Periodically, members of a reconnaissance patrol will become separated from one another due to circumstances not under their immediate control. This usually is caused by inadvertent contact with a larger, more powerful enemy force, in the form of an ambush. If the patrol cannot regain the initiative, chaos and confusion may drive the members apart, in effect separating them as they struggle to survive.

This is where the patrol members’ training kicks in, and they each do their best to come back together, as soon as possible, in a safe location off the “X” (away from chaos and confusion). This safe location is called a “Rally Point.” At the rally point they conduct a series of checks and drills to assist them in both winning the contact and succeeding in their mission. A Contact Report (communication), Medical Check (Health), Ammo & Weapons (Tools), Mission Confirmation (Original or New) and Navigation (Route/Path to Mission) are the main checks in the Rally Point.

Recently the K9 Project held its 1st Annual “Rally Point” for its service dog recipients. This was a three-day getaway in west Texas, with the purpose of providing recipients an “Off the X” opportunity to “Communicate” needs, address their “Health”, improve K9 handling “Tools”, clarify their new “Mission” in life, and consider how to “Navigate” their new “Mission.”

The event was facilitated through a relaxed schedule of K9 training in the mornings, adventurous/cultural activities in the afternoons, and campfire socials at night. Recipients were welcome to participate (or not participate) in any evolution they wished, as both team and personal time are highly valued at the “Rally Point.”

The Navy SEAL Museum Team gives big thanks to our donors and service providers: Baden K9, T6 West Texas, Shine A Light Films, Covered S Ranch, and not least of all, Angie and Mitch Probasco. Your time, funding, resources, and operational input made the 1st Annual Rally Point a success.

Just as important, big thanks to our K9 Project recipients (and their dogs). Considering that the Project is a “veterans helping veterans” program, our staff and I were greatly blessed by each one of you. It’s comforting to know that even after our military service to this great nation is complete, we still have Teammates who have each other’s backs!

Facta Non Verba!

– Kevin (Yoda), CANSOF Warrant Officer, Navy SEAL Museum Operations Officer/K9 Project Director