Photo: KTNV
A canine handler out of Harry Reid International Airport has been named the '2022 Canine Handler of the Year'.
Koa Purugganan was recognized last week at the TSA annual awards celebration at Reagan National Airport in Arlington, Virginia. Awarded for his outstanding performance and leadership, Koa was chosen out of more than 400 canine handlers across the country. "To have the number 1 handler here is pretty special," said Lorie Dankers, a Nevada TSA spokesperson.
Koa's four-legged partner in crime is a 6-year old German Shorthaired Pointer named Bubba, who is trained to detect explosives. Together, they ensure the safety of travelers by working security checkpoints, and assisting with the efficiency of TSA screening operations. Koa says that Bubba is very energetic and loves anything that squeaks. When he's not working, Bubba gets the 'zoomies' and runs around the backyard.
"We are thrilled that Koa has been recognized for the outstanding job he along with his four-legged partner Bubba do for the airport community," said Karen Burke, TSA Federal Security Director for Nevada. "Koa is a team player who proactively seeks ways to improve the effectiveness of the canine program while also taking time to mentor other canine handlers to help them improve the job they do. He and Bubba are exceptional members of our team and are deserving of this award."
Working as a handler since 2019, Koa is currently a lead training officer for handlers and their canines, developing various scenarios to test skill and proficiency.
"This is a big accomplishment in my career," said Koa. "This is something that I wanted to achieve before I ended my career as a canine handler."
Make sure to be on the look out for Koa and Bubba next time you're at the Las Vegas airport!