BOMB SQUAD

Members of the Oklahoma Highway Patrol bomb squad were guests of the Kingfisher Lions Club on Thursday. Lt. Mike Norman is pictured left with Koda, a 3-year-old Belgian Malinois. Norman said Koda is his fourth dog during his tenure on the bomb squad....and his last as he’s set to retire soon. Pictured on the right is Trooper Mark Tschetter with Jasmine, a 2-year-old Shepherd with German bloodlines. Norman said the bomb squad receives about three calls a week statewide. On top of working bomb threats, the dogs are used prior to OU and OSU home football games, large concerts, when dignitaries visit and they also go through the Capitol two to three times per week. “These dogs are so well-trained,” Norman said. “And we spend so much time training with them.” Norman added that “every day is a training day if we’re not already on a call.” The dogs stay with their handlers at their homes when not on duty. Jasmine was purchased by the OHP in Oklahoma, but most of the dogs are purchased from outside the country, Norman said. Koda, for example, was purchased in Columbia. “He was going to search their cocoa fields for explosives,” Norman said. “I think this is a better life for him.” The guests were introduced by Lions Club member Bill Reitz. [KT&FP Staff Photos]