Airports frequently serve as a quiet witness to people crying both happy and sad tears. One of the moments where happy tears were shed happened in the San Diego International Airport. People there were delighted to see the joyful reunion of Belle, a military service dog, and her adoring handler.
Sgt. Sam Lewis Wettstein of the United States Marine Corps had both arms outstretched when he first caught sight of his Belle, and he started calling her to him. Sam had waited so long for this moment following a difficult trip ensuring Belle would have a loving furever home.
Both of their eyes glowed with deep affection as relief flowed over them at having overcome the challenges of flying Belle to California from the east coast. They will finally become a family after their time in Afghanistan.
Belle T634, a yellow Labrador Retriever on a military contract, is an IED detection dog (IDD). She and Sam met while training in North Carolina for a year. They immediately exhibited excellent chemistry and Belle was awarded the “Top Dog Award” for it. Even then, their bond was unmistakable.
They had each other’s backs for seven months as they traversed the terrible deserts. Sam kept her company whenever his thoughts wandered back to home. They built such a close bond that while Sam was in Afghanistan, he applied for Belle’s adoption. But he knew that getting approval was slim.
He felt and knew that without Belle, his existence would be incomplete. Each day, he would make call after call to inquire about Belle’s adoption status.
Belle seems to feel the same way, as she refused to train with other handlers, except when she developed PSTD, necessitating her retirement.
The American Humane Association and Mission K9 Rescue collaborated to make the meeting a reality. Everyone there was moved by the scene.
Given their bravery and willingness to risk their lives to protect and serve their compatriots, eternal companionship is a genuine prize they both deserve. Surely, no guy man be left behind — regardless of how many legs he possesses.
Source: NewslinQ