Where did you serve and what did you do?
JBLM, WA. Kandahar province, AFG. Combat medic 4-23 INF 2-2 ID.
Tell us how your dog is helping you continue #StillServing in your community.
Lately this year the dogs of my military friends have begun passing away. Its been 11 years since we were in, our dogs are getting old. All of my best friends’ dogs that loved dearly during and after our service have been crossing the rainbow bridge. My pitbulls are the last ones because I got them right after discharge. Kilo and MJ have been there for not only for me during the darkest, loneliest times, but also been there for my brothers when losing their best friends to old age. Though they arent service animals they have been the reason I’m still around today. And theyve been loving pals when my friends are grieving their own loss.
Why do you do it?
I don’t do much, my ied blast in 2012 left me with retained shrapnel, facial reconstructive surgeries, and nerve pain. Most days are hard and painful. But I try to be a good doc when I’m able to. I try to share what I can with the friends I have left. Sometimes its just dog sitting or holding the flashlight. Sometimes its reminding loved ones to stay hydrated. Far from what I’d consider “community service.” But you don’t train to be a medic and then just stop one day cuz a bomb went off. You do what you can for the most you can with what little resources you have. Basic triage.