Cpl. Leavey and Sgt. Rex to be reunited
Sgt. Rex will finally be reunited in retirement with his ex-Marine handler, Cpl. Megan Leavy, U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer said.
The Associated Press reports that the Air Force has agreed to release the German shepherd into the care of Leavey, who lives in Rockland County, north of New York City,
Leavey was injured with Rex in 2006 while trying to disarm an explosive in Iraq.
Leavey came home with a Purple Heart, but Sgt. Rex was evaluated and found to be capable of continuing his service.
Leavey had tried to adopt the dog then, but her request was rejected by the Air Force.
At age 10, Sgt. Rex started developing other problems and was allowed to retire. Leavey again tried to adopt him, but Schumer said bureaucracy still stood in the way.
“We salute the Air Force and the Marines for doing the right thing and allowing Rex to be with Corporal Leavey,” Schumer said Monday night. “One canine, one human, both heroes. They should be united shortly, and we’re glad it’s happening … It’s only appropriate and right that the two of them enjoy their retirement from the service together.”
Posted by jwoestendiek March 21st, 2012 under Muttsblog.
Tags: adopt, adopted, adopting, air force, animals, bureaucracy, charles schumer, dog, dogs, explosive, german shepherd, injured, iraq, K-9, k9, marine, marines, megan leavey, new york, pets, purple heart, reunion, reunited, reuniting, senator, sergeant rex, sgt. rex, war
Comments
Comment from Bob
Time March 21, 2012 at 4:29 pm
“Reunited SOON”??? How soon is “soon” it’s been months since the paperwork was started. How much longer does Rex have to sit in some concrete prison (kennel) ? How much longer does Cpl. Leavey have to wait, wonder, worry and probably bounce off the walls in frustration. “Soon” should have been a long time ago. Right now wouldn’t be soon enough for either of them. WHEN???????
Comment from Valerie Branch
Time March 23, 2012 at 2:56 pm
What a great way to reward the dog’s service – planning to euthanize him!!
I’m so happy to hear he has been spared to become Meagan’s pet. Is the normal destiny of Air Force service dogs – to be killed when they are no longer useful?
Comment from george garrett HM1USNRET
Time May 13, 2012 at 9:49 pm
When i worked in the x-ray dept at Camp Pendelton Hospital i did the x-rays on the working dogs,Rex was one of my patients i am so glad he is now with cpl leavy.
Comment from Tammy
Time March 21, 2012 at 10:59 am
This is a wise decision by the Air Force and Marines. It brings a smile to my face knowing they will be reunited. God Bless them both with long and happy lives together.