Beloved K-9 Officer Faust Receives Heartfelt Final Radio Call After 8 Years Of Police Service
Faust, a German Shepherd, spent eight years on the BNSF Railway Police Force in Texas, serving as an Explosives Detection and Patrol dog.
His unwavering dedication to his job and the bond with his handler, Senior Special Agent Bryan Schaffer, made Faust a beloved member of the force.
Faust’s legacy as a courageous K-9 officer, known for his bravery and loyalty, was honored with an emotional send-off into retirement.
A Final Radio Call
Riding in his patrol vehicle one last time, K-9 Faust had no idea that he was about to receive his final radio call, a fitting tribute to his eight years of dedicated service.
On March 3, 2017, Faust worked his final shift as a police officer, marking the end of a remarkable journey.
As tradition dictates, Faust was given the final radio call in recognition of his service, with the dispatcher saying, “K-9 partner Faust just completed his last shift after serving as an Explosions detection and police service canine for eight years and one day, and he is now officially retired. Faust, thank you for your service to the BNSF Railway, the communities you’ve served, and most importantly, for serving and protecting your handler. Now, we wish you a well, healthy, and happy retirement. Radio clear.“
By the end of the call, K-9 Faust could be heard whimpering, and his handler, Officer Schaffer, was visibly emotional, giving Faust a kiss.
This touching moment was shared with the public on YouTube in March 2017, where it has been viewed more than 720,000 times.
A Special Bond Between Partners
Faust received lots of love and grateful messages from his team:
“Faust, thank you for all the good you have done for BNSF and other agencies – but mostly I thank you for getting us both home safe after every shift,” said Special Agent Bryan Schaffer in his farewell post on Facebook. “He is now officially a permanent part of our family,” Schaffer concluded.
After retiring, Faust lived with Schaffer and his family, enjoying a peaceful retirement for three years.
Sadly, Faust passed away in 2020 at the age of 13.
To Officer Schaffer, Faust was much more than just a partner.
“The connection between Faust and me was unlike anything I’ve had with any other dog. He saw me at my best and my worst. He saw me laugh and cry. I spent more time with him than with my own family. We just had something special,” Schaffer reflected.
Faust’s courage, enthusiasm, work ethic, and happy spirit made him a special K-9 officer.
His legacy was further honored when he was inducted into the We Ride to Provide (WRTP) Hall of Fame after his passing, as rge BSNF shared on Instagram.
Faust’s legacy lives on, forever remembered for his service, bravery, and the lasting impact he made.