Meet Jamie

MEET JAMIE

THE LONGEST-SERVING BRITISH ARMY MEMBER IN AFGHANISTAN

Jamie, a Springer Spaniel, was rescued from a Rescue Centre by the Army nine years ago. He was only a young puppy and was ideal to be trained as a search dog.  His training was carried out at the Royal Army Veterinary Corps in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, UK. By the end of his training he could detect the slightest hint of explosives or weapons.

His career has seen him sent to Northern Ireland, Kosovo, Iraq and then deployed to Afghanistan where he has been for the last three years. He is, in fact, the longest-serving British Army member in Afghanistan which is nearly triple the time of his longest-serving human comrades.  As a result, Jamie has become a legend amongst the lads out in Helmand province where he searches over 80 lorries a day for hidden weapons and explosives.

His most recent handler L/Cpl Jim Wilkinson says that even after three years Jamie is so enthusiastic which makes him a dream to work with.  So much so he thinks he is “awesome – the best dog I have ever worked with!”

In December 2008 both L/Cpl Wilkinson and Jamie were at the Front Line playing their part in a major British Offensive Operation.  As we all know, many lives have been tragically lost fighting the Taliban which has proven to be very difficult to come to terms with by the friends of these brave men who have died for their country, some of whom are only young lads.  Jamie was there to offer his love and support to try, if only in a small way, to raise their morale.  Some of the lads would sit for hours just stroking him and being comforted by his presence.  For some of them, Jamie would remind them of their own pets back at home.

Jamie’s tour of Afghanistan has now ended as he has reached retirement.  He will always be remembered with huge affection by those who have served along side of him and will be remembered as a brilliantly effective search dog along with his friendly, attention-seeking personality.  L/Cpl Wilkinson was going to submit papers so that he could be re-homed with his own father while he himself continued his career in the Army.

In L/Cpl Wilkinson’s own words, “Jamie’s service has been outstanding.  He’s a true credit to the Army.”

And all Jamie ever asked for throughout his glittering career was a bowl of food everyday, some love and a soggy old tennis ball!!  God love him.

Jamie with his previous handler L/Cpl Charlie Bates