Because Memorial Day is all about remembering those who died while serving their country, I unburied two stories from my bone pile of dog-news clippings.

Dog adopted by family of fallen Marine

Earlier this year, Eli, the military dog of fallen Marine Pfc. Colton Rusk was officially adopted by Rusk's family.  Eli was at his side when Rusk was killed by Taliban fighters in Afghanistan.

Rusk was a dog handler with the 5th Marine Regiment, and he and Eli, a Labrador, were inseparable. 

After Rusk's death in December 2010, his parent's inquired about Eli, asking if they might be able to adopt the dog.  Nearly two months later, the military made it happen, handing Eli's leash to Rusk's parents.

Eli will join the family's three German shepherds at his new doghouse in Texas.

Eli and Rusk


Bomb-sniffing Army dog dies of broken heart after his human best friend is killed by Taliban

Lance Corporal Liam Tasker died in a firefight on March 1 in Afghanistan with Theo, a 22-month-old Springer spaniel, by his side. The dog suffered a seizure from the stress and died hours later after being returned to base, according to the British Ministry of Defense.

The pair had uncovered 14 home-made bombs and hoards of weapons in just five months – a record for a dog and his handler in the conflict.

Theo had barked about the loyalty he had developed with Corporal Tasker, age 26 years.


Theo and Tasker

On Memorial Day -
Remembering strong bonds and good service

Petey the Golden