[MaineiacJay]

I was born in a war zone, in the middle of Iraq, with no home to call my own.
I was just a puppy when you held me in your hands, a fluff of fur no bigger than your fist.
Even at that age, I knew you were a friend.
I waited for you the next day, to feel your touch.
But it never came.

Others came back though, but not you. they looked upon me with sorrowful gazes.
I knew you were lost to me, lost to all those who called you friend.
And then something happened. your friends came back. they scooped me up and sent me on my way.
Sent me on my way to join your family, in your honor, and in your memory.

You called me Hero, but it is not I that is the hero, it is you, my lost friend.
You fought for all, you fought for me.
and like others, you fought so that I wouldnt have to.
and in the end? You gave it all, the ultimate sacrifice.
We will never forget you, you will live on in those hearts you touched.

Rest in Peace.

this is the story of Hero, a mutt puppy born in Iraq near an american base. this pup was befriended by a soldier the day before that soldier was killed in action. when the family received the photos of their son and this tiny pup, they knew they had to bring Hero home. with a ton of effort, including that of the senator, Hero made her long journey from Iraq to New Hampshire, where she lives today in the loving care of the soldiers family, a living memorial to the son who gave everything and more for his family, his friends, and his country...

although this is the story of Hero and this particular soldier (look up hero and youll find the soldier), i want to dedicate it to all men and woman who are/have served in the military. come home safe!

reference was from a screenshot of a news broadcasting about Hero's arrival. i do not have a link.

[rickith]

This is beautiful. A beautiful story, and a beautiful piece of artwork. Well done. ^^

[MaineiacJay]

thank you. i started a new portrait, after talking with Justin's mom the other day about Hero. she was featured on Animal Planet's "Saved" and AP even paid for the Rollin's to go to Arlington, as they did not have the funds for it this year and was not going to go. my new portrait is from a picture taken at Justin's grave... and im thankful that my Oekaki skills have much improved!

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