Military Dog Picture of the Week. (August 16th, 2012): Honza Bear
Normally I wait and use my unseen pictures for my stories but I couldn’t resist this week.
Let’s hear it for Honza Bear this week!
Why?
Well……. why not, right? Let’s admit it folks….you love Honza Bear!
There is just something about this furry yellow goofball that you love.
Is it because he put his handler John Nolan to the test during certification?
Does he remind you of your dog or a dog you used to have?
All right…I love Honza Bear as well. I ‘m actually stationed in Virginia at the same Army installation as John and Honza Bear.
But that isn’t the reason I am honoring them today. Here is why.
Last Friday I was sitting at my desk well past six 6:00 PM so I clicked on a message from John. He and Honza had just been blown to the ground by an improvised explosive device buried into the ground in Afghanistan. Last week, without notice or warning, their life almost ended.
If Honza Bear hadn’t started acting differently when he picked up the explosive scent. If John hadn’t recognized it and stopped walking forward. This post may very well be a sad…..a very sad post.
But here is the deal…that was yesterday and you can’t dwell on what could have been. They are Soldiers (YES…HONZA IS A SOLDIER!)and even though they just had a near death experience….the mission goes on!
These two fine warriors are still saving lives in Afghanistan today.
So today we Salute John and Honza Bear!
John reads this blog from Afghanistan. He is super helpful answering my questions. Much of the details he provides me are going into my second novel in my Paws on the Ground series.
So please feel free to comment below and send a message to John and Honza Bear!
Please share with us all why you love Honza Bear!
In case you missed or want to revisit prior weeks. Here are the links:
Military Dog Video of the Week(August 9th, 2012): K9 Healers
Military Dolphin Picture of the Week. (August 1st, 2012): Koa the Sailor
Military Dog Picture of the Week. (July 25th, 2012): Dog Down Under
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36 comments on “Military Dog Picture of the Week. (August 16th, 2012): Honza Bear”
Leave a Reply
I love Honza because, like John, he’s one helluva soldier! Thanks to all who serve our country so bravely — and that includes our canine soldiers!
Karen says: I love Honza Bear. Please be careful out there John and Honza. I hope I can meet the both of you at some point when you are back in the States. Thank you for all you do. Hugs and Prayers for you and Honza. <3
Karen says: By the way, Kevin. I think the year is 2012 not 2011 
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Kevin Hanrahan says:
Good looking out Karen. Thanks!
Sally Lowen says: Thank G-d for Honza Bear and all of his 4 and 2 legged service members who do their jobs 24/7 for all of us. This includes their families. Yeah Honza Bear. Bless them all.
Mary Ellen says: I’m glad the two of you are able to talk about the IED, instead of someone else talking about the both of you in a sad, but loving way.
The thing that impresses me most is the fine attention the handlers pay to their partners! If John hadn’t noticed the change in Honza, no matter how small, well, we all know what would have happened.
Congrats to you John for listening to your partner, and good on you Honza for saving lives. Keep up the good work!
Julia Hugo Rachel says: He is SO CUTE! I mean Honza Bear! John and the Bear Rock. Godspeed to both of them. I say a prayer every day and night for our handlers and dogs.
Blessings,
Julia
I have nothing to add that hasn’t been eloquently expressed in the above comments. Just wanted to say thanks to John and Honza Bear, and also to you, Kevin, for your unselfish service to our country. God bless America!
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Thanks Jodi. Thank you to everyone else as well for reading this post and sending a hello to John and Honza! One thing that is important to troops deployed is knowing what they are doing over ther matters……that they aren’t forgotten…. that we back in the states appreciate their sacrifise……
Debbie (Shiloh13) says: WOW! So happy John and Honza Bear are safe. I think it was John’s gut/heart connection with Honza Bear that has struck the heart’s of all of us. Sometimes it takes a very special person to bring out that unique ability in someone..human or animal. John sensed that in Honza Bear and Honza sensed it in John. They feel our emotion, our connection. That’s not always easy when you have to toss your K-9 partner over a fence to go after a bad guy that might or might not have a weapon. Like John relying on Honza when there may or may not be danger. They are a tool that have saved many lives. I could go on and on, I am very passionate on this subject being connected to law enforcement. Thank you Kevin, John and Honza for your service. *See I talk to much, Kevin..lol*
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I don’t think you talk too much Debbie…..course I can go on forever! As you so eloquently put……the bond between these two is incredibly strong.
Jen says: Good boy Honza!!!
Dear John and Hunza Bear,
Thank God you are ok! That is some buddy you have. These K9s are so incredibly bright and wonderful! Thank you for what you and Hunza Bear do for us. I think sometimes people forget that we have men women and K9s fighting in a war unless you have or have3 had a family member in the desert. I will never forget, my daughter did 3 tours over there. I own Kevlar For K9s, an organization that donates Kevalr vests to MWDs, police and sheriff K9s. I would consider it a privilege to send Hunza Bear a protective Kevlar vest. If you would like one for him please let me know and I will get it to you ASAP. Again thank you both for your service. Please stay safe and give him a big hug from me.
Cindy Elkind
Pres, Kevlar For K9s, Inc.
http://www.kevlarfork9s.org
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Hi Cindy. Thank you very much for your offer to help out our pal Honza Bear. Thanks for being so dedicated to taking care of the dogs that protect us. Have you linked up with Nicole Buehner Arbelo at K9 Heroes? She also works to outfit K9 with vest.
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Kevin,
I will look her up. I have not heard of her organization before. Please make sure John gets my message. I am also willing to send care packages to both K9s and military, I have sent many in the past with items they miss from home and cannot get in the desert or just simple things like detergent, shampoo and soap. I also outfitted an entire K9 team in Iraq with Ray Allen collars and leashes the handlers needed. Will help them any way I can. Thanks for what YOU do. This is awesome.
Cindy Elkind-
You are so wonderful to offer all this help. Thank you Cindy!
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Kevin, heard from Spc Nolan. Have already ordered the vest for Hunza Bear. Just waiting to hear back from him for specific APO address. Thanks so much for your help. Also made contact with K9 Heroes. If you know of more MWDs that need vesting or military that need help, let me know. Will always do what I can. Looking forward to watching your posts from now on. Thanks for bringing this to us!
Respectfully,
Cindy Elkind
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It is my pleasure Cindy. I will shoot a note to a couple guys I know that are deployed right now. Nicole is a great lady and seems to focuses on Law Enforcement K9 Vests. Another very worthy cause! I wrote a review of her book, K9 Heroes http://khanrahan.com/2012/08/06/interview-with-k9-heroes-author-nicole-arbelo/
Thank you so very much for your efforts to equip our heroes dogs!
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John Nolan says:
Cindy,
Thank you so much for the kind words and offer. I have sent an e-mail to the one provided on your website.
-John Nolan
Emily Adkins says: Hi, John used to work with my husband, SGT Adkins, when we were stationed at Eustis. Although Marcus is a quiet soul he would tell me how much he enjoyed Nolan. I have been following their journey via Facebook since he got matched up with handsome Honza. I think Honza is an incredibly bright K-9. He loves his John and from the pics I have seen, he loves his John. I pray that they continue to have a good tour and get home safe to their patiently waiting family.
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Hi Emily. Thanks for saying hello and telling us about your connection with John! Where are you guys stationed now? Is Marcus a handler as well>
Kevin, have not heard back from Sgt Nolan. Understand he may have very limited internet time, but I need an APO address for him to get this vest to Hunza Bear. Vest should be at my address in a week, give or take. Don’t know if you know his situation, but want to get it to him as soon as it arrives. Hope you can help. Thanks either way.
Cindy Elkind
Kevlar For K9s, Inc.
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Hi Cindy. I will shoot John a note. He may have been “away from the internet” for a spell.
Kevin, Hunza’s vest arrived at my house this am. Still have not heard from Sgt Nolan. Not a problem to keep it for a little while but he needs it! Your advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks much,
Cindy Elkind, Kevlar For K9s
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Hi Cindy. I talked to John today. He believes he will be moving in the next few days and didn’t want to send you a bad address…the vest may never catch up to him. Please be patient…as soon as he knows he will give us both a heads up!
Thanks so much for your commitment to equipping our hero Honza Bear with a vest! You dedication is inspirational!
Kathy Brenner says: What a great outcome. Thank you both for your bravery and protecting my rights. God go with you all. And thanks Kevin for sharing. (Proud partner to two Golden Retriever puppies)
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Hi Kathy! I’m just glad that John has Honza Bear to take care of him!
Kevin, the mother in me was very worried. Having a daughter in Afghanistan was such a stressful time in my life. I will hold onto the vest till the time he can receive it. Thanks again for your help with this. Sorry to be a pain. So enjoy your articles.
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No worries Cindy! I appreciate your follow through in making this happen! I will check back with John in a week or so!
CPT Samantha Hoxha says: John and Honza,
We are so proud of you back here at the 221st MP Detachment! Keep up the great work! We’re looking forward to you coming back home! Keep smiling, stay safe, and God Bless!
Sincerely,
CPT Samantha Hoxha
221st MP Detachment
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Hi Sam! Great to see ya here….we are keeping folks posted about one of our own!
Cade says: G’day Kevin,
Thanks for sharing such a great story and outcome. keep up the good work on spreading these great stories, Awesome!
Best Regards
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Hi Cade! Thank you very much.
Jani Muhlestein says: I came to see more pictures of beloved Honza, and found out that we came so close to losing them. I mean, I knew that it had happened more than once. After all, Honza and John were out there to find IEDs. It’s not like it’s a Sunday walk in the park. But still…
Tell John to give Honza treats. I just feel that he needs more treats. Honza, not John. I don’t know if John needs more treats. That’s up to his wife. But Honza needs more treats. And a new Kong.
Tell him that’s an order. Or…a suggestion…Or something…
Leave a Reply
My Tweets
I’m glad they’re both OK. Good boy, Honza Bear!
I love Honza because, like John, he’s one helluva soldier! Thanks to all who serve our country so bravely — and that includes our canine soldiers!
I love Honza Bear. Please be careful out there John and Honza. I hope I can meet the both of you at some point when you are back in the States. Thank you for all you do. Hugs and Prayers for you and Honza. <3
By the way, Kevin. I think the year is 2012 not 2011
Good looking out Karen. Thanks!
Thank G-d for Honza Bear and all of his 4 and 2 legged service members who do their jobs 24/7 for all of us. This includes their families. Yeah Honza Bear. Bless them all.
I’m glad the two of you are able to talk about the IED, instead of someone else talking about the both of you in a sad, but loving way.
The thing that impresses me most is the fine attention the handlers pay to their partners! If John hadn’t noticed the change in Honza, no matter how small, well, we all know what would have happened.
Congrats to you John for listening to your partner, and good on you Honza for saving lives. Keep up the good work!
He is SO CUTE! I mean Honza Bear! John and the Bear Rock. Godspeed to both of them. I say a prayer every day and night for our handlers and dogs.
Blessings,
Julia
I have nothing to add that hasn’t been eloquently expressed in the above comments. Just wanted to say thanks to John and Honza Bear, and also to you, Kevin, for your unselfish service to our country. God bless America!
Thanks Jodi. Thank you to everyone else as well for reading this post and sending a hello to John and Honza! One thing that is important to troops deployed is knowing what they are doing over ther matters……that they aren’t forgotten…. that we back in the states appreciate their sacrifise……
WOW! So happy John and Honza Bear are safe. I think it was John’s gut/heart connection with Honza Bear that has struck the heart’s of all of us. Sometimes it takes a very special person to bring out that unique ability in someone..human or animal. John sensed that in Honza Bear and Honza sensed it in John. They feel our emotion, our connection. That’s not always easy when you have to toss your K-9 partner over a fence to go after a bad guy that might or might not have a weapon. Like John relying on Honza when there may or may not be danger. They are a tool that have saved many lives. I could go on and on, I am very passionate on this subject being connected to law enforcement. Thank you Kevin, John and Honza for your service. *See I talk to much, Kevin..lol*
I don’t think you talk too much Debbie…..course I can go on forever! As you so eloquently put……the bond between these two is incredibly strong.
Good boy Honza!!!
Dear John and Hunza Bear,
Thank God you are ok! That is some buddy you have. These K9s are so incredibly bright and wonderful! Thank you for what you and Hunza Bear do for us. I think sometimes people forget that we have men women and K9s fighting in a war unless you have or have3 had a family member in the desert. I will never forget, my daughter did 3 tours over there. I own Kevlar For K9s, an organization that donates Kevalr vests to MWDs, police and sheriff K9s. I would consider it a privilege to send Hunza Bear a protective Kevlar vest. If you would like one for him please let me know and I will get it to you ASAP. Again thank you both for your service. Please stay safe and give him a big hug from me.
Cindy Elkind
Pres, Kevlar For K9s, Inc.
http://www.kevlarfork9s.org
Hi Cindy. Thank you very much for your offer to help out our pal Honza Bear. Thanks for being so dedicated to taking care of the dogs that protect us. Have you linked up with Nicole Buehner Arbelo at K9 Heroes? She also works to outfit K9 with vest.
Kevin,
I will look her up. I have not heard of her organization before. Please make sure John gets my message. I am also willing to send care packages to both K9s and military, I have sent many in the past with items they miss from home and cannot get in the desert or just simple things like detergent, shampoo and soap. I also outfitted an entire K9 team in Iraq with Ray Allen collars and leashes the handlers needed. Will help them any way I can. Thanks for what YOU do. This is awesome.
Cindy Elkind
You are so wonderful to offer all this help. Thank you Cindy!
Kevin, heard from Spc Nolan. Have already ordered the vest for Hunza Bear. Just waiting to hear back from him for specific APO address. Thanks so much for your help. Also made contact with K9 Heroes. If you know of more MWDs that need vesting or military that need help, let me know. Will always do what I can. Looking forward to watching your posts from now on. Thanks for bringing this to us!
Respectfully,
Cindy Elkind
It is my pleasure Cindy. I will shoot a note to a couple guys I know that are deployed right now. Nicole is a great lady and seems to focuses on Law Enforcement K9 Vests. Another very worthy cause! I wrote a review of her book, K9 Heroes http://khanrahan.com/2012/08/06/interview-with-k9-heroes-author-nicole-arbelo/
Thank you so very much for your efforts to equip our heroes dogs!
Cindy,
Thank you so much for the kind words and offer. I have sent an e-mail to the one provided on your website.
-John Nolan
Hi, John used to work with my husband, SGT Adkins, when we were stationed at Eustis. Although Marcus is a quiet soul he would tell me how much he enjoyed Nolan. I have been following their journey via Facebook since he got matched up with handsome Honza. I think Honza is an incredibly bright K-9. He loves his John and from the pics I have seen, he loves his John. I pray that they continue to have a good tour and get home safe to their patiently waiting family.
Hi Emily. Thanks for saying hello and telling us about your connection with John! Where are you guys stationed now? Is Marcus a handler as well>
Kevin, have not heard back from Sgt Nolan. Understand he may have very limited internet time, but I need an APO address for him to get this vest to Hunza Bear. Vest should be at my address in a week, give or take. Don’t know if you know his situation, but want to get it to him as soon as it arrives. Hope you can help. Thanks either way.
Cindy Elkind
Kevlar For K9s, Inc.
Hi Cindy. I will shoot John a note. He may have been “away from the internet” for a spell.
Thanks much Kevin.
Kevin, Hunza’s vest arrived at my house this am. Still have not heard from Sgt Nolan. Not a problem to keep it for a little while but he needs it! Your advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks much,
Cindy Elkind, Kevlar For K9s
Hi Cindy. I talked to John today. He believes he will be moving in the next few days and didn’t want to send you a bad address…the vest may never catch up to him. Please be patient…as soon as he knows he will give us both a heads up!
Thanks so much for your commitment to equipping our hero Honza Bear with a vest! You dedication is inspirational!
What a great outcome. Thank you both for your bravery and protecting my rights. God go with you all. And thanks Kevin for sharing. (Proud partner to two Golden Retriever puppies)
Hi Kathy! I’m just glad that John has Honza Bear to take care of him!
Kevin, the mother in me was very worried. Having a daughter in Afghanistan was such a stressful time in my life. I will hold onto the vest till the time he can receive it. Thanks again for your help with this. Sorry to be a pain. So enjoy your articles.
No worries Cindy! I appreciate your follow through in making this happen! I will check back with John in a week or so!
John and Honza,
We are so proud of you back here at the 221st MP Detachment! Keep up the great work! We’re looking forward to you coming back home! Keep smiling, stay safe, and God Bless!
Sincerely,
CPT Samantha Hoxha
221st MP Detachment
Hi Sam! Great to see ya here….we are keeping folks posted about one of our own!
G’day Kevin,
Thanks for sharing such a great story and outcome. keep up the good work on spreading these great stories, Awesome!
Best Regards
Hi Cade! Thank you very much.
I came to see more pictures of beloved Honza, and found out that we came so close to losing them. I mean, I knew that it had happened more than once. After all, Honza and John were out there to find IEDs. It’s not like it’s a Sunday walk in the park. But still…
Tell John to give Honza treats. I just feel that he needs more treats. Honza, not John. I don’t know if John needs more treats. That’s up to his wife. But Honza needs more treats. And a new Kong.
Tell him that’s an order.
Or…a suggestion…Or something…