A retired military working dog was reunited with his former handler after being apart for over 7 months, according to a press release from American Humane.
Fredy is a seven-year-old German Shepherd formerly enlisted by the U.S. Marine Corps. Nicholas Rice, a military veteran, met Fredy while stationed in Iwakuni, Japan in January 2020. The pair’s similar personalities made them a great match. “We are both very easy-going and happy-go-lucky,” Rice told 10News San Diego.
A Tale of Two Soldiers
The duo worked together for nine months. During that time, they conducted vehicle searches on planes, cars, and boats; responded to explosive threats, patrolled the base, and maintained security. Rice says Fredy, who he refers to as ‘Fredy Spaghetti’, has quite an independent nature but would stick by his side through their grueling 14-hour shifts.
Unfortunately, after 9 months, Rice moved to another position. However, the two would see each other every day until Rice eventually left Japan in February. Not surprisingly, the memories they made together left a lasting impression on Rice. “It’s the simple stuff that I miss the most and those memories were the hardest thing to let go of when I was leaving. I wanted to be his buddy for life,” he says.
Homecoming
According to their website, American Humane is the country’s first and longest-running national humane organization. Since 1877, the organization has advocated for and treated many animals used by the military for critical services. One of their programs includes reuniting retired military working dogs with former handlers.
After years of service, Fredy’s time in the military was over. American Humane reach out to Rice, and together they arranged to have Fredy transported over 6,000 miles from Japan to Indianapolis. Upon arriving, the two best friends celebrated their overdue reunion. On top of that, American Humane generously offered to cover all of Fredy’s veterinary care, ensuring he will live out his golden years comfortably.
Rice is ecstatic about being able to share his life with Fredy again. He’s looking forward to giving the former military dog the relaxing life he deserves.
