Over 3,064,780 active members

Opening unit directory

Building the branch units surface

Loading unit filters, rankings, and the branch unit grid.

Overview

Members

Units

Opening branch overview

Building the branch home surface

Loading branch highlights, featured unit context, and gallery moments.

Overview

Members

Units

379th SPS K-9

1 members•1 unit

379th SPS K-9 Homepage Photos Members

Relive and share the memories of your service-time with your brothers and sisters in arms today. VetFriends.com can help you reconnect.

Did you proudly serve in the 379th SPS K-9?

Are you looking for someone who is or was in the 379th SPS K-9?

Do you have 379th SPS K-9 photos you'd like to share?

Then join a community with your brothers and sisters of the 379th SPS K-9.

Branch

U.S. Air Force

Members

About 379th SPS K-9

The 379th Security Police Squadron (SPS) K-9 unit was an integral part of United States Air Force security operations during the Vietnam War. Stationed at Tan Son Nhut Air Base in South Vietnam, the 379th SPS K-9 handlers and their military working dogs provided crucial perimeter security, guarding against enemy infiltration and sabotage, especially during high-threat periods like the Tet Offensive. The K-9 teams conducted patrols, detection missions, and alert duty, often operating under dangerous conditions and facing frequent mortar and ground attacks. Their dedication and teamwork greatly enhanced the safety and effectiveness of base defense operations throughout their deployment.

About 379th SPS K-9

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Vietnam War Service: The 379th Security Police Squadron (SPS) K-9 unit was an integral part of the U.S. Air Force’s base defense at Phu Cat Air Base, Vietnam, from 1966 to 1971.
First Line of Defense: The K-9 teams patrolled the perimeter of Phu Cat Air Base, acting as the first line of defense against enemy infiltrators and sappers, often detecting threats before they reached the main base.
Heroic Canines: Several dogs from the 379th SPS K-9 unit were credited with saving countless lives by alerting handlers to enemy movements and preventing attacks, often at great personal risk.
Harsh Conditions: Handlers and their dogs faced extreme heat, monsoon rains, and dangerous wildlife, all while maintaining constant vigilance during overnight patrols.
Canine Sacrifice: Many of the dogs did not return home after the war due to quarantine laws and military policy at the time. Handlers often formed deep bonds with their dogs, making these losses especially poignant.
Decorated Service: Members of the 379th SPS K-9 unit received numerous commendations for bravery and meritorious service under fire, highlighting their critical role in base security.
Operation Safeguard: The K-9 teams were a key part of Operation Safeguard, which aimed to protect U.S. Air Force bases from sabotage and infiltration during the Vietnam War.
Legacy and Reunions: Surviving members of the 379th SPS K-9 unit have held reunions and established veteran networks, honoring both their human and canine comrades.
Training Intensity: Handlers underwent rigorous training in patrol tactics, obedience, and attack work, fostering a unique bond and high level of teamwork between handler and dog.
Unit Motto: The 379th SPS K-9 unit lived by the motto “Guardians of the Night,” reflecting their commitment to all-night vigilance and the protection of their fellow service members.

Opening unit directory

Building the branch units surface

Loading unit filters, rankings, and the branch unit grid.

Overview

Members

Units

379th SPS K-9

1 members•1 unit

379th SPS K-9 Homepage Photos Members

Relive and share the memories of your service-time with your brothers and sisters in arms today. VetFriends.com can help you reconnect.

Did you proudly serve in the 379th SPS K-9?

Are you looking for someone who is or was in the 379th SPS K-9?

Do you have 379th SPS K-9 photos you'd like to share?

Then join a community with your brothers and sisters of the 379th SPS K-9.

Branch

U.S. Air Force

Members

About 379th SPS K-9

Photos

st.Pattys day

1370th Photo Mapping Wing • U.S. Air Force • 2021

1971 Kaiser 6x6 with our tank at the VFW

375 SVS • U.S. Air Force • 2026

1971 Kaiser 6x6

375 SVS • U.S. Air Force • 2026

83rd Tactical Control Flight

83RD TACTICAL CONTROL FLIGHT • U.S. Air Force

About 379th SPS K-9

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Vietnam War Service: The 379th Security Police Squadron (SPS) K-9 unit was an integral part of the U.S. Air Force’s base defense at Phu Cat Air Base, Vietnam, from 1966 to 1971.
First Line of Defense: The K-9 teams patrolled the perimeter of Phu Cat Air Base, acting as the first line of defense against enemy infiltrators and sappers, often detecting threats before they reached the main base.
Heroic Canines: Several dogs from the 379th SPS K-9 unit were credited with saving countless lives by alerting handlers to enemy movements and preventing attacks, often at great personal risk.
Harsh Conditions: Handlers and their dogs faced extreme heat, monsoon rains, and dangerous wildlife, all while maintaining constant vigilance during overnight patrols.
Canine Sacrifice: Many of the dogs did not return home after the war due to quarantine laws and military policy at the time. Handlers often formed deep bonds with their dogs, making these losses especially poignant.
Decorated Service: Members of the 379th SPS K-9 unit received numerous commendations for bravery and meritorious service under fire, highlighting their critical role in base security.
Operation Safeguard: The K-9 teams were a key part of Operation Safeguard, which aimed to protect U.S. Air Force bases from sabotage and infiltration during the Vietnam War.
Legacy and Reunions: Surviving members of the 379th SPS K-9 unit have held reunions and established veteran networks, honoring both their human and canine comrades.
Training Intensity: Handlers underwent rigorous training in patrol tactics, obedience, and attack work, fostering a unique bond and high level of teamwork between handler and dog.
Unit Motto: The 379th SPS K-9 unit lived by the motto “Guardians of the Night,” reflecting their commitment to all-night vigilance and the protection of their fellow service members.