax.
This is indeed a very touching story. I sure that Marc has felt like it has ripped him in half and many of the things that he has gone through is amazing tough. Many of us look at our dogs as son’s or kids because that is actually what they really are to us. The bond is just as strong, no different. I am looking forward to reading more. I hope that they are both dong OK and that Marc gets Anax with a happy ending to everything that they have gone through together.
Hi Al. Thanks for stopping by….. this story really resonates with me becasue I’ve always called my dog, my son, as Marc does of Anax. I can’t even imagine what he going through. I’ll be posting an update soon on them both.
I very recently finished reading Sergeant Rex. It amazed me, I could “feel” the fear and need to protect Rex thru the most horrific attacks and firefights. God bless and protect you Marc and Anax. Thank you both for your service and dedication. Since reading that book, (although I always keep our service members in my prayers) I include prayers for WMD’s and their handlers.
Hi Rhonda. I have that book on my read list! Seems like there is never enough time in the day. Thank you for keeping our dogs in your prayers with our troops.
Hello. I come by way of Al Overholser of Siberian Nation…I can not even begin to imagine what you all go through…this brings a little of it home. I admire all the soldiers & K9 soldiers for the work you do. Thank you for your service from the bottom of our hearts. We had adopted a retired NYPD K9 German Shepherd years ago. A wonderful, beautiful gal who would protect and attack for our family one minute, but be belly up for rubs with us the next. I agree with Al, our dogs are like our children, we even call our Sibes “the kids.” The joys and love they bring us are immeasurable… I sure hope this has a happy ending, especially for Marc. So many good questions raised. I look forward to reading more and so glad Al posted your link on my Facebook page!
Thank you very much for stopping by. Thank you for adopting a NYPD K9. Those pooches and their handlers are heroes. I’m sure she brought so much joy to your home! I don’t leave my house in the morning until I’ve hugged my wife and my two dogs goodbye!
I’ll be posting another update on Marc and Anax soon.
Hi Kevin:
I was wondering if Anax was given a vest. I know many don’t get them for many reasons, yet, might this change in the future? I understand the K-9 top of the line i”INTRUDER” s 86K….but do we have an alternative that might help some dogs in the future? My heart goes out to Marc and Anex. YEP, Marc will go on. Yep, Anex will go on. Love conquers all in the canine world! Just my opinion:-) And a little experience:-)
Anax did not have a vest. Honestly I haven’t done too much research on the vest themselves but I definitely think that is an area of concern that needs to be addressed. I had never heard or saw a single vest for a canine until last summer. I kow the vests are relativly new.
I am so sorry…..I meant ANAX.
Blessings,
Julia
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