Moondoggie

ムーンドギー

Moondoggie is the second-most recent member of the Gekkostate (with Renton being the newest). Initially, he managed the LFO catapult systems and launch pads aboard the Gekko, but he later assumes the role of head pilot, taking Talho's place when she must leave the position, since he is the group's only other licensed pilot. His pilot's license, visible in episode 34, identifies him as James Darren Emerson. Other Gekkostate members often shorten his nickname to "Doggie," and Renton sometimes addresses him as "Doggie-niisan" ("Brother Doggie" in the English dub), treating Moondoggie like an older brother. In the Japanese version, Moondoggie uses a strong Kumamoto accent whenever he becomes overly emotional. In the English version, he occasionally speaks in surfer slang. Moondoggie's role diminishes toward the end of the series; he is generally only shown piloting the Gekko, frequently executing dramatic maneuvers to evade attacks.