A sailor aboard the USS Wasp (LHD 1) experienced a moment of isolation, questioning if anyone would care if they disappeared. In that moment, Cmdr. Ike, the Expeditionary Facility Dog (EFD), approached, offering comfort and companionship. This encounter highlighted the potential impact of the Mutts with a Mission's (MWAM) EFD program for active-duty sailors, serving to prevent tragedy and reinforce connections.
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Founded in 2008 by Brooke Corson, her brother Keller Elliott, and husband Joe, MWAM aims to place highly trained service dogs with disabled veterans, law enforcement, and first responders. The organization's first service dog pairing occurred in late 2009, following Brooke's inspiration from her pet dog Angus during her mobilization at Fort Benning, where Angus positively affected soldiers.
Based in Hampton Roads, Virginia, MWAM has successfully trained and matched over 100 service dogs with individuals in need, including training facility dogs for first responders. In 2019, MWAM received full accreditation from Assistance Dogs International (ADI), acknowledging its commitment to excellence.
The relationship between MWAM and the U.S. Navy began with visits showcasing service dogs in training, prompting the question of how dogs could assist sailors during deployments. In 2023, MWAM partnered with the Navy to launch the EFD program, placing trained facility dogs like Ike aboard ships. Unlike service dogs that assist individuals, EFDs support entire crews, enhancing morale and reducing stress during deployments.
The initial two EFDs placed were Ike and Sage, followed by four others: Fathom, Rudder, and Demo. These dogs play a crucial role in addressing mental health, encouraging sailors to seek help, and fostering important conversations.
EFDs undergo rigorous training starting at eight weeks, with selection based on temperament and behavior. They are raised by volunteers who prepare them for complex environments, with final training conducted by MWAM, a process lasting two to three years. EFDs also undergo specialized navigation and group interaction training to adapt to Navy life.
Handlers of EFDs, all active-duty personnel, volunteer, undergo a selection process, and are trained to work with these facility dogs. Each EFD typically has a primary and several secondary handlers, ensuring effective teamwork.
Since its inception, the EFD program's impact has been significant, promoting camaraderie among sailors and contributing to crew cohesion in challenging situations. MWAM's partnership with the Navy continues to grow, aiming to place more EFDs where they can have the greatest effect. The program embodies the idea that simply being there for a sailor can transform their experience, whether through a wagging tail or a comforting presence.