February 22nd 2024.
The beloved German shepherd, Commander, has been at the center of recent news, as President Joe Biden has made the difficult decision to give him away. This decision was not made lightly, as it was revealed that Commander had bitten Secret Service agents a shocking two dozen times since October 2022. The latest incident, which occurred in the fall, marked the 11th attack and resulted in Commander being banished from the presidential residence.
Newly released Secret Service emails have shed light on the extent of Commander's aggression and the measures taken by the agency to protect their agents. The emails detail approximately 24 incidents that occurred between October 2022 and July 2023, a number that was previously unknown. It was also revealed that Commander is now living with President Biden's family members, after being gifted to him by his brother and sister-in-law.
According to a source close to the Bidens, the family has been heartbroken over Commander's behavior and the harm he has caused. They have apologized to those who were bitten and even sent flowers as a gesture of remorse. Despite their efforts to address Commander's over-protectiveness, they were left with no choice but to let him go live with other family members.
One of the most troubling incidents involving Commander occurred in June 2023, when he knocked down a Secret Service agent and caused injuries that required stitches. As a result, tours of the East Wing of the White House had to be suspended for 20 minutes due to blood on the floor. It became clear that the White House environment was simply too overwhelming for Commander.
In a June 2023 email, an unnamed assistant special agent overseeing the Secret Services' Presidential Protective Division emphasized the need for agents to be cautious and creative in ensuring their own safety when Commander was present. The email also encouraged agents to give the dog plenty of space, as his behavior had proven to be unpredictable.
First Lady Jill Biden's spokeswoman, Elizabeth Alexander, confirmed that despite ongoing efforts to train, leash, and consult with experts, the White House environment was not suitable for Commander. This was a difficult realization for the Bidens, as Commander was their second dog to be sent away due to biting incidents. Their first German shepherd, Major, was also removed from the White House for similar reasons.
In the end, it was clear that President Biden and his family had the best intentions for Commander, but his behavior proved to be too much for the White House environment. Though it was a difficult decision, the safety of their loved ones and those around them ultimately took priority.
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