It’s undeniable that certain people feel a connection whenever they see a dog. Whether you’re getting a dog from a foster home or a pet store, you should choose a canine buddy that speaks to your heart, and you are willing to be their companion for a long time. But for Justine Lanford, it was more than that.
He was previously assigned as a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division and deployed in Eastern Afghanistan in early 2012. He met with an unfortunate accident while he was in service, resulting in his return to the United States. The incident was harrowing for him, not just mentally but also physically. It was not easy losing his leg.
To cope up with his wartime PTSD, he was advised to get a service dog. Then, he met Gabe. It was a great match, and it was as if Gabe knew what Justine needed. Gabe made it easier for him to adjust to his situation, and eventually to accept his condition. They would do many activities together, and Gabe was always ready to give Justine a helpful hand.
The year was 2014, and Justine made a leap of faith. He proposed to his long-time girlfriend, Carol. It was so wonderful and meaningful when he decided to bend his knees before Carol and ask her to marry him on Veteran’s Day. Of course, Gabe did a fantastic job in helping him pop the question.
Gabe meant so much to Justine that he didn’t even think about him as his pet, but as a companion, best friend, and his very own soldier dog who is always ready to help him out. Because of this, Gabe was with Justine that same day he saw Carol walk down the aisle. Gabe was his best man and ring-bearer at the same time.
Indeed, it was a memorable day for all of the people who attended the wedding. The guests didn’t just witness a union of a couple who are deeply in love and a beautiful marriage with the perfect dog, best man, and companion.
Relive the exciting moment in the lives of Carol, Justine, and Gabe by watching this video.
Video Courtesy of ABC News via Youtube.