Ernest “Ernie” Hamilton Childers

I remember Ernie. We we stationed together at Carswell. He was a true friend and a great person. He will be missed. God bless him and thank you for your service.

He not only served his nation but served his community. I never met Ernest but obviously like all of the Security Police family we love our nation and our community. The shows how much family means...92 SPS 66 / 67

As a fellow Security Police Officer serving in the NAM from '69-'70 I appreciate and respect your service. Welcome Home & Rest In Peace BROTHER

Our sincerest sympathy to Kathy and family, we always enjoyed Ernie's sense of humor and visiting with both of you at VDHA reunions.

You are in my thoughts and prayers. Ernie did so much to preserve the memory of my dad and Nemo. Ernie was truly a great man with a huge heart. He will be remembered always.

My thoughts and prayers are with you.

My thoughts and prayers are for you and your family during this difficult time.

Salute

I was in the k-9 section with Ernie at Carswell.

Ernie, was my trainer at Carswell AFB. in the K/9 section. I had the beagle, that was a drug detection dog. Named Turbo. Try to contact him on Facebook a few years back. A great man to work with in the K-9 section. May God bless your family.

RIP . I met you at Udorn , what a great role model.

My deepest condolances Cathy and Family. I was first introduced to Ernie during my deployment to Iraq in 2005, he was one of our sponsors in the Old Dawgs and Pups program. He was always just a letter or email away, and got us everything we could ever wish for while we were down range. My Dogs Dusty A142 and Jago H347 and I always looked forward to recieving our boxes of treats and toys during our deploments. Then in 2009, I had the opportunity to meet with Ernie in person while stationed at the 341 TRS, Lackland AFB, at a MWD BBQ. His dedication and charisma to and for the Military Working Dog community was absolutely infectious! He taught us all so much about our history and his passion for all our dogs was incredible. He and the rest of the Vietnam Dog Handlers present at the BBQ sparked the fire for us (the newer generation of handlers) to carry on his and their legacy. We also worked together in placing the MWD memorial on Lackland's graduation parade ground... although the Wing was hesitant to allow this, he told me never to give up... continue trying, and keep the memory of all our fallen dogs alive for as long as possible. Although I could not complete the project during my tenure at Lackland, the memorial stands today and ensures the sacrifice of every Military working Dog will never be forgotten. Ernie's impact on myself and the Military Working Dog community is indescribeable and I am so fortunate to have know him. I know he is in a better place surrounded by all our K9 companions and with the Angel's in heaven. I know this is a difficult time for you and your family, but we have a saying in the Military Working Dog Community... K9 leads the way! God has called Ernie home, so that he can Lead the way, for everyone to reach the gates of heaven. I believe this with all my heart, and I also believe all of his and our fallen Dogs and Handlers have lead the way for him, and escorted him to God the Almightly so that he may rest in peace until you meet again in heaven. Again so sorry for your loss.

My deepest condolences, Cathy and family. I first met Ernie in 2003, Columbus, GA attending the unveiling of the War Dog Memorial at Ft Benning. We were in the elevator at the hotel and he introduced himself then gave me a special AF dog patch. I really valued that patch and had it sewn on the front of my VDHA. We caused some confusion on our teleconferences since we’re both Ernies. He was the nicest, smartest and straight forward guy I knew. I will miss him.

Words can not express our feelings at this moment. Cathy our hearts are broken. Ernie is a dogman’s dog man. There will be a hole in my heart until we meet at the bridge. Brother I miss you so much already. Rest easy my friend and we love you and your family.

Ernie, you were a great friend, trusted member of the VDHA,. I will always remember our many conversations at our reunions and conference calls. My prayers and thoughts are with Cathy and your family. May God bless and keep you.

We shared so many things in common including being in the USAF K9. We will miss you greatly with each passing day. We love you.

Had so much fun getting to know Ernie and the VDHA/Thai guys. So glad he came into my life. So many thanks that need to be said. Prayers to your family. K9 forever

Cathy and family our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

Cathy i know your grief and I will miss seeing him next door. Call me anytime

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.