As we go about our daily lives we spend very little thought to the people and animals in the world around us. We are not intentionally unaware; it is more just a fact of our busy lifestyle that keeps us preoccupied. Every once and a while something will happen to us directly or indirectly which makes us pause and take notice. Perhaps it is a letter, email or call from an old friend, a newspaper headline, the evening news on the radio or television, or we bump into an acquaintance while running errands. No matter the how, it is the information that breaks through our focus and grabs our attention, making us wake up and contemplate the rest of the world around us.
Since 911 almost everyone in the United States had an extreme wake up. Years later we are slipping back into our old complacent ways, becoming more relaxed, more comfortable, and less aware of our surroundings. We seem to worry more about the economy than we do about our security. We as a whole are less interested in what is happening in the Middle East, and the rest of the World. We are once again going through the motions of our daily lives with self absorption.
I wonder how many of us are still conversing daily with our heavenly father about the state of our worldly affairs which we find ourselves in. Everyday, all day, our service men, women, and canines plow through a world of danger, fear, and the unfriendly unknowns. They do this for many reasons, as many as there are servicemen/women. They joined the military due to a sense of duty, honor, pride, or perhaps just because it seemed like the right thing to do at the time. They were not heroes, not then; they were mere co-Americans living next door to us. For whatever their reason they joined, they now represent us and protect us in an uncertain world during uncertain times.
Among this special group of American is another smaller elite group, the U.S. Canines. These wonderful dogs work side by side with their two-legged comrades. They are loyal to a fault and the most unselfish soldiers that ever served. These heroic canines give everything and some give their all without fear, without pay, without special rewards, and without questions. Amazingly all they need is a pat on the back or a tummy rub, a game with their favorite toy or a small treat. In return they are steadfast in their efforts to perform their daily tasks and serve not only their comrades but also all of us here at home.
Although there are many breeds used the German Shepherd is by far the most favored. This unique breed is so adaptable and willing to serve that they are almost faultless in their performance. Their willingness to please their handlers is a top priority to them and they will carry out their jobs untiringly in all types of inclement weather. Easily trained, they quickly become adept at mastering all that is asked of them. They are extremely well suited to problem solving and sometimes amaze their handlers as well as their trainers. It is as if the more work that is required of them the happier they become. At the end of their work shifts they welcome some down time, and some well deserved R & R. with their best friend.
These remarkable canines perform all types of tasks and jobs. They are sentries, seek out explosives, perform search and rescue, assist medics, search for hidden weapons, track down assailants, act as messengers and patrol dogs, and recognize trip wire and booby traps, just to list but a few of their jobs and services they perform. Perhaps most importantly they aid in the morale of our soldiers. Numerous lives hand been saved by the quick actions and alert attentiveness which is displayed consistently over the course of their service. Is it any wonder why the loyalty displayed by these magnificent canines is fully reciprocated from their handlers, buddies, comrades, and friends?
So, the next time you feel that life’s pace is too hectic, slow down, notice the world around you. Take in the sights and sounds of our precious freedom. Remember how fortunate we are to be Americans. Spend sometime saying Thank You to these service canines, servicemen and servicewomen that help to protect our rightful freedoms. Greet them with respect, and let them know how important their job is and how much we here at home appreciate them. Don’t forget to keep them in your prayers especially the U.S. Canines.