The Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) marked history with its first K9 Retirement Service, honoring two loyal service dogs, Chief Petty Officer K9 Max and Petty Officer K9 Daliah, who faithfully served the RBDF and the nation for 11 years.
The ceremony, held at Coral Harbour Base, recognized the discipline and dedication of the retiring canines. Max and Daliah were key members of the RBDF’s K9 Unit, supporting national security operations, drug interdictions, search and rescue missions, and force protection duties.
Officers, marines, and guests gathered as the dogs were formally retired, highlighting the strong bond between handlers and their K9 partners. Commander Andrew Bowe, Commanding Officer of the Military Police & Force Protection Unit, called the occasion historic, stating: “Today, we honor Max and Daliah not just as service animals, but as loyal warriors who stood shoulder to shoulder with us in protecting our country.”
Handlers shared reflections on the unique trust and reliability Max and Daliah brought to the unit, and tokens of appreciation were presented as a symbol of gratitude.
The event also recalled the start of the RBDF’s K9 program in 2016, when four marines returned from training in Cuba with four dogs: Max, Daliah, Zena, and Cardi. With Leading K9 Zena and Petty Officer K9 Cody having since passed, the retirement of Max and Daliah closed a significant chapter in the program’s history.
The RBDF K9 Unit now continues with three active dogs, including a new Belgian Malinois donated by the Bahamas Department of Immigration. Chief Petty Officer K9 Max and Petty Officer K9 Daliah leave behind a proud legacy of loyalty, professionalism, and service that will guide future generations of RBDF K9s.
(RBDF Photos by: Marine Seaman JaeShawn Taylor)
