TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Games, gadgets, clothes – those are typical things you’d expect a teenager to request for their birthday.
Thirteen-year-old Sydney Leonard, however, is not your average teenager.
In lieu of personal gifts, the Oklahoma City middle schooler considered her love for animals and her heart for service and asked for donations to be given to the military working dogs. She had the idea to craft care packages with the contributions and give them to the K9 Unit at Tinker Air Force Base.
“It’s been really cool,” Sydney said. “I love animals and I love helping people. Having all the support and donations is awesome.”
Since her idea took flight, the teen has compiled boxes upon boxes filled with things for our military working dogs and their handlers. She’s received help from her family and community, as well as a $400 donation from a local bank.
“I was surprised at school with that donation, it was crazy. But I was so excited!” Sydney explained.
Before the holiday, Sydney and her family were able to deliver the care packages to the kennels at Tinker, so that they all had something to open for Christmas.
The Leonards were given a tour of the K9 Unit and were able to see a demonstration in the bite suit – another “really cool” part of the teen’s experience. They also learned more about the types of dogs and breeds used as military working dogs, and what their tasks and responsibilities include, their ability to learn and their desire to work.
Tech. Sgt. James Swann, the K9 Kennel Master, thanked Sydney and her family tremendously.
“I was not anticipating this and we cannot thank you enough,” Sergeant Swann said. “There’s a lot that isn’t available when our handlers are deployed, so this will help a lot down range.”
At the end of her visit, Master Sgt. Chris Shady presented Sydney with two gifts. First, keeping in the holiday spirit, Sergeant Shady gave her a 72nd Security Forces Squadron Christmas Ornament. The second gift was a bit more prestigious military coin from the 72nd commander.
“A commander’s coin is very special and is very rarely given out,” Sergeant Shady explained. The coin reads: Presented for excellence from the 72nd Security Forces Squadron Commander. Every defender makes a difference.
“We think you (Sydney) made a huge difference for us and for our handlers and dogs deployed. We really appreciate you and are honored that you would do that for us.”
Commended for her tenacity and motivation to take an idea and run with it, Sydney was able to provide the military working dogs with boxes full of dog toys, goggles, cooling vests, tents, misters, and products for their teeth and paws. She hopes to collect more donations in time for the next round of deployment, and that the support continues to grow.