Heroic stray dog from Afghanistan brought to his new home

Sgt. Christopher Duke and wife Lauren greet Rufus at PetAirways 

When Georgia National Guardsman Chris Duke was serving in Afghanistan, he made friends with three stray dogs he named Sasha, Target and Rufus. "A lot of us used the three of them as an escape when you're homesick," Duke said.

But the dogs did more than keep them company. "I firmly believe I wouldn't be here today if it weren't for him," Duke said.

Last February a suicide bomber tried to get into Duke’s barracks. But the dogs barked and attacked the intruder. Before he could kill the 50 soldiers inside, the attacker blew himself up. Five soldiers were injured, but none seriously.

Sadly Sasha died in the attack, but Target and Rufus were nursed back to health.

When Duke returned home the dogs had to be left behind. Duke sought help from a veteran’s assistance group called Hope for the Warriors and other groups. Together they raised the $21,000 to bring the dogs to the United States.

Target will live in Arizona with another soldier, while Rufus will stay with the Dukes.

"To think that I'm going to have him for the rest of my life - it's exciting," Duke said. The story

So while $21,000 may be a lot to pay for a stray dog from another country, stories like this underline the bond that humans and dogs can have for one another.

Comments

[Khyra]

We got all leaky when we saw this story earlier this week -

It shows the power of khanine support!

[threecollie]

Dogs are wonderful, no two ways about it. I am so glad they are here.

[jansfunnyfarm]

What a story! There is most definitely a strong bond between human and animal. It's about time the military is recognizing the value and comfort of these stray animals to the soldiers.

[jackie]

i would still feel better if he adopted a dog to go with him...her..what ever..

[the 4Bs]

that's a great story.

somehow, money doesn't seem to matter when we are caring for our dogs. there is no dollar amount that can be assigned to love.

[Jonathan]

Your post bought a tear to my eye- Have a dog walking business in Australia,the constant time with dogs makes me believe the are physic,especially my little Staffy that knows my every move and moods-Thank you-need more tissues now!

[Clive]

A wonderful story!

[Lynn Sinclair]

I don't think any amount of money is too much. Wonderful story!

[trinity]

that's a very touching story. proves that money is no match for our dogs. very inspiring story.

[Wendy]

It's one thing to adopt a dog, but when the dog adopts you back-- suddenly money isn't that big of an issue.

[Cessie]

For the complete story and to support our troops in rescueing their canine heros see http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Puppy-Rescue-Mission/106320572741421?ref=ts

[Cessie]

P.S. Their were 7 dogs rescued from Afghanistan with these funds not 2. They are know as the "Lucky Seven". Anna Cannan who spearheaded Puppy Rescue Mission is in the process of rescuing 11 other Afghani dogs for the men and women stationed there. I am the mothe rof a soldier stationed there who has rescued 2 puppies from his base.

[LadyDi]

I agree no amount of money is too much for these wonderful canines not to mention our TROOPS lives!!! Awesome story!!