Retired Putnam K9 Reunited With Marine Handler

The Putnam County Sheriff’s Office has reunited a retiring K-9 with its former Marine Corp handler.

Explosives K-9 Remi was given to veteran Lance Cpl. Philip Akhteebo during a special ceremony prior to Tuesday’s Putnam County Commission meeting.

“Remi means a lot to me and he brought everyone in my squad back from Afghanistan with all their limbs,” Ahkteebo said. “I’m excited. I want to thank all of you for coming, Sheriff, and all the handlers that had him for making this happen. Thank you.”

Sheriff Eddie Farris said Remi has played a major role in law enforcement across the Upper Cumberland.

“For many years, it (Remi) has been the only explosive-trained certified K-9 in the Upper Cumberland area,” Farris said, “so we have serviced many counties, schools, and different things with that particular dog, and we’re proud of that. Remi has served us honorably here for the last seven years, which we’re real proud of. But prior to serving us, he served our great country as a Marine overseas.”

Farris noted Remi was able to located seven explosive devices during his tour in Afghanistan.

Akhteebo and Remi were deployed with the 2nd Battalion 5th Marines Fox Company in the Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Akhteebo now serves as a corrections officer in McHenry County, Illinois.