Bravo, NY Post!
Last week, the Post reported the story of injured Army Spc. Brent Grommet and his war dog, Matty.
Both were injured in Afghanistan, and Grommet returned to the U.S. with PTSD, traumatic brain injury, migraines, severe chronic back pain and breathing problems. Grommet’s father stated that Matty helped calm the injured soldier’s mood swings, as he seemed calmer whenever he was in his dog’s presence.
But, while recuperating, Matty was taken from Grommet, and although he had completed all necessary paperwork to formally adopt Matty, he was unable to locate his dog.
The officer in charge of military dog adoptions reportedly told Grommet: ‘I adopted the dog out legally, so there’s nothing you can do about it,’ ”
NY Post to the rescue: ‘Stolen’ war dog back in the US and reunited with veteran
…a source with direct knowledge of Matty’s fate contacted The Post on Wednesday, and by Thursday, Grommet was told he could take permanent custody of Matty.
“I was speechless,” Grommet told The Post. “It took everything out of me.”
On Friday, Grommet and his parents drove 17 hours from Fort Campbell, Ky., to South Carolina, where Matty had been living since 2013. (Grommet had to sign a non-disclosure agreement to keep the identity of the South Carolina “owner” secret).
Grommet stopped about 25 feet away from Matty’s kennel, too nervous to see him. “I was a little worried he forgot me,” Grommet said.
Then he called his name.
When the kennel door opened, Matty charged.
“He jumped all over me,” Grommet said. “I couldn’t have asked for a better response….
Shifra!!! Thank You!!! What a wonderful news!
woo hooo!!
Wow, a man beat back the soulless bureaucracy and won back his friend. In a world that tries to crush the individual, it’s good to see a triumph of humanity.
Outstanding, Hoooaaahhhhh. A big thank you to all who had a hand in retrieving this warrior’s best friend. Well Done! 🙂
What a touching and wonderful story! I’m so glad for both of them.
Army Spec. v. Lt. Col…game, set, match. This was one officer who truly believed that the enlisted hero was just another grunt. Public opinion turned, “higher ups” got directly involved and problem solved. Congrats to Brent and Matty. Anyone who has ever raised a furry child knows the heartache they endured and the elation they are sharing tonite. Gotta be the Feel Good story of the month.
Ditto to all. Oh Happy Day!
This is great news. Dogs never forget. I hope Matty helps this soldier heal, inside as well as; outside.
Thanks, Shifra and congratulations to Army Spc. Grommet and Matty! This should never have happened in the first place.
Here is an interview from April. Will be watching for a reunion video.
http://youtu.be/ojTK5JDOnKs
Here is a video of Matty now home with Army Spc. Grommet.
http://tinyurl.com/k7tdb9d
Chalk up a win for the good guys.
Yay! Dogs don’t forget family. As a matter of fact, cats don’t, either.