School story book turns to reality for 3rd graders at West Defuniak Elementary

September 5, 2013

Walton County deputy Nick and his dog Lee. Photo Courtesy Walton County Sheriff's office.
Walton County sergeant Nick Bearden and his K9 Lee. Photo Courtesy Walton County Sheriff’s office.

The third grade classes of West Defuniak Elementary have been reading a book called “Aero and Officer Mike.”  The story is about Corporal Mike Matsik and his K-9 partner Aero, who have been partners for four years.  Through words and action-filled photographs, the story captures the two on duty working as one and describes their relationship at work and at play, on duty and off, at the station, responding to emergency calls, and during ongoing K-9 training.

The third graders loved the story so much that Walton County Sergeant Nick Bearden and K9 Lee visited the students yesterday at their school.  Sergeant Bearden spoke to the children about his job as a K9 Deputy and how he and K9 “Lee” work together.  The children asked many questions ranging from training, how many weapons and drugs K9 “Lee” has found to how many missing children they have located working together.