Military canines play an important role in supporting their country and the men they serve with. These dogs are continually watching out for each other, and they often form close, long-lasting bonds with their handlers.
A US soldier and a dog named Taylor developed a special attachment while the guy was deployed in Afghanistan. After Taylor’s military service finished, a team went above and above to reunite them.
Taylor, a yellow lab, served with the US Army on two missions and played a key role in protecting Afghanistan. Her influence was so strong that the Taliban even placed a premium on her head, according to NBC News.
Although the enemy feared Taylor, her American friends loved her and called her “Tay-Tay”. She became especially close to Sgt. Tom Hansen during combat, and the two rescued one another—Hansen protected her from gunfire while Taylor located bombs hidden under his boots.
Despite their strong friendship, Taylor and Sgt. Tom Hansen were separated for two years. However, the conclusion of Taylor’s military service allowed for a heartfelt reunion.
Following their service, former military dogs are typically placed for adoption, with preference given to the soldiers who served alongside them. But arranging for a dog to be transported across the world to meet its handler might be difficult. Fortunately, they received assistance from United flight attendant Mollie Oliver, who made it her mission to reunite warriors with their canines. Mollie directly funded the trips to reunite these special connections.
“I love the dogs and I love my military, which has taken care of my freedom throughout my life, so it’s a win-win to combine the two,” Mollie told NBC News.
Mollie promised to drive Taylor to Ohio so she could meet Sgt. Hansen again, and he eagerly awaited her arrival at Boise Airport. Having her back will make me whole again, Hansen remarked, “I feel like a piece of myself has been missing.”
Following Taylor’s safe arrival in the US, the heartwarming reunion took place. Taylor immediately hurried to Hansen, and the scene was so moving that no tears were shed.
