Tulsa’s newest graduate crossed the stage, tail wagging the whole way.
Lambo, a search and recovery dog partnered with Tulsa Fire Department Lt. Jeff Leon, was honored during a “Passing of the Leash” ceremony at Williams’ headquarters after completing training with Ground Zero Emergency Training Center.
Lambo was sponsored by Williams, a multi-year supporter of Ground Zero, the Oklahoma nonprofit founded by former OU coach Barry Switzer and his wife Becky.
Ground Zero board member Cindy Morrison said that the Passing of the Leash ceremony symbolized Lambo’s readiness to serve, after he completes his final certifications.
“The leash represents trust, partnership, and readiness,” she said. “He’s leaving the training field and stepping into the real world as a valuable part of an emergency response team ready to deploy at a moment’s notice.”
Becky Switzer said Ground Zero has placed more than 30 search and rescue dogs with first responders across the nation.
“These dogs are the best tools in a first responder’s toolbox. They can find people quickly and efficiently and hopefully save their lives,” she said. “If a victim has passed, they can also locate that victim and bring closure to the family.”
“They’re a Heisman Trophy of dogs,” said Barry Switzer. “They’re first draft choices. Only one in 1,000 can do what these dogs do.”
Leon said Lambo, a two-year-old Belgian Malinois, will deploy with Oklahoma Task Force 1 and the Tulsa Fire Department.
Lambo is Leon’s fifth K-9 partner and may be his best yet.
“I think he’s going to be better than my last dog,” he said. “And my last dog was amazing. He’s blowing my mind what with what he can do.”
The search dogs are motivated by playtime and treats, much like many household pets. But they are part of an elite class of athletes that would make any coach proud, said Matt Bell, program director for Oklahoma Task Force 1.
The task force was deployed six times last year, to communities ravaged by tornadoes, floods and hurricanes.
“I cannot stress enough how grateful I am for these dogs in the critical role that they play in saving lives and providing closure to families,” Bell said.
Sara Delgado, director of Brand and Corporate Social Responsibility for Williams, said the company has a long history of funding first responders in the communities across the nation where our employees live and work.
“First responders deserve all the resources they need to be successful in doing their jobs.” she said. “Canines like Lambo are critical partners for search and recovery teams, and we are proud to support those efforts.”
Also at the ceremony were Doug Peters, a Williams employee and volunteer first responder for the Kansas Civil Air Patrol, and his K-9 partner Mack, who also trained at Ground Zero.
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