ALARACT 050/2025 NOMINATIONS FOR THE CALENDAR YEAR 2025 BEST MILITARY WORKING DOG

ALARACT 050/2025
DTG: R 072000Z MAY 25
UNCLAS
SUBJ/ALARACT 050/2025 - NOMINATIONS FOR THE CALENDAR YEAR 2025 BEST
MILITARY WORKING DOG
THIS ALARACT MESSAGE HAS BEEN TRANSMITTED BY JSP ON BEHALF OF
HQDA, OFFICE OF THE PROVOST MARSHAL GENERAL (OPMG)
REFERENCE: K9 YORK (011X) AWARD STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
(SOP) (SEE ATTACHMENT 1)
1. (U) PURPOSE: THIS MESSAGE PROVIDES GUIDANCE FROM OPMG IN
REFERENCE TO NOMINATIONS FOR THE K9 YORK (001X) AWARD.
2. (U) MISSION: MILITARY POLICE UNITS COMPETING FOR THE 2025 K9 YORK
(011X) AWARD; SUBMIT NOMINATIONS NO LATER THAN 25 FEBRUARY 2026 TO
THE OPMG.
3. (U) EACH ARMY COMMAND/ARMY SERVICE COMPONENT COMMAND/DIRECT
REPORTING UNIT (ACOM/ASCC/DRU) MAY SUBMIT NOMINATIONS IN
ACCORDANCE WITH THE SOP.
4. (U) EACH YEAR OPMG WILL HONOR THE BEST MILITARY WORKING DOG
(MWD) FOR DEMONSTRATED EXCELLENCE. THIS YEAR OPMG WILL SELECT
ONE ELIGIBLE MWD FROM UNITS ACROSS THE ARMY.
5. (U) NOMINATIONS WILL BE PAPERLESS AND ELECTRONICALLY SUBMITTED
TO OPMG IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SOP, WHICH HAS BEEN PROVIDED TO
EACH ACOM/ASCC/DRU.
6. (U) OPMG WILL ANNOUNCE ALL AWARD WINNERS NO LATER THAN APRIL
2026.
7. (U) OPMG POINT OF CONTACT IS AT DSN 222–6848, COM (703) 692–6848, OR
BY EMAIL AT USARMY.PENTAGON.HQDA-PMG.MBX.AWARD@ARMY.MIL. ALL
PACKETS WILL BE SUBMITTED USING THIS EMAIL ADDRESS.
8. (U) THIS ALARACT MESSAGE EXPIRES ON 26 FEBRUARY 2026.
ATTACHMENT:
1. K9 YORK (011X) AWARD SOP
Department of the Army
Office of the Provost Marshal General
K9 York (011X) Award
Standard Operating Procedure
Headquarters, Department of the
Army Washington, DC
1 May 2025
UNCLASSIFIED
DAPM
SUBJECT: 2025 K9 York (011X) Award
2
Table of Contents
I. History 3
II. Timeline 4
III. Purpose and Award Category 5
IV. Eligibility 6
V. Evaluated Categories 7
VI. Entry and Submission Criteria 8-9
VII. Selection Panel 10
VIII. Winners 11
Appendix A Packet Requirements 12
Appendix B Unit Information (Data Sheet) 13
Appendix C History References 14
Appendix D Example MWD (Unit) Evaluation Sheet 15-21
Appendix E After Action Review 22-23
DAPM
SUBJECT: 2025 K9 York (011X) Award
3
I. History
The use of Military Working Dogs (MWDs) in the U.S. Army has a long and storied history. The first
recorded American use of military dogs was during the Seminole War of 1835 when the Army used
Cuban-bred bloodhounds for tracking. In 1942, The Army established a “War Dog” program within
the Quartermaster Corps solidifying the service of MWDs within our formations.
During World War I and World War II, more than 10,000 MWDs were deployed across the European
and Pacific theaters of operations. The MWDs provided crucial security and force protection serving
as sentries at fixed installations, while also performing scouting missions alongside combat patrols.
In 1951, during the Korean Conflict, responsibility of MWDs officially transferred to the Military Police
(MP) Corps. The Korean and Vietnam Wars further solidified their role, particularly in patrol and
detection work. More than 4,000 MWDs were employed in Vietnam performing a wide variety of
roles such as combat patrol, critical site security, narcotics and explosive detection, and riot control.
Throughout these conflicts the MWD proved their combat effectiveness, and the U.S. Army Infantry
School played a prominent role in developing MWDs for combat operations.
Leading up to the Global War on Terror, the MWDs continued to prove their effectiveness,
supporting MP professionals with support to law and order and force protection missions. In 2001,
MWD capabilities were expanded to support commanders in the field. In 2002, as a direct result of
immediate need in Afghanistan the Army established mine detection dogs and embedded them in
the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. In 2004, the U.S. Army Engineer School with the U.S. Army
Military Police School added a non-aggressive, specialized search dog, to the MWD inventory to
support ongoing efforts in the middle east.
Today, more than 500 MWDs are serving in the Army supporting garrison operations and combatant
commands across the globe. MWDs continue their service through operational and combat
deployments, health and welfare checks, U.S. Secret Service Missions, and specialized missions
designed for their skillsets.
This award is named after K9 York (011X), a distinguished war dog who served during the Korean
War. K9 York served as a scout for the 126 th Infantry Scout Dog Platoon where his primary mission
was to alert the platoon of enemy presence. K9 York led 148 combat patrols without losing a single
Soldier and was awarded the “Award for Distinguished Service.” K9 York’s story highlights the
critical role K9 Units had during the Korean War. After his service, K9 York returned to Fort Benning.
He was interred with full honors at the age of 12.
DAPM
SUBJECT: 2025 K9 York (011X) Award
4
II. Timeline – 2025 K9 York Award Timeline and Target Dates
May 2025: 2025 MWD Award Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Published
Service Career of MWD: Period of Award
1 January 2026 – 25 February 2026: Command Level Competition
25 February 2026: Deadline for submission to Office of the Provost Marshal General (OPMG)
March 2026: Selection Board selects winner
No later than April 2026: Winner announced
April 2026 – June 2026: Trophy Presentation at respective MWD location
DAPM
SUBJECT: 2025 K9 York (011X) Award
5
III. Purpose and Award Category
A. Purpose. The K9 York Award competition honors a MWD that has demonstrated and achieved
excellence results. On behalf of the Secretary of the Army, OPMG conducts the competition
annually to recognize, cultivate and inspire excellence within the MWD community. This SOP
establishes competition criteria and provides units with guidance for submitting nominations for this
award.
B. Award Category. The K9 York Award will recognize the best MWD within the U.S. Army based
off nominations from each Army command/Army service component command/direct reporting unit
responsible for MWDs within their formations.
DAPM
SUBJECT: 2025 K9 York (011X) Award
6
IV. Eligibility
A. Below is the list of commands that are eligible to host a command-level competition and
forward nominations to the 2025 K9 York Award.
x U.S. Army Forces Command (FORSCOM)
x U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC)
x U.S. Army Installation Management Command (IMCOM)
x U.S. Army South (USARSO)
x U.S. Army Europe and Africa (USAREUR-AF)
x U.S. Army Pacific (USARPAC)
x U.S. Army Military District of Washington (MDW)
x Connecticut Army National Guard will submit nomination through TRADOC for consideration
Note: U.S. Army Central and U.S. Army North may submit packets for MWDs assigned during the
award period but must coordinate with the home station unit to compete at the command-level
competition.
B. MWDs must be currently serving to be considered eligible. Retired dogs are not
authorized to be nominated for the award.
C. The nomination will consist of the MWD’s entire service career and not limited to time
spent with their current unit or handler.
D. MWDs can only receive the K9 York Award once throughout their career. A unit cannot
nominate the same MWD in 2 consecutive years.
E. The K9 York Award is awarded is for the MWD. The nomination is based solely on the
service, performance, and career of the MWD and does not include achievements of their
current or previous handler.
F. Units must submit packet through the command-level competition, in accordance with IV-A,
and are prohibited from submitting a packet to more than one command.
DAPM
SUBJECT: 2025 K9 York (011X) Award
7
V. Evaluated Categories
1. Operational Deployments/Special Missions- Narrative Only: Highlight the MWDs’
deployments throughout their career. Clearly demonstrate the MWD’s significant contribution to
mission success, such as locating enemy combatants, explosives, or narcotics, protecting friendly
forces or aiding in search and rescue operations. Units should highlight when applicable details of
instances when the MWD displayed exceptional courage in the face of the enemy or other
hazardous situations. Quantifiable results (number of explosives and narcotics found, lives saved,
and so forth) are highly encouraged. Highlight missions where the MWD performed exceptionally on
specialized missions to include U.S. Secret Service and VIP missions. Focus on the impact of the
actions rather than specific details of the mission. Units should include instances where the MWD’s
proactive behavior prevented potential threats or security breaches, while maintaining discretion and
professionalism in sensitive situations while operating in close proximity to high-ranking officials or
dignitaries.
2. Law Enforcement Operations/Community Engagement - Narrative Only: Highlight specific
instances where the MWD’s detection skills directly led to the apprehension of suspects, seizure of
contraband, or prevention of criminal activity. Explain how the MWD’s presence and utilization
contributed to deterring crime and enhancing the overall security posture of the installation. Units will
specify the MWD’s contribution to health and welfare searches, random antiterrorism measures, and
law enforcement patrols. Quantifiable results (number of explosives and narcotics found) are highly
encouraged. Highlight instances where the MWD positively engaged with the community, fostering
trust, and promoting a positive image of law enforcement. This could include demonstrations,
educational events, or interactions that enhanced public relations. Include highlights of articles
published about the MWD through public affairs or local media.
3. Adaptability and Versatility - Narrative Only: Highlight the MWD’s ability to adapt to
challenging and dynamic operational environments. Describe instances where the MWD
successfully performed duties outside the primary specialization or demonstrated exceptional
versatility in diverse mission sets. Include advanced courses that the MWD completed to include
Patrol Explosive Detector Dog-Enhanced Course (PEDD-E), DoD MWD courses, or civilian industry
courses.
4. Foundations of Excellence (Photo Narrative): This section provides a visual representation of
the MWD’s achievements across all categories (1–3), using impactful photos to depict the story of
their excellence. Photos should be presented in the order of the categories, creating a cohesive
depiction of the MWD’s overall success and performance. Include brief captions for context and
impact.
DAPM
SUBJECT: 2025 K9 York (011X) Award
8
VI. Entry and Submission Criteria
A. Only commands listed in Section IV are eligible to host a command-level competition
and only those points of contact will submit nominations to OPMG. Submission
instructions will be provided to points of contact at those commands.
B. Entries must be received at Headquarters, Department of the Army OPMG no later than
the deadline. Late submissions, direct submissions from units, and submissions lacking
required documentation will not be accepted.
C. It is the responsibility of the submitting command to ensure that each submission meets
the entry criteria and formatting in accordance with this SOP.
D. Entries must include a professional biography of the MWD. The biography should be no
more than two pages and include training, units, deployments, and awards received by the
MWD. Awards list should be in chronological order by date award was received.
E. The focus of a unit’s submission is the Evaluated Categories in Section V. The Evaluated
Categories are broken into four sections.
1. Categories 1–3: Will be presented using a narrative only; supported with examples,
methods of success, and results. Sections 1–3 is limited to two pages each category.
2. Category 4 will be supported with pictures with captions only in chronological order of
sections 1–3 and is limited to 10 pages.
F. At a minimum, numerical data is required for MWD awards and certifications.
1. Certifications. Include the current certification letter for the nominated MWD. For MWDs
that are not currently certified include the last certification received as part of the nomination
packet along with a unit level commander statement explaining the reason for non-certification
status.
2. The unit level commander’s signed endorsement memorandum validates of all
information provided in the nomination packet.
G. All nominations will be unclassified.
H. Nominations will be submitted in one PDF file and page oriented. Packet and email titles
will be in the following manner:
1. Year, Unit Name, MWD Name Tattoo, Active Component (AC)/Army National Guard
(ARNG), Command
2. Examples of titles:
x 2025, 1 st MP DET, COOPER A123, AC, FORSCOM
x 2025, 2nd MP DET, KOA B456, AC, IMCOM
DAPM
SUBJECT: 2025 K9 York (011X) Award
9
x 2025, 3rd MP DET, AMADEOUS C789, ARNG, TRADOC
I. Nominations will include a separate digital MWD official photo.
x Digital color photo minimum resolution should be at 2400x1920 pixel, or 240dpi
x Allowed file formats; TIFF, PNG, or JPEG
x The MWD photo should be taken in portrait style
J. Submissions will follow the format in AR 25–50 to the best extent possible and generally
free of grammatical errors.
K. The outline/order of the nomination packet is outlined in appendix A.
L. Nominations should be constructed with the understanding that, at the end of the
Selection Panel, highlights from each MWD will be compiled and shared with MP leaders.
This showcases to MP leaders the excellence that comes from our K9 partners and the
effectiveness they bring to our formations.
M. Upon completion of the command-level competition (in accordance with IV), a memo from
that command will be submitted with the nomination packet stating which packets they select.
N. Nominations will include an endorsement memorandum from their supported commander
O-6 or above (brigade/garrison) which includes a summary of how the nominated MWD made a
difference to the mission of the supported commander. A general officer endorsement is not
required.
O. Nominations will include a memorandum from the unit level commander describing a
summary of the MWD’s service and career. The commander will address the MWD’s strengths
in the nomination packet. Commander’s signature validates the information is a true and
accurate representation of their MWD submission. This memorandum should not exceed one
page. Limit all paragraphs to six lines.
P. Throughout the nomination packet, offer specifics rather than generalities. Describe
achievements that set the MWD apart from other K9s.
Q. The point of contact for the award and this SOP is OPMG at 703–692–6848 or
usarmy.pentagon.hqda-pmg.mbx.award@army.mil.
DAPM
SUBJECT: 2025 K9 York (011X) Award
10
VII. Selection Panel
A. The Selection Panel will include distinguished CMF 31 Senior Noncommissioned
Officers, Officers, Warrant Officers, or Civilians, specifically selected based on their
expertise within CMF 31.
B. No ties are allowed. The Selection Panel will designate only one winner per year.
C. The Selection Panel's decisions are reviewed by the Provost Marshal General, who retains
discretion for final approval and authority for release of results and other information. Once
approved, the decisions are final.
D. The Selection Panel will produce a formal after action review using the format in appendix
E to be signed and disturbed by OMPG.
DAPM
SUBJECT: 2025 K9 York (011X) Award
11
VIII. Winners
A. The MWD winner will be selected based on the MWD’s entire service career and
performance as depicted in their nomination packet.
B. Each winner will receive a K9 York Award. Arrangements will be made for delivery and
presentation of the award at a local ceremony as feasible.
C. To highlight the outstanding individual dedication required to submit a successful
nomination packet, unit leadership is encouraged to provide unit level awards for Soldiers who
participated in creating the packet on behalf of the MWD. The Provost Marshal General and
Provost Sergeant Major will provide individual recognition during the trophy presentation at their
discretion.
DAPM
SUBJECT: 2025 K9 (011X) York Award
12
Appendix A
Packet Requirements
1. Command-level Selection Memo
2. Supported Commander’s Selection Memo
3. Unit Level Commander’s Endorsement Memo summarizing and highlighting the MWD’s
contributions to the MP Corps (no more than one page)
4. Military Working Dog Biography (no more than two pages)
5. Evaluated Category 1 (no more than two pages)
6. Evaluated Category 2 (no more than two pages)
7. Evaluated Category 3 (no more than two pages)
8. Evaluated Category 4 (no more than 10 pages)
9. Military Working Dog Certification Letter (current or latest if not certified)
DAPM
SUBJECT: 2025 K9 (011X) York Award
13
Appendix B
Unit Information
POC:
POC CONTACT PHONE NUMBER:
POC EMAIL ADDRESS:
UNIT:
UNIT HOME LOCATION:
UNIT LEADERSHIP: CDR/DET SGT/KENNEL MASTER
SUPPORTED COMMAND:
DAPM
SUBJECT: 2025 K9 (011X) York Award
14
Appendix C
History References
“Veterinarian Saves Famed Korean War Dog at Carson,” Army Times, 1956
“Dog Hero, GI Fly Home,” The Independent, 1956
DAPM
SUBJECT: 2025 K9 (011X) York Award
15
Appendix D
Unit Evaluation
Sheet
2025 K9 York Award
Evaluation
Panel Member: Evaluated MWD:
Submitting
Command
(Circle One)
FORSCOM TRADOC IMCOM USARSO
USAREUR-AF USARPAC MDW
Panel Recorder Use Only Point
Total
Unit Level Commander Memo (Max 15 Points)
MWD Biography and Photo (Max 15 Points)
Operational Deployments/Special Missions (Max 50 Points)
/DZ(QIRUFHPHQW&RPPXQLW\(QJDJHPHQWV (Max 50 Points)
$GDSWDELOLW\DQG9HUVDWLOLW\ (Max 50 Points)
Foundations of Excellence (Max 25 Points)
Additional Point Possibilities (Max 25 Points)
Panel Member Points (Max 30 Points)
OVERALL TOTAL POINTS (Total Max: 260 Points)
DAPM
SUBJECT: 2025 K9 (011X) York Award
16
2025 K9 York Award
Unit Evaluation (continued)
Unit Level Commander Endorsement Memo (15 points MAX)
Nominations will include an endorsement from the unit level commander summarizing the
service and contributions of the nominated MWD. Commander’s signature validates the
information is a true and accurate description of the nominated MWD. This memorandum
should not exceed one page and limit paragraphs to six lines.
How did the unit make a difference for the Supported Commander:
Total Points (0–15)
MWD Biography and Photo (15 points MAX)
Nomination packets should include a professional biography encompassing the MWD’s entire
military career to include units assigned, courses attended, operational deployments, and
awards. Biography should be easy to read and not exceed two pages.
Highlights Outline in Biography:
Total Points (0–15)
DAPM
SUBJECT: 2025 K9 (011X) York Award
17
2025 K9 York Award
Evaluation (continued)
CATEGORIES:
1. Operational Deployments/Special Missions – Narrative Only (50 Points MAX): Highlight the
MWDs deployments throughout their career. Clearly demonstrate the MWD’s significant contribution to
mission success, such as locating enemy combatants, explosives, or narcotics, protecting friendly forces or
aiding in search and rescue operations. Units should highlight when applicable details of instances when
the MWD displayed exceptional courage in the face of the enemy or other hazardous situations.
Quantifiable results (number of explosives and narcotics found, lives saved, and so forth) are highly
encouraged. Highlight missions where the MWD performed exceptionally on specialized missions to
include U.S. Secret Service and VIP missions. Focus on the impact of the actions rather than specific
details of the mission. Units should include instances where the MWD’s proactive behavior prevented
potential threats or security breaches, while maintaining discretion and professionalism in sensitive
situations while operating in close proximity to high-ranking officials or dignitaries.
Highlights:
Tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) to be shared:
Total Points (0-50)
DAPM
SUBJECT: 2025 K9 (011X) York Award
18
2025 K9 York Award
Evaluation (continued)
2.Law Enforcement Operations/Community EngagementV – Narrative Only (50 Points
MAX): Highlight specific instances where the MWD’s detection skills directly led to the
apprehension of suspects, seizure of contraband, or prevention of criminal activity. Explain
how the MWD’s presence and utilization contributed to deterring crime and enhancing the
overall security posture of the installation. Units will specify the MWD’s contribution to health
and welfare searches, random antiterrorism measures, and law enforcement patrols.
Quantifiable results (number of explosives and narcotics found) are highly encouraged.
Highlight instances where the MWD positively engaged with the community, fostering trust,
and promoting a positive image of law enforcement. This could include demonstrations,
educational events, or interactions that enhanced public relations. Include highlights of
articles published about the MWD through public affairs or local media.
Highlights:
TTPs to be shared:
Total Points (0-50)
DAPM
SUBJECT: 2025 K9 (011X) York Award
19
2025 K9 York Award
Evaluation (continued)
3. Adaptability and Versatility - Narrative Only (50 Points MAX): Highlight the MWD’s
ability to adapt to challenging and dynamic operational environments. Describe instances
where the MWD successfully performed duties outside the primary specialization or
demonstrated exceptional versatility in diverse mission sets. Include advanced courses that
the MWD completed to include Patrol Explosive Detector Dog-Enhanced Course (PEDD-E),
DoD MWD courses, or civilian industry courses.
Highlights:
TTPs to be shared:
Total Points (0-50)
DAPM
SUBJECT: 2025 K9 (011X) York Award
20
2025 K9 York Award
Evaluation (continued)
4. Foundations of Excellence - Photo Narrative (25 Points MAX): This section provides a
visual representation of the MWD’s achievements across all categories (1–3), using impactful
photos to depict the story of their excellence. Photos should be presented in the order of the
categories, creating a cohesive depiction of the MWD’s overall success and performance.
Include brief captions for context and impact.
Highlights:
TTPs to be shared:
Total Points (0-25)
DAPM
SUBJECT: 2025 K9 (011X) York Award
21
2025 K9 York Award
Evaluation (continued)
Additional Point Possibilities (Circle point value if applicable)
Followed format in accordance with AR 25–50 to the best extent possible
(Max 5 Points)
Generally free of grammatical errors (Max 5 Points)
Packet outline/order in accordance with appendix A (Max 5 Points)
Impacts were captured accurately (Max 5 Points)
Narrative offered specifics rather than generalities (Max 5 Points)
Panel Member Points
Should focus on exceptional achievements, overall presentation, and
MWD representation that clearly and compellingly showcase the
impactful accomplishments of the MWD. Points should be awarded
for the unit’s clarity, visual appeal, and writing quality, reflecting
professionalism and pride of their MWD counterpart. Consider the
significance of achievements, the evidence provided, and the overall
effectiveness in conveying the MWD’s positive contributions. (Max 30
Points).
Panel Member Signature: Date:
DAPM
SUBJECT: 2025 K9 (011X) York Award
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After Action Review (AAR): Utilize this space to provide specific comments about this
packet. These comments may be used when writing the formal AAR to assist in preparation
of next year’s award submissions.
Comments:
DAPM
SUBJECT: 2025 K9 (011X) York Award
23
Appendix E
After Action Review 2025
Pending First Selection Board Results

https://armypubs.army.mil/epubs/DR_pubs/DR_a/ARN43640-ALARACT_0502025-000-WEB-1.pdf