We are excited to announce the pairing of Marine Vietnam Veteran John Drew and his new *battle buddy* Corpsman.

I have said it a million times and here again  is another example. Things have a way of working out, ‘what is meant to be will be’…. as it is with this story.

After two possible Veteran pairings did not *work out* for Corpsman, I remember looking at him saying “You are such a special guy meant for a special purpose, hang in there buddy”  One week later, that statement rang true. As much as Corpsman was ready for his Service Human …. his service human needed him more…..

It was a pivotal time in John’s life, in the past year he suffered  considerable loss. It was also a week before Christmas, a time of year where you feel the depths of loneliness. You could see it in his eyes on our first meeting.  John is a quiet man not showing a lot of emotion. However, the day we introduced Corpsman to him….is a memory burned in my mind forever….

Corpsman, entering a room full of people, went right up to John. John kneeling down ready, took him right in. Corpsman kissing Johns cheeks and hands,his tail wagging side to side fiercely. The room was quiet, tears formed in Johns eyes.  It was like a reunion of old friends. Corpsman stayed by Johns side the entire time, John not moving from the floor next to him. Yes, I said to myslef  “you weren’t meant for a special purpose indeed!”

One week later when Donna and I showed up for training, we were surprised and thrilled to see the changes already in BOTH of them. John talked more, smiling while telling us how Corpsman follows him everywhere. I think I counted three times where John  laughed out loud! Corpsman, bonded to him fast, the telltale signs were clear; Corpsman matching John *personality* and energy, coming up to him and kissing is face at one point as John was telling a sad story,  looking John in the eyes and reading his body language, sleeping with him at night and yes…..following him everywhere!

Yes, Corpsman, you and John both are meant for a special purpose… We are excited to announce the First Veterans Court Dog Support  team!

Now that is a whole story in itself!!! (stay tuned). For now lets take a moment to wish John and Corpsman luck as they continue their training, and journey together…..