RETIRE MILITARY WORKING DOG LEX
Target:
MCLB Albany, GA- The US Marine Corps and our Elected Officials in Washington
Sponsored by:
Most of you probably know by now who CPl Dustin Jerome Lee is. For those of you who do not, please take the time to read a little more about him and view photos of him at www.remembercpldustinlee.blogspot.com
In a nutshell-
Dustin was a K9 War Dog Handler and MP who was killed in Iraq on March 21 2007. His K9 Lex survived but with injuries.
He received shrapnel wounds to his body, almost lost his tail, and to this day still has shrapnel lodged near his spine. The Veterinarians opted to leave this shrapnel in place as to not risk damage to Lex's spine.
Since Dustin's death the family has tried diligently to get Lex adopted to them so that they may care for him. Lex was of course the last (person) to see Dustin alive.
Even before the incident of the RPG that killed Dustin, Lex was destined to retire upon returing from this tour in Iraq. The family has waited patiently for the last remaining part of Dustin to arrive home...and they are still waiting.
It is seven months after the incident and no Lex. I know there is government bureaucracy and paperwork, but all that was done...finished and turned over the proper personnel. They feverishly worked around the clock, made phone calls, sent emails, contacted all the right people....Lex is still not home. They jumped through all the right hoops and answered all the right questions to be able to adobt Lex.
Instead the Marine Corps has decided that Lex did not need to retire and is instead located at the kennels at MCLB Albany, Georgia, back in training.
Can you imagine how heart broken and distraught this made the family once they found out they where not getting Lex for possibly 2 more years or until they where done with him? Rachel and Jerome can not have their son back, they gave him up to the Marine Corps and he was killed in the fight against terrorism during Operation Iraqi Freeedom. Why not retire Lex to Dustin's family? I think its the least the Marine Corp could offer. They do not want to replace Dustin, they just want the last piece of his life that is still alive. And by adopting Lex it will bring back a small part of Dustin and maybe a smile and laugh that they have not had in months.
They say that Lex is needed to train other K9s and handlers there at MCLB Albany. As far I know that shrapnel is still located in his back while he trains.. We can all understand that Lex may be an asset to the Kennel in training, and is a great, obedient companion, but how long until the damage that he sustained in the blast catches up with him. Lex desreves a nice home to retire to and a family that will love and take care of him.
Dustin's family are not strangers to handling K9s. Rachel, herself trained with Search and Rescue K9s. So its not like the family is unfamiliar in having to deal with trained K9s....Dustin recieved his love of dogs from somewhere right?
So I am asking everyone that knows of Dustin and Lex's story to send your comments to me. Write them here on the blog, email me, how ever you can....Give me your thoughts and opinions and we will do our best to get Lex to Dustin's parents.
A letter from Lex, written by John Burnam
I'm a U.S. Marine and the primary element of a two-member team trained to hunt and locate explosives. My partner and I trained as a team for many months honing our expertise to save American lives in the War on Terrorism in Iraq.
The date is March 21, 2007 and I was on the job in Fallujah, Iraq when an enemy fired Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) exploded in our midst. I was blasted to the ground. I'm Stunned. My head is ringing and my body feels numb. My eyes can't quite focus on anything.
My partner is lying next to me severely wounded and bleeding. I move to him and touch him but he's not responding. I feel sharp pains in my side and back. I'm bleeding but deal with it and concentrate on comforting my partner and protecting him from further harm.
Everything happened so fast that it caused disorientation and confusion. My senses pick up the lingering smell of burnt powder and smoke from the explosion. I hear lots of American voices and heavy boot-steps hurrying all around us. They reach our location and immediately attend to my partner. And then they carry him away. I'm separated from my partner for the first time. I'm not clear of thought and then I too am carried way but to a different hospital.
I'm in a building lying on a table with lights above and people talking. Still dazed and confused I hear a strange voice say my name, Lex! I gesture a slight reflex of acknowledgement. Lex! You are going to be okay buddy! Just lay still. We are going to take care of your hurts, so stay calm okay, Lex. My eyes dart around the room searching for your partner, but he's not there and no one can interpret my thoughts. I'm released from the hospital and well enough to travel so they transfer me from Iraq to a U.S. Marine Corp base in Albany, Georgia. I really miss my partner, Dusty. I know something has happened to him because he would never have left me alone for so long.
Yes, my name is Lex. I'm a seven year old German shepherd Military Working Dog. My master and loyal partner is Corporal Dustin Jerome Lee, U.S. Marine Corps canine handler from Mississippi. I'm well disciplined to my master's commands and expertly trained to sniff out bombs and explosives. Where's my master, Dusty? Where's Dusty, my partner? No one can understand me but Dusty. Where's Dusty?
Iraq was to be my last combat tour before retirement. Dusty talked to me all the time about going home and adopting me. I sure do miss my Dusty. He is the best friend I've ever had. I love that crazy Marine from Mississippi!
No one can measure the love and unconditional loyalty I have for Dusty. I'd sacrifice my own life for him and he knows it. I just wish I could have stopped that RPG or pushed Dusty away from that powerful blast. It all happened in a blink of an eye and I didn't see it coming until it was too late. Now I sit alone in my kennel-run waiting for the day Dusty shows up.
The U.S. Marines are treating me very well. I get enough food and water and exercise each day. And the Veterinarian comes by to examine my wounds on a regular basis. I just can't sleep well at night. I wake up to every little noise and I think about Dusty. Where can that Marine be?
The nights are long. The days turn into weeks. Still no Dusty! My wounds are healing and the hair is growing back. The pain still resides in my back but I can walk okay. I have a piece of shrapnel near my spine that the Veterinarians avoided removing for fear of further health complications. I've been fortunate to be declared physically unable to perform in a combat zone.
One of the dog handlers gave me a real good bath and grooming. I felt so refreshed because I was on my way to meet Dusty'9s family. Maybe Dusty will be there waiting for me. When I arrived I sensed something was not quite right. Dusty wasn't there and everyone was sad, but very happy to greet me. I then realized that I was attending Dusty's funeral. Everyone showed up to pay their respects.
Dusty is a real American hero and he was buried with full military honors. I was so proud to have been his last best friend and partner. At one particular moment of total silence during the ceremony, I sniffed a slight scent in the air that was very familiar. It smelled like Dusty. I figured he sent me a signal that he knew I was there! I moaned a sigh of grief that he would only hear and understand.
I was greeted by the Lee family with joy in their hearts. It felt so warm and comfortable to be with my partner's loving family. I wanted to stay but I was escorted away after the funeral and back to Albany, Georgia. What is going to happen to me now?
Wait a minute! I was due for retirement, right? Why did the military take me to see Dusty's family and not leave me there? I belong with them in Mississippi not here in Georgia. There is something very wrong with this picture!
The Lee family adopting me would not be too much to ask considering they will never again see their son, grandson, brother, nephew and friend. Adopting me will keep a big part of Dusty's life alive for them and for me. It will enable Dusty's family to experience what he already knew about me. I loved and protected him everywhere we went and even on the battlefield in Iraq. It's time the U.S. Marine Corps allowed Dustin's family to adopt me. I'm not a young pup anymore, you know! I'9m of retirement age and I want to spend the rest of my life with the Lee family. It's where I now belong!
So please help the Lee family adopt me!
Lex
German Shepherd Dog
Military Working Dog
U.S. Marine Corps
In a nutshell-
Dustin was a K9 War Dog Handler and MP who was killed in Iraq on March 21 2007. His K9 Lex survived but with injuries.
He received shrapnel wounds to his body, almost lost his tail, and to this day still has shrapnel lodged near his spine. The Veterinarians opted to leave this shrapnel in place as to not risk damage to Lex's spine.
Since Dustin's death the family has tried diligently to get Lex adopted to them so that they may care for him. Lex was of course the last (person) to see Dustin alive.
Even before the incident of the RPG that killed Dustin, Lex was destined to retire upon returing from this tour in Iraq. The family has waited patiently for the last remaining part of Dustin to arrive home...and they are still waiting.
It is seven months after the incident and no Lex. I know there is government bureaucracy and paperwork, but all that was done...finished and turned over the proper personnel. They feverishly worked around the clock, made phone calls, sent emails, contacted all the right people....Lex is still not home. They jumped through all the right hoops and answered all the right questions to be able to adobt Lex.
Instead the Marine Corps has decided that Lex did not need to retire and is instead located at the kennels at MCLB Albany, Georgia, back in training.
Can you imagine how heart broken and distraught this made the family once they found out they where not getting Lex for possibly 2 more years or until they where done with him? Rachel and Jerome can not have their son back, they gave him up to the Marine Corps and he was killed in the fight against terrorism during Operation Iraqi Freeedom. Why not retire Lex to Dustin's family? I think its the least the Marine Corp could offer. They do not want to replace Dustin, they just want the last piece of his life that is still alive. And by adopting Lex it will bring back a small part of Dustin and maybe a smile and laugh that they have not had in months.
They say that Lex is needed to train other K9s and handlers there at MCLB Albany. As far I know that shrapnel is still located in his back while he trains.. We can all understand that Lex may be an asset to the Kennel in training, and is a great, obedient companion, but how long until the damage that he sustained in the blast catches up with him. Lex desreves a nice home to retire to and a family that will love and take care of him.
Dustin's family are not strangers to handling K9s. Rachel, herself trained with Search and Rescue K9s. So its not like the family is unfamiliar in having to deal with trained K9s....Dustin recieved his love of dogs from somewhere right?
So I am asking everyone that knows of Dustin and Lex's story to send your comments to me. Write them here on the blog, email me, how ever you can....Give me your thoughts and opinions and we will do our best to get Lex to Dustin's parents.
A letter from Lex, written by John Burnam
I'm a U.S. Marine and the primary element of a two-member team trained to hunt and locate explosives. My partner and I trained as a team for many months honing our expertise to save American lives in the War on Terrorism in Iraq.
The date is March 21, 2007 and I was on the job in Fallujah, Iraq when an enemy fired Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) exploded in our midst. I was blasted to the ground. I'm Stunned. My head is ringing and my body feels numb. My eyes can't quite focus on anything.
My partner is lying next to me severely wounded and bleeding. I move to him and touch him but he's not responding. I feel sharp pains in my side and back. I'm bleeding but deal with it and concentrate on comforting my partner and protecting him from further harm.
Everything happened so fast that it caused disorientation and confusion. My senses pick up the lingering smell of burnt powder and smoke from the explosion. I hear lots of American voices and heavy boot-steps hurrying all around us. They reach our location and immediately attend to my partner. And then they carry him away. I'm separated from my partner for the first time. I'm not clear of thought and then I too am carried way but to a different hospital.
I'm in a building lying on a table with lights above and people talking. Still dazed and confused I hear a strange voice say my name, Lex! I gesture a slight reflex of acknowledgement. Lex! You are going to be okay buddy! Just lay still. We are going to take care of your hurts, so stay calm okay, Lex. My eyes dart around the room searching for your partner, but he's not there and no one can interpret my thoughts. I'm released from the hospital and well enough to travel so they transfer me from Iraq to a U.S. Marine Corp base in Albany, Georgia. I really miss my partner, Dusty. I know something has happened to him because he would never have left me alone for so long.
Yes, my name is Lex. I'm a seven year old German shepherd Military Working Dog. My master and loyal partner is Corporal Dustin Jerome Lee, U.S. Marine Corps canine handler from Mississippi. I'm well disciplined to my master's commands and expertly trained to sniff out bombs and explosives. Where's my master, Dusty? Where's Dusty, my partner? No one can understand me but Dusty. Where's Dusty?
Iraq was to be my last combat tour before retirement. Dusty talked to me all the time about going home and adopting me. I sure do miss my Dusty. He is the best friend I've ever had. I love that crazy Marine from Mississippi!
No one can measure the love and unconditional loyalty I have for Dusty. I'd sacrifice my own life for him and he knows it. I just wish I could have stopped that RPG or pushed Dusty away from that powerful blast. It all happened in a blink of an eye and I didn't see it coming until it was too late. Now I sit alone in my kennel-run waiting for the day Dusty shows up.
The U.S. Marines are treating me very well. I get enough food and water and exercise each day. And the Veterinarian comes by to examine my wounds on a regular basis. I just can't sleep well at night. I wake up to every little noise and I think about Dusty. Where can that Marine be?
The nights are long. The days turn into weeks. Still no Dusty! My wounds are healing and the hair is growing back. The pain still resides in my back but I can walk okay. I have a piece of shrapnel near my spine that the Veterinarians avoided removing for fear of further health complications. I've been fortunate to be declared physically unable to perform in a combat zone.
One of the dog handlers gave me a real good bath and grooming. I felt so refreshed because I was on my way to meet Dusty'9s family. Maybe Dusty will be there waiting for me. When I arrived I sensed something was not quite right. Dusty wasn't there and everyone was sad, but very happy to greet me. I then realized that I was attending Dusty's funeral. Everyone showed up to pay their respects.
Dusty is a real American hero and he was buried with full military honors. I was so proud to have been his last best friend and partner. At one particular moment of total silence during the ceremony, I sniffed a slight scent in the air that was very familiar. It smelled like Dusty. I figured he sent me a signal that he knew I was there! I moaned a sigh of grief that he would only hear and understand.
I was greeted by the Lee family with joy in their hearts. It felt so warm and comfortable to be with my partner's loving family. I wanted to stay but I was escorted away after the funeral and back to Albany, Georgia. What is going to happen to me now?
Wait a minute! I was due for retirement, right? Why did the military take me to see Dusty's family and not leave me there? I belong with them in Mississippi not here in Georgia. There is something very wrong with this picture!
The Lee family adopting me would not be too much to ask considering they will never again see their son, grandson, brother, nephew and friend. Adopting me will keep a big part of Dusty's life alive for them and for me. It will enable Dusty's family to experience what he already knew about me. I loved and protected him everywhere we went and even on the battlefield in Iraq. It's time the U.S. Marine Corps allowed Dustin's family to adopt me. I'm not a young pup anymore, you know! I'9m of retirement age and I want to spend the rest of my life with the Lee family. It's where I now belong!
So please help the Lee family adopt me!
Lex
German Shepherd Dog
Military Working Dog
U.S. Marine Corps
Most of you probably know by now who CPl Dustin Jerome Lee is. For those of you who do not, please take the time to read a little more about him and view photos of him at www.remembercpldustinlee.blogspot.com
In a nutshell-
Dustin was a K9 War Dog Handler and MP who was killed in Iraq on March 21 2007. His K9 Lex survived but with injuries.
He received shrapnel wounds to his body, almost lost his tail, and to this day still has shrapnel lodged near his spine. The Veterinarians opted to leave this shrapnel in place as to not risk damage to Lex's spine.
Since Dustin's death the family has tried diligently to get Lex adopted to them so that they may care for him. Lex was of course the last (person) to see Dustin alive.
Even before the incident of the RPG that killed Dustin, Lex was destined to retire upon returing from this tour in Iraq. The family has waited patiently for the last remaining part of Dustin to arrive home...and they are still waiting.
It is seven months after the incident and no Lex. I know there is government bureaucracy and paperwork, but all that was done...finished and turned over the proper personnel. They feverishly worked around the clock, made phone calls, sent emails, contacted all the right people....Lex is still not home. They jumped through all the right hoops and answered all the right questions to be able to adobt Lex.
Instead the Marine Corps has decided that Lex did not need to retire and is instead located at the kennels at MCLB Albany, Georgia, back in training.
Can you imagine how heart broken and distraught this made the family once they found out they where not getting Lex for possibly 2 more years or until they where done with him? Rachel and Jerome can not have their son back, they gave him up to the Marine Corps and he was killed in the fight against terrorism during Operation Iraqi Freeedom. Why not retire Lex to Dustin's family? I think its the least the Marine Corp could offer. They do not want to replace Dustin, they just want the last piece of his life that is still alive. And by adopting Lex it will bring back a small part of Dustin and maybe a smile and laugh that they have not had in months.
They say that Lex is needed to train other K9s and handlers there at MCLB Albany. As far I know that shrapnel is still located in his back while he trains.. We can all understand that Lex may be an asset to the Kennel in training, and is a great, obedient companion, but how long until the damage that he sustained in the blast catches up with him. Lex desreves a nice home to retire to and a family that will love and take care of him.
Dustin's family are not strangers to handling K9s. Rachel, herself trained with Search and Rescue K9s. So its not like the family is unfamiliar in having to deal with trained K9s....Dustin recieved his love of dogs from somewhere right?
So I am asking everyone that knows of Dustin and Lex's story to send your comments to me. Write them here on the blog, email me, how ever you can....Give me your thoughts and opinions and we will do our best to get Lex to Dustin's parents.
A letter from Lex, written by John Burnam
I'm a U.S. Marine and the primary element of a two-member team trained to hunt and locate explosives. My partner and I trained as a team for many months honing our expertise to save American lives in the War on Terrorism in Iraq.
The date is March 21, 2007 and I was on the job in Fallujah, Iraq when an enemy fired Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) exploded in our midst. I was blasted to the ground. I'm Stunned. My head is ringing and my body feels numb. My eyes can't quite focus on anything.
My partner is lying next to me severely wounded and bleeding. I move to him and touch him but he's not responding. I feel sharp pains in my side and back. I'm bleeding but deal with it and concentrate on comforting my partner and protecting him from further harm.
Everything happened so fast that it caused disorientation and confusion. My senses pick up the lingering smell of burnt powder and smoke from the explosion. I hear lots of American voices and heavy boot-steps hurrying all around us. They reach our location and immediately attend to my partner. And then they carry him away. I'm separated from my partner for the first time. I'm not clear of thought and then I too am carried way but to a different hospital.
I'm in a building lying on a table with lights above and people talking. Still dazed and confused I hear a strange voice say my name, Lex! I gesture a slight reflex of acknowledgement. Lex! You are going to be okay buddy! Just lay still. We are going to take care of your hurts, so stay calm okay, Lex. My eyes dart around the room searching for your partner, but he's not there and no one can interpret my thoughts. I'm released from the hospital and well enough to travel so they transfer me from Iraq to a U.S. Marine Corp base in Albany, Georgia. I really miss my partner, Dusty. I know something has happened to him because he would never have left me alone for so long.
Yes, my name is Lex. I'm a seven year old German shepherd Military Working Dog. My master and loyal partner is Corporal Dustin Jerome Lee, U.S. Marine Corps canine handler from Mississippi. I'm well disciplined to my master's commands and expertly trained to sniff out bombs and explosives. Where's my master, Dusty? Where's Dusty, my partner? No one can understand me but Dusty. Where's Dusty?
Iraq was to be my last combat tour before retirement. Dusty talked to me all the time about going home and adopting me. I sure do miss my Dusty. He is the best friend I've ever had. I love that crazy Marine from Mississippi!
No one can measure the love and unconditional loyalty I have for Dusty. I'd sacrifice my own life for him and he knows it. I just wish I could have stopped that RPG or pushed Dusty away from that powerful blast. It all happened in a blink of an eye and I didn't see it coming until it was too late. Now I sit alone in my kennel-run waiting for the day Dusty shows up.
The U.S. Marines are treating me very well. I get enough food and water and exercise each day. And the Veterinarian comes by to examine my wounds on a regular basis. I just can't sleep well at night. I wake up to every little noise and I think about Dusty. Where can that Marine be?
The nights are long. The days turn into weeks. Still no Dusty! My wounds are healing and the hair is growing back. The pain still resides in my back but I can walk okay. I have a piece of shrapnel near my spine that the Veterinarians avoided removing for fear of further health complications. I've been fortunate to be declared physically unable to perform in a combat zone.
One of the dog handlers gave me a real good bath and grooming. I felt so refreshed because I was on my way to meet Dusty'9s family. Maybe Dusty will be there waiting for me. When I arrived I sensed something was not quite right. Dusty wasn't there and everyone was sad, but very happy to greet me. I then realized that I was attending Dusty's funeral. Everyone showed up to pay their respects.
Dusty is a real American hero and he was buried with full military honors. I was so proud to have been his last best friend and partner. At one particular moment of total silence during the ceremony, I sniffed a slight scent in the air that was very familiar. It smelled like Dusty. I figured he sent me a signal that he knew I was there! I moaned a sigh of grief that he would only hear and understand.
I was greeted by the Lee family with joy in their hearts. It felt so warm and comfortable to be with my partner's loving family. I wanted to stay but I was escorted away after the funeral and back to Albany, Georgia. What is going to happen to me now?
Wait a minute! I was due for retirement, right? Why did the military take me to see Dusty's family and not leave me there? I belong with them in Mississippi not here in Georgia. There is something very wrong with this picture!
The Lee family adopting me would not be too much to ask considering they will never again see their son, grandson, brother, nephew and friend. Adopting me will keep a big part of Dusty's life alive for them and for me. It will enable Dusty's family to experience what he already knew about me. I loved and protected him everywhere we went and even on the battlefield in Iraq. It's time the U.S. Marine Corps allowed Dustin's family to adopt me. I'm not a young pup anymore, you know! I'9m of retirement age and I want to spend the rest of my life with the Lee family. It's where I now belong!
So please help the Lee family adopt me!
Lex
German Shepherd Dog
Military Working Dog
U.S. Marine Corps
In a nutshell-
Dustin was a K9 War Dog Handler and MP who was killed in Iraq on March 21 2007. His K9 Lex survived but with injuries.
He received shrapnel wounds to his body, almost lost his tail, and to this day still has shrapnel lodged near his spine. The Veterinarians opted to leave this shrapnel in place as to not risk damage to Lex's spine.
Since Dustin's death the family has tried diligently to get Lex adopted to them so that they may care for him. Lex was of course the last (person) to see Dustin alive.
Even before the incident of the RPG that killed Dustin, Lex was destined to retire upon returing from this tour in Iraq. The family has waited patiently for the last remaining part of Dustin to arrive home...and they are still waiting.
It is seven months after the incident and no Lex. I know there is government bureaucracy and paperwork, but all that was done...finished and turned over the proper personnel. They feverishly worked around the clock, made phone calls, sent emails, contacted all the right people....Lex is still not home. They jumped through all the right hoops and answered all the right questions to be able to adobt Lex.
Instead the Marine Corps has decided that Lex did not need to retire and is instead located at the kennels at MCLB Albany, Georgia, back in training.
Can you imagine how heart broken and distraught this made the family once they found out they where not getting Lex for possibly 2 more years or until they where done with him? Rachel and Jerome can not have their son back, they gave him up to the Marine Corps and he was killed in the fight against terrorism during Operation Iraqi Freeedom. Why not retire Lex to Dustin's family? I think its the least the Marine Corp could offer. They do not want to replace Dustin, they just want the last piece of his life that is still alive. And by adopting Lex it will bring back a small part of Dustin and maybe a smile and laugh that they have not had in months.
They say that Lex is needed to train other K9s and handlers there at MCLB Albany. As far I know that shrapnel is still located in his back while he trains.. We can all understand that Lex may be an asset to the Kennel in training, and is a great, obedient companion, but how long until the damage that he sustained in the blast catches up with him. Lex desreves a nice home to retire to and a family that will love and take care of him.
Dustin's family are not strangers to handling K9s. Rachel, herself trained with Search and Rescue K9s. So its not like the family is unfamiliar in having to deal with trained K9s....Dustin recieved his love of dogs from somewhere right?
So I am asking everyone that knows of Dustin and Lex's story to send your comments to me. Write them here on the blog, email me, how ever you can....Give me your thoughts and opinions and we will do our best to get Lex to Dustin's parents.
A letter from Lex, written by John Burnam
I'm a U.S. Marine and the primary element of a two-member team trained to hunt and locate explosives. My partner and I trained as a team for many months honing our expertise to save American lives in the War on Terrorism in Iraq.
The date is March 21, 2007 and I was on the job in Fallujah, Iraq when an enemy fired Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) exploded in our midst. I was blasted to the ground. I'm Stunned. My head is ringing and my body feels numb. My eyes can't quite focus on anything.
My partner is lying next to me severely wounded and bleeding. I move to him and touch him but he's not responding. I feel sharp pains in my side and back. I'm bleeding but deal with it and concentrate on comforting my partner and protecting him from further harm.
Everything happened so fast that it caused disorientation and confusion. My senses pick up the lingering smell of burnt powder and smoke from the explosion. I hear lots of American voices and heavy boot-steps hurrying all around us. They reach our location and immediately attend to my partner. And then they carry him away. I'm separated from my partner for the first time. I'm not clear of thought and then I too am carried way but to a different hospital.
I'm in a building lying on a table with lights above and people talking. Still dazed and confused I hear a strange voice say my name, Lex! I gesture a slight reflex of acknowledgement. Lex! You are going to be okay buddy! Just lay still. We are going to take care of your hurts, so stay calm okay, Lex. My eyes dart around the room searching for your partner, but he's not there and no one can interpret my thoughts. I'm released from the hospital and well enough to travel so they transfer me from Iraq to a U.S. Marine Corp base in Albany, Georgia. I really miss my partner, Dusty. I know something has happened to him because he would never have left me alone for so long.
Yes, my name is Lex. I'm a seven year old German shepherd Military Working Dog. My master and loyal partner is Corporal Dustin Jerome Lee, U.S. Marine Corps canine handler from Mississippi. I'm well disciplined to my master's commands and expertly trained to sniff out bombs and explosives. Where's my master, Dusty? Where's Dusty, my partner? No one can understand me but Dusty. Where's Dusty?
Iraq was to be my last combat tour before retirement. Dusty talked to me all the time about going home and adopting me. I sure do miss my Dusty. He is the best friend I've ever had. I love that crazy Marine from Mississippi!
No one can measure the love and unconditional loyalty I have for Dusty. I'd sacrifice my own life for him and he knows it. I just wish I could have stopped that RPG or pushed Dusty away from that powerful blast. It all happened in a blink of an eye and I didn't see it coming until it was too late. Now I sit alone in my kennel-run waiting for the day Dusty shows up.
The U.S. Marines are treating me very well. I get enough food and water and exercise each day. And the Veterinarian comes by to examine my wounds on a regular basis. I just can't sleep well at night. I wake up to every little noise and I think about Dusty. Where can that Marine be?
The nights are long. The days turn into weeks. Still no Dusty! My wounds are healing and the hair is growing back. The pain still resides in my back but I can walk okay. I have a piece of shrapnel near my spine that the Veterinarians avoided removing for fear of further health complications. I've been fortunate to be declared physically unable to perform in a combat zone.
One of the dog handlers gave me a real good bath and grooming. I felt so refreshed because I was on my way to meet Dusty'9s family. Maybe Dusty will be there waiting for me. When I arrived I sensed something was not quite right. Dusty wasn't there and everyone was sad, but very happy to greet me. I then realized that I was attending Dusty's funeral. Everyone showed up to pay their respects.
Dusty is a real American hero and he was buried with full military honors. I was so proud to have been his last best friend and partner. At one particular moment of total silence during the ceremony, I sniffed a slight scent in the air that was very familiar. It smelled like Dusty. I figured he sent me a signal that he knew I was there! I moaned a sigh of grief that he would only hear and understand.
I was greeted by the Lee family with joy in their hearts. It felt so warm and comfortable to be with my partner's loving family. I wanted to stay but I was escorted away after the funeral and back to Albany, Georgia. What is going to happen to me now?
Wait a minute! I was due for retirement, right? Why did the military take me to see Dusty's family and not leave me there? I belong with them in Mississippi not here in Georgia. There is something very wrong with this picture!
The Lee family adopting me would not be too much to ask considering they will never again see their son, grandson, brother, nephew and friend. Adopting me will keep a big part of Dusty's life alive for them and for me. It will enable Dusty's family to experience what he already knew about me. I loved and protected him everywhere we went and even on the battlefield in Iraq. It's time the U.S. Marine Corps allowed Dustin's family to adopt me. I'm not a young pup anymore, you know! I'9m of retirement age and I want to spend the rest of my life with the Lee family. It's where I now belong!
So please help the Lee family adopt me!
Lex
German Shepherd Dog
Military Working Dog
U.S. Marine Corps
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We signed the "RETIRE MILITARY WORKING DOG LEX" petition!
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4:55 am PST, Jan 2,
Carol Seymour, New Jersey
These dogs are true soldiers. They serve their tour of duty and when they retire have the same rights as any war vet. |
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9:59 pm PST, Dec 31,
Name not displayed, Florida
I am a 36 yr old woman whom without my (seizure) service dog their is a good possibility I would not be here today, just so you know he's not the average "large" working dog, he's only approx. 4 lbs little yorkie, MANY people judge me & my family thinking he should not be aloud in stores etc. I am telling you this 1st becuause if ANYTHING happens to me (due to my illness is getting progg. worse) every time I go into surgery the 1st & last thing i say is I LUV U & PLZ LUV & ALWAYS TAKE CARE OF MICKEY-our dog,well one of them, the one who has saved my live many MANY times !!! I have to say that in the beginning I thought the war was the correct choice (9/11), but now that i have seen & done research re: ???why r we still there???? WHY DO PEOPLE LIVING OFF OF THE GOV'T & OUR SYSTEM GET BETTER (MUCH BETTER) TREATMENT THAN OUR MEN & WOMEN FIGHTING FOR OUR & WHOM EVER ELSE'S ? FREEDOM ? OK-- TO THE POINT : I FIND IT NAUSEATING & DISGUSTING THAT OUR MILITARY W/ THE SITUATION (THE DOG INGURED & WAS GOING TO RETIRE AFTER THIS & VERY ILL NOW {do to the war & a SON deceased DUE TO WAR} IS THE MILITARY EVEN UNDERSTANDING HOW MANY OF OUR MEN & WOMEN THAT ARE NOT COMING HOME DUE TO THIS NONSENSE??? I AM CONFUSED, THIS FAMILY LOST THEIR SON & ALL THEY WANT IS SOMEHOW HAVE A MEMORY OF HIM BY CARING FOR AN ILL & INJURED DOG WHOM NEEDS A GOOD HOME W/ ALOT OF LOVE AND ATTENTION!!! THIS IS CRAZY TO ME .....PLEASE LET THIS FAMILY LOVE & CARE FOR THEIR SONS' WKING/ PARTNER DOG, I CAN NOT IMAGINE DYING TONIGHT AND MY HUSBAND NOT CARING & LOVING MY WORKING DOG, KNOW THAT WE HAVE A TOY PODDLE TOO, SO I GUESS THE DIFFERENCE IS, THAT I BONDED WITH MY MICKEY (I BOUGHT HIM A MONTH OR SO BEFORE MEETING MY HUSBAND) AND FELL ILL, VERY ILL 2DAYS AFTER GETTING HIM, MY LITTLE ONE LB. PUPPY CAME TO THE HOSPITAL AND STAYED WITH ME (ON THE ONOCOLOGY FLOOR-THE HOSPITAL ALLOWS DOGS-if shots are up to date, and they are healthy), so i called him my 1 lb. wonder pup, about a yr. later we realized that he would start going crazy, barking, putting his little paws on my chest and give me kisses and keep barking until my husband put 2 & 2 together & realized he was alerting me to the onset of a seizure. well as they say "the rest is history" but I would be turning in my grave if when i pass, he gave mickey away!!!! I am asking you from my heart PLEASE DON'T DO THAT TO THIS LOVING FAMILY WHOM GAVE THEIR SON IN THE HANDS OF OUR GOV'T AND ALL THEY HAVE IS LEX AND DUSTY'S MEMORIES-DO THE RIGHT THING!!! GOD BLESS U ALL, Marcia, Mickey and family......... |
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Dustin & Lex did what they had to do for us all, now let him come home... I know it would help not only Dustin's family heal but also Lex. To Dustins parent's and family, Thank you for the video and pics of OUR HERO. Dustin in my book was and is hero the day he was born. My nephew was SPC.Raymond Loya White Killed in Iraq on Vetrans day 2004. Thank You Dustin! I will not forget you.
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Let this family adopt Lex. Anything less would be dishonoring the family's sacrifice in this war.
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Send the soldiers dog home...come on people....
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Please let the family have there son's dog. This is all they have left of their son. The dog and their son were partners and they need this dog to uplift them in order to cope with their son's death. This dog did his job and had injuries now let him retire as anyone who has served our country
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FOR GOODNESS SAKE SAVE THIS POOR ANIMAL - WHAT KIND OF PEOPLE ARE WE ?
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this was the most loving way to bring him home and im sure any one who watches this would love the same for there loved one i would.it sad,but most of all beautiful.may god bless you all for what you did for his family,im sure they will watch it often,and with much pride.i do and i dont know him but i am a mother.i pray they let the family have the dog he not anygood to anyone now but to dustin family.its the purfect retirement place,and no one would could love and honor him more then dustins family if they are going to retier him anyway!
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please let the family adopt lex, he needs the family as much as they need him. he will be taken care of, and have love to last a lifetime.
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Thank you!
# 3,389:
lex is with the family now yeah!
# 3,388:
Bring Lex home where he belongs, that's the least what they can do for a soldier who gave his life for America in an unnecessary war..... where is the love??
# 3,387:
So many have given so much for their country.How proud everyone that knew Dustin can be.G-d Bless his memory.
# 3,386:
So many have given so much for their country.How proud everyone that knew Dustin can be.G-d Bless his memory.
# 3,385:
i dont see any problem with givinglex to the family of a fallen hero. i mean its the least u can do.
# 3,384:
Let the family adopt Lex bring him home to Mississippi were he belongs.
# 3,383:
I truly know our military will do right by our fallen fighter of freedom, bring lex home ..
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What kind of crap is this that Lex is put back into service when he was to retire? When he can no longer walk, does he not deserve some kind of quality of life?!
# 3,380:
Now Lex is home as it should be. But Dustin and Lex' sacrifices were not in vain and they will not be forgotten. They will continue to inspire us to carry on and create the kind of world in which Dustin, I'm sure, would have wanted to live. With deep appreciation and respect, Roger Cowles
# 3,379:
Being a Former Marine who served in Vietnam 69 to 71 as a grunt. dogs where a very important in a combat unit they saved alot of lives and some gave there own to keep everyone safe,but asusual they where forgotten by our OWN Goverment just like the nurses who put me and others back together in the hospital,So bring the dog home or take your own ass to a combat zone and see how you like it........thank you sincerley ED Wilkes,,USMC..
# 3,378:
There is no doubt Lex should come home, because home is where Corporal Dustin Jerome Lee is. God Bless the Lee family.
# 3,377:
As a parent my heart hurts for you. I hope your wish comes true.
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Im a Staff Sergeant in the USAF security forces. Let this family take care of this Brave Marines partner. I work closely with our MWD handlers and they are very special breed indeed!
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I THINK THAT LEX SHOULD BE ABLE TO RETIRE AND GO LIVE WITH HIS TRUE FAMILY
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Congratulations Lee Family! Cpl Lee was a true hero and will always be remembered that way. Lex is the best! I spent some time with him at Camp Lejeune and he will always be remembered here. Our love for Lex can not be described. Take care and give Lex a big kiss for me.
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rest in peace Justin! You are a trun hero!
# 3,369:
This just broke my heart and the good news you get Lex .I just can not stop crying for you!Lex will be happy with you and your Son would too!
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Dear family Lee, I read on the internet news that you will, finally, be able to take care for Lex. I congratulate you and hope Lex can make the Christmas days to come at least a little merrier for you all. With the utmost respect, Remco (ex-Dutch Marine Corps and dog owner)
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9:26 am PST, Dec 21,
Victoria Mary Stong / Animal Activist, New York
LEX HAS DONE HIS WORK. LET THE LEE FAMILY ADOPT LEX ALREADY! IT'S BAD ENOUGH THEY'RE SUFFERING THE DEATH OF THEIR PRECIOUS SON DUSTIN. HELP THIS FAMILY HEAL WITH DUSTIN'S DOG LEX SO THEY CAN FEEL COMFORTED FOR THE REST OF THEIR LIVES EVEN AFTER LEX DIES. |
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This is a wonderful ending to a sad story, our prayers are with Dustin and the Lee Family, along with the many other families that have not been afforded this attention. We have 4 children, 2 still at home, 15 yr old daughter and an 11 yr old son. The Georgia National Cemetary is here in Canton, Ga., we take our children there often to know the price that you and the many other parents, brother's and sister's have paid for our rights and our freedoms. God Bless your Family and God Bless the United States of America.
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I was shocked to discover that this petition has not be accepted yet! I sincerely hope Lex is allowed to be with this family soon. My thoughts are with all of you.
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Lex has no reason to be "working" with the extent of his injury from a ridiculous war. Retire him so he can live a life of peace with his family.
# 3,359:
I wish that I had heard about your effort to adopt Lex earlier. As a USAF veteran, I know first hand how the military can turn a simple yes/no matter into a long, drawn-out affair. I am truly happy that Lex will be with your family for Christmas. Though bittersweet, because of the loss of your son, this story has brightened my day. Give Lex a hug for those of us who will not get the chance to meet him. God bless
# 3,358:
Mr Lee, I can offer no words worthy of your loss. Pray Lex lives long with your family. USMC 1976-80 Semper Fi
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I'M SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR LOSS. I KNOW WHAT ANIMALS MEAN TO ME. I HAVE 12 RESCUED DOGS WITH ME NOW. IT STILL HURTS ME NOW TO REMEMBER HOW THE DOGS WE USED IN VIETNAM WERE LEFT BEHIND. MAY GOD BE WITH YOU AND KEEP YOU STRONG FOR YOU WILL SEE DUSTIN AGAIN IN A BETTER PLACE.
# 3,356:
I am A former Marine and currently have a Working dog, German Shepard, 4 mo old, hes gonna be a big on, already way to smart for his own good sit stay down shake! hes got it all down to a paw! good luck and Gods speed! Semper fi
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For my Kurdish friend
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