In Memory of MWD Akki

SSgt Plemons was Akki's handler, here is a little bit about Akki in his own words:

MWD Akki/B363 was assigned to the 62d Security Forces Squadron, McChord AFB, Washington. Akki was deployed with the 2d MP Battalion, USMC at Forward Operating Base Iskandariyah, Iraq. Akki’s main job was to conduct infantry combat operations. He was responsible for searching the surrounding cities for IED’s and weapons caches as well as conduct combat patrols and aid in the capture of wanted insurgents. On 2 Oct 2005 Akki lost his life in Iraq when the room he was in caught fire, Akki was responsible for saving lives as he found several IED’s and weapons caches. 4 soldiers, who worked with him daily, went into the room with total disregard for their safety and attempted to save his life, for their bravery they almost lost theirs. Akki was a true hero and great partner. When the fight was tough Akki never gave up, he worked and gave his all even when it was all on the line. He will never be forgotten.

To My Beloved Master

I stood by your bed last night,
I came to have a peep
I could see that you were crying,
you found it hard to sleep.
I whined softly as you
brushed away a tear,
"It's me, I haven't left you, I'm well
I'm fine, I'm here."
I was close to you at breakfast
I watched you pour the tea,
you were thinking of the many times,
Your hands reached down to me.
I walked with you towards the house,
as you fumbled for your key.
I gently put my paw on you,
I smiled and said "It's me."
I was with you at my grave today,
you tend it with such care.
I want to reassure you,
that I'm not lying there.
Tonight you looked so very tired,
and sank into a chair.
I tried so hard to let you know,
that I was standing there.
You sat there very quietly, then smiled
I think you knew...
In the stillness of the evening,
I was very close to you.
And when the time is right
for you to cross the brief divide,
I'll rush across to greet you
and we'll stand, side by side.
I have so many things to show you,
there is so much for you to see.
Be patient, live your journey out...
then come home to me.
-Author Unknown-